The Future is Now: Tech Driving UK Industry

Arrival and registration 

Networking lunch  

Research showcase and demonstrations 

Explore interactive demos and research posters featuring live examples of emerging tech in action. A chance to speak directly with researchers, see practical applications, and network with fellow attendees in a relaxed setting. 

Panel session 1: Responsible Computing - Restoring Trust and Addressing Societal Issues 

Chair: Rashik Parmar, CEO, BCS – The Chartered Institute for IT 

Panelists: 

• Petrena Prince – Global Sustainability Program Manager & EMEA Environmental Manager, IBM Global Real Estate 
• Alastair Irons – Former Deputy Vice Chancellor, Abertay University 

Overview: 
In a time where digital systems influence every aspect of our lives, trust in technology is under pressure. From ethical concerns and project failures to environmental impact, the tech sector is facing growing scrutiny. 

This panel explores how Responsible Computing - the practice of embedding ethics, dependability, and sustainability into the heart of tech design and deployment - can help rebuild that trust. Learn how aligning IT practices with societal values is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic advantage for organisations looking to build more resilient, transparent, and socially impactful technology solutions. 

Why attend:
Gain insight into how Responsible Computing can help your organisation mitigate risk, build public trust, and deliver technology that truly serves people and the planet. 

Keynote 1: Robotics in the Real World - Smarter Automation Through Intelligent Manipulation

Professor Mehmet Dogar, School of Computing, University of Leeds 

Overview: 
Robotics is no longer limited to labs and sci-fi fantasies. In this keynote, Professor Dogar will showcase cutting-edge research in robotic manipulation - the control of robotic arms and hands to interact with physical objects - and its growing role in warehouse automation, manufacturing, and beyond. 

Why attend: 
Discover how the latest breakthroughs in robotics can streamline operations, reduce costs, and transform complex manual tasks into efficient, scalable automated processes.

Keynote 2: The Untapped Potential of AI in Financial and Professional Services

Dr Nabi Omidvar, University of Leeds

Overview:
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the finance industry, from credit scoring and fraud detection to algorithmic trading and investment modelling. While recent breakthroughs in generative AI and large language models have captured the spotlight, the underlying advances in AI offer far more than just conversational tools. In this presentation, Dr Omidvar will explore how these technologies are opening up new frontiers in financial and professional services.
 
Why attend:
Hear how AI is powering a new era of intelligent financial services - and learn how these techniques can be applied to improve forecasting, and operational efficiency in your own organisation.

Panel session 2: Smarter Supply Chains — Data-Driven, Sustainable, and Resilient 

Chair: Professor Chee Yew Wong, Leeds University Business School 

Panelists: TBC 

Overview:
Today’s global supply chains are more connected - and more volatile - than ever before. This panel will explore how firms can use AI, data analytics, and intelligent forecasting to build more sustainable, efficient and responsive supply networks.

With real-world insight from the medical device sector and beyond, we’ll look at how businesses are applying advanced digital tools to improve inventory management, enhance forecast accuracy, and meet the demands of an uncertain world. 

Why attend: 
Learn how to harness emerging technologies to future-proof your supply chain, boost efficiency, and reduce environmental impact - without sacrificing performance.