Elite Business Live 2024 Event Guide

EVENT GUIDE

Elite Business for ambitious leaders Trends, strategies and acceleration tactics for the businesses of 2024.

9.00

9.00 - 17.00 LIVESTREAM

16.30 - 18.00 VIP

LEONARDO ROYAL, ST PAUL’S, LONDON, EC4V 5AJ

elitebusinessevent.co.uk

Ready to start growing your business with TikTok?

TikTok for Business enables businesses to create ad campaigns on TikTok –creating ads on TikTok is easy! Choose your objective and audience, determine your budget.

ON-DEMAND HUB

Visit the on-demand hub to watch sessions to videos and resources on how to grow on TikTok!

VIRTUAL ONBOARDING SESSIONS

Sign up for virtual onboarding sessions and get your business started on TikTok for Business!

Boost your business with the most engaged audiences all in one place

Will your start-up be next?

THE UK’S LEADING CONFERENCE FOR SMES, FAST-TRACK START-UPS AND HIGH GROWTH BUSINESS OWNERS

Elite Business Live is a one-of-a-kind event. Dedicated to high-growth businesses, it spans two full days and is packed with speakers, seminars, workshops and networking opportunities.

THIS EVENT IS DESIGNED to create a peer-to-peer community, where entrepreneurial minds can meet and share their experiences, talk through their challenges, and be motivated to take the next step to drive success. Over two days, you’ll hear from entrepreneurs who have asked the same questions that you’re asking now and have gone on to develop their own innovative

answers. With a mix of influential and inspiring speakers, practical breakout seminars and roundtable sessions, you’ll not only hear stories that relate to your business, but find a platform to truly address those issues hands-on. With a number of free-to-attend seminar sessions hosted by heads of industry and business leaders, you will feel motivated to take your

business a step further, learn how to bring exciting ideas to life or perhaps fall back in love with your business. These are designed to inspire entrepreneurs and share the problems we all face in business.

Interactive Q&As are also an intrinsic part of Elite Business Live 2024, where you can identify pain points in your business, meet people just like yourself and develop strong professional relationships.

CONNECT .

The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is London’s largest business support organisation with a community over 8000 strong.

We are dedicated to championing the needs of London businesses in the corridors of power and supporting the growth of our members through valuable business support, profile raising and leveraging our network for new connections.

Get in contact today to see how we could help your business grow.

DISCOVER MEMBERSHIP

YOUR HOST

OLI BARRETT MBE

Voted as one of GQ’s Most Connected Men, Oli is often referred to as the hardestworking man in networking and even earned an MBE for his business activities. A serial cofounder, Oli has helped to started numerous ventures, facing every challenge you have.

OLI BARRETT is a regular conference and awards host, for events across business, technology, education and entrepreneurship.

In the past year, he has chaired events for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Tech London Advocates, The ScaleUp Institute, The Times Tech Summit and The StartUps Awards. He is on the advisory boards the New Entrepreneurs Foundation and Centre for Entrepreneurs, One Million Mentors and Troubadour Theatres, and is a Fellow of impact incubator and business builder Zinc.

As a serial founder, he co-created Tenner (the UK’s largest schools enterprise challenge), Volunteer It Yourself (the social venture which has helped thousands of young people to fix their own youth clubs) and the TOTS (Turn on the Subtitles) campaign to improve children’s literacy.

He co-founded StartUp Britain, which was launched by the British Prime Minister, leading to the creation of PitchUp Britain (with John Lewis and Sainsbury’s) and PopUp Britain, with the opening of shops around the UK. He co-founded The Rainmakers (an innovation and incubation venture) and co-created eleven international trade missions including WebMission and the Clean and Cool Mission. Oli hosts The Lens podcast with Business in the Community, which pairs senior leaders with future leaders, to discuss the future of work. The Connector Unit, founded in 2016, forges valuable and creative connections across a range of sectors and industries.

Boardroom Advisors provide fractional CxOs and Part-Time Directors who are experts in finance, marketing, sales, IT, HR, managing plus NEDs, mentors and coaches.

Benefits:

• Senior people available immediately.

• A fraction of the cost of a full-time hire.

• No recruitment fees.

• No long-term commitments.

• Interchangeable personnel as needs change.

• Scale up or down your service as needed.

Boardroom Advisors have an amazing team of over 200 of senior professionals who have all scaled businesses before. Most have grey hairs. Some have none. What they all have is experience.

The company was recently crowned National Best Professional Services Company at Business Masters Awards as well as Global Entrepreneur of the Year for founder/CEO John Courtney by Great British Entrepreneur Awards. John has been involved with placing of Directors for over 30 years.

Regional Directors Lisa Brook, Adrian Kingsford, Ian Fallmann and Susan Stocker are at Elite Business Live 24.

Email John Courtney to set up a meeting before or during the event, or to be emailed further information: John@BoardroomAdvisors.co

Business Data

Research UK and global business insights, market information and statistics

Events

Join small business growth events, workshops, and networking groups

Samuel Wilson’s Loan Trust

Funding young entrepreneurs to establish and develop new businesses

Responsible Business

Measure your carbon footprint and develop a net zero action plan

CO HOST HANNAH PREVETT

Commercial Business and Technology Editor at News UK and a regular feature writer for The Times, Sunday Times, Hannah is also the host for The Times CEO Summit and Launch Editor of Elite Business.

Having cut her teeth writing about technology more than a decade ago, Hannah now specialises in start-ups, innovation and people. Her work mainly appears in The Times, but other recent bylines include The Sunday Times and HR Magazine. She is also the business editor at Bridge Studio, News UK’s commercial content arm, and regularly hosts client events including a series of entrepreneur breakfast panel discussions and sessions at The Times and Sunday Times Tech Summit. She was the launch editor of Elite Business and is thrilled to be back in the fold for Elite Business Live.

Empower your business to soar

DAY 1

WEDNESDAY 13TH MARCH 2024

9.10am – 4.30pm

DAY 1 - WEDNESDAY MARCH 13

09.20

09.25

Opening remarks by the event hosts: OLI BARRETT MBE & HANNAH PREVETT

KEVIN HOLLINRAKE MP Minister for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

09.30

10.00

10.30

10.55

11.25

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

RICHARD HARPIN - Founder & Chairman, HomeServe

SUPERCHARGE YOUR SALES STRATEGIES

PANELLISTS: RICHARD HARPIN, PAVLO PHITIDIS, DR RASHADA HARRY, SIMON SQUIBB

12.05

12.35

13.05

14.05

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

PIERS LINNEY - Serial Entrepreneur & Investor;Co-Founder, Implement AI

HARNESS THE POWER OF AI IN YOUR BUSINESS

PANELLISTS: PIERS LINNEY, ELENA SINEL, ERIKA BRODNOCK MBE, MCVAL OSBORNE

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

CHARLIE ROGERS -

TALENT/TEAM Founder, Undefinable Community, Founders’ Associate, The Portfolio Collective

GENLAZY? THE FUTURE OF WORKING FROM HOME

PANELLISTS: CHARLIE ROGERS, CHARLIE MULLINS OBE, MILIMO BANJI, SHAA WASMUND MBE, TAMARA LITTLETON

15.30

16.00

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

ALEX VON SCHIRMEISTER - Managing Director, Xero UK and EMEA

PANELLISTS: ALEX VON SCHIRMEISTER, ANDREA REYNOLDS, EMMANUEL ASUQUO, LIZ BARCLAY, RICHARD BEARMAN

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

MIRELA SULA - CEO & Founder, Global Woman Club & Global Woman magazine; Journalist & Author

HOW

PANELLISTS: ERIC PARTAKER, JUDITH GERMAIN, LISA MAFFIA, SHALINI KHEMKA CBE

In today’s competitive business landscape, driving revenue is a top priority for SMEs. How can you do that? Supercharge your sales strategies.

Join us to learn from industry experts who will share practical tips on taking your sales efforts to the next level. From compelling sales techniques to embracing innovative technologies, this session will provide you with the tools and knowledge to optimise your sales processes, enhance customer engagement, and ultimately maximise revenue growth. Sales should NOT be a dirty word!

RICHARD HARPIN Founder & Chairman, HomeServe

PAVLO PHITIDIS Founder & CEO, Aurik Business

DR RASHADA HARRY Enterprise Technologist, Amazon Web Services

Key Takeaways:

Discover strategies for closing sales in person and remotely.

Hear purposeful ideas to incentivise and reward your sales team.

• Learn how to understand your customers better, identify key trends, and personalise your sales approach.

SIMON SQUIBB Founder, Helpbnk

Business mentoring is a vital part of the business support landscape. A professional mentor supports business leaders as they work their way through the highs and lows of running a business. Mentors combine skills, expertise and experience to help their clients find the right way forward for them and their business. Working with a professional business mentor is increasingly recognised as a powerful resource for ambitious business leaders, driving growth and success.

The Association of Business Mentors(ABM) is the professional body for business mentoring. When you work with an ABM member, you are engaging with an experienced business mentor who abides by the highest standards of professionalism with the level of skill and competency that business leaders expect from a professional business mentor. ABM members are experienced business leaders in their own right, spanning all business sizes and sectors. Each member goes through a rigorous application process and has business ownership or c-suite experience, as well as a personal commitment to continuous learning and development.

AI brings unprecedented opportunities to streamline operations, enhance decision-making, and improve customer experience. Now is the time to embrace AI and harness its power to drive business growth.

Our industry experts will demystify AI and provide practical insights on how SMEs can leverage its potential, from automation and predictive analytics to customer personalisation and intelligent processes. In addition, they’ll discuss the associated risks to help you steer clear of potential AI pitfalls.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify what you can do with AI right now to deliver outstanding customer experiences and forge deeper customer connections in your business.

• Explore the ethical considerations associated with using AI to ensure you use it responsibly.

Discover how to revolutionise your operations, boost efficiency and productivity.

PIERS LINNEY Serial Entrepreneur & Investor; Co-Founder, Implement AI

Founder,

ELENA SINEL

Teens in AI

CHARLIE ROGERS

Founder, Undefinable Community, Founders’ Associate, The Portfolio Collective

12.35 PANEL DISCUSSION

GENLAZY? THE FUTURE OF WORKING FROM HOME

The arrival of Generation Z in the workplace, often labelled “GenLaZy”, has brought significant changes and challenges. Particularly around remote working. How does working from home influence their professional development? Does it impact their leadership potential?

We’ll explore whether Gen Z need a physical office environment to make mentoring and on-the-job training more accessible, or if immediate feedback and skill enhancement can be adequately delivered online. By delving into the dynamics of Gen Z’s integration into the workforce, we’ll uncover the implications different work environments may have on their growth and leadership capabilities.

PANELLISTS

Key Takeaways:

Understand the characteristics and preferences of Gen Z in the workplace.

• Insight into the advantages and disadvantages of remote work and the importance of finding a balance between flexibility and collaboration.

• Gain practical approaches to empower Gen Z employees and nurture their leadership potential while embracing remote work arrangements.

TAMARA LITTLETON

Founder & CEO, The Social Element Agency

CHARLIE ROGERS

Founder, Undefinable Community, Founders’ Associate, The Portfolio Collective

MILIMO BANJI

Founder & CEO, TapIn

CHARLIE MULLINS OBE

Founder, Pimlico Plumbers

SHAA WASMUND MBE

Serial entrepreneur, Sunday Times Best Selling Author

14.05

ALEX VON SCHIRMEISTER

Managing Director, Xero UK and EMEA

PANEL DISCUSSION

14.35

HOW TO GET PAID

Achieving financial stability in your business is vital for sustainable growth. It allows for innovation, instils confidence in employees and customers, and provides a competitive edge. But how do you keep the cash flowing, get paid on time and eliminate payment debts? Because no-one ever pays when you expect them to, right?

Discover the essential strategies and expert insights to help you take charge of your finances, get paid promptly, and bid farewell to payment debts.

PANELLISTS

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the importance of setting clear payment terms with clients and customers from the outset.

Learn how to streamline your payment processes and embrace modern payment technologies to reduce delays and minimise administrative burdens.

Clarity on how to get paid without falling out with your clients.

EMMANUEL ASUQUO

Financial Adviser (BBC One, Channel 4, ITV)

ALEX VON SCHIRMEISTER Managing Director, Xero UK and EMEA

LIZ BARCLAY Small Business Commissioner

RICHARD BEARMAN Managing Director, Small Business Lending, British Business Bank

ANDREA REYNOLDS

Founder & CEO, Swoop

16.00

HOW

MINDSETS CAN POWER UP GLOBAL SUCCESS

If you’re pursuing global expansion, a growth mindset could be your secret weapon.

By harnessing growth mindsets, team members can embrace challenges and cultivate a passion for development. In turn, leaders will be equipped to propel their business towards global expansion and long-term success in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

This dynamic session will delve into the key principles of fostering growth mindsets and demonstrate the transformative powers it will have for your business. We’ll explain strategies that leaders can employ to inspire a culture of continuous learning, resilience, and innovation.

Key Takeaways:

Discover how to embrace a growth mindset to effectively lead and inspire your teams.

• Learn from successful global businesses so you can implement their strategies within your own business.

• Discover the positive effects a growth mindset can have on mental wellbeing.

JUDITH GERMAIN

Founder, The Maverick Paradox

MIRELA SULA

CEO & Founder, Global Woman Club & Global Woman magazine; Journalist & Author

ERIC PARTAKER

CEO Coach & Mentor, Peak Performance Expert

SHALINI KHEMKA CBE

Founder, Chief Executive & Board Director, E2Exchange

LISA MAFFIA

Founder, Maffia Rum & House of Maffia; Performer & Singer

Boost your leadership skills and your business performance

DAY 2

THURSDAY 14TH MARCH 2024

9.20am – 4.30pm

The UK’s small business community are collectively its biggest employers but get very little support or recognition from government.

Your Business Community (YBC) exists to provide small businesses with this much needed support and representation.

YBC members get unlimited free advice, discounts on lots of business services and protection against several potential prosecutions. They also have access to finance and can take advantage of offers from our partners. yourbusinesscommunity.co.uk

Find out more by visiting:

DAY 2 - THURSDAY MARCH 14

09.20 Opening remarks by the event hosts: OLI BARRETT MBE & HANNAH PREVETT

09.30

10.00

10.55

11.25

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

ARTI HALAI - Former Television Presenter (ITV News, BBC), Entrepreneur & Investor OPTIMISING PR AND MARKETING TO GENERATE SALES

PANELLISTS: ARTI HALAI, JACOB NOMAFO, JASON GRAYSTONE, SOPHIE MILLIKEN MBE, STEPHANIE MELODIA

12.05

12.35

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

DUENA BLOMSTROM - Founder & CEO, People Not Tech, Co-Founder, Tech-Led Culture USING DATA AND TECHNOLOGY TO TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS

PANELLISTS: DUENA BLOMSTROM, DAX GRANT, SACHIN AGRAWAL, SARAH MCVITTIE

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

CHELSEY BAKER -

TALENT/TEAM Founder & CEO, National Mentoring Day

PEOPLE POWER: ATTRACTING, DEVELOPING AND RETAINING TALENT

PANELLISTS: CHELSEY BAKER, DR LYNDA FOLAN, MATTHEW PHELAN, PIP JAMIESON, ROB WALL

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

MIRELA SULA - Chief Executive, International Marketing Partners

EXPANDING INTO NEW MARKETS: INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH

PANELLISTS: ALLYSON STEWART-ALLENW, GARIMA SRIVASTAVA, RUSSELL DALGLEISH, THOMAS HAL ROBSON-KANU

15.30

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

PAUL HARGREAVES - Founder & CEO, Cotswold Fayre & Flourish

HOW GROWTH MINDSETS CAN POWER UP GLOBAL SUCCESS

PANELLISTS: PAUL HARGREAVES, CAITLIN HICKS, LOVELDA VINCENZI, TAMMA CARREL

OPTIMISING PR AND MARKETING TO GENERATE SALES

The success of any business hinges on its ability to attract customers and convert them into loyal advocates. PR and Marketing play an instrumental role in achieving this goal.

Join us to discover the power of storytelling as we delve into the art of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with your audience and develop deeper customer connections. We’ll explore traditional vs social media led marketing strategies and share the winning PR formula that you can use to build trust and authority in your industry.

Key Takeaways:

Understand the importance of storytelling in PR and marketing and how to leverage emotional narratives to engage customers.

Learn digital marketing strategies that enhance customer engagement and lead to higher conversion rates.

Gain practical insights into building trust and credibility through effective on and offline PR initiatives.

SOPHIE MILLIKEN MBE Founder & CEO, Moja Group

ARTI HALAI

Former Television Presenter (ITV News, BBC), Entrepreneur & Investor

JASON GRAYSTONE

Serial entrepreneur & investor

JACOB NOMAFO Co-Founder, LucidMeme

STEPHANIE MELODIA Founder, Bloom & Co-founder, BOMBA

The UK StartUp Awards champion and celebrate the best and brightest start-ups from across the United Kingdom. We recognise the achievements of those amazing individuals who have had a great idea, spotted the opportunity and taken the risk to launch a new product or service.

If you’re a start-up that has been trading for three years or under, start your free application today!

CLICK HERE

For application assistance, including a handy AI-powered application generator, visit www.startupawards.uk

10.55

DUENA BLOMSTROM

Founder & CEO, People Not Tech, Co-Founder, Tech-Led Culture

11.25

USING DATA AND TECHNOLOGY TO TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS

Is your business model fit for a rapidly evolving digital landscape? Join us to discover how leveraging data-driven insights and cutting-edge technology can significantly transform your business.

Data and technology have endless applications - improving brand awareness, enhancing cost efficiency, adapting to the changing business world, and better serving customers to name a few. We’ll delve into best practices of using data and technology and share implementation strategies that will propel your business into the future.

Founder & CEO, People Not Tech, Co-Founder, Tech-Led Culture

Head

Key Takeaways:

• Identify what data is actually useful for you and your business.

Learn valuable insights on how to harness technology and create data-driven cultures to make informed and strategic business decisions.

Discover the latest technological advancements and understand how to strategically implement them to gain a competitive advantage in the market.

SARAH MCVITTIE Co-founder, Dressipi

PANELLISTS

DUENA BLOMSTROM

SACHIN AGRAWAL

of Zoho, UK

DAX GRANT Forbes Technology Council

12.05

CHELSEY BAKER

Founder & CEO, National Mentoring Day

12.35 PANEL DISCUSSION

PEOPLE POWER: ATTRACTING, DEVELOPING AND RETAINING TALENT

People are your most valuable asset. The ability to attract, develop, and retain top talent is critical for long-term success and sustained growth in every business.

An ineffective talent strategy can lead to increased costs, high employee turnover, increased absenteeism rates, and damage to brand reputation. We’ve all seen examples of poor employee experiences on social media and review sites such as Glassdoor.

Creating a strong employer brand will make you stand out from competitors and attract top-tier talent. We’ll share valuable insights from industry experts on building solid foundations for people power, paving the way for future growth and success.

PANELLISTS

Key Takeaways:

Discover the secrets of building a strong employer brand to attract top talent.

• Learn what to do when you get it wrong and your employees attract press sharing their negative experiences.

• Hear strategies for building a loyal and committed team that drives business success from prolific entrepreneurs.

MATTHEW PHELAN Co-Founder, the Happiness Index

CHELSEY BAKER

Founder & CEO, National Mentoring Day

PIP JAMIESON, Founder & CEO, The Dots

DR LYNDA FOLAN

Managing Director, Inspired Development Solutions, Doctor of Organisational Psychology

ROB WALL Leadership Coach & Consultant

Chief Executive, International Marketing Partners

14.35 PANEL DISCUSSION

EXPANDING INTO NEW MARKETS: INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR GLOBAL GROWTH

Expanding into new markets is essential for businesses seeking global growth. When done properly, international expansion is exciting and highly profitable, but careful consideration and planning is required.

We’ll delve into the risks to consider, along with the dos and don’ts when seeking global expansion. Give your international growth plans a head start by learning from those that have been there, done that and are still standing.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to conduct relevant research and analysis to make informed decisions when expanding into new markets.

• Gain insights into customisation and localisation of products, services, and marketing strategies to connect with global audiences.

Discover risk assessment and mitigation strategies to minimise potential pitfalls.

THOMAS HAL ROBSON-KANU

RUSSELL

GARIMA SRIVASTAVA

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15.30

PAUL HARGREAVES

Founder & CEO, Cotswold Fayre & Flourish

16.00

IS SUSTAINABILITY YESTERDAY’S NEWS?

Worries about the cost of living, inflation and the lingering consequences of Brexit have heaped pressure on businesses. Does this mean sustainability has fallen down the agenda?

With so many priorities competing for our attention, our panel look at whether sustainability has become a nice to do or whether it should be non-negotiable. We’ll explore the responsibilities businesses have and consider whether becoming a B-Corp is a significant milestone to strive for.

PANEL DISCUSPANELLISTS

Key Takeaways:

• Identify where sustainability fits into your business plan.

Receive low cost, low effort ways to incorporate sustainability within your business.

Discover what prioritising sustainability can do for your bottom line.

TAMMA CARREL Founder, Imvelo Ltd

PAUL HARGREAVES

Founder & CEO, Cotswold Fayre & Flourish

LOVELDA VINCENZI Moderator Specialising in Climate and Sustainability Events

CAITLIN HICKS Sustainability Manager, Nuevo

Unlock the True Value of Your Business

A business valuation is the cornerstone of business success. Without a clear understanding of your company’s value, navigating the complexities of succession and growth planning becomes a challenging task.

Whether you’re thinking of selling your business or seeking insights into your financial trajectory, BusinessesForSale.com’s quick valuation tool will help you understand the worth of your business.

Get an estimated business valuation in under 5 minutes, for free.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

The leading Elite Business Live innovators and experts taking the stage in 2024.

Full bios are available on the speaker page of website.

ALEX VON SCHIRMEISTER

Managing Director, Xero UK and EMEA

DAY 1 - 14.05

HOW TO GET PAID

Alex is responsible for leading Xero’s operations across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He has more than 25 years’ of senior leadership experience, having led teams across Europe and Latin America in ecommerce, payments, telecommunications, FMCG and consultancy. Prior to Xero, Alex led the European operations for small business payments technology company SumUp, and before that held senior leadership positions at Electrocomponents and eBay, where he gained exposure to a large constituency of merchant sellers. Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, International Business from Georgetown University, and a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.

ALLYSON STEWART-ALLEN

Chief Executive of International Marketing Partners

DAY 2 - 14.05

International Strategies for Global Growth

A Californian based in Europe for over 30 years, Allyson applies her international consulting experience, MBA education with Dr. Peter Drucker and languages to the company she founded, International Marketing Partners.

Allyson has advised more than 250 businesses in 26 countries including BAE Systems, Burberry, Cadbury, HSBC, Lufthansa and SAB Miller. Following her early career with PwC, PA Consulting Group and Hay Management Consultants, Allyson advises Boards and senior leaders to profitably grow across regions.

Besides joining the past four seasons of BBC’s The Apprentice, Allyson was Sky News’ “Muse of Marketing” for 4 years alongside appearances for CNBC’s The Business Class, BBC News, CNN, FT, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.

Allyson is author of both editions of best-selling book Working with Americans, and all three editions of Marketing in the USA (UK Dept for International Trade).

Allyson is engaged for her award-winning corporate education work by Fortune 100 companies and the world’s leading business schools including Said Business School Oxford University, Churchill College Cambridge, LBS, Duke CE, HEC Paris among others.

London’s business environment drives the entire UK economy. With one in five businesses located in London and a total of 940,000 businesses located within the South East representing 34% of all UK businesses (source: ONS).

LondonlovesBusiness can help you promote your business and reach thousands of potential customers.

A dedicated London network of:

Small businesses

Tech innovators

Talent champions

Affluent business focused investors

Commercial and residential investment opportunities

www.londonlovesbusiness.com

advertising@londonlovesbusiness.com

020 7862 1748

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

ARTI HALAI

Former Television Presenter (ITV News, BBC), Entrepreneur & Investor

DAY 2 - 09.30

Optimising PR and Marketing to Generate Sales

With over three decades of experience, Arti Halai specializes in empowering individuals with confident communication skills.

As an Executive Coach, trainer and presenter she has impacted thousands of professionals in the UK and abroad.

For fifteen years, Arti worked as a television presenter, reporter and producer for the likes of the BBC and ITV. She covered major global events like the untimely death of Diana, Princess of Wales, the 911 tragedy and General Elections. For eight years she fronted ITV’s news across the Midlands, Central News.

As an entrepreneur and investor, Arti co-founded two successful companies in a recession. Both the PR agency, Fleet Street Communications and digital design agency, Grin Consultancy grew parallel, were profitable, achieved seven figure growth and worked with global brands. After twelve years, she exited both businesses as they did management buyouts in 2022. An active presenter, Arti comperes award ceremonies and conferences, chairs panel discussions and forums. Arti’s clients span across diverse sectors and include FTSE 100, 250, SME, entrepreneurs and startups as well as not for profit organisations.

CHELSEY BAKER

Chief Executive & Founder National Mentoring Day

DAY 2 - 12.05

People Power: Attracting, Developing and Retaining Talent

Chelsey is a visionary force in the world of mentoring, founding National Mentoring Day, the largest celebration of mentoring in the world and inaugurated in the Houses of Parliament in 2016 by Lord David Young. Chelsey has been instrumental in leading government mentoring projects and her mission is clear: to make mentoring accessible to all.

The annual celebration takes place annually on 27th October to celebrate mentors and mentees and profile the businesses making an impact through mentoring and amplifying their news and stories year-round.

With over two decades as a senior executive in media, television, publishing, communications & PR, Chelsey is hailed as the UK’s top pitching expert. Chelsey has trained CEO’s and leaders globally, equipping them with public speaking, media, and business pitching skills. Her mentoring style has garnered global recognition where she is a sought-after speaker, gracing stages across the world.

Chelsey is a multi-award-winning business mentor with thousands of hours mentoring experience across all sectors.

CHARLIE ROGERS

Start-up Operator, Community

Founder, Semi-Professional Athlete & Newsletter Writer

DAY

1 - 12.05

GenLaZy? The future of working from home

Charlie is a multipotentialite, an individual of many interests, who blends his personal and professional lives together to live the future of careers, where he’s on a mission to build a world where work will be a means of achieving our purpose first and a source of financial gain second. To do this he spends his time as an operator of a start-up called The Portfolio Collective, the founder and builder of the Undefinable Community and a writer of a newsletter called So, What Do You Do?. All while juggling his career as a semi-professional endurance athlete, where he placed 33/1115 at Ironman UK and 396/3935 at Ironman 70.3 World Champions in 2023 and is currently training to go sub 2h 30m at the London Marathon in April 2024.

DUENA BLOMSTROM

CEO, PeopleNotTech and TechLedCulture

DAY 2 - 10.55

Using Data and Technology to Transform Your Business

Duena is a multifaceted professional renowned for her expertise in digital transformation and workplace culture. With over two decades of experience, she has become a prominent advocate for Agile methodologies and the importance of human-centric workplaces.

As the CEO of PeopleNotTech and TechLedCulture, Duena is at the forefront of innovative culture change and team productivity methods. Her companies provide software solutions that emphasize continuous development, high performance, and emotional intelligence. By measuring and enhancing Psychological Safety and team happiness, Duena aims to reduce what she terms “Human DebtTM” and promote truly Agile, human-centered cultures.

Recognized as a top influencer in various fields, including technology, culture, B2B, Agile, and FinTech, Duena has made significant contributions as a Forbes contributor and a LinkedIn Top Voice for 15 years. Her global following consists of both current and future leaders who are committed to addressing the challenges of the modern workplace.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

MIRELA SULA

CEO and Founder, Global Woman magazine & Global Woman Club

DAY 1 - 15.30

How Growth Mindsets Can Power Up Global Success

Mirela Sula is a British journalist, author, and the CEO and Founder of Global Woman magazine and Global Woman Club. She has a bachelor’s degree in Languages and Literature from Luigj Gurakuqi University and a master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology from the University of Sheffield.

Sula has over two decades of experience in media, speaking, and education. She has a background in psychology and counseling, journalism, teaching, coaching, women’s rights, and media training. She is also the organizer of the Global Woman Summit and Global Woman Awards.

Sula has received many awards for her work, including the ‘Inspirational Award for Women 2015’ for Human Rights, the ‘Best Inspirational Influencer’ Award from The Best You in 2017, and the Universum Donna Award 2017 from the Universum Academy of Switzerland. Recently she received “The Icon 2023” Award among top celebrities in the UK. Passionate about empowering women worldwide, Sula always stands up for inclusion, diversity, gender balance, and supporting the next generation.

PIERS LINNEY

Co-Founder, Implement AI

DAY 1 - 10.55

Harness the power of AI in your business

Piers is an entrepreneur and investor with experience across a range of sectors including technology, converged communications, and additive manufacturing. He is the Co-Founder of Implement AI, next generation consultancy dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized businesses to understand, select and implement AI. Piers is well-known as a champion of entrepreneurship and SMEs and a regular media commentator and is probably best known as a former Dragon investor on BBC 2’s Dragons’ Den and from Channel 4’s The Secret Millionaire.

PAUL HARGREAVES

Founder & CEO, Cotswold Fayre & Flourish

DAY 2 - 15.30

Is Sustainability Yesterday’s News?

Paul Hargreaves is one of the leading voices in the UK encouraging and inspiring businesses to move away from the capitalism that has resulted in more inequality than ever before and a planet that is on the brink of catastrophe.

Twenty-five years ago, Paul founded Cotswold Fayre, a speciality food wholesaler, from his house in inner-city London whilst he was also engaging in charitable work within the local community. The company grew rapidly to become the leading speciality food and drink wholesaler to retail in the UK.

Paul’s main role remains as CEO of Cotswold Fayre, but in June 2021 he opened Flourish a foodhall and restaurant, which has helped the whole company live out its values to the world.

The tremendous success of the company, now with revenues approaching £30M, has been down to creating a great place to work and one that focusses on changing the world for better, through its carbon reduction, community focus and primarily selling British-made artisan food products. In late 2022 Cotswold Fayre won the coveted Lloyds Bank Purpose Before Profit Award and in early 2023 the company was named No 1. in The Elite Business 100 Top SME Businesses 2023. Most recently in July 2023 the company won a coveted Grocer Gold Award as Specialty Wholesaler of the Year.

RICHARD HARPIN

Founder and Chairman, HomeServe

DAY 1 - 09.30

Supercharge Your Sales Strategies

Richard is the founder and Chairman of HomeServe, a global consumer services company, which achieved FTSE 100 status before being sold in a take private deal to the Canadian investment firm Brookfield Asset Management for £4.1 billion. A true entrepreneur,Richard’s energy for business and creating opportunity is limitless.

Born in Huddersfield and raised in Northumberland, Richard is a northerner to the core. After attending the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle, he studied economics at York Universitybefore spending four years in Brand Management at Procter and Gamble, followed by a year in Management Consultancy with Deloitte. Even in his youth, Richard showcased his entrepreneurial spirit by establishing various small enterprises, including the high fashion earring brand “Hookers”, which used fishing flies and were sold in hair salons across the country.

PANELLISTS

The leading Elite Business Live innovators and experts taking the stage in 2024.

Full bios are available on the speaker page of website.

ANDREA REYNOLDS

Founder and CEO Swoop Funding

DAY 1 - 14.35 FINANCE

Andrea started her career as an accountant with KPMG before joining their Management Consultancy division in London, directing projects for a number of organisations such as GE Capital Aviation, Ryanair, Lloyds Bank and the FCA. Andrea left KPMG to start her own corporate finance consultancy, where for over 10 years she raised funding for businesses across loans, investment and grants. It is this experience that led to the launch of swoopfunding.com. Andrea is also a non-executive director Berkshire Hathaway European Insurance

CHARLIE MULLINS

Founder of Pimlico Plumbers

DAY 1 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Erstwhile plumbing apprentice and now regular media commentator/motivational speaker, Charlie Mullins OBE, is the archetypal entrepreneur. Launching his business from scratch in 1979, Charlie subsequently built Pimlico Plumbers into a multi-million-pound enterprise, which he then sold to the world’s largest home services franchisor, US-based Neighbourly, in 2021. He was awarded an OBE for services to plumbing in the 2014 Queen’s New Year’s Honours and his autobiography, Bog Standard Business was published in 2015.

DAX GRANT

Forbes Technology Council

DAY 2 - 11.25 TECHNOLOGY

A lead authority on entrepreneurial c-suite leadership within international and global organisations, Dax is a renowned Woman in Technology, recognised Keynote speaker and societal voice.

Listed within the Global CIO 100, Cranfield School of Management 100 Women to Watch, CREA Awards Winner, 100 Successful Women in Business and a Power list 100 Keynote speaker. Dax is also recognised as an invitation only member of the Forbes Technology Council. Dax has held a variety of influential CIO and COO positions including CIO, Global Operations, HSBC.

DR LYNDA FOLAN

Managing Director, Inspired Development Solutions, Doctor of Organisational Psychology

DAY 2 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Dr. Lynda Folan is a renowned expert in Organisational Psychology and Development, boasting a distinguished career spanning over 35 years. With a robust academic foundation in organizational psychology, Lynda has effectively led international Organisational Development teams and spearheaded transformative cultural and strategic shifts in organizations worldwide. Lynda’s pioneering work revolves around Leadership and Resilience, marked by her groundbreaking 2019 doctoral thesis titled “Defining a Research Model of Leader Resilience and Evaluating the Dispositional Effect of Resilience on Transformational Leadership.” This research is reshaping leadership development and resiliencebuilding approaches.

Helm (formerly The Supper Club) is the UK’s leading Club exclusively for scale-up founders beyond £1m. No Sales. No ego.

Find your peers

Access inspiration and ideas from our diverse mix of over 400 members between £1m - £100m.

Solve your challenges

Enjoy rich conversations at our intimate roundtable events, learn from your peers, and connect with fellow founders.

Form lasting friendships

Your Forum group will become your sounding board for decisions big and small, accelerating your growth to the next level.

Learn more at www.helmclub.co

DR RASHADA HARRY

Enterprise Technologist, Amazon Web Services

DAY 1 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

A proven and experienced business leader whom leverages the power of technology to support business transformation Rashada holds 20years technology sales experience and has a record of accomplishment in delivering growth, supporting innovation and delivering value to global organisations as well as being a keen advocate for inclusion, diversity and equity practice.

In a professional capacity Rashada is an Enterprise Technologist at Amazon Web Services where she seeks to take enterprise Customers on a digital transformation to the cloud. Prior to joining AWS, she held senior roles at organisations including Vodafone Global Enterprise and Cisco.

EMMANUEL ASUQUO

Financial Adviser (BBC One, Channel 4, ITV)

DAY 1 - 14.35 FINANCE

Emmanuel Asuquo is a qualified Financial Adviser and has worked in Financial Services for over 15 years. He is privileged enough to give financial education talks all over the UK and has spoken to over 50,000 people in the last three years.Emmanuel has been featured in The Times, Telegraph, The Sun and Daily Mail newspapers and invited to speak as an expert guest on BBC Radio on multiple occasions. He was one of four experts on the popular Channel 4 finance show “Save Well, Spend Better”. He was also an expert for the BBC One show “Your Money And Your Life”, helping a family save just under £10,000 on their annual household bills.

ERIKA BRODNOCK MBE

Founder & CEO, Kinhub

DAY 1 - 10.55 TECHNOLOGY

Through her work at the intersection of technology, wellbeing and product development, Erika has built products and services in the ed-tech, parenting, and financial markets that disrupt and spearhead a path out of outdated systems. She is the author of Diversity Beyond Gender, and co-author of the TRANSPARENT Framework, and Better Venture.

Erika is founder and CEO of software company Kinhub; a Co-Founder at Extend Ventures CIC and the Black Funding Network CIC; she sits on the advisory board of the APPG for Entreprenurship, is a non-executive director of The Good Play Guide; and an angel investor and advisor to several startups.

ELENA SINEL

Founder, Teens in AI

DAY 1 - 10.55 TECHNOLOGY

Elena Sinel is an internationally recognised social entrepreneur and award-winning founder of Teens in AI. Committed to catalysing change through technology, she endeavours to empower youth aged 12 to 18 to tackle real-world issues. Driven by a profound passion for AI and its potential to generate lasting positive impact, she launched Teens in AI at the United Nations’s AI For Good Global Summit to promote diversity and inclusion within the AI industry. In collaboration with FTSE 100 companies and governmental bodies worldwide, she has successfully incorporated future-oriented skills into today’s educational frameworks.

ERIC PARTAKER

CEO coach & mentor, peak performance expert

DAY 1 - 16.00

GLOBAL

Eric has been named “CEO of the Year” at the 2019 Business Excellence Awards, one of the “Top 30 Entrepreneurs in the UK”, 35 and under, by Startups Magazine, and among “Britain’s Most Disruptive Entrepreneurs” by The Telegraph. He has advised Fortune 50 CEOs while at McKinsey, helped build Skype’s multibillion dollar success story, and has founded several businesses. His work has been featured on over 7 major TV stations, in the Wall Street Journal, and The Economist. He has also appeared as a guest judge on The Apprentice with Lord Alan Sugar.

Eric is certified as a peak performance coach and has also completed a coaching certification and apprenticeship with Professor BJ Fogg.

GARIMA SRIVASTAVA

Senior Trade & Customs Specialist

DAY 2 - 14.35

GLOBAL

Garima Srivastava is a Senior Trade & Customs Specialist at the Academy. She is an accomplished international trade and customs lawyer with extensive experience in customs law advisory.

With an undergraduate law degree from India, Garima began her career at Lakshmikumaran & Attorneys, a leading law firm in India, where she provided expert advice on customs compliance, import regulations, customs classification, valuation, rules of origin, foreign trade policy, free trade zones, warehousing, and licensing. After gaining valuable experience in India, she pursued an LLM degree at the University of Pennsylvania Law School in the United States.

JACOB NOMAFO

Co-founder and CEO, Lucid Meme

DAY 2 - 10.00

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Jacob is the Co-founder and CEO of Lucid Meme, a pioneering agency that utilises the power of meme marketing to achieve unparalleled Gen Z engagement on social media. Backed by Gary Vee, Lucid Meme bridges the generational gap on social platforms, using memes to convey information in a succinct and digestible format. As a marketer, Jacob’s work has been recognised by LinkedIn for Non-Profits and by Downing Street for social impact.

JAX DAVEY

CEO of the creative agency Nuevo

DAY 2 - 16.00 SUSTAINABILITY

Jax Davey is an award-winning entrepreneur and CEO of the creative agency Nuevo, whose clients include Canada Goose, Ordnance Survey and Ernst & Young. But it was Jax’s first major collaborator, the British military, that explains his unconventional entrance into the creative industry and his pioneering approach to advertising and sustainability. It was during his time as a Royal Marine that he first picked up a camera. This newfound need to create and his unique capacity to access hard-to-reach locations fuelled Jax to found The Rolling Rogues, where his team delivered specialist projects for the military alongside TV commercials for global brands like Garmin. When Jax was 25, the agency was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, the US conglomerate led by Warren Buffett.

KEVIN HOLLINRAKE MP

Minister for Enterprise, Markets & Small Business

DAY 1 - 09.20

Kevin represents the constituency where he was born, brought up in and has lived in most of his life. He was elected to Parliament in May 2015, during which time he has been the CoChair of the APPG for Fair Business Banking, Co-Chair of APPG for Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire and a member of the Treasury Select Committee. Kevin was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business and Trade on 7 February 2023. He was previously Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy between 27 October 2022 and 7 February 2023.

JASON GRAYSTONE

Serial entrepreneur & investor

DAY 2 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Jason Graystone is an entrepreneur, investor, and host of the Always Free Podcast. Since starting his first business at 22 years old, Jason’s love for investing & business helped him become financially free by the time he was 30 by adopting a unique blend of wealth creation strategies allowing him to replace his active income.

Jason has since built multiple -7 figure businesses, spoken on some of the world’s most reputable stages in the investing space as well as universities, schools, and some large corporations including the MET police.

Jason runs an industry-leading education program to help people achieve true financial freedom.

JUDITH GERMAIN

Founder, The Maverick Paradox

DAY 1 - 16.00

GLOBAL

Judith Germain, Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, MBA PgDip, is the Leading Authority on Maverick Leadership and has been defining Mavericks as wilfully independent people since 2005. She is regularly approached to speak, mentor and write on how to be a more impactful and influential leader.

Judith is a ‘Socialised Maverick’, who thinks differently, challenges often and enables effective leadership execution. She empowers business owners, leaders, the C-Suite and organisations to thrive in complex, constantly changing environments. She creates clear thinking and decisive leaders.

LISA MAFFIA

Musician, presenter, actress, and entrepreneur

DAY 1 - 16.00

GLOBAL

Lisa Maffia, renowned as the First Lady of the iconic So Solid Crew, initially gained fame with the groundbreaking single ‘Oh No (Sentimental Things).’ Her illustrious career includes hits like ‘No Good 4 Me’ and the #1 hit ’21 Seconds.’ With So Solid Crew, she achieved commercial success, selling nearly a million albums and winning numerous awards. After contributing to ‘They Don’t Know,’ Lisa pursued a solo career, releasing chart-topping singles and winning the Best UK Garage Act award at the MOBOs. Lisa Maffia’s multifaceted career as a musician, presenter, actress, and entrepreneur showcases her versatility, resilience, and dedication to success. The First Lady’s enduring impact in entertainment remains undeniable.

LIZ BARCLAY

Small Business Commissioner

DAY 1 - 14.35 FINANCE

Liz Barclay is the Small Business Commissioner for the UK. She has a background in broadcasting and journalism specialising in small business, personal finance and consumer affairs and is author of several business books. She is also Chair of the Fair by Design Campaign (to tackle the poverty premium) and a nonexecutive Director of the Lending Standards Board.

Until she took up the role of SBC Liz was a Financial Inclusion Commissioner, an Ambassador for Business Debtline, a member of the Fundraising Regulator Standards Board, the Equity Release Council Standards Board, and ran BackinBusiness.org. uk to give small businesses a voice with policy makers.

MATTHEW PHELAN

Co-founder of The Happiness Index

DAY 2 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Matt Phelan is a Co-Founder of the Happiness Index. In his day-to-day role, he’s responsible for the strategic direction of the business.

Matt is the founder of The Happiness and Humans Community, host of The Happiness and Humans Podcast and author of Freedom To Be Happy: The Business Case for Happiness & The Happiness Index: Why Today’s Employee Emotions Equal Tomorrow’s Business Success”.

Matt recently completed a TEDx talk where he presented 12 million data points on happiness from 1 million human beings in 100+ countries in less than 15 minutes

MILIMO BANJI

Founder & CEO, TapIn

DAY 1 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Milimo Banji is an award-winning entrepreneur, leader, and advisor. He’s the founder and CEO of the talent agency TapIn, an agency that supports some of the largest employers in the U.K. to attract, engage and hire diverse talent. He serves as a board member and advisor to FTSE 100 companies, is a prominent public speaker, and brings with him a wealth of expertise on the future of work, social media, engaging diverse talent, leadership, change management and building inclusive teams. He’s also mentored by Richard Branson.

LOVELDA VINCENZI

Renowned Moderator & Host

DAY 2 - 16.00 SUSTAINABILITY

Trusted to facilitate conversations with political figureheads & business leaders, celebrities, change-makers & activists, renowned Moderator & Host Lovelda Vincenzi is a ‘true professional in a world where many others are mere amateurs.’ She has facilitated conversations with heavyweights including Olympian Tom Daley, Monica Lewinsky, Paul Polman (Former Unilever CEO) and Mike Horn (Professional Explorer). Lovelda is also the consistent face of prominent events including the ChangeNow Summit, the world’s largest conference on positive impact. Lovelda excels at creating thought provoking, engaging and entertaining conversations, seamlessly bringing together diverse perspectives and backgrounds on complex topics.

MCVAL OSBORNE

Co-founder and COO of The Future Communicator

DAY 1 - 10.55 TECHNOLOGY

McVal Osborne is a distinguished communications and marketing strategist, known for his roles at Social Chain, Flight Story, and collaborations with Apple, Google, Uber, and Amazon. As co-founder and COO of The Future Communicator, he leverages his expertise in AI and data analytics, driving digital transformation and providing training in AI tools for communications and marketing teams within organisations including the UN, the British Chamber of Commerce, Severn Trent and Virgin Media. In addition to launching a strategic research practice at the global advertising agency Engine Group and data & insights practices within Steven Bartlett’s enterprises Social Chain and Flight Story.

PAVLO PHITIDIS

Founder & CEO, Aurik Business

DAY 1 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

As an entrepreneur and investor, Pavlo offers over 30 years of direct experience in conceptualising, building and scaling business growth across 3 continents. He has directly developed and brought to market multiple businesses through start-ups, turnarounds, sales and acquisitions. He continues supporting business owners’ growth through Aurik, which he founded and has delivered growth outcomes for more than 3,000 companies. Pavlo is a regular media commentator, an international speaker on business growth and author of 2 books on business growth: Sweat Scale $ell and Reset Rebuild Reignite.

PIP JAMIESON

Founder & CEO, The Dots

DAY 2 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Pip Jamieson is the Founder and CEO of The Dots, a member app, described by Apple as “Networking for the modern world” The Dots licences its software as a white label app solution to the world’s most discerning member clubs, co-working spaces and in-person communities to help them augment their InReal-Life experience and create highly engaged digital member communities that they own, control and can communicate directly with. Pip was named by The Sunday Times as one of the Top 100 Disruptive Entrepreneurs innovating in their respective fields, by Founders Forum as one of the Inspiring 50 Women in Technology, and by Adweek as one of the top trailblazing leaders having a positive impact on the world.

ROB WALL

Leadership coach & consultant

DAY 2 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Rob Wall is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, content creator & coach. Rob has coached entrepreneurs in over thirty-five countries including training leaders from Apple, United Nations, The British Army, & most recently was the founding team member of global unicorn start-up Glorify – which raised $84.6 Million dollars in series-A funding. in participation with SoftBank and other global institutions. Under Rob’s content direction the app went from 50 downloads a week to over 5 million in 24 months. Robs leadership and entrepreneur community is over 23,000 and his guest most recently include Nelson Mandela’s prison jailer Christo Brand, author of Atomic Habits James Clear and Dr Henry Cloud.

SACHIN AGRAWAL

Managing Director, Zoho UK

DAY 2 - 11.25

TECHNOLOGY

Sachin is responsible for the UK business of Zoho. Prior to his current role, Sachin managed a few of Zoho’s product lines globally and led account management across all products and regions. Before Zoho, Sachin was an entrepreneur for five years and built an HR Tech SaaS business. Earlier he spent 16 years in the consulting, restructuring and enterprise technology space with companies such as IBM, A&M, Tech Mahindra & Tata Group, working in India, APAC, Middle East & Americas.

RICHARD BEARMAN

Managing Director Small Business Lending, British Business Bank

DAY 1 - 14.35 FINANCE

Richard Bearman has over 20 years’ experience in the banking sector and over that time has developed a real passion for working with and supporting entrepreneurs. Richard is Managing Director at the British Business Bank and is responsible for the Start Up Loans programme. Working with a range of Business Support Partners across the UK to help startup businesses access funding, Richard is proud to play a part in helping people achieve their dream of being their own boss.

Richard was previously UK Head of Small Business at HSBC, where he led and supported colleagues serving the UK SME market via face to face, telephony and digital channels. Richard set the strategic direction and led the business to evolve its channels and grow its customer base.

RUSSELL DALGLEISH

Founder & Managing Partner of Exolta Capital Partners

DAY 2 - 14.35 GLOBAL

Russell Dalgleish is a prominent Scottish entrepreneur and investor with a notable track record in the international technology sector. As the founding Managing Partner of Exolta Capital Partners and the Founding Chair of the Scottish Business Network, he plays a pivotal role in advising and supporting business leaders and entrepreneurs in achieving global success. With a wealth of experience in leadership roles for international companies across Europe, the US, and Asian markets, Russell now focuses on assisting companies in developing and implementing international growth strategies. His investment interests lie in early-stage opportunities, particularly in sectors such as Govtech, Smart Cities, Fintech, and climate change technology.

SARAH MCVITTIE

Co-founder, Dressipi

DAY 2 - 11.25

TECHNOLOGY

Award-winning, serial AI and machine learning entrepreneur. CoFounder of Dressipi – featured by WSJ, FT and HBR. Named one of “UK’s Top Rising Female Entrepreneurs” by The Times.

SHAA WASMUND MBE

Serial entrepreneur, Sunday Times Best Selling Author

DAY 1 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Shaa Wasmund MBE has over 20 years’ experience building and exiting multiple businesses and works fiercely towards financial empowerment for all. At 21 she was the youngest and only licensed female boxing manager in the world working with Super Middleweight Champion, Chris Eubank. At 23, she set up her own PR agency and Sir James Dyson became her first client. For nearly 5 years she helped grow the Dyson brand, starting from his kitchen table. Shaa went on to create and sell multiple online businesses as well as running an investment fund for tech startups. Growing up with a single Mum on a council estate and being the first in her family to go to University, Shaa is passionate about helping others fulfill their greatest human potential; no matter their background.

SIMON SQUIBB

Founder, Helpbnk

DAY 1 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Simon has spent 10 years as an entrepreneur in the UK and 20 years as an entrepreneur in Hong Kong. He started his first company when he was homeless at 15 years old, and he sold his last company ‘Fluid’ to PwC. He has also invested in over 70 startups in the last 15 years.

Today Simon is the founder of the world’s first Help2Earn platform – HelpBnk, an ecosystem that helps people learn how to start and scale a business for free while allowing those that help to get paid. Simon’s mission is to help 10 million people start a business of their own, and fix the education system.

STEPHANIE MELODIA

Founder, Bloom & Cofounder,

BOMBA

DAY 2 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Stephanie is the Top 20 Most Influential Female Founder & acclaimed public speaker for international tech conferences, known for her energetic, passionate, and insightful presentations, captivating audiences with her engaging style and driving impactful discussions.

The former CEO of award-winning marketing agency, Bloom, Stephanie led a thriving six-figure business through the challenges of the global pandemic. She then co-founded BOMBA, the creative studio for explosive brands.

Stephanie is the host of the CEO Stories podcast, has presented at Web Summit, and has been interviewed by Starling Bank, LinkedIn, WeTransfer, and ComputerWeekly.com.

SHALINI KHEMKA CBE

Founder, Chief Executive & Board Director, E2Exchange

DAY 1 - 16.00

GLOBAL

Shalini Khemka (CBE) founded E2E (www.e2exchange.com) in 2011, where she is the Chief Executive and serves on its Board.

E2E has developed into an exciting and ground-breaking powerhouse of entrepreneurs, investors, non-execs, and SME focussed corporate organisations. Its mission is to develop the largest and most active entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UK to enable extraordinary entrepreneurship.

E2E’s current community consists of 24K SMEs who contribute £230bn in turnover to the UK economy and employ 1.15 million people.

SOPHIE MILLIKEN MBE

Multi-award-winning entrepreneur

DAY 2 - 10.00 COMMERCIAL BUSINESS GROWTH

Sophie Milliken is a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, Director, NED, chartered FCIPD HR professional, author, speaker and investor. In January 2022, Sophie founded her current business Moja Group Limited, dedicated to boosting business owners’ profiles, helping them become more visible and heard within their industry. A multi-award winner and TEDx speaker, Sophie is an active supporter of women in business and is passionate about helping individuals develop. Sophie has published two bestselling books: From Learner to Earner, a recruitment insider’s guide for students wanting to achieve graduate job success; and The Ambition Accelerator, a working woman’s guide to powering up their professional success.

TAMARA LITTLETON

Founder & CEO, The Social Element Agency

DAY 1 - 12.35 TALENT/TEAM

Tamara founded The Social Element in 2002 and has grown the agency to become a 300+ people strong and award-winning business that helps some of the world’s biggest brands including OREO, Visa, Smirnoff, Nissan and Dr Pepper thrive on social media. Tamara is also co-founder of Polpeo, a crisis company that creates realistic and immersive crisis simulations that prepare teams to communicate successfully in a crisis. She is a Fellow of The Marketing Society, a previous Drum’s CEO of the year and also recognised in Campaign Magazine’s 40 over 40. Tamara is the co-host of The Genuine Humans podcast, a board member of Media Pride and is regularly featured in the Outstanding Top 100 Global LGBTQ+ Executives list.

TAMMA CAREL

Founder, Imvelo Ltd

DAY 2 - 16.00

SUSTAINABILITY

Tamma Carel is a Senior Environmental Consultant specialising in Sustainability & Environmental Management. She is the founder of Imvelo Ltd, and cofounder of iCOR Systems. Tamma is an active STEM Ambassador and is also an Associate Lecturer at Northumbria University, delivering sessions on Sustainability, whilst simultaneously completing a part-time MBA at Newcastle University. In her spare time, she works with Blyth Wildlife Rescue as a Hedgehog Fosterer.

THOMAS HAL ROBSON-KANU

Founder & CEO, The Turmeric Co.

DAY 2 - 14.35 GLOBAL

Previously a Premier League & International footballer, Thomas played for West Brom and Wales before retiring in 2021 to focus on bringing awareness to the power of natural nutrition. Thomas founded The Turmeric Co. in 2018 after finding his homemade turmeric blend invaluable in supporting his recovery from injury and the physical demands of training. Since then, Thomas has commissioned clinical studies to validate the functional properties of his anti-inflammatory products. The Turmeric Co. has won numerous awards, is utilised by the likes of Everton FC, Brentford FC, and Sale Sharks Rugby Club, and is one of the UK’s fastest-growing health brands.

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Swoop offered a superb service overall. We were assigned a dedicated Accounts Manager by Swoop who got our loan approved in 5 days and the money was in our account shortly afterwards.

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AdSmart from Sky has helped thousands of businesses across the UK to access the unrivalled power of TV advertising. AdSmart allows businesses of all shapes and sizes to benefit from the most trusted and effective way to advertise – reaching the right audience, in world class content, for a lot less than you might think.

We’re a part of the British Business Bank and deliver the government’s Start Up Loans programme. This gives personal fixed-interest loans and support to aspiring and earlystage business owners from across the UK who might be struggling to access other forms of finance. The programme supports employment, enables economic growth and has a transformational impact on the lives of thousands of people.

Cisco helps seize the opportunities of tomorrow by proving that amazing things can happen when you connect the unconnected. An integral part of our DNA is creating long-lasting customer partnerships, working together to identify our customers’ needs and provide solutions that fuel their success.

Howden is a group of insurance experts with the experience to deliver for clients and the motivation to help them thrive. Client success is Howden’s success. Whatever cover is needed, the team is full of market-leading experts who can help – offering flexible, highquality insurance and reassuringly straightforward service. No matter the challenge, Howden can get the right people in the right place to create the right solution.

Meet all your marketing needs with TikTok Business Center. Manage and access advertising, creators, commerce and other marketing solutions in one place for quick collaboration and maximum flexibility.

TikTok for Business: Advertise on TikTok. Make ads that entertain and campaigns that connect. Where large and small businesses, agencies & creators can achieve big results.

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Nearly 46% of Telco CEOs fear their company’s demise in 10 years, without new diversification*. We have the answer. conXhub is a revolutionary cellular technology company, offering applications and middleware to supercharge existing contracts and device investment.

Know-it is the cloud-based, all-in-one credit management platform that helps SMEs mitigate credit risk, reduce debtor days, boost cashflow and get paid! Businesses can credit check and monitor companies they do business with, automate payment chasing, collect overdue invoices, and more, all in one place.

Moja works with entrepreneurs and senior executives to raise their profiles and get them known in their industry and beyond.

Swoop is a business funding and savings platform enabling businesses to discover the right funding solutions across loans, equity inv

Designed and delivered by small business experts, the Help to Grow: Management Course will give you the confidence to take your business to the next level. Available at 60 locations across the UK, it will enable you to confidently make decisions, lead change, and engage your employees on your journey.

Vodafone Business helps organisations succeed in a digital world and are proud to be an Elite Business Live partner for 2024. They aim to provide the technology, inspiration and support to help businesses grow, no matter what stage they’re at.

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A-Z SPEAKERS

A

Alex Von Schirmeister.... pg42

Allyson Stewart-Allen.... pg42

Andrea Reynolds............. pg48

Arti Halai ............................ pg44

C

Charlie Mullins.................. pg48

Charlie Rogers.................. pg44

Chelsey Baker................... pg44

D

Dax Grant............................ pg48

Dr Lynda Folan............ pg48

Dr Rashada Harry............ pg51

Duena Blomstrom............ pg44

E

Elena Sinel......................... pg51

Emmanuel Asuquo.......... pg51

Eric Partaker...................... pg51

Erika Brodnock MBE pg51

G

Garima Srivastava.......... pg51

J

Jacob Nomafo.................. pg52

Jason Graystone............. pg52

Jax Davey........................... pg52

Judith Germain ................ pg52

K

Kevin Hollinrake MP......... pg52

L

Lisa Maffia ......................... pg52

Liz Barclay......................... pg53

Lovelda Vincenzi ............. pg53

M

Matthew Phelan.............. pg53

Mcval Osborne.................. pg53

Milimo Banji........................ pg53

Mirela Sula......................... pg46

P

Paul Hargreaves............. pg46

Pavlo Phitidis.................... pg53

Piers Linney....................... pg46

Pip Jamieson.................... pg54

R

Richard Bearman............. pg54

Richard Harpin.................. pg46

Rob Wall.............................. pg54

Russell Dalgleish............. pg54

S

Sachin Agrawal................ pg54

Sarah Mcvittie.................. pg54

Shaa Wasmund MBE...... pg55

Shalini Khemka CBE pg55

Simon Squibb.................... pg55

Sophie Milliken MBE pg55

Stephanie Melodia.......... pg55

T

Tamara Littleton............... pg55

Tamma Carel..................... pg56

Thomas Robson-Kanu... pg56

BT lines will disappear by 2025