May Edinburgh Networking Breakfast – Mark Blair – effectivenow

Belinda Roberts MBE, CEO of WeDO will be chatting to ex-professional rugby player Mark Blair, founder and CEO of effectivenow.  Mark has made the successful transition from the world of professional sport to entrepreneurship by bridging the gap between education and industry through innovative training and has a cracking story to tell.  effectivenow has achieved exponential growth delivering its CPD accredited Meta Skills Programme throughout schools the length and breadth of Scotland with plans afoot for further expansion.  As most entreprenerial journeys are, it’s been a rollercoaster and Mark has plenty of experiences to share.

ABOUT MARK

Mark has a proven track record in helping build strong effective teams, through a skillset highly developed during a notable 10-year career as a professional sportsman.  A European Cup winner with Ulster Rugby and having represented his country (Ireland) Mark now delivers his experience in the world of business.

Following a sports career that saw Mark spend time in New Zealand, Ireland, France and Scotland a career transition took him back into the professional game with the IRFU (Irish Rugby Football Union) heading up a development programme for the identification of young Irish qualified talent outside of Ireland before stepping into the world of business coaching and consultancy.

Mark founded effectivenow in 2019 which is ‘Pioneering Skills Development for Tomorrow’s Challenges’.  effectivenow are a team of high performing business leaders, educators, and ex-professional sportsmen who have come together with a shared desire to improve the future of young people within schools by preparing them for a successful transition into the world of work. ​

“By pulling together our collective enthusiasm, knowledge and expertise, we have created a meaningful, innovative learning programme to develop the ‘meta skills’ of young people in the senior phase of their education. This programme, which includes a series of planned business engagement events, will ensure the transition from education into employment is made with confidence for the young people, their family and the local businesses. “

Collaborating with schools and educational institutions, effectivenow fosters an environment of continuous learning and professional growth, developing positive relationships wherever they go. By contributing to a more skilled, adaptable, and competitive workforce, driving long-term economic growth, innovation and development, they are helping local communities to flourish.

Mark also continues his passion as the Director of Rugby of Penicuik Rugby helping develop grass roots rugby and giving back to the sport. On top of this Mark is also a Citing Commissioner for Scottish Rugby overseeing professional games in the Super 6, Pro 14 and European Competitions.