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.”