2023 Agenda

Check out the inspiring keynotes, workshops and seminar sessions being delivered by the leading minds in tech this November.

HomeAgenda

8:50am
Keynote

Chairperson Opening

10 mins
  • Track - Keynote

Welcome to Women of Silicon Roundabout. 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.

9:30am
Keynote

Considering The ‘H’ In Human Centred Design: Being Human In A Tele-Everything World

30 mins
  • Track - Keynote
  • AI/ML
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership

Technology has entered a new frontier, and in this ‘tele-everything’ world, our societies, and the lives of unique individuals are changing fast. The opportunities and potential are incredibly exciting, yet there are challenges and critical questions about how people access and interact in a world that is increasingly digital.

This session will explore two important questions. As humanity enters this New Frontier, are we remembering who we are, and can everyone access the technology that is taking us there?

Everyone who is curious about the intersection of humanity and technology in an era of AI has something to gain from this keynote speech. Attendees will be challenged to examine their definition of what ‘being human’ means, and take away the encouragement to think deeply, and be motivated to:

  • Understand more about why living in a ‘tele-everything’ world poses important questions about accessibility and inclusion
  • Discover why accessible technology is crucial
  • Consider what it means to be human-centred and how to design for all
  • Develop a deeper understanding of how people’s relationships with technology is evolving
  • Explore how popular culture has influenced questions of Human Centred Design and Inclusion
10:00am
Keynote

Technology At The Forefront Of The Energy Transition

30 mins
  • Track - Keynote
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • ESG & Sustainability
  • Leigh-Ann Russell

    EVP Innovation & Engineering

    bp

The world’s carbon budget is finite and running out, requiring action on a magnitude and urgency far greater than ever before. The world needs new, innovative tech like never before – offering smart solutions for secure, affordable, sustainable energy, to help the world get to net zero.

Session Key Takeaways:
Leigh-Ann explores the opportunities technology could deliver to help reduce carbon emissions, including:

  • Digital solutions to help the industry safely transform at pace and scale to meet its net zero ambitions
  • Accelerating agility and responsiveness to tackle new challenges and solve problems
  • Using technology to enhance our operations and delight our customers
  • To reimagine energy for people and the planet

This session is for you if…you are helping provide the energy the world needs today, while helping to build increasingly sustainable energy solutions for the future.

10:30am
Keynote

Keynote Delivered by Deloitte Digital

30 mins
  • Track - Keynote
  • Lisa Smith

    Consulting Partner

    Deloitte Digital

More details coming soon...

11:00am
Networking

Networking Break

30 mins
  • Track - Networking

Grab a coffee and connect with attendees, share your thoughts on the first sessions of the day!

11:30am
Workshop

How AI & ChatGPT Is Accelerating Front-End Development

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • AI/ML
  • Premium Only
  • Software & Development
  • Technical
  • Teresa Wu

    VP of Software Engineering

    J.P Morgan

Front-end development is always about creating engaging visualised UI that users integrate with. But is a front-end engineer’s career in danger due to the rise of AI and the powerful tool of ChatGPT? Explore what ChatGPT can do and what it can not do for front-end development.

In this workshop you’ll demo the process of making a front-end application using ChatGPT, experiencing how it assists developers in creating code in a more efficient way, and how we can code smarter using AI tools. You’ll question the concerns and drawbacks and explore how front-end engineering should evolve to adapt to new tools and accelerate our day-to-day life.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Demo the process to create a front-end project using ChatGPT
  • Understand how AI can accelerate the project development and release process
  • What are the key areas that AI cannot provide nowadays, and what should developers adapt to use the AI tool in the most effective way

This session is for you if…

  • You are a Front-end Engineer
  • You are a Project Manager
  • You are a Student who is learning AI
  • You are a Software Engineer
11:30am
Workshop

Unlock The Secrets To High-Performing Teams

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • HR/DEI
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Michelle Howchin

    Senior Director George Technology

    ASDA

Elevate your team’s performance and dive into the three game-changing elements that have propelled the highest-rated colleague team in Asda Technology to unparalleled heights of success. Gain actionable insights that will empower your team to excel in the competitive world of technology.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Master strategies for building high-performing teams amidst complex transformations
  • Boost effective collaboration between business and tech partners
  • Drive enhanced results and efficiency through improved team dynamics
11:30am
Workshop

Disrupting With Data

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Data & Analytics
  • Premium Only
  • Workforce
  • Mairead Masterson

    VP of Analytics & Business Intelligence

    Bloom & Wild

In this session, we will discuss how Bloom & Wild have leveraged data to create significant commercial impact. We will delve into how B&W have effectively harnessed data to make informed decisions that benefit their customers. Throughout this session, we will provide practical insights drawn from the valuable lessons acquired from the initial stages all the way to successfully scaling this function.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding where to begin
  • Balancing startup resource to drive impact
  • Navigating an organisational structure to effect change
  • Scaling capabilities
  • Devising successful hiring strategies to build a great team
  • Understanding and measuring success

This session is for you if…you are keen on shaping business strategy using data, encompassing commercial, marketing, and overall business leaders, alongside analysts embarking on their career journey.

11:30am
Workshop

How to Project Confidence Even When You don’t Feel It

660 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • HR/DEI
  • Leadership
  • Emma Wicks

    Head of Editorial and Product Insight & Analytics

    Telegraph Media Group

There’s a big misconception that confidence is a thing you feel, but in reality, confidence is how you act. What counts is if other people THINK you’re confident.

This session will explore how we all often lack feelings of confidence and how to project confidence anyway. Emma Wicks and Tanya Goldhaber, two senior women who have braved every imaginable stressful professional situation and keep being told they’re really confident will cover the difference between perception and reality, how they’ve learned to project gravitas even when they’re dying inside, and how that’s really worked for them professionally. In smaller groups, we’ll share experiences, support each other with individual challenges, discuss techniques we’ve tried and learn how to speak up in a range of situations.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to can act confident even if you don’t feel it
  • How to ensure you speak up through preparing in advance
  • How to manage your feelings, if you don’t feel confident and are jealous of people who do, those people probably don’t feel confident either

This session is for you if…you let a lack of confidence stop you in speaking up or going for opportunities.

11:35am
Presentation

It’s Getting Hot In Here: How Code Effects Our Planet

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • Digital Transformation
  • ESG & Sustainability
  • Software & Development
  • Sarah Wilson-Carr

    Senior Developer

    Sky

How can developers help lower the carbon emissions of the world? With the average person in the UK spending over 6 hours on the internet each day, imagine the amount of data that is being transferred across the world at any moment in time.

This all comes at a cost, in this talk I will look at the carbon cost of that data and the effects on our planet and how we can improve that by making some small and big changes to the way we code and the way we architect digital solutions.

As a senior software developer at Sky I have had a lot of experience when it comes to building software and how the small changes can have the biggest effects. I’ve influenced my team to think differently about how we code and am having a positive impact on the carbon usage of our websites.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Analyse how the tech world is effecting our planet
  • Explore the changes we can make to improve our carbon emissions. How to take instant action with helping our planet
  • Discover best practices for green software development

This session is for you if…you are technical and non-technical and interested in enhancing your knowledge of green software development.

11:35am
Presentation

How Your Data Fuels the Open Internet and Why it Matters

30 mins
  • Track - InfoTech
  • AI/ML
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Ilona Lubojesmska

    GM Client Services

    The Trade Desk

Imagine a world, or even a day without the internet. We know we need the internet, but do we really know how it works? A cookieless future, streaming wars and concerns around data, privacy, and freedom of speech are changing the internet as we know it. As daily users of the web, what do we need to know about how the internet works and what the future holds?

This session will explore how data and digital advertising fuel the internet, as we hear from a panel of inspirational women who are helping to shape the future of the open web. Join The Trade Desk’s Ilona Lubojemska as she moderates a discussion about the links between data, advertising, and the internet while reflecting on the path to ensuring a better and more transparent internet for all.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the Internet’s Backbone: Gain a deep understanding of how data and digital advertising serve as the lifeblood of the internet, enabling the vast array of services we use daily.
  • Future of the Web: Dive into the implications of a cookieless future, the rise of streaming wars, and how concerns over data privacy and freedom of speech are reshaping the digital landscape.
  • The Role of Transparency: Learn about the importance of transparency in digital advertising and the ongoing efforts to create a more open and user-centric web, ensuring that it remains a force for good in society.
11:35am
Presentation

Why An ESG Strategy Can Be A Key Differentiator

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • ESG & Sustainability
  • Dax Grant

    Head of Infrastructure and Operations

    CFC Underwriting

Have you noticed how the buzz around ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) has been skyrocketing? That’s not just fluff. Join this session to discover how sprinkling some ESG magic onto your strategy can be your golden ticket to standing out in today’s crowded market.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Green is the New Gold: Unpack the environmental facet of ESG and see why sustainable practices can be your brand’s new bling
  • People Power: Delve into the ‘S’ of ESG. Let’s talk human rights, employee relations, and why doing good is darn good for business
  • Governing with Grit: Governance isn’t just a fancy boardroom term. Find out how transparent leadership can skyrocket trust and brand loyalty
  • Profit with Purpose: Discover real-world examples of companies acing the ESG game and watch their revenues rock’n’roll
  • Building an ESG Blueprint: No fluff, no jargon. Just simple steps to kickstart your ESG journey and jazz up your brand value 
11:35am
Panel Discussion

Simplification & Innovation: How IT leaders Are Achieving Both In A Complex World

60 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • AI/ML
  • Digital Transformation
  • Workforce
  • Claire Hickie

    Chief Technology Officer

    Workday

  • Amanda Murphy

    Head of IT

    AstraZeneca

In an ever-changing, complex business landscape, IT leaders have a unique opportunity to enable positive organisational change. However, the pressure to optimise costs, manage multiple applications, and capitalise on a rapidly changing AI environment fuels complexity. Join Workday and experts from AstraZeneca and Sky to hear how IT leaders are taking steps to simplify, while still releasing innovation.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Optimising Amidst Complexity: Learn strategies IT leaders employ to manage costs and streamline multiple applications without compromising on performance in a dynamic business environment
  • Harnessing AI’s Potential: Delve into how top industry players are adapting to and capitalising on the evolving AI landscape, ensuring their organisations stay at the forefront of innovation
  • Balancing Simplification with Progress: Discover the art of marrying simplification with forward-thinking innovations, ensuring both operational efficiency and cutting-edge advancements coexist in the IT realm
11:35am
Presentation

AI Everywhere

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • AI/ML
  • Product
  • Kara Radcliffe

    Director - Cloud Technologies

    PwC

The promise of artificial intelligence moves beyond buzzwords and firmly into organisational realities. From intuitive no-code platforms to reshaping the entire retail experience, AI is not just changing the way businesses operate but also how consumers interact with them. Dive deep into the tangible impacts of AI, understanding its profound influence and the opportunities it presents across sectors.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Democratising AI with No-Code: Dive into how no-code AI platforms empower businesses to craft smarter products and services. Example? Stitch Fix and its AI-curated fashion recommendations
  • Redefining Retail through AI: Explore the trends in contactless shopping and autonomous delivery, and how AI is simplifying payment processes and reshaping consumer experience
  • AI: The Silent Workforce Augmentor: Discover AI’s seamless integration into various job roles, enhancing operational efficiency across sectors
12:10pm
Presentation

Data in The Cloud: The Changing Microsoft Technology Landscape

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Cloud
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Dawn Kelso

    Data & Analytics Director

    KPMG

The rise of cloud computing has revolutionized the way that businesses collect, store, and analyse data. In this session, we’ll explore the changing Microsoft technology landscape for data in the cloud, with a focus on shifting from traditional data warehousing to data lakehousing.

Discover insight into the latest trends and best practices for data management in the cloud, including the technologies and approaches that are driving innovation. We’ll examine the benefits of data lakehousing over traditional data warehousing, including the ability to store and analyse large volumes of data with greater agility and flexibility.

You’ll learn about the iterative delivery approaches that are key to success in the cloud, as well as the data governance solutions that are essential for maintaining the security and integrity of your data. You’ll gain insights into the key technology changes that are driving the shift towards data lakehousing, including advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • An understanding of the latest trends and best practices for data management in the cloud
  • Insights into the benefits of data lakehousing over traditional data warehousing
  • Knowledge of the iterative delivery approaches that are essential for success in the cloud
  • An understanding of the data governance solutions that are essential for maintaining the security and integrity of your data
  • An overview of the key technology changes driving the shift towards data lakehousing

This session is for you if…you are interested in leveraging Microsoft technology to manage data in the cloud, including business leaders, data scientists, and IT professionals.

12:10pm
Presentation

Cyber Security: Preparing For The Threat Now And In The Future

30 mins
  • Track - Future Impact
  • AI/ML
  • Cybersecurity
  • Non-Technical
  • Felicity Oswald

    Chief Operating Officer

    National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)

Cyber security is a growing issue in all organisations, large and small, public and private sector. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is the UK’s Technical Authority for cyber security. In this session Felicity Oswald, the Chief Operating Officer of the NCSC, will take us through the NCSC’s view of the cyber security challenges of 2023 and beyond and how UK organisations can build resilience to cyber threats of the future.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • The biggest cyber threats of today
  • How threats will evolve
  • How diversity in the cyber profession is critical for the future

This session is for you if…you want to learn more about cyber security and why it is relevant to you, or you are a cyber security professional keen to hear from one of the Government’s key cyber agencies.

12:45pm
Presentation

Human Connection In An Increasingly AI World

30 mins
  • Track - Future Impact
  • AI/ML
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Anne Carrigy

    Chief Information Officer

    Logitech

With AI taking center stage in our lives, what will the future of how we interact with the digital world look like. What role does human connection play and how is this connection facilitated? Join Anne Carrigy, CIO of Logitech and Art O’Gnimh, GM at Logitech to hear their thoughts on human connection in an AI world.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • AI’s Pervasive Presence: Understand the accelerating role of AI in shaping our digital interactions
  • Balancing Tech and Touch: Insights into preserving genuine human interactions amidst rising AI interfaces
  • Future Interaction Landscapes: Predictions and projections of how AI and human relationships will co-evolve in the coming years
  • Best Practices from Industry Leaders: Glean insights from Logitech’s strategies in fostering human connection in their AI-driven products and services
12:45pm
Presentation

How To Use Retention Metrics To Drive Your Growth Machine

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Sakshi Anand

    VP of Growth

    Trainline

Retention is important for a business, everyone knows that, but how to tie retention to other parts of the business to get the growth flywheel turning?

Irrespective of the business you are in (B2B/B2C etc.) Retention is a key metric that drives Growth. This session will cover how you connect the Retention Metrics to other parts of the Growth Flywheel – Acquisition and Monetisation, plus some quick tips and tricks around it.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • What are the retention metrics you should measure
  • How to connect them to Acquisition Engine
  • How to use Monetisation to drive Retention and vice-versa

This session is for you if…you work in Product, Marketing, Finance or Analytics, or you are running a company trying to get PMF.

12:45pm
Presentation

Triad of Resilience: Cyber, Operational & Personal: A Holistic Approach

30 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Sarah Self

    Chief Information Security Officer

    Aviva UK

Resilience is more than bounce-back ability, during this session we will look at what resilience is, how it is relevant to everything we do & how to build resilience so you can anticipate, prevent, adapt, respond to, recover, and learn from incidents and disruption.

In an era where disruptions are frequent and technology is at the heart of operations, resilience becomes paramount. Join Sarah as she navigates the intertwined realms of cyber, operational, and personal resilience, drawing from experience at the helm of tech leadership. Attendees will be taken on a transformative journey that goes beyond just the bits and bytes, delving into the heart of sustainable tech and human-centric resilience strategies

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Cyber Resilience: Understand the latest strategies to protect and recover digital assets, ensuring the continuity of business operations even in the face of sophisticated cyber threats.
  • Operational Resilience: Dive into robust frameworks that empower organisations to anticipate, prevent, adapt, respond to, recover, and learn from operational disruptions.
  • Personal Resilience: In a sector notorious for burnouts and rapid changes, explore tactics and mindfulness practices that fortify mental well-being, fostering a resilient mindset in tech professionals.
  • Managing the Triad: Learn how to weave together cyber, operational, and personal resilience, creating a comprehensive toolkit that not only safeguards the business but also nurtures its most important asset – its people.
1:15pm
Networking

Lunch Break

60 mins
  • Track - Networking

Grab a bite to eat and connect with attendees on the day so far!

1:20pm
Presentation

Reducing Your Cybersecurity Headache Without Blowing Your Budget

30 mins
  • Track - InfoTech
  • Cybersecurity
  • Leadership
  • Workforce
  • Michelle Tolmay

    Head of Infosec & Tech Services

    Kaluza

In times of economic crisis and the need to improve security as more and more companies face bigger breaches and bigger fines businesses need to focus on getting the most out of our existing assets. Our staff are our most important resource.

In this session we’ll look at how to empower all of our staff to achieve business security goals.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • A deeper understanding of how team alignment can change the productivity of your security team
  • How to empower all of our staff to become security advocates
  • Understanding the importance of cyber and how/why it impacts everyone within tech organisations and not just the security team

This session is for you if…

  • You lead or work in a cybersecurity team
  • You lead or work in teams that need to keep security in mind
2:15pm
Workshop

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Career Transformation

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • Leadership
  • Premium Only

For many, feeling like an outsider isn’t an illusion. Do you find yourself consistently experiencing self-doubt, even in areas you typically excel or dealing with constant change? In this workshop we will introduce you to identify the signs to recognise Imposter syndrome, key techniques to overcome and why it is important to conquer this to drive your career aspirations. This will also help to make positive impact in dealing with constant change.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to indentify Imposter syndrome
  • Discover techniques to deal with Imposter syndrome
  • How to conquer it and transform your career

This session is for you if…you would like an insight about yourself and want to also thrive in your career.

2:15pm
Presentation

How To Stay Relevant In The New Frontier Of Technology

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • Career Development
  • Leadership
  • Workforce
  • Sarah Robinson

    Engineering Director

    Intel

Discover the new frontier of technology and its impact on business problem-solving. As the tech industry experiences unprecedented growth alongside increasing layoffs, it’s crucial to navigate your career strategically and stay ahead of the curve. Learn how to thrive in this dynamic landscape, harness the power of cutting-edge technologies, and become the linchpin of your organisation, adept at tackling complex business challenges.

Join us as we delve into the exhilarating new frontier of technology, exploring the steps needed to maintain career relevance and growth. Master the techniques and tools necessary to propel your career to new heights, and emerge as a true trailblazer in your field.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to keep up and running to stay relevant
  • What you know now will not be what you need in the future
  • Build on the 50% and learn the rest
2:15pm
Workshop

How To Create A Culture Of Belonging In The Workplace

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • HR/DEI
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Penny Cuthbert

    EMEA Head of Delivery

    Cprime

Creating a sense of belonging in the workplace is crucial for retaining diverse talent. Research shows that it can reduce attrition by up to 50%. As technology teams continue to grow and evolve, it’s more important than ever to foster an inclusive culture that values each team member’s unique perspectives and contributions.

This session will explore how technology and new approaches can increase the impact of cultural changes to create a sense of belonging. You’ll discover what it takes to attract and retain diverse talent, even as teams spread out geographically and the pace of change for tech skills accelerates.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • What can create belonging?
  • Key factors that contribute to a sense of belonging in the workplace, including how new technologies can help
  • Gain insights into practical changes you can make in your organisation to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion

This session is for you if…you lead technology teams, are responsible for D&I or ESG strategy, are facing regretted attrition in key roles and teams, or are starting a career in technology and want to be an agent of change in your organisational culture.

2:15pm
Workshop

Revolutionising The Power Of Technology For Finance With GenAI

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Advanced Technology
  • AI/ML
  • Data & Analytics
  • Premium Only
  • Keiko Kimura

    Software Engineering Team Director

    BlackRock

AI is changing the way we live and work! This session will help you prepare to address opportunities and risks given the rapid advancements in generative AI over the past year.

Keiko will walk through a practitioner view of how to integrate GenAI into an enterprise platform – hitting on the governance, technical and strategic.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Learn GenAI adoption
  • Learn potential impacts of GenAI for the financial industry
  • Learn how diverse skill sets contribute to the GenAI adoption

This session is for you if…you want to learn about practical ways to integrate GenAI into your tech platform.

 

2:15pm
Workshop

Inclusive Technical Design

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Data & Analytics
  • HR/DEI
  • Premium Only
  • Product
  • Sarah Persov

    Engineering Team Lead

    Dojo

Dive deep into the world of Inclusive Technical Design in this transformative workshop. As the tech landscape evolves, it’s paramount that our designs and practices embrace and reflect the diverse tapestry of experiences and identities. This session will guide you through actionable strategies to weave inclusivity into every layer of your technical projects and team dynamics.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Foundational Understanding: Grasp the nuances of how diverse experiences and identities shape technical design
  • Practical Strategies: Acquire hands-on techniques to embed inclusivity within your design processes
  • Elevated Team Practices: Learn actionable insights to foster a culture of inclusivity within your team dynamics
  • Real-world Applications: Case studies highlighting successful inclusive technical designs and their impactful outcomes
2:15pm
Presentation

Mastering Middle Management: Strategic Skills For Success

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • Career Development
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Danielle Battleson-Porterfield

    Executive Director – CX Lead - Banking

    Chase

  • Arpita Bhayani

    Executive Director - Director of Software Engineering

    Chase

  • Mel Good

    Executive Director - Sr Director of Software Engineering

    Chase

More details coming soon...

2:15pm
Workshop

Workshop Delivered by Roku

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Premium Only
  • Helen Stokes

    Senior QA Engineer

    Roku

More details coming soon...

2:15pm
Workshop

How To Pitch An Idea And Get A ‘Yes’

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Isabel Walker

    Master Facilitator and Coach

    Inc. PowerSpeaking

Too many brilliant ideas fail because decision-makers just don’t ‘get it’. Why? Because the presenter didn’t share the key information in the first 60 seconds. This masterclass changes all that.

This masterclass is a game-changer! Too often brilliant technical and scientific minds fail to get their ideas past the decision-makers in their organisation because business leaders don’t understand the benefit. In this session, you will discover the secrets of speaking to the top of any organisation. You will walk away with a model that ensures the business listens when you talk tech.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the mindset of business leaders
  • Know the 4 key elements to include in the first minute of your talk
  • Learn a proven model that ensures the business listens

This session is for you if…you are a  Mid-to-Senior manager seeking approval or funding from decision-makers.

2:15pm
Workshop

Shifting Accessibility To The Left

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • HR/DEI
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Laveena Ramchandani

    Quality Engineering Manager

    EasyJet

How often have you heard that ‘Yes this is important, but we don’t have the capacity right now’ or ‘ sure let’s put it in the backlog’?
This is something we should not brush off or take lightly. Accessibility testing is vital especially when your product is a user facing application.

We need to be socially aware as a team and build quality towards our product with making it more accessible.

At least 1 in 5 people in the UK have a long term illness, impairment or disability. Many more have a temporary disability. A recent study found that 4 in 10 local council homepages failed basic tests for accessibility.

This is quite vital and the sooner we as testers can advocate this into our teams, we make our product more accessible, reduce the risk of bad product reviews, reputation and also be more socially aware. Let’s shift left and make accessibility testing built-in our teams.

The Why:

  • Understand why accessibility testing is important
  • How I adapted accessibility mindset
  • How to coach team and bring accessibility into your teams
  • Demonstrate various tools available to perform accessibility testing (with demo)

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand why accessibility testing is important
  • How I adapted accessibility mindset
  • How to coach team and bring accessibility into your teams
  • Demonstrate various tools available to perform accessibility testing (with demo)

This is for you if...you are new to accessibility and want to introduce this into your workplace/team. The session is open to all to learn and take away great knowledge.

2:15pm
Workshop

Building A Fulfilling, High Performance Career

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • Premium Only
  • Workforce
  • Chai Shetty

    Director of Operations

    Deliveroo

This session is for anyone who wants to achieve the best of both worlds: to build an impactful career and to take a meaningful journey towards that goal. It doesn’t have to be one or the other. Let’s bust some myths and learn the science & psychology of how to set yourself up for success, regardless of career stage or company.

Many of us work in male-dominated environments, where there aren’t enough role models who look like us or can show us how to be authentic, fulfilled AND successful. This session is for anyone who wants to achieve the best of both worlds: to build an impactful career and to take a meaningful journey towards that goal. It doesn’t have to be one or the other. Let’s bust some myths and learn the science & psychology of how to set yourself up for success, regardless of career stage or company.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Why Meaning Matters: What the data tells us
  • The Science & Psychology that links Fulfilment and Performance
  • What actions I can take to supercharge my career

This session is for you if…you are an ambitious or passionate person who wants to have an impact on your company or community and have been feeling a little stuck or uninspired.

2:20pm
Panel Discussion

Panel: Engineering Journeys – From Engineer to Tech Director

60 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Career Development
  • HR/DEI
  • Non-Technical
  • Tanja Lichtensteiger

    Head of Software Engineering

    BBC

  • Danielle Troy

    Test Manager

    BBC

  • Becky Travis

    Software Engineering Team Lead

    BBC

  • Tanu Sahnan

    Software Engineering Manager

    BBC

This candid conversation is aimed to kindle inspiration and empower you, offering guidance for navigating your own path to technology leadership. 

Join us for enlightening fireside chats with engineering leaders from the BBC, as they share their career trajectories and gain valuable insight from their experience and learnings. Discover the pivotal moments that shaped them and their careers. This candid conversation is aimed to kindle inspiration and empower you, offering guidance for navigating your own path to technology leadership. 

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Diverse Career Pathways: You will discover that there is no one-size-fits-all journey in technology leadership. The panellists’ diverse career paths will highlight that success in technology leadership can be achieved through a variety of routes, showcasing the importance of adaptability and perseverance.
  • Overcoming Challenges: Learning how some have overcome challenges and barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. From navigating imposter syndrome to managing conflict, you will gain insights into strategies and how to build resilience, when pursuing leadership roles in technology.
  • Preparing for Opportunity: Through continuous learning, building strong networks and relationships and seeking out mentors, learn how to ready yourself to make the most of opportunities that come your way.

This session is for you if…you aspire to thrive in engineering leadership and want to learn from experiences of successful women leaders who are forging their path to the top.

 

2:50pm
Presentation

The CFO’s Quantum Leap: From Goalkeeper to Attacking Midfielder

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Sharonee Dutta

    Managing Director

    BCG

Our world is being shaped by global mega trends, from climate change, to rapid urbanisation, to geo-political turbulence, to emerging technology. The traditional foundations upon which businesses were built are also subject to seismic shifts, and back-office operations must come out from the between the goal posts.

The CFO’s office has to become more agile and play an active role in helping the business to outpace quickening competitors, with data at the core of this new tactic. Precious company information is brought together by the CFO’s office, which can be leveraged more effectively to identify key opportunities and risks.

Digital technology is enabling CFOs to carry out this new, offensive role, equipping their organisations to take more strategic, targeted action. The successful CFO office of the future will be seen as a quality controller, and a forward-looking planner seeking to score goals for the business.

This topic is a gateway to understanding the crucial balance between autonomy and centralisation that will characterise the winning businesses of tomorrow. Mastering this concept is the key that will untap immense value locked in the data used by your finance function, and improve it’s effectiveness and efficiency overall.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Finance tends to be the key entry point to large scale transformations, and it must evolve accordingly
  • Finance is critical to creating value, particularly in strategic transactions like IPOs, acquisitions, and divestitures
  • Transformation is not linear; the starting line is different for each company

This session is for you if…you are looking to become more innovative, efficient, competitive and agile by taking your CFO’s office to the next level.

2:55pm
Presentation

Session Delivered by EY

30 mins
  • Track - Future Impact
  • Catriona Campbell

    Client Technology and Innovation Officer

    EY UK&I

More details coming soon...

2:55pm
Presentation

Session Delivered by Financial Times

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Rebecca Salsbury

    Chief Technology Officer

    Financial Times

More details coming soon...

3:30pm
Presentation

Building Future Digital Leaders: A Blueprint For Success

30 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Career Development
  • Leadership
  • Workforce
  • Jo Matkin

    CEO

    Grayce

As leaders, we have an important role to play in nurturing the next generation of digital leadership. But what does tomorrow’s digital leader look like? And with an ever-changing technology landscape, how do we create opportunities for them to build resilience, remain adaptable and thrive?

Drawing on the experience of launching over 2000 digital careers, this session will provide you with the tools to identify capability, support development and set the pathway to success.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the evergreen skills needed for resilient digital leadership
  • Discover a blueprint for applied learning that works for the next generation
  • Learn about the real-world impact of early investment in emerging talent
3:30pm
Presentation

So What Does A Product Manager Do, Exactly?

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Product
  • Maya Kaczorowski

    Head of Product

    Tailscale

You might have experience working on a product in some capacity, and with a product manager… but what do they do, exactly? The life of a product manager isn’t all glamorous strategy documents and customer meetings. (It’s also spreadsheets… a lot of spreadsheets.)

Discover what the responsibilities of a product manager are, and what the typical day to day looks like. We’ll delve into what a typical product needs to bridge the gap between customer needs and engineering solutions. We’ll talk through real-world anecdotes on what that looks like in practice.

We’ll also talk about how to work well across functions in a traditional engineering organisation, to get product and engineering — but also design, support, research, marketing, and sales — all working together for the same customer goal. Lastly, we’ll discuss how to decide whether a career in product management aligns with your passions and ambitions. Whether you’re an industry veteran or a newcomer, you’ll come away with a better sense of how to work as or with a product manager.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • A product manager’s role is not to ship products, but to unblock customers. You don’t always need to ship a product to meet customers’ needs
  • A product manager is the glue that holds the organization together, and fills the gaps where particular roles might be missing. You need to be flexible and adapt to your organization’s current situation
  • There is no one product manager role, they’re all different! A product management role might be exciting for you if you’re good at understanding, synthesising, and communicating ideas, detail oriented, and enjoy juggling many balls at the same time
4:00pm
Presentation

Navigating The Stars: The Art Of Hiring For Excellence

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • Leadership
  • Non-Technical
  • Workforce
  • Rose Ahearne

    Director - Analytics Engineering

    Monzo

Hiring is an essential part of technical leadership. Having a strategy to make the right hire efficiently is a key foundation for building a high performing team that delivers results. This talk will help attendees benefit from Rose’s experience and offer insights that they can apply in their own hiring.

In this talk, Rose will unveil the secrets to hiring for high-performance teams, drawing from her experience at tech firms Monzo, Deliveroo and BGL. Join us to discover straightforward strategies that will elevate your hiring process and empower your organisation. Don’t miss this opportunity to chart a course toward excellence in recruitment and set your team on a trajectory towards success!

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Be kind
  • Plan ahead
  • Detail and Document

This sessions is for you if…you’re a developing manager looking to gain valuable insights into building high-performance teams. Whether you’re seeking practical strategies to strengthen your hiring process or aiming to empower your organisation with proven recruitment techniques, this talk is your guide to achieving excellence in hiring the stars.

4:00pm
Networking

Afternoon Networking Break

30 mins
  • Track - Networking

Connect with attendees on the day so far!

4:35pm
Presentation

Transitioning Your Career From Traditional Finance To A Web3 Future

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Career Development
  • Data & Analytics
  • Leadership
  • Sendi Young

    Managing Director, UK & Europe, UK Board Director

    Ripple

A 2023 survey from Boston Consulting Group and People of Crypto Lab found that just 13 percent of web3 founding teams include a woman. This is unsurprising when the same survey revealed that the share of women at web3 startups overall is roughly 27 percent, and most of those women are in non-technical roles such as HR, PR and marketing. Women are still underrepresented in the web3 space and this industry is in dire need of improved gender balance.

Leaving the safety of an established industry for a pioneering upstart is exactly what Ripple’s European Managing Director Sendi Young opted to do after years spent building her career in the traditional financial services sector. Sendi will explore the challenges she faced when transitioning her career, opportunities for women to build the future of finance and how she discovered a newfound passion for all things blockchain and web3. Plus, a conversation on transparency, crypto “bro” culture and debunking common industry misconceptions.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Crypto and blockchain are the future of finance – we need more women around the top table, including the brilliant minds of web2, to shape this future.
  • We must create a more diverse workplace, and solving the long-standing issue of diversity in not just the crypto industry, but tech as a whole demands more than just a one-size fits all solution – Sendi will share best practices for a more inclusive industry.
  • Now is the most exciting time to make a career move into web3 – we’re on the brink of mainstream digital asset adoption, and if you join now you’re still early. The opportunities for women are growing everyday and with the right attitude and mindset, imposter syndrome will be a thing of the past.

This session is for you if…

  • You are a woman with a career in finance, technology, fintech, banking, etc.
  • You are a Female tech innovator and entrepreneur
  • You are interested in crypto/web3 as a career
  • You are seeking to make a career transition
5:10pm
Presentation

The Top Questions Leaders Should Be Asking To Improve Technology Dexterity

690 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Advanced Technology
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Alina Timofeeva

    Digital & FS, Principal (Associate Partner)

    Oliver Wyman

70% of digital transformation initiatives fail to achieve the desired business objectives as multiple organisations struggle to manage cost, drive change to create a sustainable technology capability that meets desired business needs. What if you transformed your failure story to success through thinking differently about Data & Technology to bring value to your customers, and at the same to avoid billions of dollars wasted, significant inefficiencies and regulatory scrutiny?

The C-suite today are keen to understand strategically how to best leverage Technology Dexterity for their existing and potential new business to become more effective and to generate new revenue streams. I’ll share 3 questions leaders should be asking to improve technology dexterity, to help them go from failure to success and realize their business ambitions in a safe and cost-effective way.

Discover insights and real life stories on what it takes to succeed in digital transformation, whether it is through using data & technology as a leaver for their business to become more efficient and generate new revenues or using the power of action & ‘fail but never give up’ mindset.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Technology as a value creator: How you can remain competitive & satisfy customer and employee expectations in the increasingly dynamic environment, while using data & technology as a secret to leverage business efficiency
  • Technology for new revenues: How to use data & technology assets to generate new revenue streams
  • Technology as an Active Force for good: How Green IT support the companies’ efforts to achieve their ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) targets
7:30pm
Presentation

Leading Through Crisis: Maintaining Productivity In Stressful Situations

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • Career Development
  • HR/DEI
  • Leadership
  • Snizhana Chaikina

    Software Development Manager

    Thomas Cook

Many people experience stress in their roles and IT is no exception to the rule. Tough deadlines, projects to be delivered “yesterday”, release rollbacks and unstable environments or the very nature of your role can cause stress. But what if you woke up in a country at war and you need to manage your high performing IT teams so that business continues as usual and the client is still happy?

You’ll hear a personal story of adapting to a war in Ukraine, waking up in Kyiv under the bomb attacks, keeping the teams stable and performing so that our business was able to successfully continue as usual, which was the biggest challenge for everyone.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to handle stressful situations at work
  • How to communicate effectively with your team
  • How to build a better level of trust and manage your teams under pressure

This session is for you if… you are an IT manager who wants to learn how to keep the balance and remain a calm leader.

8:50am
Keynote

Chairperson Opening

10 mins
  • Track - Keynote

Welcome back to Women of Silicon Roundabout. Join us for day two of the conference 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 towards the future and securing your position as a futurist leader in tech and strategy.

10:30am
Keynote

Embracing Transformation: Unlocking Potential & Welcoming Change

30 mins
  • Track - Keynote
  • Leadership
  • Jessica Hall

    Chief Product Officer

    Just Eat Takeaway.com

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the keys to transformational leadership and how it can elevate your organisation to new heights. This keynote that will equip you with the vision and strategies to lead your organisation to unparalleled success through change and transformation.

Dive deep into the art of transformational leadership and its profound impact on unlocking organisational potential. Just Eat Takeaways Chief Product Officer, Jessica Hall, reveals how embracing change, navigating transformation, and bridging generational gaps can supercharge your team’s abilities.

Join this enlightening keynote that will empower you to lead with vision and drive organisational success.

Today, organisational success hinges on your ability to embrace transformation and harness its full potential, explore why transformational leadership and a focus on change are the keys to unlocking your organisation’s true capabilities.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Mastering Transformation: Learn essential leadership skills to not only adapt to change but to thrive in it. Discover how transformation can be the catalyst for reaching new heights of success.
  • Generational Synergy: Understand how embracing generational diversity can foster innovation and collaboration within your organisation, driving transformative change.
  • Unleashing Organisational Potential: Gain insights into how focusing on transformation and change can unlock the full potential of your organisation, enabling you to achieve remarkable results.

Who is this session perfect for?

  • If you’re a tech leader or aspiring leader looking to become a transformational force in your organisation
  • You believe in the power of change to drive innovation and are eager to harness it
  • You’re committed to unleashing your organisation’s full potential by embracing transformation as a growth strategy
11:00am
Networking

Networking Break

30 mins
  • Track - Networking

Grab a coffee and connect with attendees, share your thoughts on the first sessions of the day!

11:30am
Workshop

How To Deliver Value From Generative AI Without Causing Chaos

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • AI/ML
  • Digital Transformation
  • Premium Only
  • Amy Challen

    General Manager for Artificial Intelligence

    Shell

Generative AI is one of the hottest topics around, with hours of fun to be had from asking ChatGPT to summarise nuclear fission in the style of Chaucer, or Midjourney to depict a sports stadium inhabited by lemurs in the style of van Gogh. But how can we put it to work to really generate value? And how do we make sure that we can mitigate these technologies’ well-reported issues (information leakage, hallucination, bias, privacy violations…)?

The Why: Attendees of this workshop will get insights/learnings on how to harness the power of Generative AI in their organisations, while ensure that it is used safely.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to address the fear caused by new technology advances.
  • How to address the risks to reap the benefits of Generative AI.
  • How Generative AI can be adopted safely across a wide range of use cases.

This session is for you if…you are interested in using Generative AI ethically/safely in your organisation, including business leaders, data scientists and any IT professionals.

11:30am
Workshop

How To Pitch An Idea And Get A ‘Yes’

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Isabel Walker

    Master Facilitator and Coach

    Inc. PowerSpeaking

Too many brilliant ideas fail because decision-makers just don’t ‘get it’. Why? Because the presenter didn’t share the key information in the first 60 seconds. This masterclass changes all that.

This masterclass is a game-changer! Too often brilliant technical and scientific minds fail to get their ideas past the decision-makers in their organisation because business leaders don’t understand the benefit. In this session, you will discover the secrets of speaking to the top of any organisation. You will walk away with a model that ensures the business listens when you talk tech.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the mindset of business leaders
  • Know the 4 key elements to include in the first minute of your talk
  • Learn a proven model that ensures the business listens

This session is for you if…you are a  Mid-to-Senior manager seeking approval or funding from decision-makers.

11:30am
Workshop

Public Speaking Mastery: From Practice To Presentation

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Workforce

Step up and let your voice be heard! Dive into the essentials of public speaking with our hands-on workshop. Whether it’s about mastering your message or presenting with poise, we’ll guide you through the art of communicating effectively. Remember, it’s all about practice and preparation, not perfection!

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Techniques to craft compelling speeches
  • Strategies for confident and impactful delivery

This session is for you if...you are keen to elevate your public speaking prowess, from novices to seasoned speakers looking for a refresher.

11:35am
Fireside Chat

Fireside Chat: FinTech, A Game Changer For Financial Inclusion And Wellbeing

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • Advanced Technology
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Janine Hirt

    Chief Executive Officer

    Innovate Finance

With FinTech adoption on the rise globally, this dynamic conversation will delve into the transformative power of FinTech in promoting financial inclusion and wellbeing. You’ll hear insights on how FinTech is revolutionizing the global financial landscape, making finances more manageable and accessible for people across the world and fostering greater economic equity.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Gain an understanding of the current FinTech landscape and the emerging trends that are shaping the industry, from blockchain and cryptocurrencies to AI-driven financial services
  • Learn how FinTech companies are leveraging cutting-edge technologies to provide accessible and affordable financial services to underserved communities worldwide
  • Discover how FinTech is empowering individuals to take control of their financial lives, providing them with tools and resources to make informed decisions and improve their overall financial health

This session is for you if…you are an entrepreneur, investor and anyone with an interest in the intersection of technology and finance.

Come prepared to engage in a thought-provoking conversation that will leave you inspired and equipped with the knowledge to navigate the ever-evolving world of FinTech.

11:35am
Presentation

How To Prepare Yourself For Big Career Decisions

30 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Career Development
  • Non-Technical
  • Workforce
  • Ilana Simons

    Sales Director

    Braze

Ilana’s upcoming talk offers valuable insights and practical tools for navigating the challenges of making significant career choices. While predicting the future is beyond our control, Ilana provides attendees with the necessary tools to gather the information they need and make informed decisions.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • The significance of self-awareness when making career decisions: Discover how understanding your strengths, values, and goals can guide your career choices effectively
  • Validating decisions using guiding principles: Learn techniques to evaluate and validate your career decisions
  • Building your own network of board members: Explore the importance of cultivating a supportive network of mentors, advisors, and peers to help you navigate your career journey

This session is for you if…you find yourself struggling with career decisions, contemplating ‘what if’ scenarios, preparing for a promotion, a new role, or considering a career change, this session is designed for you.

Join Ilana Simons as she equips you with the tools and strategies to confidently tackle significant career choices, both now and in the future.

12:10pm
Presentation

Digital Power-Up: Turbocharging Transformation For Ultimate Value

30 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Shubhi Rajnish

    Chief Information and Digital Officer

    National Grid ESO

Digital transformation has become a vital element in driving business success and growth, but simply adopting new technologies is not enough. To truly capitalise on the opportunities that digital transformation offers, businesses must develop strategies that maximise value and create lasting impact.

Learn how to cultivate an organisation that embraces change, encourages experimentation, and fosters collaboration, paving the way for your business to thrive in the digital era.

Discover how to maximise the value of digital transformation in your organisation, driving growth, innovation, and success in today’s ever-changing digital landscape.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Delve into the core components that drive successful digital transformation initiatives, from aligning business goals with technological advancements to creating a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
  • Uncover the power of harnessing data to drive decision-making, streamline processes, and enhance customer experiences
  • Discover best practices for developing a scalable and adaptable transformation roadmap
12:10pm
Presentation

The Rise Of Machine Learning: How It’s Transforming Business & Society

30 mins
  • Track - Future Impact
  • AI/ML
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Kanika Chaganty

    Chief Data Officer

    Brit Insurance

Machine learning has become one of the most powerful and transformative technologies in the world today. It’s changing the way we do business, interact with technology, and even live our lives. In this session, we’ll explore the rise of machine learning and how it’s transforming business and society.

Join us to learn about the key applications of machine learning, including natural language processing, image recognition, and predictive analytics. You’ll gain insights into how these technologies are changing the way we work, live, and interact with the world around us.

By the end of this session, you’ll have a better understanding of how machine learning is transforming business and society, with practical advice on how to implement machine learning in your organisation, including best practices for working with data, algorithms, and tools.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Insights into how machine learning is changing the way we work, live, and interact with technology
  • Best practices for implementing machine learning in your organisation, including working with data, algorithms, and tools
  • An understanding of the ethical considerations and challenges associated with machine learning
  • Strategies for staying ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving field of machine learning

This session is for you if…you are interested in the transformative power of machine learning, including business leaders, data scientists, and anyone else looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations in this rapidly evolving field.

12:10pm
Presentation

Comprehensive Testing Strategies For Modern Microservice Architectures

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • Data & Analytics
  • Product
  • Software & Development

It’s not finished until it’s tested and monitored. Experienced developers know that a comprehensive testing strategy is vital to a healthy microservice architecture. However, as the system grows and changes without any central oversight, the complexity of our test scenarios dramatically increases as well.

This session will explore strategies for adding testing to the product development process, making it easy to verify the integrations between services and communicate expected behaviours between engineering teams.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Discover the challenges of testing distributed architectures (event driven, HTTP based)
  • Learn the fundamentals of TDD and the different types of tests (unit, integration, contract, E2E, performance)
  • How to write efficient tests at every level of the application
  • Discover the importance of code robustness and error detection strategies (monitoring & alerting best practices)

This session is for…Software Engineers and QA Professionals.

All of the concepts included in this talk will be demonstrated with a Go example application, but pre-existing knowledge of Go is not required.

12:45pm
Presentation

Building A Tech Talent Strategy For The Future

30 mins
  • Track - Plan
  • Career Development
  • HR/DEI
  • Software & Development
  • Anna Brailsford

    CEO & Co-Founder

    Code First Girls

Join this engaging fireside chat as we delve into the evolving tech landscape and the future of hiring tech talent. Drawing from the experiences of industry technology leaders, we’ll explore how to navigate the ever-shifting global talent landscape. Discover how leading companies are responding to and shaping global talent trends, and gain insights into the positive impact of fostering diversity in your tech talent pool.

Our experts will share practical wisdom on attracting, retaining, and nurturing a diverse workforce, while creating an inclusive company culture that fosters innovation and drives business growth.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how leading companies are navigating global talent trends
  • Understand the positive business impact of hiring diverse tech talent
  • Gain insights on attracting and retaining diverse talent, and building an inclusive company culture
12:45pm
Presentation

From Backstage (Spotify) To Opening The Curtain For AI

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • AI/ML
  • Career Development
  • Software & Development
  • Jemma Holmes

    Hybrid Cloud Platform Automation Engineer

    QBE

How has the integration of Coding Co-pilots and conversational AI changed the developer user experience and how has it affected junior developers starting their journey. Are we the developers leading the way in what might be the new way to do software development?

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How do these new technologies affect junior developers learning paths?
  • How large organisations are adopting these new technologies?
  • Even at the beginning of your career, your different perspective is what brings value

This session is for you if…you want to hear about the real experience of starting your career journey in software development and how a global organisation is approaching this new wave of development.

12:45pm
Presentation

“The New Frontier”: From Tech Trends To New Products In Practice

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • Digital Transformation
  • Leadership
  • Product
  • Gursh Mendhir

    Head of Innovation & Emerging Products

    Virgin Media 02

Change is constant, and the rate of it isn’t slowing down any time soon. Innovation is imperative, but difficult to formulate and execute. Practically pursuing tech trends is core to being successful in this space.

Want to know how to create cutting-edge new product development processes that weave in technology trends, leading to the speedy discovery of new spaces of opportunity for large organisations. Discover how to approach the problem of discovering the future and cut through the noise to identify and pursue the most meaningful and impactful opportunities provided by technology.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to consider tech trends and which new spaces of opportunity I chose to pursue
  • How to create a tech trend/innovation strategy that works within your organisation
  • Tips on how to implement your strategy at scale and speed

This session is for you if…you’re curious about how companies can bring tech trends into their organisations in practice; you want to grow into a thought leader in the tech trends space; or you’re interested to know how to build innovation from scratch practically within a large organisation.

1:15pm
Networking

Lunch Break

60 mins
  • Track - Networking

Grab a bite to eat and connect with attendees on the day so far!

1:20pm
Presentation

Monetisation Of Data To Support Your Digital Strategy

30 mins
  • Track - FinTech
  • AI/ML
  • Data & Analytics
  • Digital Transformation
  • Gillian Tomlinson

    Group Chief Data Officer

    The Weir Group PLC

In today’s digital landscape, data has become one of the most valuable assets for businesses of all sizes. However, many organisations struggle to effectively monetise their data to support their digital strategies. In this session, we’ll explore the key strategies and techniques to understand the commercial value of data, to drive growth and support your digital strategy.

Discover how to identify the most valuable data sets and how to extract insights from them. We’ll examine real-world examples of how businesses are successfully monetising their data to drive revenue and support their digital strategies.

Join us to learn about the tools and techniques that you can use to monetise your data, including data analytics, machine learning, and predictive modelling. By the end of this session, you’ll have a better understanding of how to implement data monetisation strategies and establish the foundation needed to survive and move forward in a connected world.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understand of the value of data as a strategic asset
  • How to maintain integrity whilst driving commercial value, to address the business strategy
  • An understanding of the tools and techniques for data analytics, machine learning, and predictive modelling
  • Best practices for managing data to ensure that it’s accurate, relevant, and actionable

This session is for you if… you are interested in leveraging data to support your digital strategy, including business leaders, data scientists, and anyone else looking to gain a competitive edge in the digital landscape.

2:15pm
Workshop

Become A Chaos Pilot & Bring Meaningful Change

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Monica Norman

    Technical Programme Manager

    bp

  • Filipa Moura

    Principal Software Engineer

    bp

  • Tehsheena Shams

    Founder and CEO

    Dynamo

Bringing transformative change in any business requires a radically different mindset, chaos pilots have that mindset and you can become one too.

Immerse yourself in a hands-on workshop on chaos piloting. Become one yourself and bring meaningful change anywhere – your business, work, and life! Learn from technology start-up founders and engineers at bp who are transforming front-line operations to make them safer and more efficient.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Who are chaos pilots, and why are they essential in any organisation?
  • How can you become a chaos pilot?
  • Discover the pitfalls to avoid

This session is for you if…you are starting your business, or you are looking to start a business, and/or are working on solving big, complex problems that are ambiguous and challenge the status quo.

2:15pm
Workshop

How To Diversify Your Talent Pool

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • HR/DEI
  • Leadership
  • Premium Only
  • Workforce
  • Sian Wilson

    Executive Director- Commercial

    The Skills Network

Tired of hearing about the skills gaps and underrepresentation in tech without getting to the solution. We’re putting the spotlight on concrete solutions that businesses can harness. From government-backed gateways to innovative approaches in skill development, let’s chart a path to a brighter, more inclusive tech landscape.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Tapping into Untapped Resources: Understand how government-backed initiatives and programs can serve as invaluable channels to widen and diversify your talent search
  • Innovative Skill Development: Explore cutting-edge methodologies and strategies for nurturing and upskilling talent, ensuring your team is equipped for the tech world’s evolving demands
  • Building an Inclusive Strategy: Learn actionable steps and best practices to create a recruitment and retention strategy that prioritises diversity, fostering a richer, more resilient tech ecosystem
2:15pm
Presentation

Demystifying Generative AI And Machine Learning Models

30 mins
  • Track - InfoTech
  • AI/ML
  • Career Development

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning have become an integral part of our lives. It is also a very fascinating field of study. There’s no better time to learn about these technologies than now! And there’s no better way of learning than some hands-on work. However, given the information overload, it may be overwhelming and confusing to know where to start. This workshop will help you take a few simple steps towards advancing this journey for you. And you will gain information about some excellent yet freely available tools to experiment with the world of AI.

Machine Learning has become one of the hottest fields of study and application in the last decade and is expected to rule the world for a long time. Very recently, the world of technology was blown away with the introduction of ChatGPT! There is no better time than now to delve into the world of AI. I would like to walk through some of the basic concepts around the building of a Machine Learning application from scratch. We will then move on to understand what Generative AI is and what we can build with the ChatGPT APIs. In this workshop, we will build a fun AI application using generative AI APIs. You do not need to be an expert programmer. Knowledge of python is helpful but not necessary as the code is minimal and intuitive.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Demystifying Generative AI and Machine Learning
  • Know about freely available tools for your DiY journey
  • How to code your own AI applications in one hour!

Please note: There are some pre-workshop activities that you must complete prior to attending the workshop to ensure you can participate fully in the session and benefit from the codealong. Please follow this link for further details and ensure you bring your laptop with you to the session.

This session is for you if…

  • You want to know where to start with your Machine Learning & Generative AI journey
  • You want to understand the key concepts of Machine Learning & Generative AI
  • You are not a coder but want to try your hands at building AI applications
2:15pm
Presentation

You Don’t Need To Code To Progress Or Work In The Tech Sector

30 mins
  • Track - Software
  • Career Development
  • Non-Technical
  • Workforce
  • Theodora Costley-White

    Technical Director and Founder

    Women in Tech Coterie

If you are frustrated with hitting a brick wall in getting your foot through the door because you don’t code, I have news for you, Technology is not only about Software development. This talk is for all the women out there that are wanting to get into or progress in the sector but don’t know how. Besides becoming a Software Developer or Engineer there are many alternative pathways to get into technology, holding credible valuable technical certifications, and work across a diverse range of roles at many levels, this talk is about how to get there.

The Why: A recent survey by the ONS has found that women now have two challenges to overcome, not just the fact that still too few women entering tech careers, but the ones who are in them are leaving. It’s clear not enough is being done to address the many problems women face in the sector and I’m on a mission to work with businesses and you, the women with your lived experiences to address this. Your voice matters, but it’s clear it’s still not being heard.

Session Key Takeaways: 

  • You will learn about the many professional and personal development pathways few people explore
  • You will learn that mindset is key, if you think like a technologist you will act as one
  • And most of all you will learn that learning how to code is not the only way to considered technical and credible in your field.

This session is for you if…you are a woman in tech trying to climb the career ladder and facing obstacles, or a woman trying to get into the industry but don’t know where to start.

2:15pm
Workshop

How to Be The Role Model You Wish You’d Had

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • HR/DEI
  • Premium Only
  • Workforce
  • Emily Hall-Strutt

    Director

    Next Tech Girls

“If you can see it, you can be it.”

Many studies have shown the importance of role models in increasing gender diversity in the tech industry. Discover how to become the role model you wish you’d had when you were younger, to inspire the next generation to follow in your footsteps and help close the gender gap while raising your profile, developing your skills and progressing your career.

We have a huge digital skills gap, which is estimated to cost the UK economy £60 Billion a year. On top of that, we have a gender gap in the industry, with only 26% of tech workers identifying as female. And there’s a pipeline problem: less than 20% of tech students at any level identify as female and only 3% of women say a career in tech would be their first choice.

With the recent boom in AI revealing the many biases in the industry, we need to make it more representative to ensure that the technology that’s designed and built is fit – and safe – for girls and women to use.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Why you should become a role model
  • How to become a (good) role model
  • How Next Tech Girls can support you on your role model journey

This session is for you if...you work in the tech industry! Your gender and stage of your career don’t matter. Everyone can become a role model to the next generation to ensure that more young people are inspired to develop the technical skills we need in our future workforce. If you’re part of a group that’s underrepresented in the industry, even better.

2:20pm
Panel Discussion

Panel: Connecting For A Better Future

60 mins
  • Track - Implement
  • Data
  • Leadership
  • Transformation
  • Miryem Salah

    Chief Data Officer & Head of Digital & Transformation

    Vodafone Business UK

  • Elizabeth Nguli

    Head of Global Cloud Engineering

    Vodafone

Organisations play a big role in society and technology is often crucial to their impact. In this session, you will learn about how innovative technology is transforming the way businesses are operating, ways that technology can be used to drive sustainability and inclusion, and all about the importance of embedding purpose at the heart of an organisation.

Join our panellists of digital leaders from Vodafone UK to hear a discussion on a range of topics that are shaping the future.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Innovative Tech: Discover how cutting-edge technology can be harnessed to propel customer experience to new heights
  • Visionary Leadership: Learn to ignite your team’s passion and purpose, inspiring them to achieve extraordinary results
  • Digital Inclusion: Explore strategies for ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution, fostering inclusivity for all

This session is for you if…you are interested in leadership and how technology is transforming large companies.

2:50pm
Presentation

Digital Transformation And The Rise Of AI-Enabled Experience

30 mins
  • Track - InfoTech
  • AI/ML
  • Data & Analytics
  • Product
  • Katya Denike

    Chief Product Officer

    Holland & Barrett

In this insightful and timely session, we will explore the ongoing digital transformation and the rising impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on businesses, industries, and society. As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, AI-driven solutions are shaping our experiences and changing the way we interact with products, services, and even each other. Join us to delve deeper into the fascinating world of AI-enabled experiences and discover how to harness the power of digital transformation to stay ahead of the curve.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding the Digital Transformation Landscape: Gain insights into the current state of digital transformation and its potential impact on various industries, with a focus on the role of AI in driving change.
  • The Shift to AI-Enabled Experiences: Learn about the latest innovations in AI and how they are transforming user experiences across a range of sectors, including retail, healthcare, finance, and more.
  • The Future of Human-Machine Interaction: Explore the role of AI in shaping the way we interact with technology, and discuss the ethical considerations and challenges that arise as we continue to integrate AI into our daily lives.
  • Navigating the AI Revolution: Hear from industry experts and thought leaders as they share their experiences, lessons learned, and best practices for adopting AI-driven solutions and navigating the digital transformation journey.
  • Building an AI-Ready Workforce: Uncover the skills and competencies required for businesses to succeed in an AI-driven world, and learn strategies for upskilling and reskilling your workforce to embrace the future of work.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field, network with like-minded professionals, and be a part of the conversation shaping the future of AI-enabled experiences. Join us to ensure you are well-equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape and capitalize on the potential of AI-driven technologies.

3:25pm
Presentation

Synergize Creativity: Unleash The Human & AI Potential

30 mins
  • Track - InfoTech
  • AI/ML
  • Digital Transformation
  • Product
  • Jane Austin

    Chief Experience Officer

    Digitas UK

Innovation and creativity don’t happen in a vacuum – they are sparked by the magic that happens when humans mix together in the right way. But this doesn’t need to be a happy accident – you can create the right conditions for this magic to happen – the right culture, the right confidence, the right clarity, and yes, the right use cases for AI.

In order to build high impact products and services you need the right people working in the right way. This session shows how to harness the creativity that only humans can bring, and the efficiencies offered by AI that give humans the space to think.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • How to create the space for people to be creative
  • How to build trust to allow for true collaboration
  • How to leverage AI to give you the space to create and collaborate
3:30pm
Workshop

The Power Of Transferable & Human Skills In The World Of AI

60 mins
  • Track - Workshop
  • Career Development
  • HR/DEI
  • Non-Technical
  • Premium Only
  • Claire Thomas

    Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer

    Hitachi Vantara

Our industries / careers are changing, and whilst there is increasing opportunity for those working in technology and with technical skills, we must remember the power of human connection to drive sustainable change in our world. Having different experiences and backgrounds in decision making drives better outcomes for companies, customers, and society. Increasing focus on transferable skills increases the likelihood of diverse teams and therefore successful outcomes. For individuals, it opens up a plethora of opportunities outside the traditional ladder career path, so people can find purpose and meaning in their work.

Whilst predictions vary on whether we’ll all be replaced by robots (with Goldman Sachs predicting 300 million jobs lost and Accenture saying 40% of work tasks will be affected by large language models), one common theme across research is that the type of work we do as humans will change. In an ever-changing world, a focus on building strong human skills, such as empathy and vulnerability, and exploring how they can be transferred across careers will be essential to career progression.

Session Key Takeaways:

  • Why there’s nothing soft about human skills
  • Why human skills will be critical in future, especially for leaders
  • What you can do to recognise your build transferable skills and build on them

This session is for you if…you want to know more about skills development, career switching, the power of strong human skills and need some tips on where to start.

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Events in the Women In Technology World Series

Women Of Silicon Valley

2024San Francisco

Women In Tech Texas

2024Houston

European Women In Technology

26-27 June, 2024RAI Amsterdam

Women In Tech Boston

October 2-3, 2023Sheraton Boston Hotel

Women Of Silicon Roundabout

22-23 Nov, 2023ExCeL London

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