Businesses have been invited to a public sector skills conference for the first time and learn how Sir Richard Branson became so successful.

Top speakers will talk about the value of using coaches and mentors and the way they can boost performance across the public and commercial sectors.

They include Carol Wilson, who worked for Virgin magnate Sir Richard Branson. She will talk about why coaching now plays such an important role in developing performance.

More than 70 people are expected at the Kent Coaching and Mentoring Conference being held on Wednesday in Maidstone. It is organised by Kent County Council and Kent Fire and Rescue for the Kent Coaching and Mentoring Network.

The Network, founded by KCC and Kent Fire and Rescue, encourages public sector organisations to use trained coaching and mentoring colleagues and for the first time is open to all businesses in Kent.

The aim is to share expertise with each another. No charge is made for the service which generates money-saving opportunities for the organisations and companies involved.

• Places are still available for the event held in Oakwood House, Maidstone, from 9.15am to 3pm. Contact Sareena Bhatoa at KCC on 01622 605680.