The Small Business Charter (SBC) has appointed entrepreneur Byron Dixon OBE, founder and CEO of freshness technology company Micro-Fresh, as its new chairman.
Dixon takes over from outgoing chairman Michael Hayman MBE, marking a significant leadership change as the organization celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Dixon is best known for founding Micro-Fresh, a multi-award-winning company developing odor control and antimicrobial solutions for the textile, healthcare, construction, food and beverage, packaging and automotive industries. Operating both in the UK and abroad, Micro-Fresh is a testament to Dixon’s belief in supporting small businesses, especially when it comes to leveraging expertise and research from universities and business schools.
He has long championed the role of higher education in driving entrepreneurial growth and innovation, especially for startups and smaller companies. In his new role, Dixon will lead SBC’s mission to drive UK economic growth through business schools that excel in supporting small businesses, student-led enterprises and local communities.
Commenting on his appointment, Dixon said: “I am honored to take on the role of Chair of the Small Business Charter Management Board. Small businesses are a vital part of the UK economy, and business schools play a crucial role in their development. As an entrepreneur, I have personally experienced the expertise and support these schools provide, which has been invaluable in helping my business grow. I look forward to working with the team and network of accredited schools to amplify the impact they have on small businesses in every part of the economy.”
Flora Hamilton, executive director of the Small Business Charter, said: “We are delighted to welcome Byron. His extensive experience as a successful entrepreneur and passion for the role of business schools in supporting small businesses make him ideally suited to lead the SBC at this crucial time. His leadership will build on our mission to connect business schools with small businesses to drive growth, innovation and productivity.”