Business & Economic Development |  
Sir Trevor McDonald hosting the 2007 Institute of Directors Head Offices at 116 Pall Mall, London The Rt Hon George Osborne MP addressing members Directors of the Year Awards Ceremony at the IoD North West Annual Conference 2008 

T
he Institute of Directors has a strong presence in Manchester, and acts as the voice of business leaders in the Region, as well as an innovative networking organisation.  With the ÔLoungeÕ located in the centre of Manchester, members get free access Ð to hold meetings or simply as an alternative to conducting business in a hotel lobby Ð giving you a virtual office between appointments. 
The voice of business 
As an active lobbying group the IoD informs ministers and governmental bodies on the views of business leaders on the key subjects effecting commerce. Recent topics for Manchester have included the debate over the changes in Capital Gains Tax, the proposed Traffic Congestion Charges, and the impact of Aviation Duty to Manchester Airport. 

Why join? 
The IoD offers a range of benefits to members Ð including access to regular, high quality networking events Ð allowing members to meet other business leaders and decision makers Ð and it also works closely with Government bodies such as the North West Development Agency to help shape business in the region. 
The IoDÕs influence doesnÕt stop in the North West. As a worldwide association, the IoD provides a professional network that reaches into every community and business sector, spanning the whole spectrum of international business leadership from the largest public companies to the smallest private firms.  Members have an influential organisation on their side as the IoD acts as a representative lobbying the government, and providing professional business support. 

What can the IOD do for members? 
There are four main information and advisory services: 
The Business Information Service provides members with information on competitors, suppliers and other key business issues 
The DirectorsÕ Advisory Service provides confidential, independent business advice from specialists 
The DirectorsÕ Law Express provides advice on employment, company and commercial law in the UK and Europe 
The Directors Tax Line offers instant business tax advice, including information on NIC, PAYE, VAT and Corporation Tax. 
The Information Centre brings together an unrivalled combination of quality business information, advice and cutting-edge technology under one roof. 
Training 
In this challenging economic climate, effective leadership is becoming more important than ever, and directors should take every opportunity to improve their skills. In addition to our prestigious Chartered Director qualification, we offer confidential, one-on-one executive coaching and mentoring, short practical courses and one-day topical conferences, forums and summits. Longer development programmes are also available, designed to help directors improve their personal and professional effectiveness.