HC Conference 2026

Kelly Brindley is Operations Leader at The Conservation Volunteers, managing ten community woodland sites across South Yorkshire in partnership with the Land Trust. With over 20 years of experience in the conservation sector—including roles with local councils and the Forestry Commission—Kelly has led teams in volunteer management, community engagement, and health-focused green initiatives. She is a dedicated School Governor and a passionate advocate for inclusive access to nature. For the past three years, Kelly has worked closely with Harrison College, supporting internships and volunteer programmes that empower young people and promote social mobility through environmental stewardship.

Matthew Elliott, Lord Elliott of Mickle Fell, is a public policy leader and president of the Jobs Foundation, a charity promoting business as a driver of social good and job creation. He has founded major campaigns including the TaxPayers’ Alliance and Big Brother Watch, and led two landmark referendum victories: NOtoAV (2011) and Vote Leave (2016). As a member of the House of Lords and the Autism Act 2009 Committee, he champions inclusive policy. His latest book, Prosperity through Growth, explores how democracies can thrive amid rising autocracy and AI-driven change.

Dr Michael Englard is UK CEO of the Skills Builder Partnership, a mission-driven organisation working to ensure everyone builds the essential skills to thrive in life and work. Before joining Skills Builder, Michael was part of the founding team at the London Interdisciplinary School, where he helped secure degree-awarding powers for this pioneering university. He also co-founded Causeway Education, a charity focused on widening university access for students from under-resourced backgrounds. Michael brings a deep commitment to educational equity, innovation, and lifelong learning, with a career dedicated to unlocking opportunity through skills and access.

Dan Fell is CEO of the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce, a dynamic organisation championing business across Doncaster and South Yorkshire. He has played a key role in major regional achievements, including securing City Status, launching Doncaster UTC, and campaigning to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Beyond the Chamber, Dan serves as Director of Finance for Enterprise, Governor of DN Colleges Group, and sits on several strategic boards, including the South Yorkshire Skills Advisory Board and Doncaster’s Education and Skills Portfolio Board. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to economic growth, education, and civic development in the region.

Laura Guymer is Assistant Director of Skills at the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, with over 25 years’ experience in learning and development across public and private sectors. She plays a key role in shaping the region’s skills and employment strategy, advocating for systems that empower individuals and respond to local needs. Laura is passionate about building inclusive, employer-led skills ecosystems that tackle shortages, boost productivity, and create opportunity. Her work focuses on bringing decision-making closer to communities—ensuring training and development are aligned with real-world demands and helping more people access meaningful, locally relevant skills pathways.

Dr Carly Jones MBE is a leading autism advocate, consultant, and keynote speaker, championing the inclusion and safeguarding of autistic women and girls since 2008. The first British autistic woman to speak at the United Nations, Carly is also a government advisor across sectors including justice, healthcare, aviation, and education. Her acclaimed book, Safeguarding Autistic Girls, is used nationwide to improve judicial support. Carly is Co-Production Lead for NHS England’s Autism Programme. An autistic woman and mother of autistic daughters, she brings lived experience and professional expertise to her international consultancy work.

Jazz is a seasoned HR and people development professional with over 20 years’ experience across fast-paced sectors including retail, distribution, and manufacturing. Her work is grounded in a deep belief that everyone has potential. Whether supporting new starters, emerging leaders, or those rediscovering their confidence, Jazz creates practical, impactful pathways for growth. Her hands-on approach and commitment to inclusive development have helped countless individuals thrive in their careers. Jazz brings energy, empathy, and real-world insight to every conversation about talent, leadership, and unlocking human potential.

Patrick Milnes serves as Head of Policy for People and Work at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), where he leads strategic initiatives to address labour market challenges, skills shortages, and workplace equity. He plays a pivotal role in shaping national policy through employer engagement, research, and advocacy, including the BCC’s Workplace Equity Commission and Local Skills Improvement Plans. Patrick’s work focuses on unlocking potential across the UK workforce, supporting SMEs, and influencing government reforms in education, apprenticeships, and employment rights. His leadership helps ensure businesses have access to skilled, engaged, and diverse talent to drive economic growth.

David Morgan is Chief Executive of the Career Development Institute (CDI), the UK’s professional body for career development. He leads national efforts to support practitioners working with young people and adults, and champions the profession with government and stakeholders. With a background in commercial, charitable, and education sectors, David serves on the Careers England Board and the Career Development Policy Group. He has contributed to major initiatives including the Skills Commission’s Skills 2030 inquiry, WWF’s Sustainable Futures, and Gatsby’s Next 10 Years. David is also Vice Chair of The Rainforest Foundation, advocating for indigenous rights and environmental protection.

Gemma Peebles is CEO of Harrison College, a specialist institution focused on business, enterprise, and employability for neurodiverse students and those with additional needs. With a background in education leadership, Gemma has built strong partnerships with employers to create real-world opportunities for learners. She is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and employment, driving innovation in how young people are supported into meaningful careers. Her work bridges the gap between education and industry, ensuring students gain the confidence, skills, and qualifications needed to thrive. Gemma’s leadership continues to inspire change across the SEND and employability landscape.

Claire Stewart is a dedicated education professional with a strong background in teaching, senior leadership, and safeguarding. With postgraduate qualifications in educational leadership, she has served as a school leader, SENCO, and Designated Safeguarding Lead. Claire joined the Department for Education in 2019, shaping policy on technical education and apprenticeships. Since 2022, she has worked at Ofsted, leading reforms in children’s social care, inclusive education, and Area SEND. Claire also serves as Vice-Chair of the Cross-Civil Service Working Through Cancer Network, advocating for workplace inclusion and support. Her career reflects a deep commitment to equity, wellbeing, and system improvement.

Mark Taylor is the Founder and CEO of Automated Analytics, a Doncaster-based AI technology company serving over 4,000 global clients including British Gas, Pizza Hut, and KFC. Since founding the company in 2013, Mark has pioneered tools like Call360 and TalentTrack, transforming how businesses understand customer journeys and recruitment performance. With a background in digital marketing and leadership roles at Hilton, Virgin Active, and Halfords, Mark blends commercial insight with innovation. Recognised as a Patron of Doncaster Chamber and listed in the FT1000 fastest-growing companies in Europe, Mark is a trailblazer in AI-driven business transformation.

Jonathan Townsend is UK Chief Executive of The King’s Trust, leading efforts to support young people across the country. He rejoined the organisation in 2019 as Interim CEO, following his role as Chief Executive of King’s Trust International. Jonathan has held senior leadership positions within the Trust, including Director for the North of England. Before entering the charity sector, he built a successful career in the drinks and hospitality industry, working with brands such as Bass, Scottish & Newcastle, and Heineken. His leadership blends commercial insight with a deep commitment to youth empowerment and social impact.