A new initiative has been launched to help strengthen long‑term economic resilience across our region. The ‘Three‑Year Runway for a Premium Exit’ programme, delivered in partnership with Chadwicks and Norwich Business School’s Executive Education, provides SME owners with a structured, practical framework to prepare for succession, exit or ownership transition at a time when the region faces significant demographic and fiscal pressures.
East Anglia is entering a period of unprecedented leadership turnover, with a high concentration of owner‑managers aged 55+. Many lead firms where substantial value is tied up in the business itself, making continuity planning essential. This challenge has been intensified by the 2026 Tax Shift, which capped 100% Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR). For high‑asset manufacturing, engineering and agritech firms, an unplanned exit can now trigger an effective 20% tax burden, often forcing the sale of assets to meet liabilities.
The new two‑day programme moves owners from the “day‑to‑day” into a strategic exit mindset. Its core pillars focus on building a stronger leadership team, improving business performance, and choosing the right exit route. Together, these help owners reduce founder‑dependence, remove operational bottlenecks and understand the most suitable transition pathway for their business.
Julian Campbell, Director of Executive Education at Norwich Business School, said: “This partnership brings together two established organisations with a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s SME community. Chadwicks has a long track record of trusted, independent advice, and with Richard Ross, an NBS MBA alumnus, there is a natural alignment in how we both approach leadership development and long‑term planning”.
Richard Ross, Chadwicks, Director and succession specialist, added: “With thousands of East Anglian businesses approaching a generational transition, we have reacted with a timely solution. Too many owners are forced into rushed decisions that erode value, weaken continuity, and put local jobs at risk. Building value, not just profit, is the work every business owner should be doing. For those thinking about succession or a future sale, it becomes essential. This strategic course provides the insight and tools to navigate that transition with purpose and confidence. By helping owners prepare early, this initiative reduces the likelihood of distressed sales, strengthens leadership resilience and ensures more businesses remain rooted in the region.”
Business owners can register their interest to learn more. Contact Angela Brett: [email protected]