Future Skills

Meet Harry Ife Harry has attained a nationally recognised NHBC ‘Pride in the Job’ award (Year 2021 & 2022) for demonstrating high quality within the house building industry. Harry is a graduate in both Business Management (BA), International Management (MSc) and has a NVQ Level 7 in Senior Construction Management. He is a highly demanded keynote speaker across both corporate and educational sectors due to his engaging talks on his personal journey, experience and industry insights specifically around the areas of Career development, employability, leadership and D.E.I.

About James Barrat Intelligence, Barrat contends, not strength or speed, is the superpower that enables humans to steer the future. Scientists around the world are developing machines whose intelligence grows exponentially, and will someday dwarf our own. Have we already plunged into an unwinnable intelligence race, with the future of humanity at stake? As an award-winning documentary filmmaker, Barrat has made a career from introducing audiences to complex ideas in engaging and provocative ways. His films have set ratings records for National Geographic, Discovery, PBS, and other broadcasters in the US and Europe. Notable titles include the National Geographic Specials The Gospel of Judas (2006), Inside Jerusalem’s Holiest (2008), Herod’s Lost Tomb (2010), and The Rise of the Black Pharaohs (2014). For PBS Barrat created Spillover: Zika, Ebola and Beyond (2016) and the 90-minute feature-doc Facing Suicide (2022). In September 2024, Facing Suicide’s companion book will be printed by Penguin Random House. Barrat is currently at work on The Intelligence Explosion, an expose that shows how generative AI takes us closer to human level intelligence with mysterious and unpredictable emergent powers.

Dr Paul Redmond: Leading Expert on Generational Change and the Future of Work Dr Paul Redmond — author, keynote speaker, and employment expert — is recognised as one of the UK’s leading authorities on generational change and the future of work. As a highly sought-after speaker, Paul delivers talks at major conferences and events across the globe, equipping organisations and professionals with the insight and strategies needed to succeed in today’s multi-generational workplace. He is a regular contributor to national newspapers and publications, and frequently appears on radio and television, including the BBC and independent current affairs programmes. Previously serving as Director of Student Experience and Enhancement at the University of Liverpool, where he continues to lecture, Paul has also held visiting lectureships at several leading universities. Over the course of his career, he has guided the professional development of thousands of students and graduates. His research into Generation Z, the post-Covid workplace, the emergence of “Zombie Jobs” (the focus of his TED Talk), intergenerational communication, and “Helicopter Parents” has earned him recognition from organisations worldwide. Paul is the author of numerous books, reports, and studies, including the best-selling The Graduate Jobs Formula and the popular diary column for the UK’s Institute of Student Employers magazine. His upcoming book, The Rise of the Zombie Jobs, explores which careers are most at risk of automation through AI and robotics — and which roles remain secure for now. In recognition of his writing and research, Paul has been awarded a Fellowship of the British Royal Society of Arts.

Why organisations work with Richard Gerver He has a verifiable case study that most leadership speakers do not. Grange Primary School moved from near-failure to a nationally referenced model of learning under his leadership, recognised by the National Teaching Awards in 2005. His books are read by operating audiences, not just educators. Change: Learn to Love It, Learn to Lead It and Simple Thinking are published by Penguin and Wiley/Capstone, respectively, and held shelf positions in business charts. LinkedIn Learning commissioned him to build Smart Thinking and Developing Mental Toughness for a global business audience. The courses have reached learners at scale across multiple languages. He worked closely with Sir Ken Robinson on human potential and creativity, and is cited in Robinson’s The Element. That intellectual lineage gives his leadership works a depth most motivational speakers cannot claim. He has been named UK Business Speaker of the Year on more than one occasion, including a confirmed 2011 win cited in his University of Derby honorary doctorate commendation. Biography highlights Headteacher of Grange Primary School, Derbyshire, where he developed the «Grangeton» model and led a documented institutional turnaround. National Teaching Awards Head Teacher of the Year, 2005. Honorary Doctor of Education, University of Derby, 2016. Author of Creating Tomorrow’s Schools Today (Bloomsbury Education), Change: Learn to Love It, Learn to Lead It (Penguin) and Simple Thinking (Wiley/Capstone). LinkedIn Learning instructor: Smart Thinking and Developing Mental Toughness. Foreword by Sir Ken Robinson on his first book; later cited in Robinson’s The Element. Biography Grange Primary School was on the verge of failure when Richard Gerver took it over. Within two years, the school was being studied as a national model, with a curriculum built around a pupil-run virtual town called Grangeton. The work earned him the National Teaching Awards Head Teacher of the Year in 2005 and shaped the rest of his career. He has spent the two decades since translating that experience for business audiences. Change: Learn to Love It, Learn to Lead It, published by Penguin, argues that leaders fail at change because they manage it as a project rather than a behaviour. Simple Thinking, published by Wiley/Capstone, attacks the bureaucratic clutter that senior teams build around their own decisions. Both books found shelf space in mainstream business sections, not just education. His thinking sits in the lineage of Sir Ken Robinson, who wrote the foreword to his first book and cited him in The Element. He has worked with UNESCO, the British Council, Skanska and the Welsh Government, and was commissioned by LinkedIn Learning to build two courses, Smart Thinking and Developing Mental Toughness, that have reached a global business audience. The University of Derby awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Education in 2016, citing his ability to humanise complex organisational issues through a leadership philosophy built on communication, empowerment and impact. He has been named UK Business Speaker of the Year on more than one occasion. Key speaking topics Human leadership and behaviour change Organisational transformation Resilience and mental toughness Curiosity, creativity and innovation Future skills and human potential Change management Executive development Ideal for CEOs and executive teams are asking why a recent transformation programme has stalled CHROs and L&D directors rebuilding leadership development for a fatigued workforce Senior leaders preparing a workforce for restructure, integration, or operating-model change Boards looking for an outside voice on the human side of strategic execution Audience outcomes A sharper view of why most change programmes fail at the leader’s own behaviour, not at the strategy Specific tools for stripping complexity out of decisions and communication Confidence that resilience and mental toughness can be built deliberately, with examples from sport and education A reframing of curiosity as an organisational capability, not a personal trait Renewed clarity on what senior leaders should personally commit to during a period of change

Ben Edmonds: Keynote Speaker As the founder and CEO of InnovationBen and Inventor Club, Ben Edmonds has been at the forefront of breakthrough technologies, shaping the future of business and education. Ben demystifies complex tech concepts and delivers transformative digital education. A committed advocate for tech education, Ben believes in its power to unlock potential and drive progress. Why book Ben Edmonds as your keynote speaker? Ben is inspired by the creative drive in innovation. He believes that inventive thinking holds the capacity to change industries and businesses. As a multi-patented inventor and problem solver, Ben speaks to others so that they can use their own power of innovation and creative thought at work. He brings insight, enthusiasm and expertise to the stage. His speeches are engaging and thought-provoking, filled with real-world examples that resonate with audiences. Whether he’s speaking on the importance of digital literacy, the future of work, or the role of innovation in driving economic growth, Ben’s presentations leave audiences inspired and ready to change their approach to business. In addition, Ben’s ability to break down complex topics into understandable concepts makes him a preferred speaker for organizations seeking to navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology and innovation. His keynotes not only inspire but also equip attendees with practical tools and strategies they can use to drive innovation within their own organizations. What kind of speaker is Ben Edmonds? Ben is a motivational leader and a leading voice on innovation and creative thinking. His engaging, inspirational presentations share transformative insights into the world of innovation, its power to change, and how creativity plays an integral part in realizing those changes and successes. Who does Ben Edmonds normally speak for? Ben normally speaks for organizations that are looking to harness the power of innovation and creative thinking to drive change and success. He has worked with a variety of businesses and industries, inspiring audiences to think creatively about their work in ways that will transform it. Who is Ben Edmonds’s typical audience? Ben’s typical audience consists of corporate executives, business leaders, and professionals in a wide range of industries. He speaks at company events, management retreats, team-building events, and industry conferences where he shares his insights into the world of innovation and how it could be used to change things for the better with creative thinking habits now becoming prevalent among most individuals today. Notable achievements: Multi-patented inventor Renowned voice on innovation and creative thinking Motivational leader inspiring audiences to tap into inventive thinking’s power Problem solver transforming businesses and industries with creative insights

Why book Gemma Oaten? Gemma Oaten’s inspiring story about her journey from fighting anorexia to becoming a powerful mental health advocate is truly a wonderful tale. In her accounts, she inspires because of the experiences and passion that she shares on mental health awareness raising, anorexia and bullying. Gemma says that by sharing her story people will understand how important it is to have mental wellbeing and they will know that they need to seek help if such issues arise. She feels motivated in wanting to make a difference in other people’s lives and create a world where mental health takes priority. What kind of speaker is Gemma Oaten? Gemma is a very touching and interesting speaker who keeps audiences riveted to her every word during her story of resilience and recovery. She speaks honestly, yet with vulnerability. Gemma’s talks are not only informative but empowering as well, in helping individuals take charge of their mental health and support others on their journeys. Who does Gemma Oaten normally speak for? Gemma usually speaks on behalf of organizations and events related to mental health and overall well-being. She has addressed a series of conferences, seminars, and workshops in mental health, anorexia, and bullying awareness. Gemma’s talks are very suitable for corporate executives who seek a supportive working environment for their employees. Who is Gemma Oaten’s typical audience? Gemma’s typical target group comprises corporate executives, HR professionals, and employees at different levels. She also addresses events as an honorary speaker of mental health organizations, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. Gemma’s talks regardless of their targeted audience resonate with individuals seeking knowledge about growing self-esteem or supporting others when facing life challenges. Gemma Oaten’s notable achievements: Overcame a long battle with anorexia and turned into a strong advocate for mental health. Actively promotes mental well-being, anorexia, and bullying through public speaking and media appearances. Recognized for her efforts in promoting mental well-being and creating a supportive atmosphere to help people struggling with mental health problems.

Meet Sonya Barlow Sonya Barlow is an award-winning BBC Presenter, Author, Keynote Speaker, Entrepreneur, TEDxSpeaker, Content Creator and Writer. She hosts her talk show The Sonya Barlow Show where she interviews world leaders on the stories behind their success, with high-profile names such as Princess Lamia of Saudi Arabia and Footballer Gilberto Silva. In 2022, Sonya was named a LinkedIn Top Voice for Gender Diversity and her BBC show The Everyday Hustle, was The Best Radio Show in the UK. Sonya is the CEO of the Like Minded Females (LMF) Network, an inclusion consultancy and social networking platform redesigning workplace policies and professional careers to encourage diversity and inclusion. Sonya has also written the popular book “Unprepared to Entrepreneur” and won multiple awards, including Europe’s Top 50 Women in Tech, Marie Claire’s Future Shaper, UK Entrepreneur of the Year and Asian Women of Achievement. She is one of the youngest South Asian females to have two TEDx talks, titled “Please Come Online” and “Failure Comes Before Resilience”. Sonya’s energetic and captivating personality has seen her invited to Keynote at The House of Commons on gender diversity and delivering global keynotes on business, technology and inclusion in Germany, Lithuania, Romania, Kenya, Pakistan, Amsterdam, France, the UK, Portugal and Mauritius, to name a few. Sonya’s background in technology, business and travel provides her with the unique ability to understand technical terms, share innovative solutions and advocate allyship. She has a great sense of cultural communication and is often told that her power is summarising large bits of information into notable smaller action steps that the audience can easily takeaway. She has worked with household brands such as Lloyds banking group and Capital One on their technology podcast, led campaigns for Loreal, HP, Rolls Royce, Fiverr, Logitech and Linkedin and delivered talks to high-profile stakeholders across industries such as Fintech, Technology, Finance, Hospitality, Public Sector, Higher Education, Government, Fashion, Retail and Corporate. Sonya Barlow is a neurodivergent British Pakistani woman with chronic migraines, ADHD and mental health conditions. Diversity, resilience, and neurodiversity are topics close to her heart when delivering keynotes. She is able to deliver workshops and keynotes about her own experiences of ADHD, with advice on coping mechanisms and how your neurodiversity can be an asset if channeled in the right way. Sonya has worked in the technology sector since 2015 and is currently building an app to encourage professional working women to build their networks and knowledge, whilst supporting workplaces to retain diverse talent.

About Prof Eddie Obeng Prof Eddie Obeng MBA PhD is Learning Director and CEO of Pentacle Business School, an organisation he set up in 1994 to act as a living experiment for his tools and techniques and to prove the practicality of the ‘virtual working’ he espouses. He is a professor at Henley Business School and was formerly with Hult (Ashridge) Business School, Shell, and in consulting. Eddie has a broad range of experience on which he draws. He has worked as a project manager, a ‘borrow-your-watch’ type consultant, as a tutor and a line manager. Eddie’s first board appointment was as the youngest-ever Executive Director of any business school in Europe. He has been on the board of the UK Design Council. Currently he serves as a non-executive for an investment firm. THOUGHT LEADERSHIP: Most of Eddie’s current work revolves around what he describes as our ‘New World After Midnight’. He has taken to heart the structural changes in the global economy and begun, from scratch, with creativity, insight and a clean sheet to research issues and invent solutions to the range of pressures and challenges that the New World poses to organisations and especially businesses. He works on understanding how best to create, manage and deliver successful strategies in our high paced, non-linear, digital, highly competitive world where almost all industry barriers are blurred. His tools and models show you how to lead a diverse group of distributed people to work collaboratively to their fullest potential & happiness through teams, virtual and real, and through appropriate modern organisational structures. In recent years, based on his idea that “technology should enhance & enable humans not ensnare them’, he has developed #superreality for teaching, changing culture and collaborative working in a digital workplace. His improvements in productivity have been featured on the BBC. Eddie’s approach works across industries and is effective on the most thorny & challenging issues executives and managers face. CLIENT VIEW & PUBLIC TALKS: ‘’Human Redbull’ Redbull ‘Leading revolutionary/Agent provocateur’ Financial Times ‘The Rockstar of Business Education‘ Duke Corporate Education ‘Energetic and impassioned’ Google. Eddie is well known for his ground breaking insights and tools summarised in his extremely popular TED Talks – ranked in Top 10 best by The Telegraph. He’s behind many high profile transformations & public policies including: ▪ Inspiring #change and #leadership- HSBC, Suez #SocialInclusion on QUBE for NHS ▪ #Strategic #turnaround/ #Digital TransformationSpeedy Services, Rolls Royce & Vink ▪ #Innovation bursts- Heineken, Danone ▪ Organisational #transformation at IDEO, CSEM, ▪ Increased #Leadership engagement (virtual)- NHS, Health Education England ▪ #Productivity increase-Wolters Kluwer ▪ Successful #project delivery at Telefonica, JPMorgan, GSK & Electronic Arts; ▪ #Innovation & 90% #Cost-reduction of Innovation using QUBE JDE Coffee, Novartis His framework on innovation powers all UK Government’s strategic investment decisions in innovation. PUBLICATIONS AND PRODUCTS Eddie has written 10 books on innovation, change and leadership including the Financial Times best seller All Change! The latest edition of which will be released on 23rd March 2023. He also has columns in several publications including Project Magazine. Eddie has been involved in application of digital technology for learning and transformation since 2009 with the development of QUBE. ‘QUBE created for teaching global executives is a campus filled with meeting rooms, common areas and with giant video screens and whiteboards’ Wall Street Journal ‘Future digital place to work’ The Economist (World Special Report) ‘QUBE is an innovative virtual world’ Financial Times QUBE enables easy & fast culture transformation, high-retention, fast learning and application and future-of-work hybrid working. Eddie holds a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to knowledge on how to make change happen, using his now famous, innovative PETs – Performance Enhancement Tools & People Engagement Tools Eddie is an experienced helicopter pilot Eddie originally trained as a chemical/biochemical engineer and spent 5 years in scientific research.

Why organisations work with Sandra Navidi She wrote the book on how the financial elite actually operates. SuperHubs maps the people, institutions and personal networks that move capital and policy, and gives a board a working model of where systemic risk concentrates rather than a list of headlines. She is a member of Columbia University’s Center on Capitalism and Society, founded by Nobel laureate Edmund Phelps, which gives her line of sight to academic research on capitalism, innovation and inequality alongside her practitioner work. Her second book, Future IQ, treats AI as a workforce and strategy question, not a technology demo. That makes her unusually well placed to take a board through the macro and the AI conversation in a single session. Bilingual delivery in English and German, paired with two decades of n-tv commentary, gives DACH and transatlantic audiences a speaker who works natively in both regulatory and cultural contexts. A licensed attorney in New York and Germany with prior roles in investment banking, fund counsel work and macro advisory at Roubini Global Economics. The credential stack maps directly to the rooms she is asked to speak in. Biography highlights Founder and CEO of BeyondGlobal, a New York-based strategic advisory firm. Author of SuperHubs, a Bloomberg Best Book of the Year and 2018 Axiom Business Book Awards Silver Medal winner. Author of Future IQ: Your Success Strategies in the Age of Artificial Intelligence and Die DNA der USA: Wie tickt Amerika. Member of the Center on Capitalism and Society, Columbia University. LinkedIn Top Voice (Executive Blue Badge) and long-standing n-tv (RTL) expert commentator on business and politics. Co-host of the Biz and Beyond podcast with Ulrich Reitz, interviewing senior decision-makers and international experts. Biography The 2008 financial crisis exposed something most risk frameworks had missed. The shocks did not travel through markets in the abstract; they travelled through a small, interlocking network of bankers, regulators, central bankers and policy figures who knew each other personally. SuperHubs, written with a foreword by Nouriel Roubini, is the book that mapped that network and named it. It was selected as a Bloomberg Best Book of the Year and won a Silver Medal in the 2018 Axiom Business Book Awards. Sandra Navidi spent the years before that book inside the rooms she went on to describe. She worked as an investment banker, as general counsel at Muzinich and Co., as a Deloitte consultant, and then as a director of research strategies at Roubini Global Economics, where she briefed clients on macroeconomic and geopolitical risk. She is admitted to the bar in New York and Germany, holds an LL.M. in banking, corporate and finance law from Fordham, and is a member of Columbia University’s Center on Capitalism and Society, founded by Nobel laureate Edmund Phelps. Her second book, Future IQ, takes the same network thinking into the AI conversation. It treats AI as a workforce and capital-allocation problem, not a technology demonstration, and asks how individuals, organisations and economies stay relevant when machine intelligence absorbs more of the cognitive work. It is the bridge between her macro authority and the questions boards are now being asked by their own people. Through BeyondGlobal she advises corporates, financial institutions and ultra-high-net-worth clients; through n-tv (RTL) and the Biz and Beyond podcast she keeps a working line into German and European business audiences. The result is a speaker who can move between Washington-style macro analysis, frankfurt-style risk culture and a Silicon Valley AI brief inside the same keynote, in either English or German. Key speaking topics Systemic risk and the architecture of global finance Geopolitics, sanctions and transatlantic exposure AI as a strategy and workforce question Macroeconomic volatility and capital allocation Future-proofing leadership and human capital US political and economic intelligence for European boards Ideal for Boards and executive committees of banks, asset managers and insurers CEOs, CFOs and CROs in globally exposed corporates Family offices and private wealth platforms with cross-border allocation decisions DACH and transatlantic leadership audiences requiring bilingual delivery Audience outcomes A working mental model of where systemic risk concentrates in the global financial system, named by institution and actor. A clearer read on how geopolitical fracture, sanctions and US policy shifts reach their own balance sheet. A practitioner view of AI as a capital and workforce question, not a tooling debate. A briefing on what US business and political dynamics mean for European strategy in the next cycle.