Forbes Agency Council honour for James

Belfast businessman, James Blake is celebrating after being accepted onto the prestigious invitation-only Forbes Agency Council.
James BlakeJames Blake
James Blake

The 27-year-old MD of leading digital marketing company, Vindicta Digital, has become the only NI member of the council which brings exceptional business owners and leaders together with the people and resources that can help them thrive.

James, who founded his Belfast headquartered company when he was just 23, was vetted and selected by a review committee based on the depth and diversity of his experience.

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Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honours.

Commenting on the prestigious achievement, James said the pandemic had changed the face of many businesses across Northern Ireland.

“I am absolutely delighted to have been accepted into the Forbes Agency Council as a council member.

“I believe I am one of few members in the UK and the only one in Northern Ireland - possibly the first.

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“This is an essential stepping-stone to Vindicta’s continued growth plans as a business and I feel it is perfect timing as due to Covid, there is an undeniable need for digital marketing strategies for many companies.

“I decided when the lockdown restrictions initially kicked off that I would do whatever it took to help as many businesses as I could, utilising our resources. I am certain adapting and embracing digital will save many businesses.

“We have given out free website audits and consultancy to date, so hopefully my acceptance as a Forbes Agency Council member will raise more awareness of what I am aiming to achieve.

“We at Vindicta will use the opportunity to put our business and Northern Ireland in front of successful international companies and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs.

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“I am very proud of where I am from and I want to use my success for the betterment of Northern Ireland.”

Scott Gerber, founder of Forbes Councils, the collective that includes Forbes Agency Council, added: “We are honoured to welcome James into the community.

“Our mission with Forbes Councils is to bring together proven leaders from every industry, creating a curated, social capital-driven network that helps every member grow professionally and make an even greater impact on the business world.”

As an accepted member of the Council, James has access to a variety of exclusive opportunities designed to help him reach peak professional influence.

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He will connect and collaborate with other respected local leaders in a private forum.

James will also be invited to work with a professional editorial team to share his expert insights in original business articles on Forbes.com and to contribute to published Q&A panels alongside other experts.

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