Former world indoor 400 metre champion Danny Caines, who swapped the changing room for the boardroom when he became a motivational speaker, is to host The Corporate Athlete, a free workshop being held at the University of Derby Enterprise Centre on May 31 from 5.30pm.

The event is designed to demonstrate how athletic coaching techniques can be used to strengthen and improve business performance; giving professionals and their businesses a competitive edge.

Delegates will find out how during his sporting career Danny, who won at European, Commonwealth and World events and has previously worked with University staff and students, suffered a number of setbacks, but through self determination, discipline and a desire to succeed became British number one and European number two.

Dr John Pates, Subject Manager for Sports and Outdoor Activities at the University of Derby Buxton and one of the world’s most qualified and successful sports psychologists, and Ian Day, a qualified executive coach and leadership development consultant with over 20 years experience, will be joining the guest speaker line up alongside Danny.

Paul Wilkinson, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the University of Derby Corporate, said: “In these challenging economic times it’s essential that professionals are able to differentiate themselves and the businesses in which they operate from the competition, so any opportunity to do this should be taken advantage of.

“We’re delighted to have such a high calibre panel in place for The Corporate Athlete and are confident that attendees will find the workshop inspirational and motivational.”

Why do some athletes excel whereas others perform far below their potential? What are the keys to consistent and peak performance? How can these approaches be transferred to the business environment? These are just some of the questions that will be answered during the workshop.

The Corporate Athlete is being held at the University of Derby Enterprise Centre, Bridge Street, Derby, DE1 3LD on Thursday May 31. Registration, where refreshments will be served, opens at 5.30pm and will be followed by presentations, questions and time to network, before the workshop finishes at 8pm.

To reserve your free place visit www.derby.ac.uk/corporate-athlete or call 0800 678 3311.