THE CONNECTED NORTH 2024
CONFERENCE AGENDA

 

All times are listed in BST

 

Manchester, 22 - 23 April 2024

Schedule

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Apr 229:35
Conference pass

Chair's opening address

Keynotes
Harry Baldock, Editor, Total Telecom
Apr 229:40
Conference pass

Title partner presentation

Keynotes
Daren Baythorpe, Chief Executive Officer, ITS
Apr 229:50
Conference pass
Apr 2210:00
Conference pass

Keynote address

Keynotes
Georgia Grimes, Director - Fibre Build, OPENREACH
Apr 2210:10
Conference pass

Empowering the North of the UK with improved connectivity

Keynotes
  • What is the progress of fixed and mobile network rollout in the North of the UK?

  • What role does enhanced connectivity play in fostering economic growth and technological innovation in the region?

Moderator: Sophie Greaves, Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, techUK
Georgia Grimes, Director - Fibre Build, OPENREACH
Daren Baythorpe, Chief Executive Officer, ITS
Martyn Taylor, Chief Commercial Officer, BDUK
Apr 2210:50
Conference pass

Networking break

Exhibition Hall

Take some time discuss the keynotes with your peers.

Apr 2211:10
Conference pass

Open Mic Startup Pitching Competition - Part 1

Innovate North

Come and watch part one of this year's Open Mic Startup Pitching Competition, where five digital startups will pitch live to a panel of judges comprising of VC's, angel investors, accelerators and industry experts in a bid to win a pitching spot at Connected Britain 2024.

Jessica Jackson, Investment Manager, Praetura Ventures
Claudia Machado, Senior Partner - Business Development - Global Accelerator, Vodafone Group
Angie Madara, Founding Partner, AthenaFundX
Apr 2211:40
Conference pass

Full fibre Wacky Races

Gigabit North

An up-to-date look at the state of play in the UK’s full fibre race:

  • Who’s winning, who’s losing, and what will the industry look like after the widely anticipated big consolidation? Can the niche rural players survive?
  • Do the business models still stack up with the significant increase in the cost of debt + the looming threat of overbuild?

I’ll share my thoughts based on my experience leading Zen Internet over the last 3 decades.

Apr 2211:40
Conference pass

Track keynote address

Innovate North
Marilyn Comrie OBE FRSA, Chief Executive Officer, Manchester Innovation Activities Hub
Apr 2211:40
Conference pass
Apr 2212:00
Conference pass

Digital infrastructure driving inward investment for the North

Invest in the North
  • Discuss how robust digital infrastructure in the North of the UK is a catalyst for economic growth, attracting businesses, investors, and talent
  • How can world-class digital infrastructure increase inward investment opportunities in the North?
  • What can be done to further facilitate the development of mobile and fibre infrastructure?
Mark Lewis, Chief Marketing Officer, Pulsant Ltd
Kate Temperley, Head Business Development- Creative, Digital &Tech, MIDAS- Invest in Manchester
Keith Bullock, Programme Director, Future Network Programmes, Department of Science, Innovation & Technology
Apr 2212:00
Conference pass

Navigating the regulatory landscape

Gigabit North
  • Are we able to maintain a competitive marketplace with current practices?
  • What are the important developments affecting network rollouts?
Andrew Kernahan, Head of Public Affairs, Internet Services Providers' Association (ISPA UK)
James Tickel, Director, Regulatory Policy & Strategy, OPENREACH
Apr 2212:00
Conference pass

5G innovation showcase

Smart North
  • Discover the latest developments and innovations arising from 5G trials in the North of the UK, showcasing how this technology is reshaping industries and communities
  • Discuss the challenges around implementing 5G and what is needed to rollout this technology further
  • How can the North benefit from the proposed 5G Innovation Regions supported by DSIT?
Lesley Holt, Acceleration & Adoption Director, WM5G
Kate Greenham, Head of Wireless Infrastructure Programme, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Phil Swan, Director for Digital, Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Apr 2212:00
Conference pass

Connected utilities

Innovate North
  • How digital solutions are improving the overall customer experience in utilities?
  • How can we use digital connectivity to enhance operational efficiency and promote sustainability in the sector?
  • What is the current state of innovation in utilities and how can we improve?
Moderator: Ahmed Ali, Senior Analyst, STL Partners
Martin Jackson, Head Of Strategy & Product Management, Northumbrian Water Group Plc
Apr 2212:10
Conference pass

Bridging the digital divide for Northern communities

Connected Society
  • Explore the extent of the digital divide in Northern UK communities and its impact on various aspects of daily life
  • Identify the specific challenges and disparities faced by communities in the North regarding digital access, connectivity, and technology adoption
  • Discuss how both the public and private sector can work together to address regional challenges and drive positive change
Apr 2212:40
Conference pass

Open Mic Startup Pitching Competition (Part 2)

Innovate North

Come and watch part two of this year's Open Mic Startup Pitching Competition, where five digital startups will pitch live to a panel of judges comprising of VC's, angel investors, accelerators and industry experts in a bid to win a pitching spot at Connected Britain 2024.

Angie Madara, Founding Partner, AthenaFundX
Jessica Jackson, Investment Manager, Praetura Ventures
Claudia Machado, Senior Partner - Business Development - Global Accelerator, Vodafone Group
Apr 2213:00
Conference pass

Lunch break

Exhibition Hall

Break for lunch and networking to discuss the morning's sessions.

Apr 2214:00
Conference pass

Economic impact of wireless technology 

Invest in the North
  • Explore the economic ramifications of wireless technology adoption in the North, uncovering its potential to drive growth and development across various sectors.
  • How can wireless technology initiatives contribute to job creation, industry expansion, and increased economic competitiveness within the region?
  • What is the strategic significance of wireless technology in shaping a resilient and innovative economic landscape in the North of the UK?
Moderator: David Janusz, Senior Project Associate, CJ Founds Associates
Gareth Elliott, Director of Policy and Communications, Mobile UK
Matt Smith, Programme Manager River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region, Shropshire Council
Apr 2214:00
Conference pass

Progress update on Project Gigabit

Gigabit North
  • What are the latest developments for pilots and project investment in the North?
  • What are the lessons learned from current projects that we can apply to future work in the North?
Gavin Rodgers, Chief Executive Officer, LBN
Matthew Bateman, Director, Infrastructure Development, OPENREACH
Jonathan Harris, Programme Director, Connecting Cumbria
Tony Morgan, Head of Regional Delivery, BDUK
Daniel Herbert, Chief Executive Officer, Fibreray
Apr 2214:00
Conference pass

Digital twins driving innovation in the North

Smart North
  • Explore innovative projects that look to catapult the North of the UK into a bright digital future
Moderator: Teodora Kaneva, Head of Smart Infrastructure and Systems, techUK
Justin Anderson, Director of the Digital Twin Hub, Connected Places Catapult
Apr 2214:00
Conference pass

Smart manufacturing

Innovate North
  • How can connectivity enable IoT and industrial automation technologies to transform manufacturing processes?
  • What are the benefits of using connectivity to collect and analyse vast amounts of data in manufacturing?
  • How can connectivity transform Northern industry?
Apr 2214:00
Conference pass

Connected public services

Connected Society
  • How can digital connectivity improve public service delivery to make services more accessible and efficient for citizens?
  • What are the challenges and opportunities in deploying digital connectivity for public services and what should we consider for future directions for further innovation and improvement?
  • Discuss the role of data analytics and digital connectivity in enabling better decision-making and resource allocation within public services
Apr 2215:00
Conference pass

Thriving or surviving? Building a prospering digital economy in the North

Invest in the North
  • What does the North’s digital economy look like?
  • Given the current economic climate where access to funds for tech and telecom startups are difficult to come by, how are Northern based startups fairing up? Are they thriving or surviving?
  • Is the support that’s currently in place for Northern based tech and connectivity startups working?
Jennifer Hartley, Director, Invest Newcastle
Andy Curtis, Head of Digital Economy and Creative Industries, Innovate UK KTN
Apr 2215:00
Conference pass

Customer strategy; increasing adoption for a brighter future

Gigabit North
  • How can the industry improve take-up of advanced connectivity services such as gigabit and 5G?
  • Pricing strategy: how do we makes sure customers get good value without jeopardising the industries return on investment?
  • Are we working hard enough to educate customers on the next generation of connectivity? What more can be done?
Lee Spicer, UK Key Account Manager, ACOME Group
Krystian Heald, Head of Partnerships, ISPA UK
David Mitchell, Managing Director, Hull Fibre Limited
Jessica Pyett-Ellis, Chair - Regional Adoption Working Group, UK Telecoms Innovation Network
Eoin Heaney, Vice President of International, calix
Apr 2215:00
Conference pass

Smart transport

Smart North
  • What are the economic benefits of smart transport initiatives and how can they make Northern cities more competitive and sustainable?
  • What are the latest advancements in smart transport solutions that can innovate Northern transportation networks?
Sam Li, Senior Innovation Officer, Transport for Greater Manchester TfGM
Richard Adams, Head of Digital Architecture, LNER
Helen Ellerton, Head of Transport Policy, West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Apr 2215:00
Conference pass

Digital health technologies transforming innovation and regulatory evidence in the life sciences

Innovate North
  • What is the significance of electronic health data in guiding the future of healthcare?
  • How can we foster better collaboration with the NHS to drive innovation and improve services?
  • What opportunities are there for digital connectivity to improve healthcare services for Northern communities?
Moderator: Gita Sorensen, Managing Director, GOS Consulting
Tony Sceales, Technical Director, Borderlands 5G Innovation Region
Andrea Manfrin, Deputy Director Clinical Investigations and Trials, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
Mike Richardson, Programme Manager - Future Connectivity, NHS England
Apr 2215:00
Conference pass

Connectivity enhanced education

Connected Society
  • How is connectivity improving education in the North?
  • How can connectivity advancements transform traditional education methods through the integration of smart lessons, AR/VR technologies, and online learning?
  • How can we enable digital transformation for educational institutions?
Moderator: Alex Mather, Head, Digital Connectivity Forum
Sara Prowse, Chief Executive Officer, UA92
Apr 2216:00
Conference pass

Networking break

Exhibition Hall

Take a quick break and get some refreshments before the closing keynotes.

Apr 2216:20
Conference pass

Closing keynote presentation

Keynotes

The closing keynote sessions begin.

Apr 2216:40
Conference pass

Delivering a truly Connected North

Keynotes
  • Government policy and funding aimed at ensuring economic with future proof connectivity
  • More than just fibre in the ground: what other areas of investment should we be focusing on?
Apr 2217:30
Conference pass

Connected North Afterparty

Exhibition Hall

Join us from 17:30 til late at the Peaky Blinders bar just a 3 minute walk from conference venue.

Note: you will require a valid ticket for Connected North to attend the afterparty.

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Apr 239:15
Conference pass

Chair's opening address

Keynotes

Opening remarks to start the morning plenary.

Harry Baldock, Editor, Total Telecom
Apr 239:20
Conference pass
Apr 239:40
Conference pass

Local authorities showcase their key milestones and achievements in developing critical digital infrastructure for the region

Keynotes
Apr 2310:20
Conference pass

Networking break

Exhibition Hall

Network and discuss the morning plenary with your peers.

Apr 2310:50
Conference pass

Track Keynote Address - 'Supporting growth through innovation'

Innovate North
Apr 2310:50
Conference pass

Joining the online conversation: key tips for a fruitful experience

Connected Society
Apr 2311:10
Conference pass

Wireless and 5G delivery in the North of the UK

Gigabit North
  • Wireless infrastructure strategy 1 year on: What key milestones and accomplishments have been made since the UK Wireless Infrastructure Strategy began?
  • What are the strategic priorities and future directions for wireless infrastructure, considering lessons learned and evolving industry demands?
  • How effective are the funding options for developing 5G in the North of the UK?
David Crawford, 5G Projects Director, University of Strathclyde
Holly Creek, Deputy Director Wireless Infrastructure, Spectrum and Consumer Policy, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Apr 2311:10
Conference pass

Smart place projects

Smart North
  • Explore the latest technological advancements and innovations transforming urban landscapes
  • How can smart city/place initiatives enhance the quality of life and citizen engagement in urban environments?
Lorna Rogers, Assistant Director, Mayoral Programme Delivery, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Apr 2311:10
Conference pass

Strategies for raising capital for Northern based startups

Innovate North
  • With a focus on levelling up in the North, have Northern based startups in the telco/tech market been able to raise capital more easily?
  • Discuss funding programs/initiatives for telco/tech startups in the North
  • What do investors need to feel confident in investing in a startup?
Ben Davies, Group Marketing Director, Praetura Ventures
Charlotte Scott, Senior Investor Relations Manager, Innovation SuperNetwork
Apr 2311:10
Conference pass

Digital skills for your communities 

Connected Society
  • Discuss programs and initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy and skills in Northern communities to bridge the digital divide
  • Explore strategies for developing a skilled local workforce, fostering job opportunities in the digital economy, and driving economic growth in the region
  • Are we doing enough to promote diversity in digital skills?
Moderator: John Duncan, Customer Success Manager, Virgin Media O2
Ann Mulhaney, Associate Professor of Change, Salford University
Apr 2311:10
Conference pass

Rural policy and user engagement

Project Rollout
  • Do rural communities get the support they need?
  • What needs to change to ensure we connect the hardest-to-reach areas of the North?
Moderator: Gareth Elliott, Director of Policy and Communications, Mobile UK
Sinead Gilbert, Head of Marketing, Connect Fibre
Lucie Smith, Corporate Affairs & Marketing Director, Digital Mobile Spectrum
Apr 2311:50
Conference pass

FTTP Rollouts 2024-2026 : how to win the war of ambitions

Project Rollout
Willy Pelhate, UK Marketing Manager, ACOME Group
Apr 2312:10
Conference pass

The digital switchover

Gigabit North
  • What are the implications of the digital switchover on consumer experience, accessibility, and the role of technology in shaping a more connected and inclusive society?
  • What are the outstanding challenges we need to overcome to make the digital switchover a success?
Apr 2312:10
Conference pass

Building digital Scotland

Smart North
  • Discuss the ongoing efforts to expand high-speed broadband and digital infrastructure throughout Scotland, ensuring that even remote areas have access to reliable connectivity
  • What is needed to encourage the growth of Scotland’s digital infrastructure?
  • What's the impact of digital infrastructure on Scotland's economy, including its role in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation?
Julia McMurdie, Digital Renewal Manager, North Ayrshire Council
Robbie McGhee, Deputy Director, Digital Connectivity, Scottish Government
Paul Clegg, Portfolio Manager, 5G Innovation Regions and Smart Infrastructure Pilots Programme, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Apr 2312:10
Conference pass

From startup to scaleup; how to build your business for long-term growth

Innovate North
  • Exploring what the telco/tech market in the North is like for startups in the current climate.
  • Understanding from startups themselves what is needed from key stakeholders to support them on their journey to becoming profitable businesses.
  • Once funding is secured how best should you invest/spend capital that is raised to grow?
  • Finding an approach which simultaneously enables innovation and reassures investors.
Apr 2312:10
Conference pass

Local authorities addressing the digital divide

Connected Society
  • Get the unique perspective of local authorities as they work to give equal opportunity across their communities
  • What are the lessons learned from current digital inclusion projects and initiatives?
  • What are the remaining challenges for local authorities to address the digital divide?
Apr 2312:10
Conference pass

Getting the right technology mix to maximize rollout potential

Project Rollout
  • Explore technologies beyond fibre and how they might complement fibre networks when trying to reach every corner of the UK
  • How best to deploy wireless technologies either in isolation or in tandem with fibre networks
Apr 2312:50
Conference pass

Lunch break

Exhibition Hall

Take a break and get networking!

Apr 2313:50
Conference pass

A fresh perspective on investment in UK telecoms

Innovate North
Chris Hill, SETsquared Investment Manager & UKTIN Investment Advisor, SETSquared
Apr 2314:10
Conference pass

The state of One Touch Switching across the telecom industry

Gigabit North
Gita Sorensen, Managing Director, GOS Consulting
David Cullen, Managing Director, Prism Business Consulting
Apr 2314:10
Conference pass

Sustainability highlights 

Smart North
  • How can smart technology be harnessed to address environmental challenges in the North?
  • Examine examples of smart solutions for energy-efficient infrastructure, waste reduction, and fostering a sustainable future for Northern communities
Apr 2314:10
Conference pass

Angel (investors) of the digital North

Innovate North
  • How does angel investing work? And what are the advantages/disadvantages of angel investing
  • Discuss the importance of angel investing for tech and connectivity-based startups in the North
  • How can founders build meaningful relationships with angel investors?
Apr 2314:10
Conference pass

Working with housing associations to connect Northern communities 

Connected Society
  • What can connectivity companies and housing associations collaborate to address resident's digital needs?
  • How can we build effective strategies and programs to address residents’ digital needs?
  • Understand how improved connectivity will positively affect education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Northern communities
Moderator: Michael Armitage, Founder, Fibre2All
Stuart Pearson, Senior Digital Strategy Officer, Manchester City Council
Apr 2314:50
Conference pass

Networking break

Exhibition Hall

Take this opportunity to mingle before the final session of the day,

last published: 27/Mar/24 17:15 GMT

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