Sir Clive Woodward leads a packed programme of inspirational speakers, regional leaders and thought-provoking discussions
From World Cup-winning leadership and global ambition to creative courage, inclusive adventure and the future of Cumbria’s workforce, the full line-up has been revealed for Conference Cumbria 2026.
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce’s flagship conference returns for its fourth year on Thursday 1st October at The Pencil Factory in Keswick, bringing the county’s business community together under the theme ‘Be Bold, Be Courageous’.
Leading the programme will be World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward, whose opening keynote, ‘The DNA of a Champion’, will give delegates a rare insight into the mindset, culture and attention to detail behind sustained high performance.
Sir Clive led England to Rugby World Cup glory in 2003 and later served as Director of Sport for Team GB at the British Olympic Association ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games. His principles have since inspired leaders far beyond professional sport, offering practical lessons for any organisation seeking to build successful teams and perform at its best.
The day will continue with Lou Kneath, founder of Cumbrian animation studio PLUS3K and creator of Positively Pigasus. In ‘When Pigs Fly: The Courage to Believe in Impossible Things’, Lou will share how she turned an idea others might have dismissed as impossible into a growing global character brand.
Combining warmth, humour and first-hand experience, her session will explore the courage required to trust an instinct, pursue a creative vision and bring an ambitious idea to life.
Sara Murray of Beyond Bendrigg, part of the Bendrigg Trust, will take delegates ‘Beyond Boundaries’, exploring how adventure can build confidence, improve wellbeing and connect people with nature and one another.
Drawing on Bendrigg’s pioneering work to make outdoor experiences accessible to everyone, Sara will challenge delegates to think differently about inclusion, recognise that adventure means something different to each person and consider how courageous thinking can open opportunities for entire communities.
A series of fast-paced spotlight sessions will also place some of the most significant opportunities and workplace issues facing Cumbria firmly on the agenda. Rachel Bell of Cumbria Tourism will consider the opportunities surrounding the Tour de France, Cath Dutton will introduce the work of Cumbria Careers Hub, Inspira will explore Connect to Work and iCan will discuss ADHD in the workplace.
The conference will culminate in a panel discussion featuring five respected leaders from across Cumbria:
• Steve Randles of Brathay Trust
• Maria Whitehead MBE, co-founder of Hawkshead Relish
• Richard Rankin, CEO of H&H Group plc
• Claire Aindow, Pro Vice Chancellor for Growth and Development at the University of Cumbria
• Tom Scaife, Partner in the Employment Team at Knights
Together, they will explore what bold and courageous leadership looks like in practice, drawing on experience spanning education, entrepreneurship, professional services, rural business, food and drink and higher education.
Suzanne Caldwell, Managing Director of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said:
“This is our strongest and most varied Conference Cumbria line-up yet. Delegates will hear from a World Cup-winning leader, Cumbrian entrepreneurs, workplace experts and people using courage to create meaningful change.
“Every session brings a different perspective, but the thread running throughout the day is clear: progress begins when people have the confidence to think differently and act on their ideas.
“Just as importantly, Conference Cumbria creates the space for hundreds of people from across the county to meet, exchange ideas and form valuable new connections.
“If you want to be part of the conversations shaping what comes next for Cumbria’s businesses and communities, this is the room to be in.”
The programme has been designed to provide extensive opportunities for delegates to connect throughout the day, including dedicated networking breaks, lunch and a scheduled photo opportunity following Sir Clive’s keynote.
The event is sponsored by Knights (headline sponsor) and Cumberland Council, with Platinum Live as media partner. Sponsorship opportunities still remain so anyone interested in finding out about remaining packages please contact Lesley Robinson, Head of Business Growth & Support lesleyr@cumbriachamber.co.uk
Member tickets cost £125 +VAT, with non-member tickets priced at £170 +VAT.
Book your place here
