Mary Speakman, co-founder of Code Galaxy, joined an inspiring panel of business leaders and growth experts at the latest Blackpool Growth Business Academy event, hosted by Blackpool Unlimited and supported by Blackpool Council. The event, titled “Inspiring Leadership for Growth, Change, Resilience, Leadership & Wellbeing”, brought together local entrepreneurs to explore the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses today.
Held in partnership with the Blackpool Net Zero Business Academy, the event featured a keynote by Professor Paul McGee, Sunday Times bestselling author and international speaker, alongside a panel of experienced local leaders, including:
- Nikki Hesford, Blackpool Growth Business Academy
- Megan Tucker, Blackpool Net Zero Business Academy
- Mick Cox, Business Growth Coach
- Steve Williams, Force Technology
- Mary Speakman, Code Galaxy
Mary shared her journey of scaling Code Galaxy from a small agency to a strategic software partner serving clients across the UK. Reflecting on the early days, she highlighted the challenge of trying to do everything as a founder:
“You’re trying to do the job and run the business at the same time, and often without the right processes. The support we’ve received has been transformational. It helped us step back, rethink, and ultimately diversify our offering and break into new markets.”
From reflections on growth to practical advice on wellbeing, mindset, and leadership, the event gave business owners actionable takeaways, and a renewed sense of possibility.
“Having someone come in with a fresh pair of eyes and ask, ‘Why are you doing it this way?’ can unlock massive value,” Mary added. “You don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s where support networks like the Growth Academy are invaluable.”
8 Key Takeaways from the Event:
- Work on the business, not just in it
- Opportunity is everywhere — especially in Blackpool
- Embrace change and ditch the comfort blanket
- Raise your aspirations
- Go net zero to cut costs and future-proof
- Turn talking points into action
- Shape the local skills pipeline with B&FC
- Ask for help to break through growth barriers
About Code Galaxy
Code Galaxy is a custom software development agency based in Blackpool, specialising in bespoke business systems, integrations, and digital transformation.
