The upcoming iNetwork 20th Annual Conference titled ‘Driving Change through People, Data and Innovation’ will be back in Manchester on the 18th November 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. This conference is free to anyone in the public sector so do join us, find out more about the conference and register here: iNetwork’s 20th Annual Conference: Driving Change through People, Data and Innovation
At a time when public services face increasing pressure to adapt and deliver more with less, this conference brings together thought leaders, practitioners, and changemakers to explore how transformation can be powered from within. The sessions highlight the critical role of people, both staff and communities, in shaping smarter services, the importance of data in driving evidence-based decisions, and the need for bold innovation to tackle complex challenges. From inspiring case studies to practical tools, the event showcases how collaboration across sectors, with our people at the heart, is key to building resilient, future-ready public services.
We would like to announce the two plenary sessions for the conference:
The opening plenary session will focus on the title of the conference ‘Driving Change through People, Data and Innovation’. This panel session explores how organisations can harness the power of people, data, and innovation to drive meaningful change. Industry leaders will share insights on building a culture of collaboration, leveraging data for smarter decision-making, and fostering innovation to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Attendees will gain practical strategies for aligning human potential with technological advancements to create resilient, forward-thinking organisations. Sarah Day, Stakeholder Engagement Manager for the Transforming & Innovating Public Services (TIPS) programme, will chair this session. She will be joined by the following distinguished speakers:
- Alison McKenzie-Folan OBE, Chief Executive, Wigan Council
- Ted Twaalfhoven, CEO, Engage Process
- Sarah Bullock, Deputy Chief Executive, South Ribble Council and Chorley Council
Our closing plenary session is titled ‘Placemaking in Practice: Housing, planning and community at the heart’. This panel session delves into the real-world application of placemaking principles, focusing on how housing, planning, and community engagement intersect to shape vibrant, inclusive places. Experts from across sectors will share practical experiences, challenges, and successes in creating spaces that reflect local identity, meet housing needs, and foster social connection. The session will highlight collaborative approaches that put people at the centre of place-based development. This panel will be chaired by Jo Johnston, Head of Reform and Innovation, Manchester City Council, who will be joined by invited panelists;
- Bronwen Rapley, Chief Executive, Onward Homes
- Elizabeth Thornber, Strategic Leader, Chief Planning Officer & Head of Planning & Enforcement, South Ribble Council
- A representative from Wigan Council.
We also have a range of really exciting seminar sessions to announce shortly so keep your eye out! For further information and to secure your ticket to attend, follow this link: https://registration.inetwork2025.com/inetwork