Speakers Driving Progress Across the North and Beyond Take a look at the speakers confirmed for the 2026 Northern forum. Experienced leaders and fresh thinkers that will share practical insights and strategic foresight.

• Tom Stannard Chief Executive Manchester City Council
• Kate Josephs CB Chief Executive Sheffield City Council
• Kath O’Dwyer Chair Solace
• Jonathan Werran Chief Executive Localis
• Ed Whiting Chief Executive Leeds City Council
• Akash Paun Programme Director for Devolution Institute for Government
• Iain Murray Director of Public Financial Management CIPFA