About the event

Join us for Empowering Your People in 2025, hosted by broadcaster, Kylie Pentelow. A dynamic event dedicated to inspiring leaders, innovators, and changemakers to build stronger, more resilient teams. This year, we’re delighted to partner with Juice Recruitment to feature an expert-led panel discussion that delves into the strategies, tools, and mindset shifts necessary to empower individuals and organisations in today’s evolving landscape.

A superb line up of guest speakers to give you the latest updates and answer your questions.

Agenda

• 12.30pm: Drinks and Lunch on arrival
• 1.00pm: Seats taken for panel event
• 1.05pm: Introductions
• 1.15pm: Panel Overviews and Updates
• 1.50pm: Questions to the panel
• 2.15pm Questions from the audience….
• 2.30pm Closing statement
• 2.35pm Open networking and further refreshments

Our Panel Members

Neil Carberry – CEO  – The Recruitment & Employment Confederation(REC) 

Neil will explore how the new Employment Rights Bill Act and the rise in Employers’ National Insurance contributions are influencing businesses’ people strategies in the context of recent government changes. He will talk about how these developments are prompting businesses to prioritise cost management while balancing the need to attract and retain talent in a competitive market. Employers are increasingly investing in workforce planning and exploring flexible employment models to manage financial pressures without compromising productivity or morale. Regarding Gloucestershire, Neil will highlight how the region compares to others in the UK, noting its resilience due to a diverse economy, a strong base of SMEs, and community-focused initiatives.

Emma Summers – CEO  – Juice Recruitment 

Emma will share insights into the evolving hiring trends across the South West and how recent legislative changes have influenced employers’ recruitment and people strategies. She will highlight a shift toward more flexible working arrangements, reflecting a growing demand for hybrid and remote roles as candidates prioritise work-life balance. Employers are increasingly focused on offering competitive packages that go beyond salary, emphasising well-being initiatives and opportunities for career development to attract top talent. Regarding recent legislative changes, Emma will discuss how these have prompted businesses to reassess their recruitment strategies, ensuring compliance while maintaining a strong employer brand.

Stephen Conlan – Employment Partner – BPE Solicitors

Stephen will address some of the key concerns employers have raised regarding the new Employment Rights Bill Act. He will explain that many employers are grappling with understanding the practical implications of the legislation, including its potential impact on workplace policies and day-to-day operations. Some employers are particularly apprehensive about navigating compliance requirements and managing associated costs. He will also highlight specific areas for employers to watch out for, such as ensuring contracts and policies align with the new rules, managing employee expectations effectively, and staying proactive in mitigating risks related to non-compliance.

Andy Hawker – Customer Service and Logistics Director – Laithwaites Wine

Laithwaites is considered a great place to work due to its competitive salary and benefits package, including a generous staff discount on wine, opportunities for wine education (WSET), flexible working options, a strong team atmosphere, and potential for career progression within the company, all while being part of a family-oriented business culture with a focus on employee wellbeing.  Andy will talk about how the team focus on these core values and what that means practically for their people.

Colin Beard – Managing Director – Prosperity Care

Prosperity Care has taken significant steps to integrate health and well-being into their office environment and into the workplaces of others. Within their own organisation, they’ve cultivated a supportive culture by providing access to mental health resources, implementing flexible working options, and designing their office spaces to promote physical and emotional well-being. This includes ergonomic workstations, quiet spaces for reflection, and communal areas that encourage collaboration and relaxation. Beyond their own offices, Prosperity Care works with partner organisations to develop and implement customised well-being initiatives, sharing best practices and resources that create healthier, more engaging workplaces across their network. This dual focus on internal and external environments showcases their commitment to making well-being a cornerstone of professional life.

Round Up

What should businesses be doing to invest in their people and how will this help their people and recruitment strategies moving forward?

Working in Partnership with C2S Official Partners Juice Recruitment.