About this event
Join us for the S&W industry leaders conference 2026, a two-day event bringing together economists, business owners, senior business leaders and S&W experts to explore the issues shaping boardroom conversations across the UK.
Through keynote interviews, panel discussions and expert-led sessions, you’ll gain practical insight into navigating uncertainty, building resilience, harnessing AI, managing risk and unlocking sustainable growth.
Alongside a packed programme of thought leadership, delegates will have the opportunity to network with fellow business leaders, share experiences and discuss the strategic priorities shaping the future of business.
Why Attend?
By attending the S&W industry leaders conference, you will:
• Gain practical insights into the economic, tax and regulatory issues affecting businesses today
• Explore how leading organisations are responding to uncertainty and change
• Learn from business leaders who have successfully navigated periods of disruption and growth
• Discover opportunities to harness AI, innovation and international expansion
• Build valuable connections with peers, advisers and industry experts
Agenda
Day one: Perspective and insight
Understanding uncertainty, volatility, risk and how to respond
The first day focuses on helping leaders make informed decisions in an increasingly unpredictable environment.
Sessions will explore:
• The economic and business outlook and what organisations should be preparing for
• The impact of market volatility and changing economic conditions on business planning
• How innovation and resilience can become powerful drivers of growth, even during challenging periods
• Managing financial and operational pressures and moving from stress to stability
• The growing role of AI in the boardroom, including the opportunities and risks leaders need to understand
• Potential developments in the tax and economic landscape ahead of the Autumn Budget
Keynote speaker: Sam Stannah
We’re delighted to welcome Sam Stannah, sixth-generation family business leader, member of the Stannah Group Executive Board, and Founder and CEO of Uplifts.
Sam will share his perspective on leadership, innovation and resilience, exploring how businesses can adapt, evolve and thrive in uncertain times.
Day two: Unlocking growth
Expansion, investment, transformation and the next phase of growth
As business conditions evolve, leaders must be ready to identify opportunities, scale effectively and build organisations that are fit for the future.
Day two examines the opportunities and challenges associated with sustainable growth, covering:
• Expanding into new markets, including international growth opportunities
• Innovation, R&D and creating long-term competitive advantage
• Preparing your business for the next phase of growth
• Building the right operational foundations across people, processes and technology
• Managing increasingly complex tax and regulatory requirements
• Harnessing AI to improve performance and create scalable growth opportunities
Keynote speaker: Barry Hearn OBE
Entrepreneur and sports promoter Barry Hearn OBE will share the lessons behind building Matchroom Sport into a global success story.
Drawing on decades of experience, Barry will discuss leadership, growth, resilience and the ability to spot opportunity where others see obstacles.