November 2023
Business conference equips learners with skills to navigate their future careers
By Carrie Mok
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The first-ever Sustainable Futures Business Conference at University College Birmingham launches today at the institution’s Business School.
Packed with an impressive array of speakers inspiring learners from across the School, the Sustainable Futures Business Conference aims to prepare learners with the knowledge and skills to successfully navigate rapid changes in technology (such as automation, AI and workforce changes) in their future careers.
From leading local entrepreneurs to one of the world’s foremost experts on innovations within the tourism industry, the conference brings together successful business practitioners across small-and-midsized enterprises (SMEs) and corporate businesses alongside some of the University’s own alumni.
Speakers include Ninder Johal, CEO of Nachural Group and entrepreneur; Andy Wilkinson, Founding Partner and Managing Director, OWB and Creative Chair of Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Directors; Nick Hall, Founder & CEO of the Digital Tourism Think Tank; Gayle Ditchburn, Partner and Head of Birmingham Office, Pinsent Masons; Dr. David Paulson, Executive Dean of the Business School, University College Birmingham; Olga Marekova, Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO, Flywize; Tia Ghai, EMEA Experiences Manager, Attraction World Group and other business leaders as well as alumni from the University.
Ninder Johal said: “For those looking to employ and for those looking for employment, the need to accept change as part of business and life is now taken for granted. Individuals and businesses need to understand how to adapt and move with the times and be ready to pivot when necessary.
“University College Birmingham’s Business Conference will, amongst other things, try to understand this ‘new norm’ and how everyone can work within an ever-changing environment and the future skill sets required.
“I am excited to be part of this conference and look forward to exchanging views with the other speakers and audience on how entrepreneurship can play its role.”
“The University works closely with business practitioners and networks in and around Birmingham, the region, the UK and overseas: whether they are successful local entrepreneurs, SMEs or corporate businesses, we always value their support. We are delighted to be able to bring their expertise from across their sectors to our students, arming them with the knowledge for a sustainable future and opportunities for a successful career.”
Andy Wilkinson said: “To be able to play a small part in helping students from University College Birmingham hit the ground running with practical advice, ideas and thoughts around how to build sustainable rewarding careers is an honour and a great privilege.
“I absolutely love the work of University College Birmingham; the passion, commitment, energy and drive to give students every advantage is amazing. I want to see this conference grow every year and be the driving force in creating generation after generation of outstanding graduates.”
Tia Ghai said: “As an alumnus of University College Birmingham and a proud representative of Attraction World Group, I'm excited to be a speaker at University College Birmingham's Sustainable Futures Business Conference. This event will not only equip students with the vital skills to navigate the evolving technology in the business world but also serves as a powerful bridge between academia and the professional realm. It's a testament to the profound impact that unity between universities and companies like Attraction World Group can have on shaping the leaders of tomorrow.”
Dr David Paulson said: “It is my pleasure to launch the inaugural University College Birmingham Business School Conference. The University works closely with business practitioners and networks in and around Birmingham, the region, the UK and overseas: whether they are successful local entrepreneurs, SMEs or corporate businesses, we always value their support. We are delighted to be able to bring their expertise from across their sectors to our students, arming them with the knowledge for a sustainable future and opportunities for a successful career.”
University College Birmingham’s Business School encompasses the departments of Business, Tourism and Hospitality, and Creative Industries, with over 120 academic and professional services staff supporting 3800 students across a range of apprentice, undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programmes.
Find out more about all of the exciting programmes and courses across the institution.
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