Meet the team behind the Bristol Initiative & introducing our new Membership Executive

The Bristol Initiative is more than just a network - it’s a  community of over 140 business leaders dedicated to shaping a better future for the West of England. From driving sustainable growth to tackling deprivation and improving transport, education, and skills, the Initiative is at the heart of positive change in our region. But who are the people behind this work?

Can you introduce yourself and share your role within the Bristol Initiative?   

Victoria Matthews: I’m our Director, leading our fantastic Initiative Team here in Bristol. I lead on managing the relationships that Business West holds with business and political leaders across our region, ensuring that the voice of business in Bristol is heard. I sit on various boards across the region, including Bristol’s Economy & Skills Board, to champion Bristol to make this region the best place to live, learn and work. 

Outside of work I love living in Bristol with my husband and our dog, enjoying the city and countryside on our doorstop. I feel so lucky to live on Gloucester Road, exploring the vibrant businesses that make Bristol amazing. 

Jenny Ablett: I’m our Membership Manager – I look after our members on a day-to-day basis, aim to understand their priorities and challenges and help them make the most of membership. I also help plan and deliver our events and content. 

I've lived in Bristol for 12 years, but I still never take the city’s energy and unique personality for granted. After a few years on Gloucester Road, I’m now based in Totterdown. I love focusing on Bristol in my everyday work and learning more about the city and businesses that make it tick.

Katie Soane: I’m our Initiative Membership Executive and I support onboarding new members into the Initiative, help manage our member’s accounts day to day and attend Initiative Meetings, events and roundtables where you’ll find many of our members. 

After a decade of studying and working in Bristol, I take pride in not only calling this vibrant city my home but also actively making a difference to the city's growth. Being based in Southville, I enjoy running around harbour, the Tobacco Factory market on a Sunday and watching the hot air balloons float over my balcony.

What inspired you to join the Bristol Initiative team, and what keeps you motivated?   

JA: The idea of working in a role embedded in the city and wider region, helping to drive its success, appealed to me. My belief in our purpose is, of course, a central motivation, but another motivating factor is the work our members do which positively impacts the region as well. There are so many people who deeply care about the city and its inhabitants – it’s great to see that in action. 

What has been your favourite Business West event? 

KS: I’ve always enjoyed the Bristol Chambers of Commerce breakfast networking events. Not only do these events allow you to meet friendly and influential businesses and make new connections, but you get to try a variety of venues across the city. Who doesn’t love a bit of French toast!

Can you share a recent project or initiative you’re particularly proud of?

JA: It was amazing to be part of our Metro Mayor Candidate Hustings in March. We were the first hustings in the calendar, and brought together almost 100 members to hear directly from candidates and ask them questions. It was a real collaborative effort and reflected the way our team works across everything we do.  

If you could have a Business West ‘holiday’ to another team for a week, which team would you join? 

JA: I’d hop over to our LSIP (Local Skills Improvement Plan) team for a holiday. Their work is so interesting and – like the Initiative – they work with a wide variety of sectors. As ‘Skills’ is one of our priorities, it would be great to get a closer look at this work in action. Matt and team – let me know if you’re up for an exchange programme! 

What’s the most rewarding part of being part of the Bristol Initiative team?

VM: I’m incredibly fortunate to work alongside some of the region’s most influential business leaders, who trust me to advocate and lobby on behalf of the business community. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is collaborating with passionate individuals who truly care about our city. Working with our members on meaningful projects and positive change is what makes my work so fulfilling.

Katie – what are you most looking forward to about the role?

KS: I’m very much looking forward to getting stuck in, engaging with new businesses and reconnecting with those I’ve collaborated with previously. I genuinely enjoy getting to know people. One of Bristol’s greatest strengths is its close-knit professional community, and you can always guarantee there is someone willing to help you connect and point you in the right direction.

What are you most passionate about - outside of working with the Initiative?

VM: Outside of my day job I am a trustee of Young Bristol, a wonderful charity that supports our city’s young people in some of Bristol’s most deprived areas. Supporting young people with opportunities that they might not typically have is something that I’m incredibly passionate about. 

What's the most exciting/surprising work experience you’ve had? 

VM: I’ve been very fortunate to experience huge amounts of the city in my role, but one of the highlights was definitely a trip in the Business West Hot Air Balloon! It was incredible to fly over the region on a beautiful summer’s evening. 

What’s your favourite thing about Bristol?

JA: I could elaborate at length on my favourite things about Bristol – but I’ll try to contain it! I love that there is always something new to discover or explore – whether it’s an area, an art gallery or museum, new bar or restaurant, I never feel like I’ve reached the end of the list. Plus, the city is always evolving. I am delighted when friends or family visit, as I get an excuse to do something new. 

The Initiative team regularly meet members out and about for a coffee. What's your coffee order? 

VM: Definitely a flat white! 

JA: Black americano - cake on the side always welcome. 

KS: Oat flat white for me!

From tackling complex challenges to championing new opportunities, the Bristol Initiative team brings together diverse skills, perspectives, and a shared determination to make a difference. Each member plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for Bristol and beyond.