#WhoWhatWhy - Ed Hobbs, x+why Area Operations Manager - Regions

Manchester and Milton Keynes are hot topic at x+why, we thought we’d introduce you to a key face behind the topic, Ed Hobbs, our Area Operations Manager. In Ed’s own words he’s “excited to be a catalyst for the regional better business movement, and to provide job opportunities for individuals looking to be a part of the change.” Read on to discover Ed’s insights, recommendations and highlights so far.

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Ed, What is your 'Why’?

My motivation comes from working to create a better world. Sounds moonshot but I'm a big believer on the impact that small changes by many, can have at a macro-level. I'm inspired to be part of a company that has so many opportunities to connect with companies and individuals doing great things. Helping them (and our teams) to achieve their diverse missions and promote positive impact is what really gets me going!

Tell us something you find helpful in your working day.

There's a load of tips and tricks that I've tried along the way (shout out to the "Eisenhower Matrix" to help with prioritisation!) but the one I always come back to is the "Circles of Control". This is a great means of getting all your thoughts onto paper and separating them into what's in your direct control, what you have the power to influence and things that are completely out of your control. We can all get busy and overwhelmed at times, I've found this a quick and versatile means of getting back on track.

Shoutout time. Name a company you think are doing great things.

I'm a big fan of "Who Gives a Crap". They've nailed their branding; eye catching design and a name/narrative that draws you into learning more about them and the real world issues they're working to tackle. All in a fun and engaging way! Plus, it's a product we all use, so making the switch to more environmentally and socially friendly alternatives can create a huge impact.

Something you are proud of from the last year and looking forward to in the next?

Launching 103 Colmore Row, our second Birmingham location, and "eighteen" our first clubspace in the same building in November. Seeing the x+why space 100% occupied within 3 months, and hearing the feedback from "eighteen" members (across 24 floors of the building!) on the quality of the space and offerings, has been a very proud moment. It's also been a humbling experience, creating so many jobs and opportunities for Birmingham hospitality professionals after the troubles of COVID. Over the next year, we're opening locations in Manchester and Milton Keynes. Excited to be a catalyst for the regional better business movement, and to provide job opportunities for individuals looking to be a part of the change.

Reading recommendation?

"The Chimp Paradox" puts some complicated neural processes into layman's terms and I found it an interesting and useful read. It's not specific to a single sector or type of person, so I happily recommend it to anyone looking to understand their brain a little bit better.

Thank you, Ed, for taking the time to share your insights with us! Ed is currently hiring several roles across the regions, if people, collaboration and impact matter to you, we’d love to hear from you:

Check out live roles at x+why

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