THE CONNECTED BRITAIN 2026
CONFERENCE AGENDA
All times are listed in BST
London, 9 - 10 September 2026
Schedule
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Sep 98:55
Conference pass
Chair's address
Keynotes
Harry Baldock, Editor, Total Telecom
Keynote Theatre
Sep 99:00
Conference pass
Keynote address: 'The Connection Project'
Keynotes
Keynote Theatre
Sep 99:10
Conference pass
Keynote interview
Keynotes
Keynote Theatre
Sep 99:20
Conference pass
Keynote interview with Cornerstone
Keynotes
Keynote Theatre
Sep 99:35
Conference pass
Regulator's address
Keynotes
Keynote Theatre
Sep 910:05
Conference pass
Government address from Department for Work and Pensions
Keynotes
Keynote Theatre
Sep 910:20
Conference pass
Networking break
Exhibition
Take a break to discuss the keynote sessions and network with your peers.
Exhibition hall
Sep 910:30
Conference pass
AI Opportunity Clinic
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone: Employability clinics
In partnership with ImpactMatch, we are hosting a series of employability clinics in the People, Skills & Recruitment Zone. These are bookable appointments, offered on a first come, first served basis.
Bring your biggest AI opportunity, workflow challenge or adoption concern. In a focused 15-minute clinic, we’ll help you work out whether AI can genuinely help, where the likely blockers are, and what a sensible next step would look like.
Designed for leaders and teams exploring practical AI adoption, the session cuts through the hype and gives you a clear view of what is worth pursuing, what is not, and how to move forward without overcomplicating it.
Complete this form to request a slot with Luc:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCCxM6si13RQiR7i53nWi31pl-hSlE88kElozzk55okBYBNQ/viewform?usp=header
Luc Elsby, Founder, Leverage AI
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 910:35
Conference pass
Presentation from TP-Link
Smart Places
Presentation from our Track Sponsor - TP-Link.
Theatre 10
Sep 910:35
Conference pass
Introduction to the Zone
People, Skills & Recruitment
An introduction to the People, Skills & Recruitment Zone from ImpactMatch's CEO, Leigh Smyth. Leigh will be joined on stage by Tom Kegode from Sparkshift who will act as compere for the stage across the two days.
Leigh Smyth, CEO, ImpactMatch
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Policy and regulatory considerations for the UK’s mobile market
Connected Britain
- Exploring the key findings from the Mobile Markets Review
- What policy and regulatory frameworks are needed to promote infrastructure investment and maintain a healthy and competitive market?
George Robinson, Head of Government affairs, VodafoneThree
Andy Sutton MBE, Director of Technology and Mobile, ofcom
Hamish Macleod, Chief Executive, Mobile UK
Moderator: Matthew Howett, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Assembly Research
Keynote Theatre
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
The next gigabit upgrade: Commercialising XGS-PON and planning for next-gen
Connected Networks
- What are the clear business drivers (e.g., enterprise services, 5G backhaul) justifying the investment leap to next-gen PON?
- How can ISPsleveragemulti-gigabit speeds to create premium service tiers and increase revenue?
- How can operators manage the operational complexity of co-existing fibre technologies while planning the transition to50G and beyond?
Graeme Oxby, CEO, Community Fibre
Justin Leese, CTO, Quickline Communications
Hy Huynh, Vice President of Fiber Products, Harmonic Inc.
Moderator: Tim Passingham, Chairman, Lightning Fibre
Theatre 2
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Redefining enterprise architectures to unlock commercial growth
Connected Enterprise
- How can enterprises effectively balance the cost of managing multi-vendor networks against the commercial value they deliver to the business?
- What are the modern performance and scalability requirements that connectivity providers must meet to satisfy their enterprise customers?
- In what ways can telcos and enterprise leaders collaborate to co-create network architectures that actively unlock new revenue streams and operational efficiencies?
- Beyond AI, how are enterprises integrating other technologies into a unified tech stack, e.g. robotics, digital twins?
Theatre 11
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
The AI-driven city: Optimising urban services with data and connectivity
Smart Places
- How are authorities moving beyond isolated pilots to create region-wide AI frameworks?
- What are the best strategies for overcoming data-sharing hurdles across fragmented local authorities and departments?
- How do we extract tangible ROI from AI for residents and the economy?
Kayla Vondy, Project Manager - AI, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Vicky Willett, Director for Strategy and Innovation, Lancashire County Council
Moderator: Peter Griffiths, UKI & Nordic lead / Urban futurist, BABLE Smart Cities
Theatre 10
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Modernising the grid: The digital utility roadmap
Connected Infrastructure
- How is better connectivity and real-time data integration transforming the management of utility assets and improving customer experience?
- With EV chargers and data centres now legally classed as "critical infrastructure," how do we protect our utility networks from digital threats?
- How are AI and IoT optimising grid efficiency and supporting long-term sustainability goals?
- What commercial and technical frameworks are required to build scalable networks capable of supporting connected devices and assets?
Swetta Coopamah, Head of Smart Energy Systems, BEAMA
Matt James, Head of Strategic Innovation, Smart DCC
Theatre 1
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Powering Britain: The importance of data centres for national economic growth
Data Centre Driven Economy
- How do data centres contribute to national and regional development?
- What benefits are we seeing to the UK economy?
- How does the rise of data centres affect local employment and support with area innovation, and which sectors are seeing the most benefit?
- How can regions ensure infrastructure, workforce and energy supply are ready to support future growth?
Mark Lee, CEO, Deep Green
Moderator: Iqbal Bedi, Managing Partner, Intelligens Consulting
Allan Bosley, Director, Public Affairs, Ark Data Centres
Theatre 4
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Data centres demystified: Colocation, hyperscale and edge data centres
Data Centre Forum
- What are the defining characteristics of these three data centre models and how do operational priorities differ?
- What are the benefits and limitations of each model, and what advantage does each model bring in scale, latency and cost?
- How are AI workloads changing space, power and cooling considerations?
- Which technologies and operational approaches will shape the next generation of data centres?
Mark Sedgley, Chief Commercial Director, Lunar Digital Solutions Limited
Moderator: Duncan Clubb, Senior Partner, Cambridge Management Consulting
Theatre 5
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Guardrails for growth: Navigating the rapid expansion of AI
AI Britain
- How can UK policy frameworks keep pace with the rapid development of AI? What are the risks of a regulatory gap?
- What impact is the AI Act 2026 already having or could potentially have? How are organisations adapting to meet new standards and reporting requirements?
- What is the long-term impact of AI on society? How do we address emerging concerns surrounding AI and ensure that it has a positive socioeconomic effect?
Chris Williams, Chief Information Officer, Community Fibre
Annie Radcliffe, Digital Policy Adviser, Local Government Association
Moderator: David Jones, Partner, Cambridge Management Consulting
Theatre 6
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Connected authorities: Did we deliver the digital dream and who benefits today?
Local Authority Stage
- After a series of investment and funding models, how far have we really come on connectivity for residents and businesses?
- Have people been given genuine choice, opportunity and improved services – or just infrastructure?
- Where has delivery fallen short and why?
- What does success actually look like from a local authority perspective now?
Ian Inglis, Programme Manager - Digital Infrastructure and Inclusion, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Carol Thomas, Director Digital & ICT, Southend Borough Council
Nicola Egan, Director, NSC Digital
Patrick Hannon, Digital Connectivity Relationship Manager, Pembrokeshire County Council
Theresa Searle, Telecoms Unit Manager, Glasgow City Council
Moderator: Jennie Bayliss, CEO, J Bayliss Consulting Ltd
Theatre 8
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Digital inclusion: The big picture
Connected Society
- How is the ongoing cost-of-living crisis changing the way we define "digital poverty" in 2026?
- What more can the government and ISPs do to ensure that low-cost social tariffs and free devices reach the people who need them most?
- Beyond just being "fair," what is the actual economic cost to the UK of leaving millions of people offline and out of the digital economy?
Rich Thanki, Managing Director, Jangala
Will Plant, Digital Inclusion Lead, Cambridgeshire County Council
Grace Perks, Digital Adviser, Local Government Association
Moderator: Lorne Mitchell, MD, Objective Designers
Theatre 3
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
The Midlands: The Industrial Edge and smart mobility
Regional Development
- How is 5G-enabled Industry 4.0 transforming the Midlands’ manufacturing, automotive and aerospace sectors into the most efficient in Europe?
- How can regional transport authorities use real-time data to create seamless, "tap-and-cap" travel across buses, trams, and rail?
- What lessons can other regions learn from the West Midlands' success in moving 5G trials into permanent, revenue-generating infrastructure?
Robert Franks, Managing Director, WM5G
Theatre 9
Sep 910:55
Conference pass
Why Empathy is the High-Performance Engine of 2030
People, Skills & Recruitment
By 2030, technology will handle the "what" and "how" of most tasks. The leader’s role shifts entirely to the "why" and the "who." Dr. Kamel Hothi argues that human-centred leadership isn't a "nice-to-have" - it is the only way to retain talent and maintain psychological safety in a volatile world.
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 911:15
Conference pass
Talent attraction and retention in the age of AI
People, Skills & Recruitment
Nina Buttle, Partner, Page Executive
Oliver Harris, Global Managing Director, Page Group
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Presentation from Calix
Connected Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from Calix.
Keynote Theatre
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Presentation from iLOQ
Connected Infrastructure
Michelle Rodgers, Country Manager UK & Ireland, iLOQ
Theatre 1
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Presentation from Teligent
AI Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from Teligent.
Theatre 6
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Putting policy into practice: how front-footed Local Authorities can lead on national digital infrastructure
Local Authority Stage
Theatre 8
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Full Fibre Wacky Races 7 – A marriage made in heaven?
Regional Development
Theatre 9
Sep 911:40
Conference pass
Recruitment Zone Sponsor Presentation
People, Skills & Recruitment
Presentation from a senior speaker from BDI Datalynk.
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 912:10
Conference pass
State of the Industry: CXO Keynote Addresses & Interviews
Keynotes
Daren Baythorpe, CEO, ITS
Katie Milligan, Chief Executive Officer, Openreach
Keynote Theatre
Sep 912:35
Conference pass
CXO keynote panel
Keynotes
- With consolidation picking up pace, how will further M&A activity happen?
- What are the regulatory considerations now following the publication of TAR earlier this year?
- Commercial models and strategy
- Defining the metrics of success: What are CxOs and investors looking at?
- What will the UK’s fixed market look like by the end of the decade?
Moderator: Kieran Smith, Telecoms and Technology Correspondent, Financial Times
Daren Baythorpe, CEO, ITS
Richard Allwood, Chief Strategy & Technology Officer, Openreach
Keynote Theatre
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
Presentation from ADTRAN
Connected Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from ADTRAN
Keynote Theatre
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
The Hidden Footprint: Cutting Scope 3 Emissions Through Circular, Miniaturised Network Infrastructure
Connected Networks
Presented by Hexatronic
Theatre 2
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
Meet the judges
AI Britain
Meet the judges for the illustrious Startup of the Year Award as part of the Connected Britain Awards.
Dan Ballin, Chief Executive, Ideas Crucible
Susanne Coles, Deputy Director - Investment Ecosystem, Innovate UK
Theatre 6
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
Case study presentation
Local Authority Stage
Theatre 8
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
The Human Side of Connectivity: Beyond the Cables
Connected Society
Parven Kaur, Founder, Kids N Clicks
Theatre 10
Sep 914:00
Conference pass
From Project Stratum to Gigabit: The Blueprint for Delivering Rural Connectivity in Northern Ireland and Cumbria
Regional Development
Jennifer Lennon, Managing Director Hyperfast Networks, Fibrus
Theatre 9
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Presentation from CommScope
Connected Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from CommScope.
Keynote Theatre
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
The neutral host ecosystem: Unlocking investment and coverage across the UK
Connected Networks
- How can the neutral host model be most effectively used to bridge connectivity gaps across cities, transport corridors, and rural environments?
- What regulatory changes are needed to accelerate neutral host rollout and attract infrastructure investment?
- How must the long-term contracts and financial incentives between MNOs and neutral hosts be structured to ensure commitment and a sustainable wholesale partnership?
- How can councils proactively manage street assets and planning to accelerate neutral host deployment?
Simon Fletcher, CSO, Small Cell Forum Limited
Chris Hudson, Director, Scottish Futures Trust
Moderator: Rosalind Craven, Principal Analyst, STL Partners
Theatre 2
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Network APIs and open gateway: Unlocking telco capabilities for enterprise innovation
Connected Enterprise
- What are the main challenges in ensuring global consistency for network APIs?
- How are we aligning technical standards to ensure that developers don’t face challenges when scaling applications across carriers and regions?
- While security and fraud prevention remain important, how is the industry also looking towards Performance APIs?
- Where is the strongest demand coming from and how should technical roadmaps evolve to meet the requirements of diverse verticals?
- How is the relationship between network operators and system integrators evolving?
Moderator: Mark Cornall, Technical Director, GSMA
Theatre 11
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Data-driven planning and mobility
Smart Places
- How can digital twins transform travel networks, urban mobility, and long-term town planning?
- From autonomous pods to smart signals, what are the critical connectivity requirements for weaving next-generation mobility into our existing urban transport systems?
- How can councils and private mobility providers establish shared data standards to anticipate travel demand, reduce congestion, and design more efficient transport corridors?
Moderator: David Davies, Vice President - Management Consulting EMEA, Cartesian
James Golding-Graham, Head of Decarbonisation & Innovation, England's Economic Heartland
Theatre 10
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
“Are data centres a benefit or a burden”? Community impact vs. National demand
Data Centre Driven Economy
- What are the positive and negative effects of data centres on local communities?
- Are data centres enriching local communities or they primarily serving national and corporate interests?
- Are operators doing enough to engage local communities or are they ticking boxes to meet regulatory requirements?
- Where do the genuine concerns come from and how can they be mitigated?
- Are sustainability measures enough to change public perception?
- How do we educate and respond to general concerns?
Felix Kumi-Ampofo, Director of Inclusive Economy, Skills and Culture, West Yorkshire combined authority
Pete Nisbet, CEO, edenseven
Theatre 4
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Water works: Digitising the UK's water infrastructure
Connected Infrastructure
- How are water companies modernising legacy telemetry and remote monitoring sites to support 24/7 asset monitoring?
- What role can technologies such as AI and IoT play in enabling a more proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance?
- What are the socioeconomic and environmental benefits of smart meters for consumers and water companies alike?
Moderator: Josh Turpin, Programme Manager - Telecoms and Net Zero, techUK
Jo Jolly, Director of Environment and Innovation, Ofwat (Water Services Regulation Authority)
Ben Melton, Head of Operational Technology, Anglian Water
Theatre 1
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Interconnected Britain: Fibre, networks and the new telco – data centre alliance
Data Centre Forum
- How can telcos and data centre operators collaborate to unlock mutual commercial value and which partnerships are proving most effective for capacity sharing and monetisation?
- How can industry and policy better support integrated infrastructure planning?
- What commercial and technical challenges arise from cloud, edge and operator convergence?
- Where does the alliance work and where does it currently break down? How can we achieve alignment?
Iain Milligan, Network Development and Infrastructure Director, VodafoneThree
Moderator: Simon Evans, Principal, Cartesian
Theatre 5
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Pitching competition for the Connected Britain Startup of the Year Award
AI Britain
Quickifre pitch presentations from the hottest startups of 2026!
The winner will be crowned Startup of the Year at the Connected Britain Awards during the networking drinks.
Theatre 6
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
AI trailblazers: Practical applications of AI for local authorities
Local Authority Stage
A series of 10 minute case study presenations on practical applications of AI for Local Authorities.
Balázs Csuvár, Director of Innovation and Net Zero, DG Cities
Kieran Smith, Head of Digital Transformation, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Theatre 8
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Universal Design: Accessibility and inclusion in a technological world
Connected Society
- How can the companies ensure accessible design in both digital services and customer support?
- How is high-speed connectivity powering the next generation of assistive tech to support independent living?
- What are the most effective strategies for recruiting and retaining neurodiverse and disabled talent within the tech workforce?
Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion, AbilityNet
Leigh Smyth, CEO, ImpactMatch
Karen Blake, Tech Inclusion, Policy & Organisational Transformation Strategist, City of London Corp and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Theatre 3
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Connected Scotland: Policy, geography, and the R100 legacy
Regional Development
- What are the unique challenges and opportunities for deploying in Scotland's remote and island communities?
- How is the Scottish Government leveraging connectivity to drive tech sector growth?
- What long-term lessons can be drawn from the R100 programme to inform future "hard-to-reach" infrastructure projects across the UK and Europe?
Gavin Rodgers, Chief Executive Officer, Highland Broadband
Rachael Darroch, Programme Manager, Scottish Government
Moderator: Alejandro Cardenas, Associate Partner, Fide Partners
Theatre 9
Sep 914:20
Conference pass
Collaborating with the DWP to build the connectivity workforce
People, Skills & Recruitment
Panel discussion hosted by the Department for Work & Pensions.
Sep 914:40
Conference pass
Bridging the divide: A national strategy for rural connectivity
Connected Britain
- What should the balance be between government-led funding and private sector investment to reach the UK’s hardest to reach properties and communities?
- What are the commercial and operational barriers to rural deployment? How does policy need to shift to incentivise long-term sustainability of rural infrastructure projects?
- What technologies can be leveraged to deliver ubiquitous rural coverage, e.g. satellite, fixed wireless, fibre?
Gareth Elliott, Director of Policy and Communications, Mobile UK
Moderator: Alex Mather, Head, Digital Connectivity Forum
Lesley Cowley OBE, Chair, BDUK
Keynote Theatre
Sep 914:50
Conference pass
From pilots to systems: how cities use systems approaches to scale digital inclusion and device reuse
Local Authority Stage
Laura Waller, Digital Services and Inclusion Lead, Coventry City Council
Theatre 8
Sep 915:00
Conference pass
Presentation from Corning
Connected Networks
Presented by a senior speaker from Corning.
Theatre 2
Sep 915:20
Conference pass
Investing in the architects of 2030
People, Skills & Recruitment
Puja Patel explores how institutional partnerships are the key to solving the skills gap. By focusing on universities and strategic leadership programmes, she is helping to build a resilient workforce that is diverse, digitally savvy, and ready for high-impact roles.
Puja Patel, Strategic Programmes Lead, Santander
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
Presentation from eero, an Amazon company
Connected Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from eero.
Keynote Theatre
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
5G and private networks: The industrial connectivity revolution
Connected Enterprise
- What are the high-value use cases which are delivering the significant margin expansion and sustainable commercial value?
- What are the engineering challenges of integrating legacy operational technology with modern 5G?
- How are enterprises ensuring network reliability?
- How do enterprises solve the remaining hurdles to succeed as fully connected entities, e.g. device ecosystems and spectrum management?
Gavin Laybourne, CTIO, Peel Ports Group
Theatre 11
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
Presentation from Octave
Smart Places
Shane Gwilt MCInstCES, GPR Business Development, Leica Geosystems
Peter Larsson, Senior Account Manager, Octave
Theatre 10
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
Norfolk’s Digital Inclusion Journey: Connecting People, Breaking Barriers, Tackling Social Isolation
Local Authority Stage
Gail Harvey, Digital Inclusion Programme Manager, Norfolk County Council
Karen Robson, Community Tech Coach, Norfolk County Council
Danielle Prostrollo-Hill, Digital Inclusion Project Officer, Norfolk County Council
Theatre 8
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
Presentation from Teleste
Connected Society
Presented by a senior speaker from Teleste.
Theatre 3
Sep 915:25
Conference pass
No one left behind - the Liverpool City Region digital inclusion model
Regional Development
Case study presentation from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.
Theatre 9
Sep 915:40
Conference pass
10 million futures: Fair chance hiring at scale
People, Skills & Recruitment
Social mobility isn’t just about where you start; it’s about where you can go after a mistake. This panel explores how business leaders can move past "the box" on application forms to tap into a highly motivated, loyal, and overlooked talent pool: those with a criminal record.
Jonathan Ley, CEO, Make Time Count
Matthias Stausberg, Group Advocacy Director, Virgin
Simon Blockley, CEO, Impellam UK & Europe
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Shaping the future of fibre: Regulation, policy and outlook
Connected Britain
- Reflecting on the publication of the Telecoms Access Review (TAR) and its implementation so far
- How should future policy adapt to ensure a sustainable, competitive landscape?
- Exploring the impact of consolidation from a regulatory and policy perspective
Ben Harries, Policy Director, Competition & Markets, ofcom
Moderator: Lindsey Fussell, Chair, Digital Connectivity Forum
Gita Sorensen, INCA TAR Advisor, Investor and Founder Director at Digostics & MD, GOS Consulting
James Tickel, Director, Regulatory Policy & Strategy, Openreach
Keynote Theatre
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
The unbreakable network: Ensuring resilience against climate, cyber, and power threats
Connected Networks
- How can network infrastructure be hardened against extreme weather, climate change, and physical vandalism?
- How is AI enabling the shift to proactive, autonomous cyber defence to secure critical networks and neutralise threats in real-time?
- What is the coordinated strategy for securing the network's energy supply using resilient backup power and smart grid integration?
Peter Carter, Senior Business Resilience Manager, VodafoneThree
Jonathan Fowler, Director Technology and Solutions, Adtran
Theatre 2
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Closing the MDU gap: Regulation, wayleaves, and competition
Smart Places
- Are the latest TILPA and PSTIA regulations successfully streamlining wayleave negotiations for residential and commercial blocks?
- What is the commercial viability of the MDU market while managing the risk of overbuild?
- How to work with property owners to proactively champion open-access fibre and greater tenant choice?
- How do we best upgrade legacy systems and reduce operational costs?
Will Goodall, Elevate Wholesale Director, Elevate Wholesale
Mariko Newell, Senior Legal Counsel, Virgin Media O2
Moderator: James Robinson, Senior Analyst, Assembly Research
Theatre 10
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Planning reform and policy readiness: Is the UK fit for the AI data centre boom?
Data Centre Driven Economy
- Do current planning processes support the growth of data centres? If not, what changes need to take place?
- How does access to power and grid capacity effect new developments?
- How have recent policy changes and CNI classification altered the planning process for data centres?
- How can government ambition better support local planning?
John Duncan, Connected Places Lead, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Daniel Ray, Director of Planning Services & Chief Planning Officer, Slough Borough Council
Moderator: Bart Smallman, Research Analyst, Assembly Research
Theatre 4
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Powering the UK’s EV charging infrastructure
Connected Infrastructure
- How can the energy and telecoms sectors collaborate to overcome power constraints and ensure the scalability of the UK's charging network to meet demand?
- What is the evolving role of local authorities in co-ordinating the rollout of charging infrastructure?
- What commercial models are proving most effective in delivering a sustainable ROI for both the public sector and private network operators?
- Future-proofing EV infrastructure: What technologies should we be considering to meet future demand?
Shamala Gadgil, EV Infrastructure Programme Manager, Coventry City Council
Alex Gilbert, Head of Energy & Electrification, Places for London
Theatre 1
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Sustainability and intelligent cooling: Designing the Data Centre of the future
Data Centre Forum
- What does “sustainable by design” mean for modern data centres?
- How are intelligent cooling systems (AI – driven air flow, liquid cooling, heat reuse) impacting design, costs and operational use?
- How do sustainability goals align with performance and efficiency?
- How can operators balance demand with today’s environmental, regulatory and energy constraints?
Mark Bjornsgaard, Founder, Deep Green
Theatre 5
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
AI and beyond: Building a strategy to deliver market-leading CX
AI Britain
- Is AI set to be as revolutionary as promised?
- How are CX leaders leveraging AI to empower their teams and drive positive, human-centric change?
- How are organisations leveraging unified data to create seamless and proactive customer journeys?
- How is agentic AI turning legacy data into real-time, personalised customer outcomes?
Tiffany Shurr, Area Vice President, Calix
David Mitchell, Managing Director, Hull Fibre Limited
Jamie Flint, Director Corporate Affairs & Wholesale, Gigaclear
Moderator: Karen Laycock, Director AI Product & Strategy, former Verizon
Theatre 6
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Devolution, reform and digital readiness: Is connectivity keeping pace with change?
Local Authority Stage
- Where does digital infrastructure sit in today’s devolution and local government agenda?
- How prepared are local authorities to treat connectivity as a foundational enabler of growth and public service reform?
- What needs to change for digital to be embedded alongside transport, housing and planning?
- What lessons can be shared?
Lorna Rogers, Director of Digital & Transformation & Board Director for LCR Connect, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Freyja Lockwood, Digital Transformation Programme Manager, West of England Combined Authority
Moderator: Ceren Clulow, Managing Consultant, Spirit Public Sector Ltd
Theatre 8
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Beyond telecoms: How non-telco brands are using MVNOs to advance digital equity
Connected Society
- How are digital banks and retailers using mobile services to offer low-cost, flexible data to people who are often excluded from traditional contracts?
- Can the MVNO model help users build a digital identity and improve their financial literacy by linking their phone usage to their banking?
- What can we learn from brands that are solving "connectivity poverty" while successfully building deeper trust and loyalty with their customers?
Theatre 3
Sep 915:45
Conference pass
Change the system, not the person: using behavioural systems mapping to tackle digital exclusion
Regional Development
- How can local authorities adopt new models of system-level thinking to move past traditional boundaries and address the root causes of digital exclusion?
- What did 5 UK councils discover about the drivers of exclusion by applying behavioural systems mapping and citizen-centred co-design workshops via the UK Government's Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund?
- Which new approaches and practical frameworks can public sector leaders adopt right now, based on the real-world examples and newly published guidance from the consortium?
Karolina Majkowska, Digital Inclusion and Training Lead, Royal Borough of Greenwich
Theatre 9
Sep 916:00
Conference pass
The ethics of acceleration: Balancing rapid tech innovation with human-centric values
People, Skills & Recruitment
As technology outpaces traditional skill-building, how do we ensure no one is left behind? This session examines the ethical guardrails needed to manage the "people" side of digital transformation from algorithmic bias in banking to inclusive design in government services.
Annie Hind, Digital Platform Lead, Lloyds Banking Group
Moderator: Karen Blake, Tech Inclusion, Policy & Organisational Transformation Strategist, City of London Corp and Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 916:05
Conference pass
Channel Britain: Evolving commercial strategy to meet enterprise requirements
Connected Enterprise
- How are channel companies adapting their business models and commercial strategy in response to become holistic technology partners?
- With security and managed services becoming core requirements for enterprises, what commercial approaches are proving most effective for integrating these products into the mix?
- How can channel organisations evolve their recruitment and upskilling strategies to ensure teams can deliver key services?
Toby Shute, Channel Sales Manager, FluidOne
Moderator: Amy Cameron, Research Director, STL Partners
Theatre 11
Sep 916:20
Conference pass
Fireside chat: AbilityNet & EdenChase Associates
People, Skills & Recruitment
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 916:25
Conference pass
Buying blind: Why the fibre consolidation and M&A wave will be won or lost on data
Connected Networks
Lola Le Fur, Head of M&A, IQGeo
Theatre 2
Sep 916:25
Conference pass
Case study presentation
Local Authority Stage
Theatre 8
Sep 916:25
Conference pass
Presentation from Which?
Connected Society
Tom Lowe, Principal Policy Advisor, Which?
Theatre 3
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Consolidation, M&A and competition: The changing investment landscape
Connected Britain
- What does the current wave of market consolidation mean for the future of the UK’s altnet ecosystem? And what is the impact on consumers?
- How can we ensure that consolidation leads to a sustainable and competitive market?
- How are investor’s perspectives on the market shifting?
- Funding models and investors for the next wave of digital infrastructure investment: Where are investors looking next, e.g. data centres?
Conal Henry, Chair, Fibrus
Peter O'Flaherty, Managing Director, Networks & Digital Infrastructure, Equitix
Moderator: Oliver Loveless, Principal, Analysys Mason
Keynote Theatre
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Open RAN and cloudification: Moving from trials to mass deployment in the UK
Connected Networks
- What are the primary operational challenges in scaling disaggregated RAN and cloud-native network functions across legacy brownfield estates?
- Is Open RAN successfully delivering a more diverse vendor ecosystem, or are the "Big Three" simply absorbing open standards into their own stacks?
- What is the realistic timeline for UK MNOs to meet government targets for open network traffic?
Moderator: Will Townsend, Vice President & Principal Analyst - Networking & Security Practices, Moor Insights and Strategy
Theatre 2
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Navigating the future of the connected supply chain
Connected Enterprise
- How are enterprises shifting towards proactive, self-correcting supply chains? How does Agentic AI help to manage disruption with minimal human intervention?
- Developing hybrid workforces: Where can scaling Robotics-as-a-Service assist in addressing labour shortages?
- How are enterprises leveraging connectivity to optimise operations and meet sustainability targets?
Annie Iakovaki, Head of Industrial Supply Chains, Digital Catapult
Theatre 11
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Rural economies: Connectivity as a driver for growth
Smart Places
- What collaborative models between ISPs and rural industries, such as tourism and agriculture, are most effectively stimulating regional investment?
- How is precision farming and IoT transforming the rural economy?
- How to address the specific power and backhaul challenges of deploying smart solutions in remote areas?
Hector Gibson Fleming, CEO, Wessex Internet
Simon Laing, Rural Start-up Advisor, Rural Design Centre
Sarah Eynon, Broadband Programme Director, Scottish Government, Digital Connectivity
Moderator: Oliver Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, Point Topic
Theatre 10
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Empowering people: Building the workforce to enable the UK’s data centre economy
Data Centre Driven Economy
- What critical skills are needed to enable the UK’s data centre growth ambitions and where are the biggest gaps?
- How do we better collaborate with schools and universities to ensure a surplus of future talent?
- Are current training and upskilling programmes fit for a sector being constantly reshaped by AI?
- How do we help ensure the future workforce feel empowered and motivated?
- Is the industry doing enough to attract new and under-represented talent, including women?
Nzinga Gardner, Founder, MediaTechWomen
Mandie Beitner, Founder Director, SorTTed Ltd
Theatre 4
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Scaling connectivity to improve the UK’s road networks
Connected Infrastructure
- What role can enhanced communication infrastructure play in accelerating the rollout of technologies that will aid in meeting national targets around road safety and traffic flow?
- What commercial and partnership frameworks would incentivise private investment in roadside digital infrastructure and ensure consistent national coverage?
- How can the public and private sector improve data interoperability to create a “Single View of the Network” and improve transport operations?
Haitao He, Director of Transport AI Innovation Centre (TRAICE), University of Loughborough
Tim Bellamy, Assistant Director, Transport, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority
Theatre 1
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Protecting Britain’s new critical national infrastructure: Security, sovereignty & resilience
Data Centre Forum
- How are operators balancing physical security, cyber-attacks and the rising threats linked to AI workloads?
- What does data sovereignty mean in practice?
- How do we improve resilience?
- Who ultimately carries responsibility – operators, government or customers?
Áine MacDermot, Senior Lecturer in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, Liverpool John Moores University
Peter Cutler, EMEA Sales Engineering Lead, Corero Network Security
Theatre 5
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Scaling industrial AI across the UK economy
AI Britain
- How are UK industries leveraging AI to enable new applications and enhance data-driven decision making?
- What new revenue opportunities are being unlocked by AI?
- How do we embed ethics and transparency into scaling AI on a national scale?
Ayesha Hussain, Data Governance and Quality Lead, University of Leeds
Dimitrios Kanoulas, Professor in Robotics & AI UKRI Future Leaders Fellow,, Intelligent Robotics UCL
Moderator: Nick Lansman, President, Public Affairs, Clarity Global
Theatre 6
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Place leadership in a digital Britain: Are local authorities ready for what’s next?
Local Authority Stage
- What does strong place leadership look like in a digitally enabled future?
- How can authorities better align with local objectives and national goals?
- What skills, governance and cultural shifts are still required within councils?
- What should local government be focusing on next to deliver long term impact for communities?
John Duncan, Connected Places Lead, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Heather Clark, Head of City Economy, City of Wolverhampton Council
Anna Malone, Operations Manager Transport Franchising, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Moderator: Gareth Williams, Senior Consultant, Intelligens Consulting
Theatre 8
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Connecting social housing: Solving digital exclusion and operational barriers
Connected Society
- How does better connectivity improve tenant wellbeing, from online services and telecare devices to monitoring for damp and mould?
- How can ISPs partner with housing associations to bundle low-cost connectivity with rent to eliminate exclusion?
- What are the most cost-effective ways to upgrade legacy buildings and install fibre without causing major disruption to tenants?
Dave Axam, Chief Executive Officer, Giggle
Ben Mills, Digital Empowerment Officer, Platform Housing Group
Lynsey Telford, Project and Delivery Manager, Glasgow City Council
Theatre 3
Sep 916:50
Conference pass
Greater Manchester and the North-West: A blueprint for digital partnership
Regional Development
- How has the "Doing Digital Together" strategy enabled public-private partnerships to scale Greater Manchester into the UK’s leading AI and fintech hub?
- How is gigabit connectivity being used to transform post-industrial towns across the North West into destinations for high-growth digital businesses?
- What can the evolution of MediaCityUK and the new "Cyber Corridor" teach us about building secure and scalable digital ecosystems?
Cllr Nick Peel, Leader of Bolton Council Digital Portfolio Lead, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Theatre 9
Sep 917:30
Conference pass
Networking drinks
Exhibition
Close of conference & drinks reception begins
Exhibition Hall
Sep 917:45
Conference pass
Connected Britain Awards
Keynotes
Celebrate with the top performers across the industry
Keynote Theatre
Create your personal agenda –check the favourite icon
Sep 109:00
Conference pass
Redefining digital participation for the nations through a system based approach
Keynotes
Moderator: Leigh Smyth, CEO, ImpactMatch
Jemma Waters, Project Director, The Connection Project
Keynote Theatre
Sep 109:40
Conference pass
UK 2030: AI, innovation and productivity
Keynotes
- What are the real-world use cases where automation and intelligence are driving tangible efficiency gains for UK businesses and public services?
- How do we bridge the yield gap to convert frontier AI into measurable growth for UK businesses?
- How do we prepare the workforce to use these tools safely, and build the public trust needed to make AI-driven growth inclusive?
Tiffany St James, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Anthony Okereke, Leader, Royal Borough of Greenwich
Kellie Beirne, Chief Executive Officer, Cardiff Capital Region
Moderator: Sophie Greaves, Associate Director, techUK
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1010:20
Conference pass
CXO Interview: G.Network
Keynotes
David Sangster, CEO, G.Network
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1010:40
Conference pass
Networking break
Exhibition
Take a break to discuss the keynote sessions and network with your peers.
Exhibition hall
Sep 1011:15
Conference pass
Introduction to the Zone
People, Skills & Recruitment
A brief introduction to the stage from Tom Kegode from Sparkshift.
Sep 1011:15
Conference pass
AI Opportunity Clinic
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone: Employability clinics
In partnership with ImpactMatch, we are hosting a series of employability clinics in the People, Skills & Recruitment Zone. These are bookable appointments, offered on a first come, first served basis.
Bring your biggest AI opportunity, workflow challenge or adoption concern. In a focused 15-minute clinic, we’ll help you work out whether AI can genuinely help, where the likely blockers are, and what a sensible next step would look like.
Designed for leaders and teams exploring practical AI adoption, the session cuts through the hype and gives you a clear view of what is worth pursuing, what is not, and how to move forward without overcomplicating it.
Complete this form to request a slot with Luc:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCCxM6si13RQiR7i53nWi31pl-hSlE88kElozzk55okBYBNQ/viewform?usp=header
Luc Elsby, Founder, Leverage AI
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 1011:20
Conference pass
Presentation from Cornerstone
Connected Britain
Presented by a senior speaker from Cornerstone.
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1011:20
Conference pass
Presentation from Corning
Connected Networks
Presented by a senior speaker from Corning.
Theatre 2
Sep 1011:20
Conference pass
Delivering better mobile coverage and capacity to cities using small cells - a view from the SCF Local Authority Connectivity Group
Smart Places
Claire Marshall, Chief Operating Officer, Small Cell Forum Limited
Theatre 10
Sep 1011:20
Conference pass
The Purpose Pivot: Leadership strategies for sustainable & ethical impact
People, Skills & Recruitment
How do established leaders steer their organisations toward a higher calling? This session dives into the mechanics of the "pivot" - moving beyond CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) as a side project and making it the primary engine of value creation.
Moderator: Sara Weller, Non Executive Director, BT
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Sky-high ambitions: Integrating satellites into the UK’s multi-technology mix
Connected Britain
- What are the technical and commercial considerations for deploying satellite to address connectivity gaps and complement terrestrial networks?
- What does the roadmap look like for direct-to-device satellite services? How could this support the elimination of mobile black spots?
- What regulatory and policy coordination is required to support the rapid scaling of non-terrestrial networks?
Moderator: Mauro Mortali, Managing Partner - Strategy, Change and People, Cambridge Management Consulting
Ning Wang, Deputy Director of Smart Internet Lab, University of Bristol
Stuart Birchall, Head of Service Development, Zen Internet
Gerry Collins, Director, Product Management, S.E.S. Satellites
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Next-generation monetisation: Unlocking value in connectivity and beyond
Connected Networks
- How can operators leverage their data for new revenue streams?
- What operational innovations should be adopted to lower costs and improve services?
- Which wholesale models and partnerships will deliver the strongest long-term returns in a mature, post rollout market?
- How can operators use passive infrastructure to create platforms for edge computing and IoT?
Tom Stabb, Customer Development Lead - Telecoms, Ordnance Survey
Bertrand Mazieres, CEO, Lightning Fibre
Francisco de Carvalho, Governing Board Member, Linux Foundation Broadband
Darren Martin, Senior Product Manager, MDS Global Ltd
Moderator: Clive Quantrill, Senior Partner, Cambridge Management Consulting
Theatre 2
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Smart buildings and the intelligent home
Smart Places
- How are developers integrating connectivity and smart tech into new builds to increase property value?
- How is the smart home evolving into an integrated ecosystem for autonomous energy management, predictive security, and insurance-linked savings?
- How can open-source software and new standards finally let heaters, lights, and sensors from different brands work together in one simple app?
Janette Hughes, Director of Planning and Performance, Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre
Paul Howard, ISP Pre-Sales Director, TP-Link UK & Ireland
Moderator: Marina Koytcheva, Research director, STL Partners
Theatre 10
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
The AI bubble: Are we overthinking the infrastructure boom?
Data Centre Driven Economy
- With the current rush to build data centres, what’s based on long term demand or short-term hype?
- As AI models become more efficient, could fewer, more intelligent data centres be the answer?
- How should investors and operators assess the risk of overcapacity in a rapidly changing market?
- How can the industry course correct if overcapacity is apparent?
Thibault Contat Desfontaines, Co-Head of Infrastructure Equity Europe, UBS
Theatre 4
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
The rail revolution: Delivering high-speed connectivity across the network
Connected Infrastructure
- How is the deployment of trackside terrestrial and non-terrestrial infrastructure enabling seamless onboard experience for passengers and underpinning data-driven modern rail services?
- What partnership models between telcos and rail companies would facilitate the use of transport corridors for fibre backhaul?
- How can enhanced communications infrastructure improve safety and reliability across the rail network?
Moderator: Dave Happy MBE, Chair Security EWG & Non-Exec Chair Transport for Wales Fibre, Telint Ltd (5GRural Dorset)
Theatre 1
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Solving the power problem: Alternative energy and smart grid solutions for data centres
Data Centre Forum
- Is AI changing the way data centres must plan for power or accelerating existing constraints?
- Can AI driven optimisation meaningfully reduce energy consumption or are alternative energy sources the only real solution?
- How can onsite generation, smart grids and hybrid energy models support high density AI workloads?
- Can we currently meet net zero energy targets and what needs to change to achieve this?
Helena Anderson, Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Ikigai Capital
Jamie Shaw-Stewart, Head of Silicon Sands, Blackpool Council
Theatre 5
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Connecting the hard to reach: Rural counties, shared infrastructure and what still isn’t working
Local Authority Stage
- How viable are shared infrastructure and small cell models for long term rural coverage?
- What planning and delivery barriers still exist in rural areas and do they now require reform?
- How effective have recent government initiatives been in closing the rural digital divide?
- Are rural counties ready for the next generation of mobile and connectivity?
- What can be learned from successful use cases?
Jonathan Harris, Programme Director, Connecting Cumbria
Gary Littledyke, Senior Lead Technical Officer - Telecoms, Dorset Council
Moderator: Ben Allwright, Owner & CEO, Allwright Advisory
Theatre 8
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Digital dignity: Connectivity, devices, and skills in temporary accommodation
Connected Society
- Following the "Fix the Five Basics" campaign, what steps are needed to ensure Wi-Fi is formally recognised and delivered as standard in all temporary placements?
- How can we provide the specific hardware and training refugees need from accessing critical services to pursuing advanced career growth like coding?
- With more than 130,000 households living in Temporary Accommodation in the UK, how does lack of access to Wi-Fi affect the lives of people living there and what can be done to address the connectivity gap for people living in TA?
- How can we improve collaboration between corporates, ITADs, and charities to scale the pipeline of refurbished devices to the frontline?
Leila Baker, Better Temporary Accommodation alliance - Lead consultant, Trust for London
Elizabeth Hendry, Head of Programmes, Jangala
Alexandria Morgan, Digital Equity Senior Principal, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Theatre 3
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
From national to local: How to innovate with AI and Data in public services
Public Sector Transformation
- How are digital leaders evolving ICT estates to support scalable, AI-driven public services?
- How do initiatives like the Local AI program move councils from pilots to frontline delivery?
- How do CIOs, CTOs, and CDOs justify infrastructure spend by linking data directly to outcomes for citizens?
- How can we build agile, secure, and inclusive supply chains for the public sector?
Nathan Pierce, Director of Essex Digital Service, Essex County Council
Chris Wales, Director of Digital Innovation, Brighton & Hove City Council
Theatre 11
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
The augmented workforce: Redesigning the organisation for the AI era
Tech Britain
- How are UK enterprises evolving their organisational structures to integrate AI into their business?
- What does it mean to manage a hybrid workforce?
- How are organisations leveraging AI to drive productivity and efficiencies?
- As AI automates entry-level tasks, how must organisations rethink long-term planning to ensure they are still developing the senior leaders of the future?
Sarah Golley, Executive Coach & Business Advisor, WICT UK & Ireland
Stuart Pearson, Head of Innovation, Citizens Advice Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Trafford
Theatre 6
Sep 1011:40
Conference pass
Inward investment: Competing for capital and driving regional growth
Regional Development
- What are international investors looking for when choosing UK regions for digital infrastructure projects?
- How are Freeports and Investment Zones leveraging connectivity to attract advanced manufacturing and logistics?
- How can local leaders position their regions to capture a share of the multi-billion-pound global AI market?
Stacey McAdie, Digital Champion & Senior Digital Connectivity Lead, South London Partnership
Marvin Rees, The Lord of Easton, House of Lords
Theatre 9
Sep 1012:00
Conference pass
Engineering the future: The evolution of apprenticeships and early career talent
People, Skills & Recruitment
This session explores how the engineering sector is adapting its training models to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industrial landscape. Our experts will discuss the bridge between education and industry, the shift toward "green" and digital skills, and what the "future of work" actually looks like for a new recruit.
Daniel Tingle, Head of Development Programmes, National Grid
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Presentation from Vyntelligence
Connected Networks
Presented by a senior speaker from Vyntelligence.
Theatre 2
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Launching Coop Mobile: Building a digital-first, member-led brand
Connected Infrastructure
David McGrath, Chief Marketing Officer and Membership Officer, COOP Mobile
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Case study presentation
Local Authority Stage
Jess Ellis, Advisor, Digital Places
Catherine Weldon, Senior Programme Manager, Connecting Cumbria
Craig Bower, Programme Director, Oxfordshire County Council
Theatre 8
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Presentation from The Next Path Device Consortium
Connected Society
Freddie Quek, Co-Director, The Next Path Device Consortium
Theatre 3
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Presentation from Dr Abdalla Kablan
Tech Britain
Theatre 6
Sep 1012:20
Conference pass
Case study presentation: London investment challenges
Regional Development
Davina Fell, Digital Connectivity Lead, Central London Forward
Lucy Dunn, Digital Place Engagement Manager, West London Alliance
Stacey McAdie, Digital Champion & Senior Digital Connectivity Lead, South London Partnership
Robin Bosworth, Director, London Borough of Redbridge
Theatre 9
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Customer strategy: Shifting the focus from acquisition to retention
Connected Britain
Neil Smith, Chief Operating Officer, TalkTalk
Moderator: Hayden Shaw, Insight Director, FDM CCS Insight
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Making consolidation a reality: integration and value creation
Connected Networks
- What are the primary technical hurdles when integrating legacy networks into a unified, scalable network infrastructure?
- How can CTOs effectively unify network infrastructure without disrupting service delivery or degrading the customer experience?
- In what ways does network standardisation post-merger impact long-term operational efficiency and the ability to deploy future technologies?
Sean Royce, Strategic Board Advisor, Quickline Communications Limited
Steve Glendinning, NED and Independent Consultant, IDNet
Theatre 2
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Telecoms needs new voices: Winning the talent battle in a changing workforce
Smart Places
Telecoms is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history—becoming a digital infrastructure industry powered by AI, cloud, data, automation, and customer experience. Yet many of the people needed to drive this transformation don't see telecoms as a destination career.
At the same time, a new generation of employees is entering the workforce with different expectations around purpose, learning, communication, wellbeing, diversity, and career progression. They consume information differently, make career decisions differently, and often expect employers to adapt faster than previous generations did.
This discussion explores whether telecoms is ready to modernise its culture, attract talent from outside the industry, and create workplaces where the next generation can thrive.
Lauren Croxson, Snr Sales Director/Co-Chair of WiT, Sangoma
Theatre 10
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
The evolution of MVNOs in the UK connectivity market
Connected Infrastructure
- How are shifting regulatory environments and market dynamics influencing the viability of new MVNO entrants in the UK?
- How can brands (e.g. financial services or broadband providers) successfully integrate mobile offerings to increase customer lifetime value?
- What are the technical and operational benchmarks required to deliver a high-quality, customer-centric mobile experience under an MVNO model?
Theatre 1
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
MEF: Evolution of Business Communications
Data Centre Forum
Dario Betti, CEO, Mobile Ecosystem Forum (MEF)
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Roundtable workshop: From strategy to reality: Building credible use cases for local authorities
Local Authority Stage
Theatre 8
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Business case for a Connected Society
Connected Society
Moderator: Leigh Smyth, CEO, ImpactMatch
Helen Burrows, Controller, Distribution, BBC
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Workshop session with DWP
Tech Britain
Hosted by Department for Work & Pensions.
Theatre 6
Sep 1012:40
Conference pass
Celebrating inclusive employment success across telecoms and green energy
People, Skills & Recruitment
Panel discussed hosted by the Department for Work and Pensions.
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 1013:10
Conference pass
Economic security risks in telco technology: A comparative study of legacy, hybrid and cloud-native architecture
Connected Infrastructure
Liam Mcphee, Senior Solutions Architect, University West of Scotland
Theatre 1
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Leading through uncertainty and protecting your organisation’s culture
Connected Britain
- With the market in a state of flux and business leaders having to make difficult commercial decisions, how do you approach communication with your workforce and maintain an environment built on trust?
- How do you ensure that you keep your best people engaged?
- How can leaders intentionally shape an organisation’s culture that maintains legacy strengths while working towards establishing a forward-looking mission?
Steve Wilson, CEO, 4th Utility / Rise Fibre
Rebecca Dobson, Chief People Officer, MS3 Networks Ltd
Lucie Smith, Chair of techUK's Telecoms Council & Director of Programmes, Mova
Moderator: Katie Heenan, Programme Manager, Digital Connectivity Forum
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Defining 6G: The UK’s role in shaping future services and spectrum
Connected Networks
- What is the UK's research strategy for 6G, and how will it serve future smart place applications?
- What spectrum policies are required to enable "network-as-a-sensor" capabilities, and the high-bandwidth demands of holographic communication?
- How can the UK bridge the gap between academic innovation and commercial deployment of world beating 6G ecosystem?
Simon Cotton, Director, Centre for Wireless Innovation
Tales Gaspar, Programme Manager, UK SPF and Satellite, techUK
Moderator: Janette Stewart, Partner, Analysys Mason Limited
Theatre 2
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Connecting the crowd: Delivering flawless coverage in high-density venues
Smart Places
- How are venue owners leveraging connectivity to drive new revenue streams and enhance the visitor experience?
- What are the critical operational requirements justifying the use of private 5G networks in high-density environments like stadiums and airports?
- How can operators orchestrate 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and IoT to ensure seamless high-capacity performance in complex venue environments?
Moderator: Amy Cameron, Research Director, STL Partners
Theatre 10
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Capital and connectivity: Funding growth zones and strategic investment
Data Centre Driven Economy
- What is driving investment for data centre growth zones and which regions are the most popular? Why?
- How does power availability, connectivity and planning influence long term investment?
- How do public – private partnerships impact investment?
- What can we learn from successful investment strategies?
Charlie Evans, Investment Banking Managing Director, Guggenheim Partners Llc
Susanne Coles, Deputy Director - Investment Ecosystem, Innovate UK
Moderator: Ignacio Gomez, Founder & Managing Partner, Fide Partners
Theatre 4
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Transforming the UK’s strategic aviation hubs with next-generation connectivity
Connected Infrastructure
- What are the network and architecture requirements needed to support the high-density and mission-critical environments of the UK’s airports?
- What innovations are being enabled by improved connectivity, e.g. passenger experience, safety, reducing costs and increasing efficiency?
- How are airports leveraging data to drive revenues and increase operational efficiencies?
Moderator: Rosalind Craven, Principal Analyst, STL Partners
Theatre 1
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
“Will AI break the network?” Fibre innovation vs. Infrastructure limits
Data Centre Forum
- Are current fibre networks capable of supporting AI’s relentless demands?
- Is the industry innovating fast enough? If not, why? What are the core challenges with infrastructure constraints?
- Will AI driven demand force a complete rethink of network economics,ownershipand upgrade cycles?
Moderator: Neil Geary, Director Network Integration & Planning, CityFibre
William Webb, Chief Executive Officer, Commcisive
Theatre 5
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
From funding to delivery: Unlocking digital value through partnerships
Local Authority Stage
- With continued budget constraints, what funding and commercial models are proving most effective?
- How can public – private partnerships better support delivery of digital infrastructure at scale?
- What risks should authorities be aware of when entering new partnerships?
- How can inter-authority partnerships get real results for citizens?
Melissa Middleton, Economic Policy Advisor, Gateshead Council
Jess Ellis, Advisor, Digital Places
Theatre 8
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
The analogue switch off: Protecting the vulnerable in a digital transition
Connected Society
- How can providers and councils bridge the awareness gap for the millions still on copper, ensuring the transition message is clear, reassuring, and jargon-free?
- With the final deadline just a year away, what are the biggest risks left for the millions of elderly and vulnerable people still using the old copper network?
- How can we use this mandatory upgrade as an opportunity to move from basic alarms to proactive health sensors that help people live safely at home for longer?
Neil Bartholomew, Managing Director - Consumer, KCOM
Frederik van Randwyck, Head - Telecoms Modernisation Programme, techUK
Theatre 3
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Rewiring government services: Building the interoperable public sector
Public Sector Transformation
- How can a unified, multi-tier data layer effectively bridge the gap between national strategy and local delivery?
- How should the public sector re-architect its cloud and edge compute strategy to support data-heavy services?
- How can interoperable data unite finance, performance, and risk information to drive more sustainable decisions?
Johnny Wolf, Head of Enterprise Architecture & FinOps Lead, Metropolitan Police Service
David Bailey, Head of Events and Brand Engagement, Police Digital Service
Theatre 11
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
The resilience mandate: Putting cyber risk and security on the boardroom agenda
Tech Britain
- How do we change the language around cybersecurity to ensure the risks and solutions are understood by business leaders?
- How can businesses shift the focus towards a strategy of long-term resilience and be more business focused?
- What measures should businesses consider ensuring rapid response and recovery to cyberattacks?
- Can AI tools help with proactive defence and prevention or is AI a hindrance?
Nicole Wong, Operational Technology Product Manager, Darktrace
Stuart Seymour, CISO, Virgin Media O2
Moderator: Manoj Bhatt, Director, Cyberhash
Theatre 6
Sep 1013:35
Conference pass
Digital Wales: Accelerating growth through connectivity and innovation
Regional Development
- How connectivity fuels key Welsh sectors, such as high-tech farming, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.
- What technical and commercial innovations are required to deliver gigabit coverage across Wales's most difficult terrain?
- How can we better align national and regional policy to streamline funding and planning for the 2030 roadmap?
Sally-Anne Skinner, CEO, Ogi
Natalie Strange, Managing Director, RPS Telecom
Owain Taylor-Shaw, Head of Sales, Business Development & Marketing, Transport for Wales
Dija Oliver, Project manager, Swansea Bay City Deal
Theatre 9
Sep 1013:50
Conference pass
Personality – The new currency
People, Skills & Recruitment
Tom Simpson, CEO, StartingPoint
Matt McKay, Founder/CEO, GOALD
People, Skills & Recruitment Zone
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
The 2030 roadmap: What’s next for the UK connectivity market?
Connected Britain
- Now that the networks are largely in place, how do we pivot the focus from coverage to capability and network quality?
- How does the UK maintain its status as a global tech leader as we move into the next 5-10 years?
- How will the convergence of AI-native infrastructure with fixed-mobile networks create new value for shareholders and drive revenue? How can this shift be leveraged to close the digital divide?
Amy Jordan, Strategy and Delivery Director, ofcom
Moderator: Emma Buckland, Research Director, STL Partners
Kushal Ghuwalewala, Telecoms General Manager, RVU
Keynote Theatre
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Designing the net-zero network of the future
Connected Networks
- What practical steps are operators taking to reduce Scope 3 emissions and transition to circular, electrified supply chains?
- How is AI being used to optimise power consumption in while balancing the energy demands of increased AI workloads?
- How are evolving reporting standards and UK green taxonomies shaping investment decisions and opening access to sustainable finance?
Cara Boccieri, Sustainability Expert, Hexatronic
Lee Jones, Senior Manager Energy Solutions, Vodafone
Moderator: Krsna Singh, Research Analyst, STL Partners
Kate Sandhu, Head of Strategic Initiatives & ESG, CityFibre
Theatre 2
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
The Regenerative High Street: Economic vitality and the "Phygital" town centre
Smart Places
- How can retailers and landlords use AR, IoT, and high-density Wi-Fi to transform empty units into immersive "phygital" showrooms and hybrid work hubs?
- How can real-time footfall, sentiment, and environmental data be used by Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) to prove the economic case for smart town investment?
- What are the scalable lessons from 2025/26 urban regeneration projects in revitalising SMEs and attracting new high-street investment?
Jenna Ingoe, Innovation Manager, Sunderland Software City
Davina Fell, Digital Connectivity Lead, Central London Forward
Moderator: Michael Armitage, Director, Seneca Enterprise
Theatre 10
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Community, planning and society: Balancing growth with social responsibility
Data Centre Driven Economy
- How can data centre development delivery bring benefits to local communities, not just national infrastructure goals?
- Where are planning processes falling short in aligning with environmental and social impact?
- How can developers and operators engage with local communities and co-create on mutual value?
- How can they develop trust in the public?
Theatre 4
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Resilient by design: Securing the UK’s national infrastructure
Connected Infrastructure
- What are the security risks to national infrastructure and what is the responsibility of different stakeholders in addressing potential threats?
- With the scope of critical national infrastructure having recently expanded, how are newly regulated sectors responding to the changes in reporting and standards?
- How can infrastructure owners leverage AI to defend against the surge of threats to the UK’s public assets?
- What strategies are most effective for identifying and addressing potential risks in the supply chain of national infrastructure?
Moderator: Mark Fermor, Founder, Firevault Ltd
Theatre 1
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
The 2030 vision: Power, automation and next-gen operations
Data Centre Forum
- How is AI reshaping data centre operations, from optics to design and day to day management?
- Where are the emerging AI growth zones? What do they signal for future demand and connectivity?
- How can operators prepare for the extreme increase in computer density and GPU clusters?
- Is the industry ready to shift from reactive to self – managing through the use of robotics and automation?
Amy Jordan, Strategy and Delivery Director, ofcom
Kushal Ghuwalewala, Telecoms General Manager, RVU
Moderator: Emma Buckland, Research Director, STL Partners
Theatre 5
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Healthcare industry technology, transformation and inclusion
Connected Society
- How can we move beyond pilot schemes to make virtual wards and community-led health hubs a standard, sustainable part of the NHS estate?
- How will unified data platforms and AI diagnostics finally bridge the gap between primary, secondary, and social care at a national scale?
- With 31% of the population still not accessing health services online, how do we ensure "digital-by-default" models do not widen the health inequality gap?
Glenda Cook, Planning Manager, Glasgow City Health & Social Care Partnership
Michael Watts, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Blum Health
Gita Sorensen, INCA TAR Advisor, Investor and Founder Director at Digostics & MD, GOS Consulting
Moderator: Imogen Hailstone, Director of External Affairs, Health Tech Alliance
Theatre 3
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Strategies for building resilient, reliable and inclusive public services
Public Sector Transformation
- How are public sector digital leaders moving towards models of operational resilience?
- How are government departments embedding accessibility into the design of their online services?
- How do we ensure that digital-first doesn’t become digital-only?
- How do we build trust in government services as they become more automated?
- How can we be transparent how data is being used while also maintaining privacy and security?
Theatre 11
Sep 1014:20
Conference pass
Smart factories & Industry 4.0: How advanced connectivity can drive industrial innovation
Tech Britain
Panel discussion for industrial innovation.
Theatre 6
last published: 17/Jul/26 13:45 GMT
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