Taking place at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, St Mary’s Square, Gateshead on Thursday 29 September 2026, with a 9am coffee welcome, the conference will take place all day, with activities starting at 10am and going on until 4pm.

The event is an opportunity for hospitality professionals to immerse themselves in information to support, guide and educate hospitality professionals so they can continue thriving in the north.

And thanks to our sponsors, once again, the event is completely free to attend!

The conference opens with Pam Smith, setting the strategic tone, followed by an energising keynote from Sarah Green, from the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative to inspire momentum from the outset. A thought-provoking panel will then explore the importance of the customer, with a fresh perspective from the world of chefs.

Karen Turton will challenge traditional thinking with her take on generational leadership, turning expectations on their head. The spotlight then shifts to “Winning Northern Culture,” featuring leading voices including Richard Palmer, Group Managing Director at Deveonshire Hotels and Restaurants, Craig Bancroft, Managing Director at Northcote Hotel, Mark Ashley, Director Onboard Services, Operations and Partnerships for P&O and Tina O’Hara, Commercial Director at Cairn Hotels Group, sharing insights from across the sector.

The day concludes with an inspiring close from Les Ferdinand, former English Footballer and Executive with more to follow.

Thanks to our sponsors who help make this an action-packed memorable event, free for all to attend, with lunch and refreshments included!

WeAreThriving #IOHNorth #HospitalityLeadership