Speaker Programme
KEY
Topic:
Presenter:
In just five years, Andrew Clancy has scaled Coreus and C Squared from start-ups to award-winning property brands with £10m+ turnover and a reputation for excellence. Named one of the UK’s Best Places to Work in 2024 and 2025, Andrew’s journey is a masterclass in growth, resilience, and culture. Hear how his disruptive approach is reshaping the construction industry — and why the pursuit of excellence never stops.
Topic:
Presenter:
Join Richard Netherclift and Peter Blackler from Insignia Creative for a fast-paced, jargon-free introduction to artificial intelligence. In just 30 minutes, you’ll see state-of-the-art AI video, explore what’s new in OpenAI, Google Gemini and Midjourney. Perfect for any business looking to save time, spark ideas and promote more effectively with AI.
Topic:
Presenter:
Join us for an interactive and engaging session where Bigwave Marketing will build a brand live and in real-time, through audience input! The agency will explain how to build mission & vision into your brand, using storytelling & narrative to help drive marketing and business success. This session is perfect for businesses looking to harness the potential of purpose-driven marketing to go beyond the bottom line, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging session!
Topic:
Presenter:
Torbay is undergoing a major transformation. Join David Carter (Torbay Council) and Chris Wheeler (Willmott Dixon) as they reveal how bold regeneration projects and public–private collaboration are creating vibrant, sustainable communities across the Bay.
Topic:
Presenter:
Sean Anstee from the Combined County Authority reveals how devolved powers are unlocking opportunities in housing, skills, transport, and growth — and what it means for local businesses.
Topic:
Presenter:
There are many common mistakes that people can fall foul of when planning their marketing campaigns. No matter the size of your business, Gemma will talk through the campaign planning checklist that everyone should know and also provide insights into the different channels and media that can be utilised for best success.
Topic:
Presenter:
John Harvey, owner of The Samphire Club, knows that real business growth comes from genuine relationships. In this session, he shares his insights on creating meaningful connections, building trust, and leveraging the power of networking to open doors and drive opportunities. Expect practical tips, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on how to make networking work for you.
Topic:
Presenter:
Be part of the very first #TorbAI community meet-up. This open roundtable is your chance to help shape a new local network for businesses, organisations and individuals who want to explore AI together. We’ll discuss what would be most useful – from talks and hackathons to practical examples and training – and the best way to meet, whether online, in person, or both. Join us to share your ideas, connect with others, and help build a supportive AI users community here in Torbay.
Topic:
Presenter:
Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, shares the latest insights and opportunities shaping tourism across the Bay. Following this year’s successful TV campaign, she will highlight visitor trends, marketing activity and how local businesses can benefit from the strength of the English Riviera brand.
Topic:
Presenter:
Brendon Prince — multi world stand-up paddleboard record holder — shares his inspiring journey from breaking records to bringing international events to our shores. With the English Riviera set to host the World SUP Championships in 2026, Brendon reveals how sport, sustainability, and global exposure can boost our region’s profile and economy.
Bitesize Masterclasses
Topic:
Presenter:
Vic Williams explores how diversity, education, and empowerment can transform workplace culture and performance. Drawing on his expertise in mindset, habits, and flow mastery, Vic will share practical strategies to help leaders and teams unlock their full potential. This session will inspire you to see diversity not as a tick-box exercise, but as a catalyst for motivation, innovation, and growth.
Topic:
Presenter:
Jess Wiggins swapped a successful career as a lawyer and Deputy Head of a Manchester law firm to follow her passion: empowering purpose-driven leaders. Now a specialist in Business & Leadership Coaching, Jess helps organisations unlock growth, embrace change, and achieve lasting impact. In this inspiring session, she’ll share lessons from her journey and the tools leaders need to create stronger teams and thriving businesses.
Topic:
Presenter:
Curious about artificial intelligence but not sure where to start? Join Peter Blackler (eBusiness Director) and Richard Netherclift (Managing Director) of Insignia Creative for a practical, jargon-free introduction to AI. This interactive workshop will cover the basics of what AI is, how it’s already being used by businesses of all sizes, and the simple tools you can start using today. Perfect for anyone who wants to build confidence, explore opportunities, and understand how AI can make a real difference in your business.
Topic:
Presenter:
Award-winning entrepreneur Sam Webber founded That Crafty Stitch in 2020 with a simple mission — to make knitting and crochet accessible to beginners. In just a few years, Sam has grown the brand through beginner-friendly kits, tutorials, and patterns that inspire mindfulness and creativity, culminating in the launch of a beautiful craft store in Torquay town centre. In this session, Sam shares her journey of creativity, community-building, and growing a purpose-driven business.
Topic:
Presenter:
Grace Jolley shares practical tips and insider strategies to transform your LinkedIn presence from ordinary to outstanding. Discover how to build a powerful personal brand, create content that connects, and use LinkedIn as a tool to grow your network and unlock opportunities.
Speed Networking: Connect, Collaborate, Grow with Devon Women in Business Hosted by Devon Women in Business
Location: Forum Stage Right
Time: 11:30
Description:
Ready to expand your network at speed? Join our expert hosts Louise Jenner (The Dream Job Coach) and Maureen Townsend (Astrality Business Services) — the driving forces behind Devon Women in Business — for an energising session of fast-paced introductions and meaningful connections. With their experience in building communities and spotlighting talent, they’ll guide you through structured networking designed to spark collaborations and opportunities. Booking is highly recommended as places are limited!
Meet more people in one hour than most do in a month!
