Agenda
| Timings | Session | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8am | Exhibition and Breakfast | Join us at 8am for breakfast, networking and a chance to meet our exhibitors - be the first to feel the Autumn Conference energy! |
| 9am | Welcome | |
| 9.10am | Holidays, High Growth and High Stakes | Simon Cooper, founder of On the Beach, will share his journey from student ski trips to building a £1.5bn holiday giant. A true serial entrepreneur, Simon has founded, scaled, sold and invested in high-growth ventures from online travel to beauty tech. Expect sharp insights on disruption, resilience and what it really takes to turn bold ideas into market leaders. Don’t miss this inspiring session. |
| 10am | One to Watch | Alex and Ross, founders of Tiba Tempeh and winners of the 2025 Entrepreneurial Awards One to Watch Award, are on a mission to change the way the world eats. They’ll share their journey from startup to international success – and the bold lessons on purpose, pace and innovation that every ambitious founder can learn from. |
| 10.15am | Morning Break | |
| 10.45am | Culture in Action | Culture isn’t a statement painted on the walls; it’s what people feel when they walk through the door. Mark Shayler explores how culture drives performance, attracts and retains talent, and creates conditions for creative bravery. Practical exercises included. |
| 11.45am | Breakout Sessions |
Gift Wrapping with Forbes Furnishings
Foyer Get creative with Aoife Forbes of Forbes Furnishings in this hands-on session. Learn clever, sustainable wrapping techniques (no tape needed!) and gain fresh ideas for presentation and packaging. Rock Choir with Dr. Mark Deeks
Gateshead Suite Mark Deeks returns with an electrifying rock choir session! Sing loud, have fun, and discover how music can boost wellbeing, confidence and connection – no experience needed. From Hype to High-Performance AI Workshop with Mark Renney
Business Centre (Room 1) Join Mark Renney from Wubbleyou for an eye-opening session on AI in action. Explore real-world examples to spot where AI can make the biggest impact (and where it’s best left alone); which parts of your industry are most at risk of being commoditised; and how to turn AI from an experiment into a powerful, practical tool for success. Dragon’s Den: LIVE
Business Centre (Room 2) Two ambitious entrepreneurs will pitch their ideas to a panel of dragons - James Robson MBE (Micropore), Kari Owers (O.agency), and Rebecca Roberts (Unity Angels) - sharing their vision, strategy, and growth plans. Gain a clear insight into the investor pitch process and the types of questions you might face. NetWalking
Quayside Step out for a relaxed one-mile stroll along the Quayside. Enjoy informal networking with fellow entrepreneurs while taking in the sights and fresh Autumn air. |
| 12.35pm | Lunch | If you or your guests have dietary or other special requirements, please inform Emma on 0191 500 7789 or emmam@entrepreneursforum.net before 12noon on Wednesday 5th November. |
| 1.25pm | Welcome Back | |
| 1.45pm | North East Legends | Brigitte Keatings and Nadia Johnson, fifth-generation leaders of Ringtons, are carrying forward one of the North East’s most cherished family brands. They’ll share their story of legacy, leadership and how they’re shaping Ringtons’ future with purpose, pride and a fresh vision for the generations to come. |
| 2pm | Making Business Child’s Play | Joanna Jensen, founder of Childs Farm, turned a personal challenge into the UK’s number one children’s personal care brand. From kitchen-table formulas to a £36.8m sale to PZ Cussons, Joanna’s journey is one of resilience, risk and remarkable growth. She’ll share her no-nonsense lessons on entrepreneurship, perseverance and building a purpose-driven brand. |
| 2.55pm | Wrap Up | |
| 3pm | Drinks Reception |
