The manager of Future Faces — the young professionals’ arm of
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce — has been nominated for a new national award. Sophie Poduval-Morrell (pictured) is on the shortlist for the British Chambers of Commerce’s
Rising Star Award — a new accolade recognising early-career professionals who are shaping the future of the network.
Since joining the Chamber in 2022, Sophie has helped to grow Future Faces’ membership by more than 50%, as well as introducing a string of new initiatives such as the mentoring programme, which has now matched over 300 young professionals with senior leaders across the region.
In 2023, Sophie was instrumental in the rebranding of the
Future Faces Awards as the
Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, aligning with the legacy BYPY brand acquired by the GBCC. This led to an increase in brand awareness, as well as award entries rising by 20% year on year.
Purpose-driven events strategyRecognising the diversity of Greater Birmingham’s young professionals, Sophie has also overhauled Future Faces’ social events calendar — introducing more inclusive formats with varied timings and settings. She introduced a fresh, purpose-driven events strategy — shifting from ad hoc topics to a structured annual programme, with each month focusing on a key theme that matters to members. These are explored through curated events, podcasts, and blogs from both FF and GBCC members, giving young professionals multiple ways to connect, learn and grow.
Lillian Elekan, director of membership at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to see Sophie recognised at the
British Chamber Awards — it is a well-deserved honour that reflects all her hard work and dedication. She brings so much energy, passion, and personal commitment to Future Faces, and her enthusiasm is truly infectious.
“She has used that to create a network that feels authentic and relevant, and that is going from strength to strength both in terms of member growth, and in delivering excellent support and opportunities to the future leaders of our city.”
Voting is open to Chamber employees and board members across the BCC network. It closes on Thursday, 4 September.