Chamber Conversations: Bob Barnes from SH&P

Business West Chambers of Commerce are proud to be made up of businesses from a wide range of sectors, sizes and structures, all of whom bring something different and exciting to our Chamber community.

We recently interviewed Bob Barnes from SH&P, who has been a Chamber Member for the past year, to find out more about what he does within his role and why our Chamber Networking Breakfasts inspired him to join our community.

Please introduce yourself and tell us about your role at SH&P. What does a typical day look like? 

I've been with Stevens Hewlett & Perkins (SH&P) for over 25 years, where I’m the firm’s IP Systems and Business Development Director. My role involves ensuring our internal systems and procedures run smoothly to provide our clients with a tailored IP service. I also get to meet inspiring individuals across diverse industries, helping them protect and commercialise their intellectual property. No two days are the same; I could be advising a tech startup one moment and overseeing IP processes for a multinational the next—always exciting!

Can you tell us more about what your company does, where it is based, and the impact it has on the local business landscape and beyond? 

SH&P are a Bristol-based intellectual property law firm that provides clear, commercially focused IP advice for patents, trade marks, and designs. We’re passionate about supporting the South West’s thriving business environment, helping local startups, SMEs, and multinationals protect and grow their brands and innovations. Our goal is to contribute to the region's business ecosystem and support companies not only across the UK but globally. IP is a crucial element in any growth journey, and we’re here to make it accessible and impactful for all businesses.

How long have you been a member of Business West Chambers of Commerce and what prompted you to join? 

We’ve been members of Business West Chambers of Commerce for a year. After attending a networking breakfast event, I was impressed by the Chamber’s commitment to building connections within the community and creating broader opportunities. As one of the larger firms in the community, joining felt like a great way to support our local business environment. We’re also keen to provide valuable insights and education on IP, as many members have intellectual property that often goes unrecognised or misunderstood.

What has been most valuable to you as a Business West Chamber Member? 

For me, the most valuable aspect of being a Business West Chamber Member has been the opportunities to connect with other regional businesses. The Chamber’s enthusiasm for growth and its dedication to connecting people within the community is great. I also appreciate their openness to new ideas and willingness to explore concepts that make the Chamber even more dynamic and beneficial for all members.  

Finally, what advice would you give to a business thinking of becoming a member of our Business West Chambers of Commerce? 

If you’re considering joining the Chamber but aren’t sure, I’d recommend attending one of their Networking Breakfast events. It’s a great way to get a feel for the atmosphere, connect with the team, and hear firsthand from other members about their experiences. Engaging with the community will give you a true sense of the Chamber’s value, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your business.

If you’d like to get a feel for what to expect from our Chamber Networking Breakfasts, you can watch our new video from our event in October below. To find out more about becoming a Chamber Member, click here.