Two renowned figures from the West Midlands business community have teamed up to launch a new consultancy.
Former Aston Villa and Greater Birmingham Chamber chief executive Paul Faulkner has joined forces with Mark Taylor, ex-Midlands regional managing partner of accountancy firm RSM, to create Element45.
The new practice will offer services such as leadership development, tackling strategic challenges, mentoring, learning and raising organisational performance.
The name Element45 is inspired by the chemical element rhodium, the precious metal known for its catalytic qualities.
Since leaving the chamber in 2021 after six years as chief executive, Mr Faulkner has worked for the Black Country-based Richardson family business as chief of staff and operations.
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More recently, he helped lead the Kids' Village charity which is aiming to build a retreat in rural Staffordshire for children with critical illnesses and their families to enjoy.
He also chairs grassroots support body Sport Birmingham and has held board or trustee positions with the Football Association, Town Hall Symphony Hall and Cure Leukaemia.
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Mr Taylor has more than 20 years of experience in the professional services sector including eight years overseeing RSM's central team which comprises seven offices and more than 1,000 staff.
During his tenure, which ended in March, RSM's central operation more than doubled in size and he grew the partner base in Birmingham from 20 to 32 while staffing levels doubled to 400. Among his other roles, he is currently chairman of Business Commission West Midlands.
Mr Faulkner said: "I'm excited to launch Element45 with Mark.
"Our values and approach to business very much align and we will be focused on using the experience we have gained in a variety of roles to help our clients overcome strategic challenges and grow their own businesses.
"We look forward to speaking with business leaders who would like to have a conversation and explore ideas."
Mr Taylor added: "I have thought for a long time that one day, if the opportunity and circumstances were right, I would love to launch my own business.
"The chance to go into business with Paul, who I have known for nearly eight years, was something I couldn't pass up. The possibilities ahead of us are very exciting.
"I am very much looking forward to getting started in earnest and helping our clients to thrive."