As my first conference in post as the Chair of the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, I am delighted to invite you to attend as we join forces to discuss the topical subject of the workforce of the future.

We will consider the configuration of workplaces and the skills of our workforces needed to transform our businesses and grow the economy. 

In my primary role as Vice Chancellor at the University of Lincoln, I am very aware of the transformative times we are living through. The changes around us bring great opportunity but also create uncertainty. It is critical that we prepare ourselves and the next generation of our workforce to thrive in this environment. 

On Tuesday 7th November, colleagues from all corners of Greater Lincolnshire will gather to celebrate our collective achievements, to offer thought-provoking discussion, and to showcase some of the very high-tech solutions already under way. This is made possible due to the fantastic Lincolnshire businesses and academics delivering world-leading innovation.

Over the last few years, we have had a consistent focus on our competitive sectors. We have promoted their advantages and facilitated investment which is starting to deliver results. Currently we are pursuing an inward investment pipeline exceeding £1bn. Understanding the opportunities in emerging sectors is critical for our economic and employment growth. As a region we have such an exciting story to tell, with cutting-edge industries in sustainable energy; advanced manufacturing; agri-food innovation; and defence. The impact storytelling session that will take place at our conference will give voice to our successes.

At the LEP Annual Conference this year, we give our businesses and partners a platform to tell our story, showcase our innovation, and debate the prominent questions, and we also welcome a national keynote speaker, Dr Paul Redmond from the University of Liverpool, as he provides a global as well as local context to the conference theme.  

Find out more about the conference and register your free place here.