People before platforms: Leading change that lasts
New systems, growth initiatives and business development efforts don't fail because of bad software, they fail because the people using them were never properly bought into the ‘why’ behind their introduction. This session gives delegates a practical, leadership-led framework for managing the human side of system and process change, from building genuine buy-in before go-live to reinforcing new behaviours long after the launch date has passed. Delegates will leave understanding the specific steps required to minimise resistance, drive real user adoption, and turn a system rollout into a lasting behavioural shift, not a short-lived compliance exercise.
Escaping the always-on trap: Boundaries that actually work
We know the always-on trap better than most. Deadlines, billable hours, and the expectation of being reachable at all times create a culture where switching off feels like falling behind. We might look like we're coping, but underneath, decision-making slows, patience shortens, and the work that actually needs focus gets pushed to 10pm.
This session challenges the belief that sacrifice is the price of good performance. Drawing on his own experience building and exiting a multi-award-winning business, then burning out at the top of it, Gary makes the case that boundaries aren't about saying no; they're about communicating expectations clearly and trusting the capable people around you to step up. You'll leave with a practical way to do this, so you can perform and win sustainably, not just in the moment.
Adfin (Accounts Receivable / Accounts Payable)
Adfin unifies payments, reconciliation, and credit control in one AI-powered platform. Automating reminders, retries, and communications so businesses get paid 7X faster than the UK average.
Putting the customer first in a digital world
Hear from HMRC on how they’re using a customer-centred approach to update and improve services. With an ambition for most tasks to be possible through digital self-service by 2030, HMRC’s Customer Experience team are investing in a user-focused approach to ensure products are accessible and provide real value to taxpayers. This ensures phonelines are available for more complex issues, or those who need additional support. Find out more about how HMRC is meeting its ambitions to become a digital-first tax authority while remaining customer-centric.
Turbo Inventory (ERP)
Turbo Inventory lets ambitious SMEs focus on serving their customers. With stock control, job management, and supplier tools, integrated with all top accounting and ecomm platforms, Turbo simplifies operations, saves time, and helps businesses grow.
Winning with AI: Why better data is the real competitive advantage
AI is transforming accountancy, but the firms gaining the greatest advantage aren't simply adopting the latest tools - they're building the data foundations to make them work. Drawing on real-world experience with accounting firms, this session explores why data quality, governance and trusted reporting are the real enablers of AI success. Attendees will discover the common challenges holding firms back and leave with practical steps to strengthen their data, embrace AI with confidence and create a lasting competitive advantage.
The CFO reality check
Uncertainty is high. Cost pressures are intense. Yet global growth remains resilient. Why? For how long? And what does it mean for the advice CFOs are giving their businesses?
ACCA Chief Economist Jonathan Ashworth will discuss the outlook for the global and UK economies, exploring where the risks lie, and what finance leaders should be watching.
Clive Webb, Head of Business Management at ACCA, will then bring the discussion into the finance function, exploring how CFOs are translating the economic environment into advice on growth, investment, costs, cash and risk.
CFOs and FDs from across the North will put that thinking to the test, sharing how the current environment is influencing the advice they give their boards, the decisions they are making and where they are choosing to invest or hold back.
Hear the evidence. Test it against the experience of finance leaders across the North. Leave with a clearer view of how CFOs are navigating growth, costs, investment and risk in an uncertain environment.
Allica Bank (Banking Services)
Business Rewards Account is designed for established businesses, combining everyday banking with added value. Your clients can get up to 4.08% AER (variable), uncapped cashback and a named relationship manager as standard.
HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap
Hear from HMRC’s Director General for Strategy and Policy, Jonathan Athow, on delivering in the first year of the Transformation Roadmap. Find out what has happened already, what will be happening next, and how different groups can get involved in the next steps for the UK’s tax and customs authority.
The connected platform advantage: Turning AI, MTD and client data into advisory revenue
AI can help save time, but time saved does not automatically become revenue. Data only creates value when it is connected and acted on. As firms learn from the first months of Making Tax Digital, connected platforms and AI are reducing fragmentation, improving visibility and giving teams greater control across their client base. Clients are also using AI and expect more: faster answers, clearer guidance and proactive support. This panel explores how firms can turn connected data and AI insight into stronger client relationships and repeatable advisory revenue.