Thursday 4 December, 2025

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Winning the Talent Race: Strategies for Building an Inclusive Workforce

In today's workplace, hiring diverse talent is just the beginning - creating an environment where they can thrive, grow, and lead is what sets companies apart. This panel session will explore actionable strategies to attract top diverse talent, foster an inclusive culture that supports retention, and implement frameworks that drive career growth and leadership development. Join us to turn diversity-driven hiring into long-term organisational success.

Sharmin Takin, Head of Legal - UK Debt Management Office, HM Treasury
Rani Wynn, General Counsel and Board Member - LiveScore Group

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

Succession Planning: How to Prepare The Next Generation of Legal Leaders?

As the legal industry continues to evolve, preparing the next generation of leaders has never been more important. This panel session will explore strategies and best practices for preparing the next generation of legal leaders, delving into the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning into leadership roles, ensuring a smooth transfer of responsibilities and knowledge. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how to build a strong pipeline of legal leaders who will guide your organisation towards success for years to come.

Sharon Evans, Chief Legal Officer - TotallyMoney
Francesca Porter, General Counsel - PolyAI
Vanessa Cowling, Head of Legal - EasyJet

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

The Power of Allyship: Can Inclusion Exist Without Active Allies?

True inclusion goes beyond policies and diversity initiatives - it requires active allyship. This session will look at what allyship looks like, the impact it has on workplace culture, and the challenges of moving from passive support to active advocacy. Join us for a discussion on the critical role of allyship in fostering inclusive workplaces.

Simon White, General Counsel EMEA APAC - IQVIA
Sharon Thomas, Director - Black Counsel Forum

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

Ethics and Whistleblowing: How Do We Balance Duty to the Court vs. Client Obligations?

This session will discuss the ethical dilemma faced by lawyers when balancing their duty to the court and meeting their obligations with clients. The conversation will address ethics and whistleblowing while exploring real-life scenarios and discussing strategies for navigating such challenging situations while maintaining integrity and upholding the rule of law.

Leah Brown, Founder and CEO - The WayFinders Group

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM | Networking Lunch

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

1:00 PM - 1:45 PM

The Impact of AI on Equality: Is Technology Truly Inclusive?

As AI reshapes our way of working, its role in diversity, equity and inclusion is both promising and problematic. While AI has the potential to eliminate bias and create fairer hiring and promotion processes, it also risks reinforcing existing inequalities if not designed and implemented thoughtfully. Join us for a discussion where expert speakers will debate on both the opportunities and challenges AI presents in fostering workplace diversity.

James Morgan, Managing Director and Co-General Counsel EMEA - MUFG

1:00 PM - 1:45 PM

Reputational Risk and Crisis Management in 2026 Amid AI-Driven Misinformation and Social Media Misuse

This session will focus on the complexity of reputational risk and crisis management in the era of social media and the rise of AI-driven misinformation. This discussion explores the challenges imposed by fake news and automated disinformation, and provides strategies that companies and leaders should adopt to safeguard their reputations.

Lara Oyesanya, Independent Non-Executive Director - Pension Bee

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

Law For All: How Social Mobility Can Break Down Barriers To Legal Access

Systematic barriers, economic disparities, and a lack of representation often prevent many from pursuing legal careers. This panel session will discuss challenges faced by underrepresented groups in entering the legal profession, and initiatives that can support their progression. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how social mobility can drive meaningful change, exploring practical solutions to break down barriers, and become better equipped to advocate for a more inclusive legal system.

Andrew Garard, Global General Counsel and Company Secretary - Pennon Group
Kate Tyers, Global Director of Legal Operations - Ricardo
Katy Hampshire, Director of Programmes - Sutton Trust

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

Mental Health and Work/Life Balance: Supporting Employees in a 24/7 World

This session will highlight the importance of mental health in the workplace and its impacts on productivity, job satisfaction, and overall company performance. Attendees will gain insights into common mental health issues faced by employees in a 24/7 work environment in which the lines between professional and personal life are increasingly blurred.

2:30 PM - 2:45 PM | Coffee Break

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM | Champagne Roundtables

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

Inclusivity in Practice

Leaders of Change: Growth, Challenges and Opportunities

3:30 PM - 4:15 PM

Age & Inclusion: What Do Different Generations Bring to the Table?

In today's diverse workplace, generational differences are often seen as a challenge. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, each generation brings unique perspectives, experiences, and skills that can enhance creativity, innovation and organisational success. This panel session will delve into the benefits and challenges of managing multigenerational teams. With panellists representing different generational groups, the discussion will focus on the unique strengths and perspectives each generation brings.

3:30 PM - 4:15 PM

Navigating Geopolitical Uncertainty: Strategies for Cross-Border Legal Teams

From shifting regulations to international trade disputes, legal professionals must find ways to collaborate across borders, manage emerging risks and ensure their organisations remain resilient in the face of uncertainty. This session will explore best practices for fostering collaboration among legal teams worldwide, mitigating risks posed by geopolitical events, and staying ahead of the curve.

Fatima Picoto, VP & Head of Legal, Growth Markets and Commercial Operations - GSK
Jessica Winter, General Counsel - Wise

4:15 PM - 5:00 PM | Plenary session: 2026 Success Formula: Your Ultimate Guide to Future-Proofing Your Legal Strategy

As the legal landscape continues to evolve rapidly, it is essential for legal professionals and firms to stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovative strategies and technologies. As we approach 2026, legal professionals must anticipate emerging challenges, technological advancements, and shifts in the regulatory environment to remain competitive and compliant. This panel session will provide attendees with actionable insights and practical advice to elevate their legal strategy and achieve long-term success.

Elisabeth Sullivan, General Counsel and Data Protection Officer - Efficio
Ehsan Haque, Head of UK Legal & Compliance - Laser Digital

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Closing Remarks & Networking Reception

Lesley Wan, Founder and CEO - The Eagle Club
Nicki Schroeder, Group General Counsel - Reach

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM | Awards Networking Reception

*Awards tickets require a separate registration, please contact awardsinfo@alm.com.

7:00 PM - 9:30 PM | Awards Ceremony

*Awards tickets require a separate registration, please contact awardsinfo@alm.com.