Each director brings expertise and passion to an already esteemed board of accomplished professionals. Together they represent the diverse nature of the Buckinghamshire economy and their collective influence promises to fortify and invigorate BBF’s vibrant business community which serves as an invaluable resource for entrepreneurial growth and business representation within the county.

Meet the new board members

Henry Tadros, the Chairman of Ercol Furniture, brings experience of working in a family manufacturing business all the way from the factory floor to selling and marketing the brand worldwide. Leading Ercol with a forward-thinking ethos, Henry ensures the company remains at the vanguard of design innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices, embodying the spirit of excellence ingrained in its century-long heritage.

Henry explains: “My great-grandfather set up our company in 1920 to give the local people of Wycombe meaningful employment, and Ercol has been employing people across the Buckinghamshire area for over 100 years. As a business, we have had to weather many, many storms, and while I was not around for most of them, I feel like I have taken on so much of that experience over the years and am happy to give something back to the local business community." 

Emma Butt brings a rich tapestry of business experience to the Buckinghamshire Business First board. As an engineering graduate, Emma began a career in marketing with roles in manufacturing and software companies, followed by working agency-side in field marketing with many blue-chip clients. As managing partner of her family’s firm, Adroit Services, a well-respected and multi-award-winning local bathroom installation business, Emma has experienced first-hand much of the invaluable support available for local businesses.

Emma says: “The support we have received from the team at Buckinghamshire Business First, coupled with the relationships forged with fellow members, has significantly contributed to Adroit's growth and evolution. It’s now time to pay it forward and I’m keen to help make a difference as an ambassador for all corners of the BBF community and to improve the unique Buckinghamshire business eco-system.” 

Kris Theophanous is the CEO of Bradbury Tracks Ltd and has long been an ambassador of the Buckinghamshire business community. Renowned for his strategic thinking and ability to cultivate progressive company cultures, Kris has driven his ventures to the forefront of innovation and market leadership and aims to leverage his strategic insights and culture development skills to further BBF’s mission and goals. 

Helen Shellabear is the Managing Director of Shellwin Real Estate, and brings experience from her tenures in banking, private equity, and boutique asset management. Specialising in investment and development of office, industrial, and mixed-use assets across London and the South East, much of her time is currently focused on the changing office landscape and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) initiatives and innovations within real estate. Helen is a Specialist Advisor to the London Historic Buildings Trust; a Non-Executive Director of a community interest company focused on employee wellbeing; and volunteers in the education and charity sector.

Helen explains: “I grew up in Buckinghamshire and was drawn to BBF for the extensive resources and championing they provide to a range of businesses to encourage them to flourish. I have a genuine passion for facilitating business collaboration and building networks and am honoured to join the BBF Board. I look forward to playing an active role in supporting Buckinghamshire businesses to reach their potential.” 

Shaun Brownsmith is Managing Director of Dux Advisory Ltd, a local accountancy and business advisory firm. Prior to founding Dux Advisory, Shaun was the Managing Director of Haines Watts (Berkhamsted & Aylesbury) Limited, a leading national firm of chartered accountants, for almost nine years. An ambassador of BBF for many years, Shaun’s experience in business is diverse, having acted as a managing director, finance officer, partner, group FD, manager and principle designate throughout his career.

Shaun says: “With over 20 years of experience in looking after the needs of business owners, managers and directors, I want to inspire and encourage others to achieve their goals. In addition, I am passionate about inspiring the next generation in local colleges and schools.” 

Mark Schmull, founder of Arrow Planning, distinguishes himself with a track record of excellence in urban planning. His leadership saw Arrow Planning recognised as a finalist for 'New Business of the Year' at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards in 2017. Mark has considerable experience of leading and working in multi-disciplinary teams to achieve planning permission for strategic urban extensions, including business parks, onshore wind turbines and new homes. Mark's commitment to shaping a brighter future through sustainable urban development aligns seamlessly with BBF's mission of fostering growth and prosperity for generations to come. 

Vicky Hope-Walker has over 35 years’ experience in senior cultural management roles and is currently the CEO of the National Paralympic Heritage Trust (NPHT), having set it up as a charity and company in 2015. Her career spans the arts and heritage, beginning at the Museum of Fine Art in Houston, Texas, and going on to work for the Natural History Museum, Science Museum London, National Trust, in local government, and as an independent consultant, always carrying a passion for disability access. Beyond her expertise in disability advocacy, Vicky brings to BBF a wealth of experience in navigating local government dynamics, small business development, and an unwavering passion for Buckinghamshire.

Who are the existing board members?

The seven new appointees join an already stellar list of board members:

• Michael Garvey, Chairman of Buckinghamshire Business First, Managing Director at Chandler Garvey
• Hiren Gandhi, Vice-Chairman of Buckinghamshire Business First, Partner at Blaser Mills
• Philippa Batting, Chief Executive Officer of Buckinghamshire Business First & Ngage Solutions
• Adam Stronach, Treasurer of Buckinghamshire Business First, Director at Evelyn Partners
• Elizabeth Adlington, Director at Adlington Young
• Klaus Allion, Owner and Managing Director at ANT Telecommunications
• Victoria Brocklesby, Co-founder and COO at Origin Frames

All board members are committed to sharing their extensive business skills and knowledge with the Buckinghamshire Business First community and acting as advocates on its behalf. They will be supporting Buckinghamshire businesses to be part of something bigger by facilitating a vibrant business landscape in the county.

To learn more about the board members and the wider Buckinghamshire Business First team, why not 'Meet the team'?