Downtown in Business has confirmed two major additions to the speaker line-up for Change Makers Live 2027, with Neil Rami, chief executive of the West Midlands Growth Company, and Tom Stannard, chief executive of Manchester City Council, joining the London conference.
Taking place on 20 January 2027 at Peterborough Court, Fleet Street, in partnership with Fleet Street Quarter BID, the event will bring together influential voices from business, government and public policy to explore the ideas, investment and leadership needed to drive economic growth.
Rami and Stannard will offer insights into two of the UK’s most significant regional economies, discussing how cities and regions can attract investment, unlock development and create opportunities for businesses. Their contributions will bring a practical perspective to the debate about devolution, regeneration and the relationship between regional success and national prosperity.
They join previously confirmed speakers Andy Street, former John Lewis boss and West Midlands mayor; Rose Marley, chief executive of Co-operatives UK; Naomi Smith, chief executive of Best for Britain; and entrepreneur and former Greater Manchester night-time economy adviser to Andy Burnham, Sacha Lord. More speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
Frank McKenna, chief executive and founder of Downtown in Business, said:
“Neil and Tom are directly involved in shaping the investment ambitions and economic futures of two hugely important parts of the country. They understand what businesses need, what attracts investors and what it takes to turn an ambitious growth strategy into something tangible.
“Change Makers Live will bring people with that experience together with business leaders and policy thinkers for a day of frank discussion, fresh ideas and valuable connections. We want to explore where the opportunities are, what is holding us back and how business and government can work together to get things moving.
“With more speakers still to announce and a limited number of places available, this is shaping up to be a fantastic start to DIB’s 2027 programme.”
Attendance is by invitation only for DIB members and businesses within the Fleet Street Quarter BID. Those interested in claiming a complimentary ticket for the event should contact the DIB events team.
Tickets are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
