Future Faces announces Arden University as patrons

Future Faces has announced that Arden University has become a patron, reinforcing its commitment to supporting regional businesses, developing future talent and driving social and economic impact across the region.

Following its successful sponsorship of the Future Faces and Greater BYPY Awards, Arden University has taken the next step in its partnership with the Chamber, building on the strong relationships and meaningful engagement established through these initiatives.

Arden University’s involvement in the awards demonstrated its dedication to celebrating local success and investing in the next generation of professionals.

Through their sponsorship, the university not only provided an MBA scholarship to the overall winner but also connected with a wide network of businesses, professionals, and aspiring leaders.

As a patron, Arden University will play a more integral role in supporting Future Faces’ ongoing mission to champion young professionals in the region.

Arden will be supporting the Future Faces mentoring scheme and giving Future Faces member the opportunity to become mentors for their students.

This enhanced partnership will enable the university to further expand its engagement with local employers, contribute to key initiatives and support the young professionals in the Greater Birmingham Region. 

Professor Dilshad Sheikh, chief academic officer at Arden University said: “Arden University is proud to be named a patron of Future Faces and the Greater BYPY awards because they represent exactly what the region needs more of ambitious, capable young professionals who are prepared to lead.

“This partnership is not symbolic; it reflects a shared commitment to developing talent that is commercially aware, socially conscious, and ready to contribute from day one.

“As a university built on widening access and real-world outcomes, we see Future Faces as a critical pipeline for the next generation of leaders shaping Birmingham’s economy.”

Sophie Poduval Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Arden University as a patron. Their commitment to social value and education aligns with our values.

“They have already made a significant contribution through their support of our awards, and we look forward to working even more closely together to benefit our members and the wider community.”

Stacey Hayes Allen, director of Employer Engagement at Arden University, said: “Our Future Faces patronage is a natural progression of our shared passions and purpose.

“It reflects the strength of a relationship that continues to grow, and our commitment to championing ambition locally and supporting the next generation of talent and future leaders. It's an honour.”

Pictured: Professor Dilshad Sheikh, Sophie Poduval-Morrell and Stacey Hayes Allen