The Best Employers Conference 2025: Powering Transformation Through People
We’re looking forward to welcoming leaders from across the region to the Best Employers Conference next week.
Taking place on Wednesday 15 October, this flagship event is a highlight in our calendar – a chance to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the organisations that are powering transformation through their people.
Join us to hear directly from a cross-section of leading businesses at the region’s standalone event for leaders, HR professionals, and organisations dedicated to building exceptional workplaces.
The conference is an opportunity to explore how top organisations approach leadership, foster engagement, and continuously evolve their culture to drive sustainable performance. As part of the Best Employers Programme, the event brings together businesses recognised for their commitment to workplace excellence, offering you the chance to learn from those setting the standard in people-led transformation.
About the Best Employers Programme
The Best Employers Programme helps organisations understand and enhance their workplace culture. Participating companies:
- Benchmark their performance against other leading employers in the region
- Gain actionable insights to improve engagement, culture, and leadership practices
- Celebrate achievements through recognition as a Best Employer, based on a rigorous assessment process
Attending the conference gives you a unique opportunity to hear directly from organisations who excel in leadership and engagement, with practical insights you can take back to your own business.
What to expect at the conference
The conference features practical insights, interactive conversations, and real-world examples of culture, leadership, and purpose in action. Here’s a preview of our sessions and speakers:
Session 1 — Inspiration & Insight
The Imposter Phenomenon: Culture’s Hidden Power
Kate Atkin — International Speaker, Author & Facilitator
Kate will explore how everyday behaviours shape culture and performance. Learn how subtle workplace cues influence engagement and belonging, and gain strategies to harness culture’s hidden power within your own organisation.
Session 2 — People-Led Transformation
Charting a New Course: Powering Transformation Through People
Sam Stimpson, CEO, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Sam shares how investing in people and culture drives large-scale organisational change. Discover why people-centred strategies are the most effective route to sustainable transformation, even in complex, high-stakes industries.
The Power of Purpose
Jonathan Read, CEO, Paddy & Scott’s
Jonathan will demonstrate how a clear, authentic purpose strengthens engagement and performance. Explore practical ways leaders embed purpose into decision-making, turning mission into measurable impact.
Session 3 — Culture, Community & Celebration
Empowering Teams to Lead
Julius Walters, CEO, Sudbury Silk Mills
Julius shares strategies for nurturing future leaders and encouraging ownership and accountability at every level. The session provides actionable takeaways on leadership, empowerment, and culture.
Celebrating the Region's Best Employers
The conference concludes with the Presentation of the Best Employers Awards and Accreditations. A celebration of organisations defining excellence in culture, engagement, and leadership.
Why attend?
- Hear from leading businesses on how they approach leadership and sustain engagement
- Gain actionable strategies to apply immediately within your own organisation
- Network with peers dedicated to creating great workplaces
- Celebrate workplace excellence and discover what sets award-winning employers apart
Secure your place at the Best Employers Conference 2025 today.
