WLEP’s Sixth Annual Conference has been hailed a great success, attracting a large business audience of over 390 to the Regent Centre in Droitwich Spa with many others tuning in to watch the live stream. The Conference was hosted by the business author, journalist and ‘Outrageously Optimistic’, Guy Browning, with a keynote speech from the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Rt. Hon Sajid Javid MP, who was joined by other speakers from high-profile local businesses, futurist experts and other respected guests.

OD&V was involved and took lead in all aspects of project management and planning, from pre-event online registration, bespoke website development, sponsor/exhibitor approach and liaison and supplier coordination to the on-the-day delegate registration, production management, operations and logistics and post-event reporting. OD&V had direct input in programme content and speaker briefing for all platform speakers and the two interactive interview sessions. The conference featured a surprise opening performance from the Worcestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra (WYJO) who also returned after the mid-morning break as well as the premiere of the ‘WLEP Awards from the Board’ which concluded the day. 

For the first time this year, a Strategic Business Breakfast took place prior to the official opening of the conference. Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to visit the four Information Zones and ask relevant questions pertinent to their business needs to experts and strategic partners as well as visit and engage with the 19 exhibitors present. #WLEP16 attracted support from 6 commercial sponsors.