LGPN NORTH 2025 AGENDA

Delivering tangible solutions for the public sector

LGPN is a unique, two-day learning and networking event which brings together the most inspirational leaders and transformational suppliers in local government to share cutting-edge insights, knowledge and experience. Our agenda is carefully curated to address the most relevant and emerging challenges in the sector.

22 - 23 May, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

Day 1
Day 2

22 May 2025

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration
8:45 am - 9:00 am

Main Room

Chair’s opening remarks

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Welcome to the Local Government Partnership Network!
9:00 am - 9:40 am

Main Room

Opening panel – Navigating the digital frontier to deliver maximum impact

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Rehana Ramesh

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service
London Borough of Hackney

Ade Bamigboye

Chief Technology Officer
Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Stephen Lugg

Chief Information Officer
Swindon Borough Council

In an era of rapid technological advancement, local authorities face unique challenges and opportunities in their digital transformation journeys. Providing the perfect ‘scene setter’ to the two days, this panel will explore critical...

In an era of rapid technological advancement, local authorities face unique challenges and opportunities in their digital transformation journeys. Providing the perfect ‘scene setter’ to the two days, this panel will explore critical considerations for digital leaders including:

– How to navigate emerging technologies and their potential impact, exploring which technologies seem most promising and strategies to effectively pilot innovative technologies to de-risk digital transformation efforts.
– Innovative approaches to tackle data and skills gaps, break down silos and encourage cross departmental collaboration, all while balancing fiscal responsibility, ensuring sustainable organisation-wide digital transformation.
– Strategies to effectively measure the impact and ROI of innovation initiatives, as well as how best to determine which services to prioritise through detailed process modelling, ensuring that limited funds are directed towards the most effective projects.
9:45 am - 10:05 am

Main Room

Smart Councils: Navigating Unitary Transitions through Digital Innovation

Content Guru is a leading provider of enterprise-grade cloud Customer Experiences (CX), and is at the forefront of the Generative AI evolution. Content Guru’s storm® platform supports mission-critical CX for the UK’s leading businesses and public sector organisations. Through brain®, AI services provide leading automated and human-assist capabilities to bolster CX performance before, during, and after an interaction.
storm brings together intelligent automation, third-party systems integration, and on-demand scalability to enhance all citizen communication functions. With true omni-channel engagement capabilities, storm gives organisations the power to create consistent and seamless experiences for citizens, inspiring loyalty and powering success.

Martin Taylor

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Content Guru

With the mass changeover to unitary and combined authorities looming on the horizon, councils face a defining moment: how to merge not just structures and cultures, but also systems and processes; and how to maintain or improve service d...

With the mass changeover to unitary and combined authorities looming on the horizon, councils face a defining moment: how to merge not just structures and cultures, but also systems and processes; and how to maintain or improve service delivery whilst transforming efficiency and productivity.
Digital and AI innovation will be critical – not just as a tool for efficiency, but as the foundation layer for Britain’s new citizen-centric, future-ready public sector. With residents expecting no diminution of service from their newly restructured council, amidst expectations shaped by our lives as consumers, the stakes have never been higher.
This session will focus on how councils can leverage the right technologies to enhance the citizen experience (CX), leveraging intelligent automation and digital platforms to personalise interactions and improve responsiveness.
Join Martin Taylor, Co-founder and Deputy CEO of leading CX technology provider Content Guru, to explore practical strategies for deploying technology to drive effective change, enhance service delivery and build a stronger, more connected local government.
10:10 am - 10:40 am

Main Room

Dragon's den - Speed presentations

Dragons’ Den – a quick-fire pitch session featuring all of our sponsors. Each supplier delivers a 60-second elevator pitch about their solution – giving you an opportunity to earmark suppliers and solutions you are most interested ...

Dragons’ Den – a quick-fire pitch session featuring all of our sponsors. Each supplier delivers a 60-second elevator pitch about their solution – giving you an opportunity to earmark suppliers and solutions you are most interested in.
10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Main Room

Case study – Revolutionising children's services with AI: North Yorkshire Council's innovative approach

Jonny Hoyle

Child Permanence and Family Reunification Development Lead
North Yorkshire Council

Mark Peterson

Head of Data & Insight
North Yorkshire Council

North Yorkshire Council is developing and implementing AI-driven solutions to enhance efficiency and decision-making in their Children and Family Services. This case study explores how the team has taken a three-pronged approach, Practic...

North Yorkshire Council is developing and implementing AI-driven solutions to enhance efficiency and decision-making in their Children and Family Services. This case study explores how the team has taken a three-pronged approach, Practice, Technology and Ethics, to innovation to aim to improve access to information, streamline processes, and ultimately provide better support for children and families. It will explore:

– How developing and implementing AI-powered tools such as a Policy Buddy can provide instant, multilingual access to policies and procedures, improving staff efficiency and compliance
– Lessons learnt from developing a comprehensive case management visualization tools that integrates various data sources, enabling social workers to quickly identify trends and make data informed decisions
– The role of AI in uncovering potential support systems for children that may have been overlooked by traditional methods whilst saving significant time for social workers and improving response times.
– The importance of and potential to collaborate with other local authorities to share development efforts and resources, focusing on specific AI functionalities to benefit the wider sector.
12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Case study – Navigating digital transformation in local government: Lessons from the frontlines of change management

Rehana Ramesh

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service
London Borough of Hackney

Digital transformation not only relies on the implementation of innovative technologies, but also upon human adaptability, ensuring that innovative digital solutions are not just implemented but genuinely embraced by staff and citizens. ...

Digital transformation not only relies on the implementation of innovative technologies, but also upon human adaptability, ensuring that innovative digital solutions are not just implemented but genuinely embraced by staff and citizens. This case study will draw upon Rehana’s extensive experience to share mistakes made and lessons learnt in her digital transformation journey, to provide valuable insights for digital leaders to prepare their organizations for the future. It will cover:

– How to navigate the key challenges that local governments face when implementing digital transformation strategies and managing organisational change
– The importance of establishing a clear vision for transformation and engaging stakeholders and citizens in the journey to ensure buy-in and create the optimal environment for change.
– Strategies for fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement and bridging the skills gap in generationally diverse workforces to support operational shifts.
12:50 pm - 1:10 pm

Main Room

The future of citizen engagement – Empowering public sector with AI agents

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is enabling public sector organisations around the world to connect with citizens in a whole new way. Salesforce for Public Sector allows you to offer digital service delivery with easy automation tools, achieve faster time to value with purpose-built solutions, and improve mission impact with data-led insights that help you improve citizen experiences and enhance trust. We lead with our core values of trust, customer success, innovation, equality, and sustainability, and we are proud to be recognized as a leader in innovation, culture and philanthropy.

Jason Daniel

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is enabling public sector organisations around the world to connect with citizens in a whole new way. Salesforce for Public Sector allows you to offer digital service delivery with easy automation tools, achieve faster time to value with purpose-built solutions, and improve mission impact with data-led insights that help you improve citizen experiences and enhance trust. We lead with our core values of trust, customer success, innovation, equality, and sustainability, and we are proud to be recognized as a leader in innovation, culture and philanthropy.

Amanda Cwietkow

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is enabling public sector organisations around the world to connect with citizens in a whole new way. Salesforce for Public Sector allows you to offer digital service delivery with easy automation tools, achieve faster time to value with purpose-built solutions, and improve mission impact with data-led insights that help you improve citizen experiences and enhance trust. We lead with our core values of trust, customer success, innovation, equality, and sustainability, and we are proud to be recognized as a leader in innovation, culture and philanthropy.

Jay Dudley

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

With limited resources and increasing demands, public sector organisations must find ways to do more with less. This session explores how AI-powered agents and automation can help modernise service delivery, increase efficiency, and alle...

With limited resources and increasing demands, public sector organisations must find ways to do more with less. This session explores how AI-powered agents and automation can help modernise service delivery, increase efficiency, and alleviate the strain on stretched teams. Learn how Salesforce’s compliance-enabled cloud solutions unify data, streamline processes, and empower government services to innovate faster with low-code application development. Discover how these technologies can enhance citizen engagement, improve responsiveness, and drive the future of digital government transformation.
1:15 pm - 1:35 pm

Main Room

Unlocking the path to digital transformation in local government.

Juniper’s AI-Native Networking Platform delivers true AIOps with unparalleled assurance in a common cloud, end-to-end across the network. This means customers can streamline ongoing management challenges while assuring every connection is reliable, measurable and secure, or build highly performant and adaptive network infrastructures optimized for the connectivity, volume and speed that mission-critical AI workloads require. Juniper is pleased to work in partnership with Roc Technologies, an Elite Juniper partner that delivers, transformational IT services to public and private sector organisations across the UK. The Roc portfolio combines highly secure critical infrastructure solutions with emerging technologies, all supported by end-to-end managed services and a 24/7/365 MSOC. With some of the most rigorous security accreditations in the UK, Roc has supported the largest and most complex organisations, with the most sensitive data, for over a decade.

Chelsea Chamberlin

CTO
Roc Technologies

Roc Technologies and Juniper Networks delve into the pressing challenges facing UK Local Government, including ageing and complex IT infrastructure, increasing cybersecurity threats, and growing environmental responsibilities. The presentation also addresses the difficulty of adopting new technologies effectively within tight budgets and regulatory constraints. By showcasing innovative, scalable solutions and real-world insights, Roc and Juniper demonstrate how local authorities can modernise services, enhance resilience, and drive sustainable digital transformation to better serve communities across the UK.

George McGowan

Public Sector Account Lead
Juniper Networks

Roc Technologies and Juniper Networks delve into the pressing challenges facing UK Local Government, including ageing and complex IT infrastructure, increasing cybersecurity threats, and growing environmental responsibilities. The presen...

Roc Technologies and Juniper Networks delve into the pressing challenges facing UK Local Government, including ageing and complex IT infrastructure, increasing cybersecurity threats, and growing environmental responsibilities. The presentation also addresses the difficulty of adopting new technologies effectively within tight budgets and regulatory constraints. By showcasing innovative, scalable solutions and real-world insights, Roc and Juniper demonstrate how local authorities can modernise services, enhance resilience, and drive sustainable digital transformation to better serve communities across the UK.
1:35 pm - 2:15 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.
2:20 pm - 3:00 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – Bridging the digital skills divide: Empowering local authority workforces

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Stephen Lugg

Chief Information Officer
Swindon Borough Council

Trudy Ward

Digital and Data Talent Development Lead
Cornwall Council

Joanne Cumper

Talent Acquisition and Executive Search in Local Government

Opama Khan

Acting Director Technology & Workplace
London Borough of Hackney

With digital transformation front of mind for many local authorities, many still face the challenge of upskilling their workforce to meet the demands of their new technologies. This panel discussion will explore strategies for developing...

With digital transformation front of mind for many local authorities, many still face the challenge of upskilling their workforce to meet the demands of their new technologies. This panel discussion will explore strategies for developing digital competencies across all levels of local government, from frontline staff to leadership, to enhance digital service delivery. It will cover:

– The importance of implementing cross-departmental digital champions programs to foster a culture of continuous learning and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing
– How to implement tailored learning strategies to address diverse skill levels across generationally diverse workforces.
– How to attract, recruit, onboard and retain digital talent in local governments by diversifying recruitment channels, tapping into new talent pools and fostering a culture of innovation internally.
3:05 pm - 3:25 pm

Main Room

Bringing IT home - Bridging the digital divide with ChromeOS

Getech has been a trusted technology partner for education, private and public sector organisations across the UK and Ireland since 1989. We recognise that IT is not merely a technical function, but a critical enabler for productivity, innovation and overall business success. Adept at navigating the complexities of any deployment, we ensure that IT investments deliver tangible value and empower every user to achieve their objectives effectively and efficiently. Our commitment is to provide solutions that are not just functional, but truly transformative, driving user satisfaction and contributing directly to the strategic goals of your organisation.

Richard Maclean

Managing Director
Getech

Public sector and charity initiatives are doing their best to address digital inclusion in our communities through device donations, but a lack of comprehensive data on device use, distribution and outcomes is a crucial challenge for org...

Public sector and charity initiatives are doing their best to address digital inclusion in our communities through device donations, but a lack of comprehensive data on device use, distribution and outcomes is a crucial challenge for organisations. Hear how ChromeOS addresses both the demand for device donation and the level of data required to prove the impact of your next initiative.
3:30 pm - 4:45 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
4:50 pm - 5:30 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – Navigating the transition to unitary councils from a digital perspective

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Jason Higgs

Head of ICT
South Hams District Council & West Devon Borough Council

Glynn Barton

Chief Operations Officer
BCP Council

David Ogden

Director of Engagement
SOCITM

Lisa Trickey

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

The UK local government landscape is undergoing significant changes with the move towards unitary councils. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities for digital leaders in local government, particularly in terms of soft...

The UK local government landscape is undergoing significant changes with the move towards unitary councils. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities for digital leaders in local government, particularly in terms of software integration and data management. This panel will explore:

– Strategies for seamless software integration, including assessing existing software across merging councils to identify overlaps and gaps and prioritising systems that can scale and adapt to the larger, unified structure
– How to effectively implement data sharing protocols between previously separate entities and derive meaningful insights from combined datasets
– opportunities for shared digital services across the new unitary council and actionable insights to implement systems that facilitate inter-departmental collaboration and data sharing
– The importance of maintaining staff morale through a clear vision and objectives, allocating tasks to the appropriate team members based on skill set.
5:30 pm - 5:50 pm

Main Room

Closing presentation – Redefining localism in the digital era: Centralising digital infrastructure and eliminating duplication for enhanced efficiency

Mark Thompson

Professor in Digital Economy
University of Exeter

Digital transformation is front of mind for the 317 local authorities in England, each working on their own projects to push towards a digitally enabled future. This presentation argues that local governments could learn a lot from the p...

Digital transformation is front of mind for the 317 local authorities in England, each working on their own projects to push towards a digitally enabled future. This presentation argues that local governments could learn a lot from the private sector, many of whom focus on delivering hyper-local services, not through each local division having its own supporting network of back-end services and suppliers, but rather radical standardisation across the whole for maximum efficiency. It will cover:

– The potential of eliminating redundant administrative layers across local government entities, adopting a centralised and standardised approach for back-end operations, similar to efficient private sector models.
– A modern interpretation of localism that balances efficiency with local needs, illustrating that sharing data and resources at the back-end can enhance locally tailored frontline services
– The possibility of initiatives like a Public Service Reform Bill to enable large-scale digital transformation, whilst redirecting billions in potential savings towards frontline public services
5:50 pm - 7:30 pm

Main Room

Hotel check-in/ free time
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Main Room

Drinks reception & networking dinner

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served i...

Networking sessions – throughout the event we host a networking lunch as well as a dinner and drinks reception to give you ample opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers over the learnings from the event. Dinner is served in formal-style seating to a set menu. Our delegate team will speak to you to ensure we cater for any specific dietary requirements.
12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Breakout Room 1

The importance of training initiative and skills frameworks in addressing the digital skills gap in local government

Lisa Trickey

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

Welna Bowden

Workforce Planning Lead
Local Government Association

The Importance of Training Initiative and Skills Frameworks in Addressing the Digital Skills Gap in Local Government
Lisa Trickey, Digital Advisor, Local Government Association

With digital transformation front of mind, addr...

The Importance of Training Initiative and Skills Frameworks in Addressing the Digital Skills Gap in Local Government
Lisa Trickey, Digital Advisor, Local Government Association

With digital transformation front of mind, addressing the digital skills gap in local government is a pressing issue that continues to challenge the sector’s ability to effectively implement and leverage digital technologies. The Local Government Association (LGA) has developed several initiatives to address the skills gap in local government. This presentation will focus on the key ways leaders bridge the skills gap and support workforce development. It will cover:

– Strategies to assess current skills gaps within your organisation, conducting a thorough assessment of your council’s current situation.
– How to leverage the LGA’s skills hubs programme and Leadership Academy to address identified skill shortages and leadership development needs.
1:15 pm - 1:35 pm

Breakout Room 1

AI meets the borough - Bot to the future: smarter conversations with citizens

Maintel Plc (“Maintel”) is a leading provider of cloud, networking, and security managed communications services to the UK public and private sectors. Maintel focuses on helping organizations operate at the highest level by designing, implementing, innovating, and managing vital digital communication solutions across three strategic pillars:
• Unified Communications and Collaboration: Enhancing team effectiveness and collaboration through advanced Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) technologies.
• Customer Experience: Supporting customer acquisition, satisfaction, and retention using Contact Centre as a Service (CCaaS) solutions.
• Security & Connectivity: Delivering secure connectivity solutions and protecting businesses from cyber threats with Software Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), Security Service Edge (SSE), and Cyber Managed Services.

Grant Counsell

Client Acquisition Director
Maintel

A dive into how AI technology can help Councils to do more with less, deliver better service to citizens, create efficiencies and reduce costs. Addressing some of the common challenges for implementing AI for users and contact centres. A...

A dive into how AI technology can help Councils to do more with less, deliver better service to citizens, create efficiencies and reduce costs. Addressing some of the common challenges for implementing AI for users and contact centres. A look at some of the products and integrations available. Offer for attendees to engage with an expert to understand the value AI could deliver to their organisation.
3:05 pm - 3:25 pm

Breakout Room 1

Empowering local governments: revolutionising citizen engagement with Mitel’s communication solutions

Mitel is a global market leader in business communications. Founded over 50 years ago, we help public sector organisations connect, collaborate and provide innovative services. Our innovation and communications experts serve business users in more than 100 countries.

Mitel understands the unique challenges of the need to reduce complexity and integrate disparate communications, even when facing increased demand and scrutiny from citizens to do more with less. You can be reliable, compliant, and secure while improving the service to your citizens with the increased productivity that Mitel Government Solutions deliver

Nick Hanna

Head of Local & Central Government
Mitel

Mitel is a global market leader in business communications. Founded over 50 years ago, we help public sector organisations connect, collaborate and provide innovative services. Our innovation and communications experts serve business users in more than 100 countries.

Mitel understands the unique challenges of the need to reduce complexity and integrate disparate communications, even when facing increased demand and scrutiny from citizens to do more with less. You can be reliable, compliant, and secure while improving the service to your citizens with the increased productivity that Mitel Government Solutions deliver

Jack Preece

Sales Engineer
Mitel

As local governments face growing expectations for transparency, responsiveness, and service quality, modernizing communication is essential.
Discover how Mitel’s Common Communications Framework enables local government organisat...

As local governments face growing expectations for transparency, responsiveness, and service quality, modernizing communication is essential.
Discover how Mitel’s Common Communications Framework enables local government organisations to deliver seamless, secure, and citizen-first digital engagement.
From everyday inquiries to emergency alerts, explore real-world use cases demonstrating how integrated, omnichannel communication transforms the way governments connect with their communities—enhancing trust, efficiency, and public satisfaction.
1:15 pm - 1:35 pm

Breakout Room 2

Rethinking data security with a threat-centric focus

Quorum Cyber is on a mission to help good people win. Founded in Edinburgh in 2016, we’ve become one of the fastest-growing cyber security companies, protecting over 400 customers across four continents. We deliver tailored, threat-led cyber security services that empower local government organisations to stay ahead of attackers, align security with strategic goals, and thrive in an unpredictable digital world.

As a Microsoft Solutions Partner for Security, our expertise runs as deep as our commitment to better cyber security outcomes. We are building a future where security and efficiency go hand in hand, allowing authorities to concentrate on what truly matters – transformative work that benefits the community

Ryan Standbridge

Senior Incident Responder
Quorum Cyber

Many cyber security strategies don’t start with the threat facing the organisation. Adopting valuable lessons from operational technology, a threat-led strategy can offer improved outcomes and a better return on investment for all stak...

Many cyber security strategies don’t start with the threat facing the organisation. Adopting valuable lessons from operational technology, a threat-led strategy can offer improved outcomes and a better return on investment for all stakeholders. In this presentation, we will examine the current threat landscape and share real-world examples to safeguard your data and produce better results while keeping within budget.

23 May 2025

8:45 am - 8:50 am

Main Room

Chair's opening remarks

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Welcome to Day 2 of the Local Government Partnership Network.
8:50 am - 9:30 am

Main Room

Panel discussion – Digital inclusion as the cornerstone of effective and equitable digital transformation

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Penny Syddall

Program manager
Dorset Council

Grace Perks

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

Chris Wanley

Director of ICT & Customer Services
Manchester City Council

As public services increasingly move online, creating equitable access becomes essential to prevent marginalizing vulnerable populations. Digital inclusion is a critical foundation for local government digital transformation, ensuring th...

As public services increasingly move online, creating equitable access becomes essential to prevent marginalizing vulnerable populations. Digital inclusion is a critical foundation for local government digital transformation, ensuring that technological advancements serve all community members, regardless of their current digital capabilities. This panel will explore:

– The importance of balancing digital-first approaches with traditional service delivery
– How to effectively embed digital inclusion principles into digital transformation efforts up front, ensuring accessibility for both customers and staff
– Techniques for maximising social value opportunities within new and existing technology contracts to support digital inclusion initiatives without the need for additional budget
– Methods for empowering local organisations to become digital champions through training programs and partnerships, extending your reach beyond limited internal resources
– Assessing the real-world impact of digital inclusion efforts by understanding individual motivators for digital engagement, from education to accessing essential services
– How to effectively engage politicians as advocates for digital inclusion initiatives
9:30 am - 9:50 am

Main Room

Navigating the transition: Lessons from BCP Councils unitary authority journey

Access PaySuite: Smarter payments for local authorities
Access PaySuite works with local authorities to make payments simpler, faster and more efficient. Our secure, FCA-regulated solutions help reduce arrears, improve cash flow and offer residents flexible, accessible ways to pay. Designed to cut down admin and streamline internal processes, our technology frees up teams to focus on frontline services. With deep experience across the public sector and over 5,000 organisations supported, we understand the pressures councils face. That’s why we deliver practical, scalable solutions that ease day-to-day operations and help you better serve your communities – now and into the future.

Doug James

Senior Financial Mngmt Syst Officer
Access Paysuite

Access PaySuite: Smarter payments for local authorities
Access PaySuite works with local authorities to make payments simpler, faster and more efficient. Our secure, FCA-regulated solutions help reduce arrears, improve cash flow and offer residents flexible, accessible ways to pay. Designed to cut down admin and streamline internal processes, our technology frees up teams to focus on frontline services. With deep experience across the public sector and over 5,000 organisations supported, we understand the pressures councils face. That’s why we deliver practical, scalable solutions that ease day-to-day operations and help you better serve your communities – now and into the future.

Wayne Campbell

Head of Solutions Consultancy
Access Paysuite

The transition from multiple councils to a single unitary authority is a complex process that presents both challenges and opportunities. In this fireside chat, Doug James from BCP Council will share first-hand insights into how Bournemo...

The transition from multiple councils to a single unitary authority is a complex process that presents both challenges and opportunities. In this fireside chat, Doug James from BCP Council will share first-hand insights into how Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole successfully navigated this transformation. Key discussion points will include the operational, financial, and technological hurdles faced during the transition, and how Access PaySuite played a role in streamlining payments and financial processes. Attendees will gain valuable takeaways on best practices and strategies for their own unitary authority considerations.
9:55 am - 10:15 am

Main Room

Case study – Digital inclusion on a shoestring: Bradford's community-centric approach

Sharon Sanders

Head of Service - Digital Inclusion Programme
Bradford Council

With only one digital inclusion officer, Bradford empowers local organizations to become digital champions to amplify their impact despite budgetary constraints. This presentation will explore lessons learnt from the development of their...

With only one digital inclusion officer, Bradford empowers local organizations to become digital champions to amplify their impact despite budgetary constraints. This presentation will explore lessons learnt from the development of their digital inclusion programme over the past 4 years and share actionable insights to effectively leverage digital inclusion. It will cover:
– How to identify and engage with community organisations that can act as digital champions, leveraging their existing networks to expand digital access and support.
– Techniques for embedding social value into technology contracts, ensuring that digital inclusion efforts are prioritised and supported through service agreements with providers.
– The importance of training community members to become digital facilitators and how to develop and sustain programs that empower individuals to assist others in navigating digital tools and resources.
– How to best assess the effectiveness of digital inclusion initiatives by identifying specific community needs and measuring outcomes based on residents’ motivations for engaging with technology.
10:20 am - 11:20 am

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

15 minute meetings with suppliers who are offering solutions most relevant to your challenges. Please check the schedule on the back of your delegate pass for your meeting timings.
11:25 am - 11:45 am

Main Room

Closing presentation – Navigating the future: Central government's role in local digital transformation

Mike Potter

former UK Government Chief Digital Officer

In an era of devolution and digital transformation, local governments face unique challenges and opportunities. Amidst reduction in funding and pressure on services, digitisation and the adoption and use of technology is going to be a ke...

In an era of devolution and digital transformation, local governments face unique challenges and opportunities. Amidst reduction in funding and pressure on services, digitisation and the adoption and use of technology is going to be a key lever in meeting the needs of residents. This presentation will act as a conclusion to the 2 days, summing up the key themes discussed throughout the event, exploring the evolving relationship between central and local government and offering practical insights grounded in reality. It will explore:

– The necessity for increased standardisation across local authorities to reduce costs and improve service delivery and the potential for new centralised common technology platforms to support and accelerate digital transformation and integration of public services
– Practical advice on creating “success by design” in digital transformation projects, drawing from both successful implementations and lessons learned from failures
– The things that you can do as a leader to make a real difference to your chances of success in digital transformation
11:45 pm - 11:50 am

Main Room

Chair's closing remarks
11:55 am - 12:40 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

An opportunity to connect with your peers and suppliers to talk over the learnings from the event. Lunch is served buffet style and a range of options are available to cater for different dietary requirements.
9:55 am - 10:15 am

Breakout Room 1

Case study – Fortifying local government: A comprehensive approach to cyber security

Roger Brown

Strategic Manager for ICT and Digital Services
Isle of Wight Council

Cyber security is a growing priority for digital leaders with local governments facing a significant and increasing number of targeted cyber threats. As local governments increasingly rely on SaaS services and third-party providers, they...

Cyber security is a growing priority for digital leaders with local governments facing a significant and increasing number of targeted cyber threats. As local governments increasingly rely on SaaS services and third-party providers, they also become vulnerable to supply chain security attacks. With experience in managing over 620,000 attacks in a single year, the Isle of Wight is the perfect case study to offer practical strategies. This case study will cover:
– How to develop a proactive cyber incident response plan, ensuring you have effective systems and policies in place to manage and mitigate against risk.
– The importance of assessing vulnerabilities in SaaS services and third-party providers to ensure your partners are effectively protecting your information and systems.
– Strategies to foster a strong cyber security culture, involving leadership at all levels of cyber security initiatives and continuously improving and enhancing internal training, processes and practices.
– How to implement cost-effective solutions tailored to your organisation’s needs, balancing the need for investment with risk mitigation in a cost effective way.
9:55 am - 10:15 am

Breakout Room 2

Case study – Breaking down data silos: Unlocking cross-departmental access to information and insights

Ross McKelvie

Head of ICT and Digital
Fylde Council

Local governments often struggle with siloed data across various departments, hindering efficient operations and decision-making. This case study explores strategies to consolidate data, improve accessibility, and extract valuable insigh...

Local governments often struggle with siloed data across various departments, hindering efficient operations and decision-making. This case study explores strategies to consolidate data, improve accessibility, and extract valuable insights across council services using lessons learnt from Flyde Council’s approach. It will cover:

– The benefits and challenges of data migration and centralising data for cross-departmental access including the importance of breaking down data silos, managing technological change, and addressing cybersecurity challenges in local government.
– Strategies for archiving and secure destruction of unnecessary data, ensuring compliance with statutory retention periods and FOI requirements
– Effective communication strategies for stakeholder buy-in and the importance of ongoing training and support for new systems to ensure user adoption

Day 1
Day 2

LGPN NORTH 2025 AGENDA

Delivering tangible solutions for the public sector

LGPN NORTH 2025 AGENDA

22 - 23 May, Hilton Deansgate, Manchester

22 May 2025

8:00 am - 8:45 am

Main Room

Registration

8:45 am - 9:00 am

Main Room

Chair’s opening remarks

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital Walsall Council and President SOCITM

9:00 am - 9:40 am

Main Room

Opening panel – Navigating the digital frontier to deliver maximum impact

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Rehana Ramesh

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service London Borough of Hackney

Ade Bamigboye

Chief Technology Officer Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Stephen Lugg

Chief Information Officer Swindon Borough Council

9:45 am - 10:05 am

Main Room

Smart Councils: Navigating Unitary Transitions through Digital Innovation

Martin Taylor

Deputy Chief Executive Officer Content Guru

10:10 am - 10:40 am

Main Room

Dragon's den - Speed presentations

10:45 am - 12:00 pm

Main Room

Networking and business meetings

12:05 pm - 12:25 pm

Main Room

Case study – Revolutionising children's services with AI: North Yorkshire Council's innovative approach

Jonny Hoyle

Child Permanence and Family Reunification Development Lead North Yorkshire Council

Mark Peterson

Head of Data & Insight North Yorkshire Council

12:30 pm - 12:50 pm

Main Room

Case study – Navigating digital transformation in local government: Lessons from the frontlines of change management

Rehana Ramesh

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service London Borough of Hackney

12:50 pm - 1:10 pm

Main Room

The future of citizen engagement – Empowering public sector with AI agents

Jason Daniel

Regional Lead: Local Government Salesforce

Amanda Cwietkow

Regional Lead: Local Government Salesforce

Jay Dudley

Regional Lead: Local Government Salesforce

1:15 pm - 1:35 pm

Main Room

Unlocking the path to digital transformation in local government.

Chelsea Chamberlin

CTO Roc Technologies

George McGowan

Public Sector Account Lead Juniper Networks

1:35 pm - 2:15 pm

Main Room

Networking lunch

2:20 pm - 3:00 pm

Main Room

Panel discussion – Bridging the digital skills divide: Empowering local authority workforces

Carol Williams

Director of Transformation and Digital Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Stephen Lugg

Chief Information Officer Swindon Borough Council

Trudy Ward

Digital and Data Talent Development Lead Cornwall Council

Joanne Cumper

Talent Acquisition and Executive Search in Local Government

Opama Khan

Acting Director Technology & Workplace London Borough of Hackney

3:05 pm - 3:25 pm

Main Room

Bringing IT home - Bridging the digital divide with ChromeOS

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service
London Borough of Hackney

Chief Technology Officer
Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Chief Information Officer
Swindon Borough Council

Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Content Guru

Child Permanence and Family Reunification Development Lead
North Yorkshire Council

Head of Data & Insight
North Yorkshire Council

Director - ICT, Digital and Customer Service
London Borough of Hackney

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

Regional Lead: Local Government
Salesforce

CTO
Roc Technologies

Public Sector Account Lead
Juniper Networks

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Chief Information Officer
Swindon Borough Council

Digital and Data Talent Development Lead
Cornwall Council

Acting Director Technology & Workplace
London Borough of Hackney

Managing Director
Getech

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Head of ICT
South Hams District Council & West Devon Borough Council

Chief Operations Officer
BCP Council

Director of Engagement
SOCITM

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

Professor in Digital Economy
University of Exeter

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

Workforce Planning Lead
Local Government Association

Client Acquisition Director
Maintel

Head of Local & Central Government
Mitel

Sales Engineer
Mitel

Senior Incident Responder
Quorum Cyber

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Director of Transformation and Digital
Walsall Council and President SOCITM

Program manager
Dorset Council

Digital Advisor
Local Government Association

Director of ICT & Customer Services
Manchester City Council