Leadership from the Heart: Impactful and authentic entrepreneurship

Join Dr Jeanette Forbes OBE as she shares her inspiring journey from dining room table to international success, proving that determination and innovation can build a global business from humble beginnings.

We are delighted to welcome Jeanette Forbes, a trailblazing businesswoman and technology entrepreneur, for a special Innovation Masterclass during Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025. Jeanette will share her remarkable story of resilience, ambition, gender challenges and innovation - a journey that took her from redundancy to building a thriving global business.

Originally from Halifax, Jeanette moved to Aberdeen almost 40 years ago. After leaving school with ‘O’ Levels, she returned to education in her 40s to pursue a computing degree at night school while supporting her young family. “I was employed in several blue-chip companies. Then in the Oil & Gas downturn of 1999 I was made redundant for the second time and decided to take control of my own destiny! I started PCL Group with just £100 of my redundancy money and that's where my story begins.”

Today, Jeanette leads multiple cross disciplinary ventures including PCL Group, a global information technology company, operating in 27 countries, she is also the owner of two trendy Aberdeen hospitality establishments, Grape & Grain and Mediterranean with her latest major appointment being the new Chair at Aberdeen Inspired! Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community impact, lifelong learning, and a resilient entrepreneurial spirit.

Part of Global Entrepreneurship Week at RGU, this event offers an invaluable opportunity to connect and gain honest insights from one of Aberdeen’s most influential business leaders. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, established businessperson, leader, a student exploring new paths, or an innovator seeking inspiration, Jeanette’s story will motivate you to take bold steps toward your own vision fuelled from the heart.

Registration

The event is free to attend, but please register in advance for numbers.