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Registration OpensJoin us nice and early from 7:30am to pick up your badge and participate in the Meet Up to kick start your #WoSR24 experience with new connections! Don’t worry if you’re not able to attend until later in the day as registration will be open all day across the two days.
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Digital X Human Stage
Welcome to Women of Silicon Roundabout 2024! Join us for the official opening and welcome remarks to kick-start your day with inspiration and empowerment!
Our two-day agenda is filled with expert-led sessions designed to help you learn how to start putting in the building blocks toward the future and securing your position as a futurist leader in tech and strategy.
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Digital X Human Stage
AI is at the forefront of innovation, from enhancing efficiency to solving complex global challenges. However, amidst this digital transformation, the industry must emphasise the growing significance of nurturing inherently human skills. As technology evolves, so does the need for empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and the urgency of fostering diversity in tech teams. In a world shaped by varied perspectives and experiences, diverse teams are essential for creating inclusive and equitable technologies. Join us to explore these pivotal aspects shaping our digital future.
Key Takeaways:
- How the AI revolution is helping to power global solutions
- The increasing importance of developing inherently human-based skills in an increasingly digital world
- Why its never been more critical to have diverse teams developing technology for a diverse world
Reserved for Headline Sponsor of Women of Silicon Roundabout
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Digital X Human Stage
We're on the verge of a frictionless future, where technology dissolves barriers and reshapes human potential. But what becomes of humans in an era with less friction? Join Heidi as she explores the creative potential of this new era and how we can choose to solve for some of humanity's biggest challenges, from predicting conflicts to fostering a more sustainable world. Heidi will delve into the opportunity – and responsibility – of shaping a future where technology supercharges, rather than deteriorates, our humanity.
This session is for... anyone who is passionate about creating a brighter future and wants to be inspired by how human and digital can create something truly great together.
Sponsored bySponsored By:
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Digital X Human StageSession details coming soon…Sponsored by
Sponsored By:
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Networking BreakCatch up with your colleagues and new connections during the Networking Break and share your key takeaways of the event so far! Take the time to visit the stands of our sponsors to find out more about them and how their organisation can help you in your career journey!
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DigitalStrategy StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
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SkillShift StageA passion for innovation, technology and making an impact lead many to a career in software engineering. But how do you find a company that is aligned with your goals and ambitions, while working on impactful projects at scale? Join this session to hear from leading engineers at global advertising technology company The Trade Desk as they share their experiences of working on a platform that handles up to 15 million queries per second.
Key Takeaways:- The unprecedented scale of The Trade Desk: Learn more about the software and engineers that enable our platform to process trillions of data points per day, powering the open internet through data-driven advertising.
- Scale as a career accelerator: Hear from engineers as they discuss the challenges and unparalleled growth opportunities of working at such a scale.
- How to seek out scalable challenges: Gain insight and practical tips for how to prioritise scale in your job search and career development as an engineer.
Sponsored bySponsored By:
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WorkForce Stage
In today's fast paced competitive world, having strong technical and soft skills is important, but if you want to open more doors and advance in your career, building your visibility through a personal brand and building relationships through networking is important too. In this talk, I'll share my own journeyᅳhow building network and becoming part of a community led to new opportunities and helped me shape my personal brand. I'll share about the role of mentors in my journey and how it helped me transition from being in my own isolated world to the world of public speaking. You don't have to wait for the perfect moment; you already have the foundation to build your own brand. I'll show you how I did it, and how you can, too.
Key Takeaways:- Discover how to recognize and showcase your existing skills and experiences as part of your personal brand.
- Understand why starting to share your insights now can boost your credibility and create more opportunities.
- Hear personal tips for managing imposter syndrome and finding balance.
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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Get into Tech Stage
In this session, Sophie will share everything she has learnt from the past 4 year of working as an IT Director as a young woman in technology. With an uplifting and empowering tone, Sophie will provide a combination of practical advice to navigate and succeed a senior leadership role when far younger than your peers/reports, with anecdotes and lessons learnt along the way to encourage and inspire other young women to pursue their ambitions against the odds.
Key Takeaways:- Practical examples of how to supercharge your career, whatever stage you are at
- What your line manager might not be telling you, that you need to know
- A big confidence boost: if you want it, you can do it
This session is for… anyone with a feeling of unfulfilled ambition. Whether you are feeling stuck and wondering how to climb the career ladder in technology, or perhaps still working out if that ladder is for you. Maybe you haven’t seen the role model you are looking for yet, or simply seeking a sense of permission to be as ambitious as you want to be.
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Workshops
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. Whether presenting to stakeholders, clients, or colleagues, it’s crucial that tech professionals convey complex ideas in a way that is clear, concise, and meaningful to audiences with varying levels of technical knowledge. Not doing so can lead to disengagement, misunderstandings, wasted time, and missed opportunities.
"Bridging the Communication Gap: Presenting to Mixed Tech & Non-Tech Audiences," offers practical strategies and techniques to help tech professionals communicate effectively across mixed audiences. You’ll learn an audience-centric approach that avoids information overload, increases comprehension and retention, and drives decisions and actions. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to practice your new skills.
Key Takeaways:- Understand the needs of different cohorts so you can tailor your message to resonate with each group effectively.
- Learn how to distil complex technical concepts into clear, concise language.
- Craft a concise message or “elevator pitch” using a simple framework.
This session is for... Technology experts who need to drive the smart adoption and implementation of AI and other new technologies.Sponsored bySponsored By:
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Workshops
With the landscape of skills evolving to necessitate a seamless integration of technical and business savvy, there's never been a more opportune moment for you to cultivate a strategic mindset. In this workshop you'll learn how to develop the business-critical skills that will drive your career forward as you take on a more strategic role.
Key Takeaways:
- Identifying the key business-orientated skills that you must develop in your journey as a leader
- How to use data to uilding strategic awareness
- How to build key financial skills, even as a non-finance person
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Workshops
For many of us, stepping into a managerial role is the natural next step in our career progression. However, the transition is often filled with unexpected challenges and surprises.
This session isn’t just about listening - it’s about engaging! Everyone is encouraged to share their questions and experiences, and gain insights from peers. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out, you will leave with a toolkit of strategies to help you and your team thrive.
Key Takeaways:
- The Transition Tale: Learn from real-life stories of developers who took the leap into management. Discover the unexpected twists and turns they encountered along the way.
- Emotional Rollercoaster: Understand the emotional journey of moving from a strong individual contributor to a manager. We will discuss feelings of excitement, anxiety, and the occasional imposter syndrome that many experience during this transition.
- The Struggles Odyssey: From imposter syndrome to balancing technical and managerial responsibilities, we will uncover the common hurdles new managers face.
- One size does not fit all: Being a “manager” is quite a generic term and it is important to recognise that encompasses a variety of roles. Deep-dive into the competencies required for the type of manager you want to be.
This session is for… anyone who has transitioned into management or is on the verge of doing so.
- Individual Contributors: Gain actionable insights and practical tips to kickstart your management journey effectively.
- Junior Managers: Discover a comprehensive guide to navigating and overcoming the myriad challenges you face, enabling you to thrive alongside your team.
- Seasoned Managers: Understand the evolving nature of managerial roles, where shifting focus and adapting plans are essential. This talk provides a platform to discuss your unique challenges, share valuable advice, and expand your professional network.
- This session promises to be an invaluable resource, regardless of where you are on your management journey.
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WorkshopsSession details coming soon...
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Workshops
Unlock the full potential of AI agents to drive process automation and enhance conversational experiences. In this workshop, you'll learn to build, test, and deploy AI agents using Google Cloud and Vertex AI, all within a low- to no-code environment. Master seamless integration, performance analysis, and optimization strategies to elevate your business operations and streamline workflows.
Key Takeaways:
- Build AI agents using low- to no-code platforms.
- Automate processes and enhance conversational workflows.
- Seamlessly integrate AI agents into existing systems.
- Learn techniques for performance analysis and optimization.
- Explore real-world AI agent applications.
This session is for... developers, tech leads, and business professionals interested in leveraging AI agents for automation and conversational workflows. It's ideal for those looking to build AI-powered solutions with minimal coding and optimize their performance in real-world applications.
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Workshops
People managers at all levels are either enablers or blockers of career progression for those in their charge. With that being said, every leader who line manages other people, whether it’s one person or 100, should consider themselves an ally to everyone. Allyship should be synonymous with leadership because they both involve proactive support and championship, and managers have the huge responsibility of making sure they are doing their best to support and develop everyone in their charge. By demystifying what diversity, equity and inclusion is really about, more leaders can start to recognise the critical role they play in shaping the make-up and culture of an organisation.
The Why: Across industries, organisations are only as strong as the leaders within them and it takes inclusive leaders to build and sustain resilient businesses.
Key Takeaways:
- Clarification on what DEI work actually is, and what it isn’t.
- Deeper understanding of a manager’s role in DEI.
- Inclusive leadership tips for managers at all levels.
- This session is for you if you manage people or aspire to manage people some day.
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Exhibition Area
Book your 1-2-1 appointment with our speakers at the Career Advice Hub to get direct advice on your personal and professional development that’s specific to you and your challenges. When arriving for your slot, be sure to be prepared with your challenges that you are interested to discuss with the speaker, so that you can make the most of the time allocated.
Appointments are held for 10 minutes so please do arrive on time to make the most of your time. Latecomers will also be at risk of losing their slot to waitlist attendees.
Speakers for the Career Advice Hub are to be announced
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Get into Tech Stage
In this session, discover essential strategies for advancing your tech career through networking and visibility enhancement. Learn how to build meaningful connections, communicate your value, and increase your influence within the industry. Gain practical advice on positioning yourself for new opportunities and standing out in your field. Whether you're in a technical or non-technical role, these insights will empower you to elevate your career and achieve your professional goals.
The Why: In the fast-paced tech industry, staying competitive requires more than technical skills. Understanding how to advance your career strategically is crucial for long-term success and personal fulfilment.
Key Takeaways:
- Networking Strategies: Techniques to build and nurture a powerful professional network.
- Visibility Enhancement: Methods to increase your professional influence and presence.
- Value Communication: Skills to effectively showcase your expertise and contributions.
This session is for... tech professionals looking to advance their careers, enhance their industry presence, and build robust networks, regardless of their current level or role.
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AI & Software StageGenerative AI has captured the imagination of both entrepreneurs and enterprises alike. But what does it really take to deliver generative AI to the market at scale? Join Jenny Griffiths, VP of AI Innovation at Oracle who will explain how Oracle went from 0 to 100 use-cases released to customers in just 6 months, and how that was made possible
behind the scenes. She’ll also talk about her personal AI journey, from high-tech startup founder to US tech company VP, and how different types of company can make a real difference on the journey to AI development and adoption.
The Why:
Generative AI is moving from a theoretical / nice-to-have, to a day-to-day business essential. Jenny is passionate about demystifying AI so it’s no longer a black box; because the more people understand artificial intelligence, the better it will be used.
Key Takeaways:- A basic framework for evaluating what AI your use-case needs (Generative or Classic)
- Methods of evaluating results, and why evaluation matters
- How you can make an impact on AI adoption, no matter what your role
This session is for...- You if you’re curious about AI, and wondering how to incorporate it into your company
- You if you’re knowledgeable about AI, and wanting a glimpse behind the scenes around how large enterprises are rolling out AI technologies
- You if you’re on the brink of a big career change, and thinking about moving between startups and corporates
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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Exhibition AreaHandling a question-and-answer session effectively during or after a presentation can significantly boost credibility, reinforce a message, and create opportunities for connection.
Our Solution: Learn the proven strategies we teach to anticipate questions and concerns, enabling your team members to respond in the moment with confidence, compassion, and poise.
Key Takeaways:- Preparation: Anticipating questions based on an audience analysis and each stakeholder’s likely concerns.
- Listening to Your Audience: Top tips to improve active listening skills, to ensure the audience feels heard and clearly understood.
- Answering the Question Behind the Question: Identify and respond to the underlying issue or motivation behind a question, providing deeper, more satisfying answer.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how your teams can learn to be more effective at managing Q&A sessions and challenging audience situations while giving a presentation or business talk.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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WorkForce Stage
Discover how to identify the direction of your technology initiatives and the skills needed for success. We will discuss providing opportunities for retraining and upskilling, enabling your team to adapt to new technical challenges as your strategy evolves when empowered by technology. In this session we'll learn about the importance of supporting the UK's digital skills initiative and how it can drive national progress. Join us to explore strategies for building a skilled workforce that is ready to tackle the future of technology.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding where your tech strategy is going and the skills required to make your vision a reality
- Providing opportunities to retrain and deploy
- Driving the UK's digital skills initiative forward
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DigitalStrategy StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
Sponsored by:
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AI & Software StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
Sponsored by:
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Get into Tech StageYou’re starting your first tech job tomorrow, and you’re a bundle of nerves. You’ve been taught the technical basics in school, but how do you navigate your early career as a software engineer? After all, working in the industry isn’t as straightforward as in the classroom; it’s no longer about attending classes and writing exams. This territory feels unfamiliar to most of us because we’re not taught how to approach this best. This presentation addresses those early years as a recent graduate where one can feel lost and insignificant, with tips to start making meaningful contributions, creating a great first impression, and setting yourself up for long-term success!
Key Takeaways:
Structure your approach to best assimilate within your new work environment.
Exemplify the importance of non-technical skills required to be successful as a software engineer.
Learn what to expect in your day-to-day work and recommendations on how to best thrive and flourish in your role. -
Exhibition AreaInnovative ideas often go nowhere because they are too complex for the audience to grasp, or because the speakers don’t make the business case for adopting them. Targeted stories can break through these barriers by illustrating a concept, driving home a key message, and inspiring support or action.
Our Solution: Learn how we train teams to use stories to make their technical talk come alive, and make their key messages more relatable, memorable, and persuasive.
Key Takeaways:- Knowing When to Tell a Story: Top tips for knowing when a story would be appropriate and likely to engage and persuade.
- Choosing the Right Story: Insights into selecting stories that resonate with an audience, making complex concepts relatable and memorable.
- Using Our Simple, 4-Step Model to Tell Stories: Walk away with an effective framework for crafting and delivering compelling stories within a technical presentations and talks.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how your teams can learn to use stories in a business setting to make their presentations clear, engaging, memorable, and high-impact.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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Lunch BreakExhibition AreaGrab a bite to eat with your colleagues at the provided retail stations in the Networking Area and share your biggest takeaways of the event so far!
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WorkForce Stage
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, navigating a successful and fulfilling career requires constant adaptation and a proactive approach. This session will provide you with essential strategies and insights on how to reinvent your career through the years, leveraging the latest trends in technology. We will explore how to take ownership of your career direction, ensuring you are not just a passenger but the driver of your professional journey. Additionally, the session will emphasize the importance of building transferable skills, which not only enhance your knowledge but also significantly increase your value across various industries.
Key Takeaways:
- How to reinvent your career through the years and trends of technology
- How to take ownership of the direction of your career
- Building transferable skills to increase the breadth of your knowledge and value
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SkillShift StageJoin us for a dynamic panel discussion that tackles two pressing topics in today’s tech landscape: building inclusive teams and navigating digital transformation.
We’ll explore practical strategies for enhancing diversity in tech roles and uncover the powerful benefits that diverse teams bring to innovation. Our experts will share their insights on overcoming barriers to inclusion in the industry, ensuring every voice is valued.
On the digital transformation front, we’ll discuss the challenges organizations face in modernizing their processes while balancing innovation with practical solutions. Hear success stories and lessons learned that can inspire your own journey.
Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and join the conversation about empowering change in tech!
Key Takeaways:- Learn practical approaches to improving diversity within tech teams, including actionable strategies that organizations can implement to create a more inclusive environment.
- Discover how diverse teams drive digital innovation, fostering creativity and problem-solving that leads to more successful outcomes in tech projects.
- Gain insights into the common challenges organizations face during digital transformation, and explore success stories that highlight effective solutions and lessons learned in balancing innovation with practical implementation.
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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WorkForce Stage
In today’s diverse workplace, it is increasingly common to see multiple generations working side by side, each bringing unique perspectives, skills, and experiences. This session focuses on the essential strategies for creating an inclusive multi-generational workforce, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive when a one-size-fits-all approach no longer fits the workforce. Join us to explore how embracing a multi-generational workforce can lead to richer workplace dynamics, enhanced innovation, and a more inclusive environment for all employees.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the dynamics of a multi-generational workforce
- Driving workplace cultures that meet the needs of different generations
- Merging and complimenting experiences and skills in hiring
Speaker to be announced...
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AI & Software Stage
This talk will take you through the shape of the Artificial Intelligence sector, from past, and present to the future and how you can be part of the movement. Be inspired by the contribution from the phenomenal women who have quietly led the industry, through to those leading the breakthrough in AI.
Discover the importance of the female voice in AI and those who are currently working here, as AI embeds itself in everyday life.
Finally, wrap up with projections, aspirations and how you could help mould and influence the AI space.
The Why: As AI becomes the core of everyday life, it is important to learn about the accidental implications of bias sneaking into AI along with changing the perception that the Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning industry isn’t diverse.
Key Takeaways:
- Influential and historic women who drove innovation in AI, such as Elaine Rich and Ada Lovelace.
- The current landscape of AI and the consequences of lack of diversity in the industry, along with the opportunities arising from this.
- Projections and predictions as we drive the movement towards equality in AI roles.
This session is for...
- You if you already work in tech and want to know more about the AI sector
- You if you are considering a career in AI and would like to know the impact you can make
Sponsored bySponsored By:
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Workshops
Navigating the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of technology can be challenging, but choosing the right career path doesn’t have to be daunting. Our session, "How to Choose the Right Career Path in Technology," provides you with the insight and tools needed to make an informed decision. Whether you're a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or someone looking to pivot into the tech industry, this session covers all the bases. Explore the diverse fields within technology, from software development and cybersecurity to data science and artificial intelligence. Learn about the skills in demand, industry trends, and the educational pathways that can lead you to a fulfilling and lucrative career. Start or continue your journey in tech with confidence and clarity!
The Why: Technology as a sector is so diverse, it can be daunting to make the career choices within tech. Through this session we also want to address the gender imbalance within the tech sector and promote more women to feel comfortable looking at career choices in the tech sector. Tech career is not restricted to coding roles, there are a myriad of roles such as project management, UX/UI design, data analysis, technical writing etc. Wherever you are in your career journey in tech, this session will offer you something to take away.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify Your Interests and Strengths.
- Alignment with roles.
- Industry Trends and In Demand Roles.
This session is for...
- Mid-Career Professionals.
- Early-Career Professionals.
- Career Changers.
- Students and Recent Graduates.
- Educators and Career Advisors.
- Entrepreneurs and Aspiring Technopreneurs.
Sponsored bySponsored By:
Speakers -
Workshops
Carolyn will be exploring the ways in which you can utilise personal branding, taking instant action to show up authentically and with confidence in a male dominated industry. The session will deep dive into the importance of authenticity and active cultivation of your personal brand to help you to stop holding back.
Key Takeaways:
- Strategies for Authentic Self-Presentation: Learn how to showcase your unique skills and perspectives in a way that is true to who you are, making you stand out in the tech field.
- Overcoming Industry Barriers: Gain insights into navigating the challenges of a male-dominated industry with confidence and resilience, using your personal brand as a powerful tool for advancement.
- Actionable Steps for Brand Cultivation: Discover practical steps you can take immediately to start building and refining your personal brand, from online presence to networking strategies.
This session is for... anyone in the tech industry looking to elevate their professional image, make impactful connections, and achieve their career goals through the power of personal branding.
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Workshops
In a VUCA world—marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity—companies must adopt agile, resilient strategies to remain competitive. In this workshop we’ll emphasize the importance of foresight and scenario planning to anticipate future trends, engaging diverse stakeholders for comprehensive input, and maintaining a recurring strategy process to adapt to changes. The workshop also stresses the need to align strategic goals with company objectives (OKRs) and performance metrics (KPIs) for operational excellence, making innovation and optimization essential in fast-changing markets.
Key Takeaways:
- How to use foresight and Scenario Planning
- What are the four building blocks of a company strategy
- How to align strategic goals with the operational model for maximum impact
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Exhibition Area
Book your 1-2-1 appointment with our speakers at the Career Advice Hub to get direct advice on your personal and professional development that’s specific to you and your challenges. When arriving for your slot, be sure to be prepared with your challenges that you are interested to discuss with the speaker, so that you can make the most of the time allocated.
Appointments are held for 10 minutes so please do arrive on time to make the most of your time. Latecomers will also be at risk of losing their slot to waitlist attendees.
Speakers for the Career Advice Hub are to be announced
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Get into Tech StageIn this session, Sue shares her personal journey of transitioning from a career in fashion to one in tech. Sue will discuss the challenges she faced, the skills she leveraged from the retail marketing industry, and the steps taken to break into the tech world. Topics covered include transferable skills, the importance of continuous learning, and the role of networking in career transitions. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming imposter syndrome, adapting to a new industry, and finding success in a non-traditional career path. The session offers practical advice for anyone considering a similar career pivot.
Key Takeaways:- Importance of growing and developing your network
- Developing transferable skills and owning your superpower/niche
- Why we need more diversity in tech
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WorkshopsSession details coming soon…Sponsored by
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DigitalStrategy Stage
This session will provide an insight into some of the shifts in mindset that can support a transition from early years’ data and analytics professional to data leader and shows how human skills become increasingly more important throughout this process. It highlights three key shifts that will set you up for success and how this can translate in reality into an executable Data & AI Strategy. The CDO of the Financial Times brings to life the context behind their newly launched strategy and its connection to the organisation's foundational human values of trust and integrity.
The Why:- This topic will help attendees develop an appreciation for the broader skill-set that is important for career progression whether within Data or Technology.
Key Takeaways:
- Tech & Data skills are necessary but insufficient for many larger roles
- Why we should never stop learning
- Why this is the discovery that just keeps giving…and now more importantly than ever before
This session is for...aspiring Data & Technology leaders or anyone who craves more human-oriented leadership
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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Exhibition AreaHave you ever seen a female team member come up with a brilliant idea only to see it go unnoticed, then someone else gets credit for the same idea minutes later? Or do women on your team have communication habits that get in the way of their success? These challenges are common but can be overcome.
Our Solution: Join us to hear from successful female leaders who have navigated and conquered these obstacles. Learn their key strategies for cutting through the noise and making their voices heard.
Key Takeaways:- Clear Communication: Learn the power of clear, concise communication.
- Confident Communication: Understand how confident delivery builds visibility and credibility.
- Courageous Communication: Learn how communicating courageously will help women find more opportunities to be heard, build connections, and increase their impact.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how the women in your organisation can become more powerful communicators and increase their impact.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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AI & Software Stage
Join this session as we explore the future of cybersecurity within the cloud, covering new and emerging technologies and how automation and containerisation is at the forefront of technology. We'll look at how can we plug the security gaps introduced by new and emerging technologies, how to chose your tech stacks carefully, considering security implications that are not always the most obvious.
Key Takeaways:
- Switching from on prem to hybrid cloud nature.
- Learn about cloud containerisation and vulnerability management.
- Approaching new technology with caution - containers can present a black hole of security risk.
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WorkForce StageJoin an interactive discussion reflecting on the similarities and differences in experiences between two generations of women in tech - drawing on the different perspectives that our individual generations have.
Key Takeaways:- Dissecting current and past experiences and observations
- How former generations of women in tech have impacted newer women in the industry, and what significant changes there have been
- Thoughts and views on being a woman in tech at our different career stages
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Get into Tech Stage
This session offers practical advice and actionable insights to help you thrive and advance in the competitive tech landscape in the early days of your career. Discover productivity strategies like self-led learning, setting achievable goals, and maintaining accountability to enhance your work efficiency and personal development. Build confidence by embracing discomfort for personal growth, shedding imposter syndrome, and seizing every opportunity. Learn essential tips for getting promoted, such as creating a brag document and showcasing your achievements publicly.
The Why: This session offers practical advice I received and insights from personal experience which I implemented during my first few years in the tech industry —advice that yielded significant benefits for my career. It's essentially a guidebook for career advancement that I wish I'd received when I was starting out.
Key Takeaways:
- Productivity strategies
- Getting promoted
- Building Confidence
This session is for... those who are in the early days of their tech career or are considering joining.
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DigitalStrategy Stage
Join Toni, Product Director at Ocado Technology, as she shares the journey of how a UK online grocery startup evolved into a global technology leader. In this session, discover how the grocery sector, often seen as traditional and slow-moving, has become a hotbed for AI and robotics. Toni will showcase the solutions developed by Ocado Technology and explore their transformative impact on both the customer experience and operational efficiency. Learn about the global development and deployment of complex software and hardware systems and how they are changing the way the world shops.
The Why:
- Explore a unique UK technology success story,
- Discover how Ocado successfully scaled innovation and deployed pioneering technology all over the world.
- Gain insights from a senior woman in technology product management, sharing her experience in leading complex product development and deployment.
Key Takeaways:
- Innovation is as much about people as it is about technology.
- Culture and environment is a critical enabler of innovation.
- Automation and AI not only boost efficiency but significantly enhance the shopping experience for grocery customers.
This session is for...
- You if you’re a product manager looking to understand real-world tech innovations.
- You if you work in software or hardware and want to learn about Ocado’s advancements in this space.
- You if you’re fascinated by the practical applications of AI and how it’s transforming an industry.
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WorkshopsJoin me for a session designed for engineering managers eager to level up their careers. We’ll explore the often-obscure transition from managing engineers to leading managers, drawing on my experienc ...Speakers
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Exhibition AreaSecuring approval for budget or strategic decisions from senior leaders requires understanding their mindset. Knowing what influences their decisions is crucial to increasing your team members’ chances of getting that all-important "Yes."
Our Solution: Learn from the best. Join us to discover insights from our research on how to successfully pitch ideas or requests to senior executives. This session will provide practical strategies based on real-world data.
Key Takeaways:- Understanding What Executives Are Thinking: Gain insights into the priorities and concerns of senior leaders to tailor presentations accordingly.
- Learning How Executives Process Information: Understand the executive decision-making process to present information in a way that resonates with them.
- Influencing Their Decision: Preparation techniques to effectively influence and persuade senior leaders, increasing the chances of approval.
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how we train teams to be more effective when presenting information or a request to senior decision makers.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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Networking BreakExhibition AreaCatch up with your colleagues and new connections during the Networking Break and share your key takeaways of the event so far! Take the time to visit the stands of our sponsors to find out more about them and how their organisation can help you in your career journey!
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SkillShift StageThis presentation aims to explore the power we can uncover through being our authentic selves. We balance many things in life whether personal or professional, never mind the pressure we feel internally or externally. Life is simply not easy at times. These challenges sometimes make it hard to clearly understand who we are, what is important and what we want to achieve and why. Through engaging anecdotes and probing questions attendees will discover and embrace their individuality, recognize the pressures that surround them and start to find their path. The session concludes with, you guessed it, a call to action!
The Why:
We are all unique as human beings, understanding and leveraging our uniqueness is a major key to understanding what’s most important to us today and into the future.
Key Takeaways:- Understanding what makes you uniquely you
- How does that help you be your authentic self
- Where are you on this journey and what will you do next to understand yourself more
This session is for... you if perhaps you feel somewhat lost, or you can’t clearly describe what is important to you. Or you might be clear but aren’t sure what to do with it.Sponsored bySponsored by:
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WorkForce StageCreating a culture of experimentation involves focusing on small, incremental changes that compound over time. Encouraging teams to adopt the habit of testing small ideas regularly, making it part of their daily routine. Fostering a mindset of continuous improvement by celebrating each experiment, regardless of outcome, as a learning opportunity. Building systems that make experimentation easy and frictionless, like streamlined tools and processes. Rewarding consistency over big results to reinforce the habit loop.
Over time, these small changes will lead to significant breakthroughs, ingraining a culture of innovation and curiosity.
The Why: When experimentation is embedded in the culture, teams feel empowered to explore new ideas, take calculated risks, and learn from failures without fear.
Key Takeaways:- Lower Barriers to Experimentation
- Focus on Small, Incremental Habits
- Celebrate Learning and Consistency
This session is for...
Product Manager, Data Professional or Experimentation practitioners -
Get into Tech Stage
Session details coming soon...
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WorkshopsLauren will empower tech leaders to create a workplace culture that supports women navigating menopause. As a leading expert in women’s wellbeing, Lauren will share actionable insights on why understanding menopause is crucial for retaining top talent and fostering diversity in tech. Attendees will learn practical strategies to support their teams, drive inclusivity, and enhance performance. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to ensure that menopause is no barrier to success in the fast-paced world of technology.
Key Takeaways:- Retain Top Talent: Learn how menopause support can help retain and empower experienced female leaders in your organization.
- Enhance Workplace Inclusivity: Discover practical strategies to create a more inclusive work environment that addresses the needs of menopausal employees.
- Boost Team Performance: Understand the link between menopause support and improved productivity, morale, and overall team performance.
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Workshops
In this session, we will explore the principles of DevSecOps and the importance of embedding security into every step of the development process. We will discuss practical strategies for shifting security left, ensuring vulnerabilities are addressed early, and fostering a culture where security is everyone's responsibility.
Key Takeaways:
- Understand DevSecOps and its importance.
- Learn to shift security left, addressing issues early.
- Foster a security-first team culture.
- Implement secure practices in agile/CI/CD workflows.
- Utilize tools for secure development.
- See real-world DevSecOps success stories.
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WorkshopsSession details coming soon...
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Exhibition Area
Book your 1-2-1 appointment with our speakers at the Career Advice Hub to get direct advice on your personal and professional development that’s specific to you and your challenges. When arriving for your slot, be sure to be prepared with your challenges that you are interested to discuss with the speaker, so that you can make the most of the time allocated.
Appointments are held for 10 minutes so please do arrive on time to make the most of your time. Latecomers will also be at risk of losing their slot to waitlist attendees.
Speakers for the Career Advice Hub are to be announced
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Exhibition AreaCommunicating complex technical solutions in the business world where many people are already suffering from information overload can be challenging. It is crucial that content experts become more audience-centric and visually minded when presenting. If your team members are looking for engagement and buy-in, they need visuals that ‘speak’ to their audience.
Our Solution: Become more strategic, streamlined, and visually oriented to increase engagement, comprehension and effective decision making.
Key Takeaways:- Creating visuals an audience understands
- Translating dense data into clear, memorable messaging
- Making complex information accessible through strong visuals
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how your teams can learn to produce clear, concise, content that is visually appealing and memorable.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
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DigitalStrategy StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
Sponsored by:
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WorkshopsSession details coming soon...
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WorkshopsAs a woman in cybersecurity, I understand firsthand the challenges we face in getting our voices heard. With women making up only 25% of speakers at tech conferences, it's clear that something is holding us back. This talk will focus on my personal journey from zero public speaking experience to delivering seven technical talks at international conferences in just one year. I'll share how I overcame fear, built confidence, elevated my voice, and embraced my unique perspective to share knowledge and inspire others.
In this session, we'll delve into the reasons behind women's underrepresentation at tech conferences. We'll discuss the unique challenges we face and the common feelings of self-doubt and lack of belonging that can hold us back.
Key Takeaways:
Overcome fear and self-doubt to find your voice in tech.
Learn practical tips for finding speaking opportunities, crafting CFPs and delivering impactful presentations.
Gain insights on balancing work, public speaking, and maintaining well-being as an introvert in the tech industry.
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WorkshopsJoin us for an empowering session designed to help you leverage your unique experiences to succeed in the tech industry. I'll share my journey from social sciences to becoming an award-winning senior engineer, overcoming the challenges of being an international student, immigrant, and minority in tech. This workshop will provide actionable insights, practical strategies, and inspiration for anyone looking to carve out a successful tech career, regardless of where they started.
The Why:
In a fast-paced tech world, diversity is not just an asset—it’s essential for innovation. This workshop is vital for anyone who feels that their background might limit their success in tech. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to transform potential barriers into strengths, creating a unique and impactful career path.
Key Takeaways:
Transforming Your Background into an Asset: Learn how to turn non-traditional backgrounds into unique strengths within the tech industry.
Navigating Challenges: Gain strategies to overcome obstacles faced by women, international professionals, and minorities in tech.
Career Growth in Tech: Discover actionable steps to upskill, grow, and thrive in senior technical roles.
This session Is for...
You if you’re transitioning into tech from a different field.
You if you’re an international professional, minority, or woman navigating the tech landscape.
You if you’re looking for actionable advice on advancing and excelling in a technical career. -
AI & Software StageContinuing innovation has led to rapid developments in how humans interact digitally (or the digital ‘self’) and this will be covered in several talks at the conference. However, the opposite - how the digital presents as ‘human’ - is also crucial for us to successfully exploit and govern new technologies. For example, how should self driving cars be held responsible to their victims? In particular, the way we understand and assign ‘personhood’ to individuals, entities, animals and machines is changing, and affects the way in which we assign moral and legal responsibility.
Key Takeaways:- How philosophy can influence the policies and procedures (including ethical considerations) governing the way in which AI is used across any technology focused organization
- A high level understanding of forthcoming AI regulation in the UK and EU.
- Potential limitations on the development and usefulness of AI technologies.
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AI & Software StageJoin Emma Duckworth, Head of AI & Data Science at Haleon, as she discusses the importance of responsible AI in generative AI era and how to develop a responsible AI framework to meet the growing risks from AI. Discover how the unprecedented adoption rate of GenAI can be an opportunity to drive real change in your organisation, and the steps to take to translate your company values into a principles based approach. She will showcase examples of how AI is being used responsibly to support health inclusivity across the globe.
Key Takeaways:- Why leading organisations need a Responsible AI framework (and who is involved)
- People are the biggest driver of Responsible AI success
- Principles lead Responsible AI can drive competitive advantage through meeting consumer needs
This session is for...
You if you are passionate or curious about Responsible AI but don’t know where to get started
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Authentic Intelligence: How Human Expertise and AI Can Co-create a More Ethical and Inclusive FutureDigitalStrategy Stage
In this session, Ingrid Verschuren, Executive Vice President of Data and AI and General Manager for EMEA at Dow Jones, will explore the concept of "Authentic Intelligence," unrivaled human expertise, supported by Artificial Intelligence. As AI increasingly influences decision-making across industries, maintaining the human element becomes critical to avoid biases and ensure inclusivity. Ingrid will share real-world examples of how Dow Jones leverages AI in conjunction with human expertise to deliver trusted insights, make ethical decisions, and drive meaningful, sustainable change. She will also discuss the importance of empowering women in tech to lead in this transformative era.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the importance of human oversight in AI-driven processes.
- How "Authentic Intelligence" can be applied to create more reliable, ethical, and inclusive AI systems.
- Insights into the ethical challenges of AI and how to address them.
This session is for...
Tech professionals interested in AI and data ethics. Leaders and managers focusing on digital transformation and innovation. Advocates of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Professionals in risk and compliance, data strategy, and analytics. Women in tech looking for inspiration and strategies for career development.
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SkillShift StageSession details coming soon…
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WorkForce StageSession details coming soon...
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AI & Software StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
Sponsored by:
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DigitalStrategy Stage
Drawing on a decade of experience in startup/scaleup world, Clare will talk about how important purpose and mission are in growth phases for tech companies. She'll give examples from what3words and Polarsteps, discussing how having a purpose at the heart of the business can be a differentiator in the growth phase, and how to help teams retain the sense of mission as the company grows.
Key Takeaways:
- Adapting communication and leadership styles as you scale and grow your workforce.
- How to help reinforce purpose, mission and belief.
- The importance of keeping mission and purpose alive as a company grow
This session is for...
you if you're interested in tech scaleups, you're growing your team, or you're in a purpose-driven business.
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Exhibition AreaSome of us take too long to get to the point. When presenting to senior decision makers, the last thing you want to do is ramble or clobber them with too much detail. Executives need clear, concise information quickly to make informed decisions.
Our Solution: Learn from our in-depth interviews with top executives to uncover the secrets of a successful presentation. Gain insights directly from those who make high-stakes decisions every day.
Key Takeaways:- Getting to the Point in 30 Seconds: Learn the art of delivering a key message succinctly and effectively.
- Increasing Your Chances of a “Yes”: Discover techniques that significantly boost approval rates from senior leaders.
- Enhancing Their Reputation: How your team can build a reputation for being clear, concise, and influential in their communications, earning trust and respect from their audience.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to learn how we train teams to become more effective at presenting information to or making a request of decision makers.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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Get into Tech Stage
In this session, we’ll explore the essential strategies needed to foster genuine diversity and inclusion within the tech world. Aimed at both companies and individuals, this talk provides actionable insights for organisations looking to retain diverse talent and individuals eager to break into tech.
We’ll address the common barriers faced by underrepresented groups and discuss how organisations can go beyond tokenism to create truly inclusive work environments. Attendees will walk away with practical steps to cultivate diversity and build a thriving, innovative tech workforce.
Key Takeaways:
- Proven strategies to create and maintain a genuinely inclusive culture intech.
- How to support career growth for diverse talent and ensure retention.
- Key steps for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to successfully break into tech.
This session is for...
- HR professionals, managers, and leaders in tech organisations who are responsible for fostering diversity and inclusion.
- Individuals from underrepresented backgrounds looking to enter or grow in the tech industry.
- Companies seeking to enhance their approach to diversity and inclusion and retain top talent.
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SkillShift StageSession details coming soon...
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WorkForce StageSession details coming soon...
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WorkForce StageSession details coming soon...
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SkillShift StageJoin us for a compelling fireside chat featuring Katherine Ainley, CEO UK & Ireland at Ericsson where she shares her journey in male-dominated industries, offering insights on achieving leadership success. We'll discuss how to restructure roles and workplace cultures to benefit everyone and explore how men in leadership can act as allies in promoting gender equality. This session is ideal for aspiring women leaders, male allies, and anyone interested in fostering inclusive workplaces. Gain practical strategies and inspiration to drive change and support diverse leadership.
Key Takeaways:- How to make it to the top as a woman in a male-dominated industry
- How to change the structure of roles and industries more attractive to not just women, but the benefit of men too
- Encouraging men in leadership positions to act as allies
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DigitalStrategy StageJoin this session to learn about the enablement of circular economy and digitalisation to create customer value in the logistics chain. We will explore opportunities to co-create in as a sustainable ecosystem of manufactures, logistics providers and retailers. Learn how digitalization of reusable assets can enhance sustainability and improve business deliverables.
Key Takeaways:- Evolution of circular economy via reusable assets
- Digitalization of logistics chains to enable sustainability objectives
- Customer value creation using logistics and digitalization insights
This session is for...Executives, technology leads, business leads, employees.
Speakers -
AI & Software Stage"Using Technology to Create Kinder Online Experiences" is an aspiration: to harness the power of technology not only as a tool for communication and economic advancements, but as an enabler for positi ...
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Exhibition AreaJoin us at the Networking Reception where you'll be joined by our speakers to quiz them further on their session and connect with your peers to share your key learnings from the event so far!
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Registration OpensJoin us nice and early from 7:30am to pick up your badge and participate in the Meet Up to create new connections! Don’t worry if you’re not able to attend until later in the day as registration will be open all day across the two days.
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Digital X Human Stage
Welcome back to day two of Women of Silicon Roundabout 2024! Join us for the welcome remarks to kick-start your day with inspiration and empowerment!
Our two-day agenda is filled with expert-led sessions designed to help you learn how to start putting in the building blocks toward the future and securing your position as a futurist leader in tech and strategy.
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Digital X Human Stage
This session will equip you with the knowledge to align your tech initiatives with strategic goals, ensuring that every product you build addresses real challenges effectively. By the end of the session, you’ll be adept at creating purpose-driven designs that are informed, intentional, and impactful.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the why behind your tech strategy
- Taking a solution-first approach, and building products around the problem you’re attempting to resolve
- How to design with intent based on fact and data
Reserved for Diamond Sponsor of Women of Silicon Roundabout
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Digital X Human Stage
In the fast-paced world of software development, automation isn’t just a luxury — it’s a lifeline. Every company strives to streamline their processes, investing in cutting-edge automation frameworks to stay ahead. In the race for efficiency, how do you ensure that your automation is not just effective, but bulletproof.
Key Takeaways:
- How software development and test automation fuel each other’s success
- Navigating the terrain of software test automation tools/frameworks
- Creating your path with an automation health dashboard
Reserved for Diamond Sponsor of Women of Silicon Roundabout
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Digital X Human Stage
Vulnerabilities in your tech infrastructure may be leaving you susceptible to outages which can have costly impacts on your bottom line. At a time when resources are becoming increasingly stretched, the last thing you want is your Engineers scrambling to get your customers and servers back online. Join this session to learn about how to embed resilience in your tech infrastructure and create a seamless Disaster Recovery Plan to ensure business continuity.
The Why: The release of a new software upgrade or a surge of users should be something to be celebrated and not hesitated or feared. Creating automated SRE frameworks will not only keep your organisation and customers online, but will also relieve your engineering teams.
Key Takeaways:
- Developing and testing resilient tech infrastructure
- How to utilise past data to effectively identify and minimize the opportunity for possible future incidents
- Creating pre-emptive response strategies and not reacting to unpredictable outages
Reserved for Diamond Sponsor of Women of Silicon Roundabout
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Networking BreakCatch up with your colleagues and new connections during the Networking Break and share your key takeaways of the event so far! Take the time to visit the stands of our sponsors to find out more about them and how their organisation can help you in your career journey!
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Many of us have developed poor communication and behavioural habits that undermine our authority and influence. Whether you're making a point in a meeting, pitching an idea, or responding to a question, you need to make sure you’re heard.
Our Solution: Learn how a few simple communication strategies can make a significant difference for you and your team.
Key Takeaways:- Breaking Poor Communication Habits: Identify and eliminate habits that weaken your message.
- Increasing Credibility: Learn techniques to enhance your authority and ensure your contributions are valued.
- Boosting Visibility and Impact: Gain strategies to be more visible and impactful in every interaction, ensuring your voice is heard loud and clear.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to learn more about how to enhance your team’s impact through more clear, concise, confident communication.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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SkillShift StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
Sponsored by:
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DigitalStrategy Stage
Explore strategies for managing technical debt while seamlessly integrating new technologies. This session emphasises the importance of regular health checks on your tech stack to identify risks and security lags. Learn how to balance mastering both old and new technologies, ensuring your team remains innovative without compromising stability. Gain insights into prioritising updates and maintaining a robust, secure infrastructure, all while advancing your technological capabilities. Join us to understand the art of sustaining a healthy tech ecosystem in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- How to manage technical debt while being able to implement new technology
- The importance of conducting regular health checks on your tech stack to identify risk and lag in security
- Balancing becoming a master of old and new technology
Speaker to be announced
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AI & Software StageImplementing AI effectively isn't about having the latest technology—it's about knowing which doors to unlock. Instead of creating an "AI strategy," businesses should focus on specific problems, primarily reducing costs or increasing revenue. In today's service economy, this often means saving time in people-intensive processes. Case studies like Octopus Energy show AI can simultaneously improve efficiency and quality. However, like the shift from handwriting to typing, AI requires fundamental changes in how we work. Success depends not just on implementation, but on fostering a learning culture where teams are willing to develop new skills and adapt their daily routines.
Key Takeaways:
Success with AI Starts with the Right Questions
- Don't build an "AI strategy" – instead, identify specific business problems to solve
- Focus on core business objectives: reducing costs and increasing revenue
- Break down time usage in your organization to find concrete opportunities for improvement
AI Implementation Delivers Dual Benefits
- Saves time while simultaneously improving quality of work
- Removes routine tasks, allowing people to focus on their unique strengths
- Creates space for more creative and engaging work
Cultural Transformation is Essential
- Similar to the typewriter revolution, AI requires fundamental changes in how we work
- Organizations need to build a learning culture that embraces change
- Success depends on people's willingness to develop new skills and adapt daily routines
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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Workshops
Join the Deloitte Digital team for a dynamic and engaging workshop to explore how together, the human force and digital world can create great. Through a hands-on human-centred design sprint, you'll experience firsthand the power of inclusive, human collaboration and digital innovation to tackle a complex, real-world challenge. Together, we’ll uncover how this powerful combination can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone.
Key Takeaways:- A fun, immersive experience using a human-centred design sprint methodology with a mix of Deloitte Digital Designers, Strategists and Engineers.
- An insight into how harnessing emerging technology can amplify collaboration and innovation for a brighter future.
This session is for... you if you're ready to explore how to combine your own creativity (hint - everyone has it!), with the power of digital innovation and collaboration.
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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WorkshopsSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
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Workshops
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, the role of product management is evolving at an unprecedented pace. This talk delves into the transformative power of AI in supporting product managers, not just as a tool for innovation but as a catalyst for redefining product development and management processes. We will explore practical examples of how AI can automate mundane tasks, freeing up product managers to focus on strategic planning and creative thinking. Additionally, we will discuss the methodologies and best practices for building AI-driven products, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations, user-centric design, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This session is designed to inspire current and aspiring product managers, offering them a roadmap to harness AI's potential to create impactful, innovative products that anticipate and exceed user expectations. Whether you are looking to incorporate AI into your product management practices or develop new AI-based solutions, this talk will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to lead the charge in the AI revolution in tech.
Key Takeaways:- How AI can transform product management through automation, innovation, and user-centric design.
- Learn best practices and ethical considerations for integrating AI into product development processes
- How to leverage AI for creating impactful, innovative products.
This session is for... professionals with an interest in the intersection of technology, product development, and artificial intelligence.
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WorkshopsAn Internet of Everything (IoE) has long been promised, but progress has been hindered by semiconductor cost, availability, and concerns around sustainability. With rapid production cycles of less than 48 hours, Pragmatic Semiconductor’s revolutionary flexible integrated circuit (FlexIC) technology delivers low-cost, low-carbon intelligence in an ultra-thin, flexible form factor – and the potential to finally unlock the benefits of the IoE.
In this workshop, participants will brainstorm future use cases of FlexICs, discuss challenges to implementation, and consider commercial and societal impact of this groundbreaking technology.
Key Takeaways:- Understand how advanced material semiconductors will enable item-level intelligence at scale
- Learn how their rapid development times will enable agile customisation, changing the innovation landscape
- Discover future applications for the connect, sense and compute capabilities of FlexICs
The Why:
Understand how sustainable, ubiquitous connectivity can unlock efficiencies and societal benefit at scale
This session is for....
You if you’re keen to explore new technologies, and how they can address global problems -
Workshops
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. Whether presenting to stakeholders, clients, or colleagues, it’s crucial that tech professionals convey complex ideas in a way that is clear, concise, and meaningful to audiences with varying levels of technical knowledge. Not doing so can lead to disengagement, misunderstandings, wasted time, and missed opportunities.
"Bridging the Communication Gap: Presenting to Mixed Tech & Non-Tech Audiences," offers practical strategies and techniques to help tech professionals communicate effectively across mixed audiences. You’ll learn an audience-centric approach that avoids information overload, increases comprehension and retention, and drives decisions and actions. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to practice your new skills.
Key Takeaways:- Understand the needs of different cohorts so you can tailor your message to resonate with each group effectively.
- Learn how to distil complex technical concepts into clear, concise language.
- Craft a concise message or “elevator pitch” using a simple framework.
This session is for... Technology experts who need to drive the smart adoption and implementation of AI and other new technologies.
Sponsored bySponsored By:
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Workshops
Are you one of the 42% of women who suffer from debilitating, life altering menopausal symptoms? In this lively, interactive workshop, we’ll break down myths, expose workplace gaslighting, and equip you with strategies to reclaim control.
Key Takeaways:
- Distinguish symptoms from workplace frustrations.
- Discover if your employer is truly supportive or just ticking boxes.
- Learn to reclaim reality in the face of gaslighting and get our lives back at this most powerful time in our careers.
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Exhibition Area
Book your 1-2-1 appointment with our speakers at the Career Advice Hub to get direct advice on your personal and professional development that’s specific to you and your challenges. When arriving for your slot, be sure to be prepared with your challenges that you are interested to discuss with the speaker, so that you can make the most of the time allocated.
Appointments are held for 10 minutes so please do arrive on time to make the most of your time. Latecomers will also be at risk of losing their slot to waitlist attendees.
Speakers for the Career Advice Hub are to be announced
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WorkshopsCarolyn will be exploring the ways in which you can utilise personal branding, taking instant action to show up authentically and with confidence in a male dominated industry. The session will deep di ...
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Exhibition AreaCommunicating change or cascading information through an organisation in a way that is inspiring, authentic, clear, and credible is a challenge for many leaders. Ensuring that key messages resonate and inspire trust is crucial for effective leadership.
Our Solution: In this session, we explore communication challenges leaders face and provide strategies for effectively conveying messages throughout the organisation.
Key Takeaways:- Mastering Essential Communication Skills: Learn the key skills necessary for clear, effective, and impactful communication as a leader.
- Connecting With Your Teams: Discover what communication approaches and messages will truly resonate with and motivate your teams.
- Inspiring Confidence and Support: Understand how to communicate in a way that builds trust and garners support.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to learn how to enhance your leadership communication, ensuring your messages are not only heard, but also, embraced and acted upon.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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DigitalStrategy Stage
Our planet is on fire—literally. Global heat records have been shattered 13 months in a row, and time is running out. But here’s the silver lining: renewable energy is cheaper than fossils in 80% of the world. The challenge? Even with all the wind turbines and solar panels in the world, they won’t save us unless we change how and when we use electricity. Nina will dive into the pivotal role consumers play in reshaping the future of energy. Expect a high-energy session packed with real-world tech solutions, calls to action, and a focus on how each of us can help accelerate the energy transition.
The Why: The global energy system is in the middle of a seismic shift. Fossil fuels are fading, and renewables are taking over. But the shift isn’t automatic—it requires smart technology and engaged consumers. If we don’t adapt, we risk losing out on the opportunity to reverse the climate crisis. This session will show you why understanding and leveraging this transition is essential, not just for the planet, but for innovation in tech as well.
Key Takeaways:
- Consumers as game-changers: How everyday people are critical players in reshaping the energy grid.
- Tech to the rescue: How software innovations are already making real-time energy shifts possible.
- You have power: How your skills can contribute to a future where sustainability is profitable, and change is real.
This session is for...
- You if you’re frustrated by climate despair and want to turn that anxiety into action.
- You if you’re tired of tech being used solely for optimization algorithms and want to see how it can drive real, tangible climate solutions.
- You if you’re ready to be energized and inspired by innovative tech that’s solving global problems, at scale.
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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WorkForce Stage
Join us for an insightful fireside chat on navigating the fast-evolving world of technology and how to identify impactful tech trends amidst the hype. In this session our speakers, will share practical tips on effectively communicating tech initiatives to leadership teams, avoiding the pitfalls of buzzwords and focusing on clear, value-driven discussions. This session is perfect for professionals looking to make informed tech decisions and align their organisation's strategy with meaningful technological advancements.
Key Takeaways:
- How to know what technology is going to truly make an impact while staying on top of the latest trends
- Knowing what you need to prioritise when looking to implement a new technology strategy
- How to communicate tech with your leadership team in a way that isn't led by the latest flash buzzwords
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AI & Software Stage
Dive into the innovative in-house platform at loveholidays which serves as the cornerstone for facilitating data-driven decision-making. This session highlights how they’ve revolutionised their approach to testing, reporting, and bias mitigation. Discover how they use Streamlit and Generative AI to transform complex data into actionable insights, enabling them to continuously enhance our services and drive business growth.
The Why: Experimentation is key in travel and retail to gain a competitive edge. Data and techniques alone aren’t enough—actionable insights are crucial. Tools integrating data experts with decision makers enable agility and help businesses seize opportunities and capture value.
Key Takeaways:
- Insights into building and utilising an in-house experimentation platform
- Building trust in results is crucial, so how do we get trust
- How to create streamlined, non-technical presentations of complex data
This session is for...- You if you’re someone who wants to better understand how a rapidly growing company doing experimentation and making data driven decisions.
- You if you’re interested in building or improving an experimentation culture in your organisation.
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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Get into Tech StageThis session will explore the typical barriers felt by mid-career women looking to break into the tech industry and share and practical steps and tips on how businesses can actively support them. It will discuss the Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce and its strategies for helping mid-career level women overcome these barriers through identifying transferable skills to help navigate career pivots into tech. The session will also highlight how organisations can evolve their recruitment, development, and inclusion strategies to encourage and foster diverse tech talent.
Key Takeaways:- Actionable steps women can take to successfully transition into tech.
- Practical ways businesses can support and retain diverse tech talent.
- Highlight the different upskilling and reskilling paths to digital roles for women.
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WorkshopsJoin us to hear about how a cross functional team harnessed the power of AI for digital project innovation. Facilitated by experts, and assisted by GenAI, we were able to arrive at our recommendations much quicker, saving 75% of the time!
Whether you’re a passionate AI enthusiast, have dabbled in AI occasionally, or are just interested in the subject, this session is for you.
Key Takeaways:- How AI is an enabler to humans, and not a replacement
- Dos and don’ts for using AI in projects
- Practical suggestions for using AI tools during the discovery process
- Our lessons learnt
This session is for... Product teams, innovation teams, project managers, AI enthusiasts (not necessarily experts) -
Some of us take too long to get to the point. When presenting to senior decision makers, the last thing you want to do is ramble or clobber them with too much detail. Executives need clear, concise information quickly to make informed decisions.
Our Solution: Learn from our in-depth interviews with top executives to uncover the secrets of a successful presentation. Gain insights directly from those who make high-stakes decisions every day.
Key Takeaways:- Getting to the Point in 30 Seconds: Learn the art of delivering a key message succinctly and effectively.
- Increasing the Chances of a “Yes”: Discover techniques that significantly boost approval rates from senior leaders.
- Enhancing Their Reputation: Learn how your teams can build a reputation for being clear, concise, and influential in their communications, earning trust and respect from their audience.
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to learn how we train teams to become more effective at presenting information to or making a request of decision makers.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
Sponsored bySponsored by
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Lunch BreakExhibition Area
Grab a bite to eat with your colleagues at the provided retail stations in the Networking Area and share your biggest takeaways of the event so far!
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SkillShift Stage
Session details coming soon...
Sponsored bySponsored by:
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SkillShift Stage
As technology evolves rapidly, workers will require upskilling and reskilling, possibly changing careers altogether. In the age of AI, few companies are adequately addressing this pressing issue and few are doing so through the guise of DE&I. In this session Anna Brailsford, CEO of Code First Girls, talks about building reskilling initiatives that champion fair and equitable opportunities for all employees.
Within 15 to 20 years it is predicted that new automation technologies will likely eliminate 14% of the world’s jobs and radically transform another 32%. Companies can no longer rely on the talent market to fill their skills gap. Studies have shown that the rise of automation will have a disproportionate impact on women and employees of colour, meaning reskilling and upskilling will be necessary to maintain equity and opportunity within company roles. Code First Girls works with over 130 organisations to build pipelines of diverse tech talent, and upskill existing employees with the digital skills they need to thrive. We'll use this session to share her learnings and teach you how to build a reskilling program with DE&I at its core.
Key Takeaways:
- Reskilling in the age of AI is a strategic and business imperative
- DE&I must be at the centre of all reskilling efforts to balance the disproportionate effect that AI will have on minority groups in the workplace
- It takes a village - government, corporates, and social impact organisations must work together to build frameworks for employees to easily reskill and upskill in digital
This session is for...
- You if you are a tech leader
- You if you are a tech employee
- You if you work within an HR function
- You if you are interested in the digital skills gap and the future of workforce transformation
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Workshops
As AI and automation reshape the way we work, keeping pace with these changes is critical. Whether you’re a business looking to strengthen your workforce or an individual aiming to advance your career, upskilling is the key to thriving in the AI-driven future. Join Emily Nguema, Client Success Expert at General Assembly, as she discusses how both companies and individuals can adapt to this new era with inclusive, strategic reskilling.
By 2025, it’s estimated that 85 million jobs may be displaced by AI and automation, while 97 million new roles are expected to emerge that are more adapted to the future of work. Companies must focus on reskilling from within, while individuals need to take charge of their own career development. In this session, Emily will share how General Assembly is empowering organisations and professionals alike to develop the digital skills necessary for success in a tech-driven world, while ensuring no one gets left behind.
Key Takeaways:
- Why reskilling and upskilling are essential for businesses and individuals in an AI-powered economy.
- How integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) into reskilling efforts ensures all talent—particularly underrepresented groups—can thrive.
- Actionable strategies for businesses and individuals to build tech-driven capabilities through collaboration with education providers, industry experts, and government initiatives.
This session is for...
- Tech professionals and career changers ready to embrace new digital skills
- Business leaders looking to future-proof their teams and stay competitive
- HR professionals aiming to design inclusive, high-impact reskilling programmes
- Anyone keen to understand the digital skills gap and future workforce needs
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Exhibition Area
Book your 1-2-1 appointment with our speakers at the Career Advice Hub to get direct advice on your personal and professional development that’s specific to you and your challenges. When arriving for your slot, be sure to be prepared with your challenges that you are interested to discuss with the speaker, so that you can make the most of the time allocated.
Appointments are held for 10 minutes so please do arrive on time to make the most of your time. Latecomers will also be at risk of losing their slot to waitlist attendees.
Speakers for the Career Advice Hub are to be announced
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Exhibition AreaCommunicating complex or highly technical information to a mixed audience of tech-savvy and non-tech individuals presents a challenge, requiring clarity and engagement across diverse knowledge levels and interest in the content. Get it wrong and misunderstandings can arise, leading to disengagement or miscommunication of crucial information.
Our Solution: Learn an effective model we teach for crafting and delivering a talk that is clear and meaningful to both tech and non-tech audiences. This approach helps your teams organise their talk and tailor their message so everyone in the audience stays engaged and comes away feeling they benefited.
Key Takeaways:- Understanding Your Audience: Gain insights into identifying the knowledge levels and interests of your audience to tailor your communication accordingly.
- Making Your Key Messages Clear: Learn strategies to distil complex technical information into clear, relatable messages without oversimplifying the content.
- Knowing How Much Information to Include: Understand the balance of providing sufficient detail to inform without overwhelming, knowing what crucial points to emphasise, and what can be left out.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how your teams can learn to be more effective at communicating business-critical technical information across your organisation, with clients, and with key stakeholders.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
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WorkshopsReturning to work after a break can be a challenging period for ambitious women working in tech, especially for new mums. Before you left you may have been at the peak of your career or hitting your stride but upon returning, everything (including you!) has changed.
The scope of your role might not be the same, your team might look different, and you have the added stress of juggling a new baby with work pressures, often while running on very little sleep! It shouldn’t feel like you’re paying a penalty at work to have a child, but it often does.
In this session we’ll explore the realities women face when returning to work after having a baby and provide practical advice on how to navigate the professional landscape and position yourself for success in this new phase of life. Whilst our focus is on returning to work after motherhood, this session will prove useful for anyone trying to transition back into their careers after a break. -
Get into Tech StageRetaining Software Developers is a significant challenge for teams. According to the Infragistics Reveal Survey, 37.5% of respondents expected difficulty in finding developers in 2023. To retain talent, it's essential to understand factors that lead to dissatisfaction. Key management antipatterns that demotivate engineers include alert overload causing burnout, unfair SLO comparisons across teams, unconstructive code reviews, tool overload, unreliable testing, constant work assignments without learning time, and limited support for attending conferences. Addressing these issues can help create a healthier work environment, fostering growth, satisfaction, and long-term retention of skilled engineers.
Key Takeaways:- Learning of the antipatterns in management that are commonly applied to software engineering teams.
- Techniques and tooling on how to mitigate many of these while building trust and strong cultures.
- Tips for balancing engineering best practices, product deliverables, innovation and the growth of development teams.
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SkillShift StageSession details coming soon...Sponsored by
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WorkForce Stage
Join us as we delve into the current trend of abandoning DEI initiatives, exploring the underlying reasons behind this shift. We'll discuss strategies for maintaining progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion even without a dedicated DEI team. This session will explore the evolution and potential to reshape the narrative around DEI to emphasise its ongoing importance and impact. This session is essential for anyone looking to sustain and evolve DEI efforts in their organisation, offering practical insights and innovative approaches to keep the momentum alive.
Key Takeaways:
- Exploring the why behind the trend of abandoning DEI initiatives.
- How to keep the DEI needle moving forward with no DEI team.
- Reshaping the narrative around DEI.
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DigitalStrategy StageJoin this session to learn about the evolution and current state of sustainability in technology. We'll explore the opportunities and challenges faced in this crucial field and provide insights on driving sustainable change within organisations and workforces through technology. Learn how cutting-edge innovations can enhance sustainability efforts and discover actionable strategies to integrate eco-friendly practices into your tech initiatives.
Key Takeaways:- Evolution, current state, opportunities, and challenges of sustainability in tech
- Insights to drive sustainable organisational and workforce change through technology
- How technology is building the capacity for resilience, improving society and evolving verticals
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Exhibition AreaCommunicating complex technical solutions in the business world where many people are already suffering from information overload can be challenging. It is crucial that content experts become more audience-centric and visually minded when presenting. If you’re looking for engagement and buy-in, you need visuals that ‘speak’ to your audience.
Our Solution: Become more strategic, streamlined, and visually oriented to increase engagement, comprehension, and effective decision making.
Key Takeaways:- Creating visuals your audience understands
- Translating dense data into clear memorable messaging
- Making complex information accessible through strong visuals
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to produce clear, concise content that is visually appealing and memorable.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
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WorkForce StageSession details coming soon...
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AI & Software Stage
In this session, I will drive from my experience in delving AI products in Mastercard, a comprehensive exploration of essential aspects in deploying artificial intelligence within large-scale organizations. This will cover strategic planning aligned with business objectives, data governance, and model development. I will also address the challenges of scalability, integration, and ethical considerations in enterprise AI projects. By delving into case studies, success stories, and future trends, participants gain valuable insights into real-world implementations, best practices, and emerging technologies. The session concludes with fostering a holistic understanding of the strategic, technical, and ethical dimensions crucial for establishing an AI-ready ecosystem within enterprises.
Key Takeaways:- Learning about enterprise-ready ML models: process, tools, and artefacts.
- Best tips and practice for data governance in AI models.
- How to build with scalability and system integration in mind.
This session is for... ML and AI Engineers, Leaders in large scale organisations
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Get into Tech Stage
In this session, discover essential strategies for advancing your tech career through networking and visibility enhancement. Learn how to build meaningful connections, communicate your value, and increase your influence within the industry. Gain practical advice on positioning yourself for new opportunities and standing out in your field. Whether you're in a technical or non-technical role, these insights will empower you to elevate your career and achieve your professional goals.
The Why: In the fast-paced tech industry, staying competitive requires more than technical skills. Understanding how to advance your career strategically is crucial for long-term success and personal fulfilment.
Key Takeaways:
- Networking Strategies: Techniques to build and nurture a powerful professional network.
- Visibility Enhancement: Methods to increase your professional influence and presence.
- Value Communication: Skills to effectively showcase your expertise and contributions.
This session is for... tech professionals looking to advance their careers, enhance their industry presence, and build robust networks, regardless of their current level or role.
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Workshops
True sustainable change is driven from within—by empowered teams fostering self-driven continuous improvement. Participants will explore the nine 'Principles of Product Thinking' and the 'Lean Capability Canvas' in this hands-on, practical workshop. Designed for leaders and product teams, this workshop equips participants with the mindset, practices, and tools they need to build strong product thinking capabilities and move from a project operating model to a product operating model. Through collaborative activities, teams will learn how to optimise their processes, better serve customers, and drive meaningful, scalable change across their organisation. Whether you're a leader or a team member, this workshop will give you actionable frameworks to drive continuous improvement and build high-performing teams.
Key Takeaways:
- Build a strong product thinking mindset
- Understand the nine Principles of Product Thinking
- Introduction to the Lean Capability Canvas
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WorkshopsTogether we’ll discuss the differences, and similarities, between Software and Data Engineering. We’ll look in depth at: How the fundamentals of Software Engineering can support Data Engineering to ac ...
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Exhibition AreaInnovative ideas often go nowhere because they are too complex for the audience to grasp, or because the speakers don’t make the business case for adopting them. Targeted stories can break through these barriers by illustrating a concept, driving home a key message, and inspiring support or action.
Our Solution: Learn how to use stories to make a technical talk come alive, and make key messages more relatable, memorable, and persuasive.
Key Takeaways:- Knowing When to Tell a Story: Top tips for knowing when a story would be appropriate and likely to engage and persuade.
- Choosing the Right Story: Insights into selecting stories that resonate with an audience, making complex concepts relatable and memorable.
- Using Our Simple, 4-Step Model to Tell Stories: Walk away with an effective framework for crafting and delivering compelling stories within a technical presentations and talks.
Resources - https://www.powerspeaking.com/event-resources
This session is for... you if you are a senior manager, director, or senior executive, attend this talk to understand how your teams can learn to use stories in a business setting to make their presentations clear, engaging, memorable, and high-impact.
Please note that attendance to this session is limited, must be pre-booked and will be offered on a first-come-first-served basis.
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SkillShift StageA report issued last November revealed it’s not just female founders who struggle to get their fair share of funding – this also happens to female VCs. The report indicates that “diversity washing” ap ...
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