2024 Speakers

Ellis Watson

In a varied executive career Ellis Watson has turned-around, rebranded, overhauled, reinvigorated, and expanded global businesses from entertainment to transport - leading businesses through change and disruption.

With a career spanning several decades, Ellis is known for revitalising businesses across the industries - from entertainment to transport. Previous roles included Marketing Director at The Sun, CEO of Celador International and MD of Mirror Group Newspapers where he consistently drove growth and innovation, working to transform the organisations and make them fit for the future.

As board member of First Group he turned around the major brand Greyhound and as CEO of Simon Cowell’s Syco Corporation, he propelled The X Factor to international success.

Such is Ellis’ success in business, he was invited to take on the advisory role of Chief Business Advisor to the First Minister of Scotland.

As a speaker, we are sure that Ellis’ business acumen, coupled with his enthusiasm, frankness and humour will be a big hit with the conference delegates. Experienced in leading business through external shocks and cultural shifts, Ellis will be sharing his valuable insights in how to navigate digital disruptions, inspire passion under pressure and foster authentic company cultures.

Jim Buttar

Jim Buttar, Head Groundsman at the RFU (Twickenham) holds over 25 years of experience of hands-on management in the sports turf industry.

From an apprentice in a private school, to leading up the team at Twickenham stadium.

He has successfully delivered surfaces for several leagues and competitions globally, including the Gallagher Premiership, Six Nations, Autumn internationals, English Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Europa League, European Cup qualifiers and the African Nations Cup.

Through his passionate approach, leading by example, and with his management, Jim knows what it takes to produce a world-class surface and what is needed from suppliers to achieve this.

Andrew Ward MBE

Andrew Ward is a prominent face in UK agriculture, farming 650ha of arable land in Lincolnshire. 

Andrew grows a diverse range of crops including the UK’s only commercial crop of capulet beans for baked beans.

A strong advocate for sustainable farming, Andrew specializes in soil management and crop care.

Receiving an MBE in 2014 for his services to agriculture, when not active on the farm, he is also the founder and chairman of Forage Aid, a representative on NFU National Council and he works hard to educate schools and the public through his social media work.

An Agrii iFarm, McDonald’s Flagship Farm, and two-time venue for Cereals Event, Andrew is well versed in the elements needed to ensure business growth – both in the ground and the support network.

Karl McDermott

As Head Groundsman, at Lord’s Cricket Ground, Karl McDermott is no stranger to the world of groundcare.

An award-winning groundsman with exceptional turf knowledge, Karl has been in the industry for several decades having worked his way up from club level to be the manager of the leading cricket ground in the country.

Beginning his career in 1991 at Clontarf Cricket club, within 6 years he became head groundsman. Having experience of grounds overseas, Karl has an in-depth knowledge of turf management and the techniques and resources necessary to achieve perfection on the pitch.

Neil Wilkins

Neil Wilkins is a thought leader and strategist with over 35 years of experience at the intersection of business, marketing, and digital transformation.

As the host of The Neil Wilkins Podcast, he shares insights on key topics such as AI in business, metaverse marketing, sustainability, and mindful living, helping individuals and organisations navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Neil has become a respected voice in AI-driven business strategies, offering a unique blend of technological foresight and human-centric leadership.

His expertise lies in leveraging AI to enhance decision-making, optimise customer experience, and drive business growth while staying true to ethical and sustainable practices.

Neil’s approach blends innovation with mindfulness, focusing on creating purposeful, long-term strategies that align with the core values of organisations.

A passionate advocate for the power of AI in shaping the future of business, Neil regularly speaks at conferences, workshops, and webinars, where he inspires professionals to embrace AI as a force for positive change.

His engaging and practical talks provide attendees with actionable insights on how to implement AI technologies, ensuring businesses stay competitive in a fast-paced, AI-driven world.

Find out more about Neil’s Breakout session: https://bit.ly/3YhGTFW

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