Agenda
TBA
Keynote Speakers
We are delighted to announce a fantastic lineup of keynote speakers. Find out more about our speakers below.

Alex Hunter
Former Global Head of Digital for the Virgin Group
Alex Hunter bio
Alex Hunter is a globally recognised expert in consumer engagement, behaviour, and experience. As the Global Head of Digital for the Virgin Group, Alex led the brand’s entire digital strategy, enhancing online experiences for Virgin customers while fostering loyalty and deepening engagement. He also spearheaded the personal digital strategy for Sir Richard Branson, further amplifying the Virgin brand’s impact.
Today, Alex helps some of the world’s most prominent organisations bring WOW to their customer experience and branding strategies. He explores the human side of brands, uncovers the psychology of loyalty, and shares actionable strategies for creating exceptional, memorable experiences that keep customers coming back.

Oli France
Inspirational Speaker
Oli France bio
Oli leads teams through some of the world’s toughest environments, mastering resilience, leadership, and purpose in the face of extreme challenges.
Over 15 years, he’s tackled deserts, jungles, mountains, and conflict zones across 75 countries. In May 2024, Oli completed a historic 3,588-mile human-powered journey from Death Valley to Denali, part of his “Ultimate Seven” project to traverse the lowest to highest points on each continent.
His other expeditions include solo treks across Siberia, mountaineering from Hong Kong to Istanbul, and summits in Iraq and the Congo. A Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, Oli inspires others to redefine their limits.

Matthew Goodwin
Political Scientist and Author
Matthew Goodwin bio
Matthew Goodwin is an academic, bestselling writer and speaker known for his work on political risk and volatility. He has published widely on topics like the rise of populism, the future of the EU, Brexit, public opinion, Donald Trump and the future of politics. He is Associate Fellow at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House and was previously Senior Fellow with the UK In a Changing Europe. Matthew successfully forecast the 2016 votes for Brexit and Donald Trump, the 2019 majority for Boris Johnson and the 2020 electoral college win for Joe Biden.

Michael Lawrence
Principal Consultant at Bovill Newgate
Michael Lawrence bio
Michael brings extensive expertise in financial regulation, including 16 years at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), where he most recently served as a Technical Specialist in Consumer Investments Supervision.
Throughout his tenure at the FCA, Michael played a pivotal role in shaping regulatory oversight within the financial advice and consumer investment sectors. He possesses a comprehensive understanding of risk evaluation, ensuring firms align with regulatory expectations and best practices.
Michael has significant experience in product governance and contributed to the implementation of the Consumer Duty within the retail investment market.
With his extensive regulatory background, Michael supports firms in navigating compliance challenges, strengthening governance frameworks, and ensuring positive outcomes for consumers.

Shanti Kelemen
Chief Investment Officer, M&G Wealth
Shanti Kelemen bio
Shanti Kelemen is the Chief Investment Officer for M&G Wealth. She is responsible for the development and ongoing management of discretionary investment solutions, including model portfolio services, offered by M&G Wealth. She joined M&G Wealth in November 2021. Prior to joining M&G, she worked in private banking at the firms Coutts & Co and Brown Shipley. In addition to her role at M&G Wealth, Shanti is also part of the My Continuum Wealth investment team.
Timings
Arrive early to soak up the energy and make the most of every moment, allowing plenty of time to catch up with fellow Partners and importantly, our sponsors for the event.
Our National Conference will commence
Our Conference will close and will be followed by drinks reception
Our exclusive exhibition space will be transformed into a drink’s reception fit for the occasion. Primed for ease of access, this will no doubt be the perfect start to our evening entertainment.
Evening entertainment

Mark Watson
English comedian and novelist
Mark Watson bio
Mark is one of the UK’s most celebrated comedians, known for his quick-witted, intelligent humour, and high-energy performances. You may have seen him on some of the biggest comedy shows, including:
- Mock the Week (BBC Two)
- Have I Got News for You (BBC One)
- Would I Lie to You? (BBC One)
- Live at the Apollo (BBC One)
He’s also a best-selling author, an acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe performer, and best known for his interactive and engaging stand-up style.
Dress Code
Please note that the dress code for this event is business attire.
Our dress code for the evening will be smart casual.
Location and Parking Arrangements
Located in the heart of Birmingham City Centre, on Broad Street, the hotel is easily accessible by road, rail and air. With nearby train stations such as Birmingham New Street on the doorstep, it is a convenient destination wherever you are visiting from.
Should you be travelling by car, there is secure onsite parking available at St Martins Place adjacent to the venue.
To access parking please use the entrance at the side of St Martins Place. You can access via St Martins Street, B15 1ED.