Learning Festival

Why you should attend

The Professional Alternative Learning Festival offers a unique chance to engage with expert speakers on a range of topics crucial for staying ahead in today’s fast-evolving professional landscape.

This event is CPD accredited for accountants and meets the continuing competence requirements for the SRA.

Flexibility to join any session: With one link for the entire day, you can easily dip in and out to attend the sessions most relevant to you.
Expert-led insights: Each session is designed to address key issues facing today’s professionals, providing you with the tools to enhance your practice.
Networking opportunities: Interact with peers and industry leaders in real-time, building connections that support your career growth.

Agenda

9:00 AM – 9:15 AM: Welcome and Opening Remarks

Headliners: The Professional Alternative’s Claire Johnson and Jack Constant
Kick off the day with an overview and insights into the importance of ongoing professional development.

9:15 AM – 10:00 AM: Let’s Make L&D GREAT Again!

Headliners: The Professional Alternative’s Steve Parrott & Guests
Guest Headliners:
- Daniel Pearce, Senior Learning & Development Consultant, Pinsent Masons
- James Chadburn, Managing Partner, Dean Wilson
- Sarah Stevens, HR Director, Dean Wilson
Discover top strategies to make learning and development a core aspect of your firm.

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM: Mentoring – Where to Start as a Mentor and Mentee

Headliner: Jacqui Falvey, Director, Accomplish HR
Explore effective mentoring strategies that foster meaningful professional relationships.

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Voice, Vision, and Visibility – Redefining Your Role

Headliner: Alex Bond Burnett, Engagement & Behaviour Strategist, Ambition: Impact
Learn to enhance your professional influence through effective communication and leadership.

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM: AML True Crime Stories

Headliners: The Professional Alternative’s Sarah Katherine Bagshaw and Laurence Howland, Buckles Solicitors
Dive into real-life financial crime stories and extract valuable lessons and best practices.

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM: HR Updates – Trends and Challenges

Headliners: Paul Richmond, Managing Director theGrogroup and Jacqui Falvey, Director, Accomplish HR
Get the latest on employment law changes and how to prepare for them.

2:15 PM – 3:00 PM: Business Development & Commercial Awareness

Headliner: Paul Richmond, Managing Director theGrogroup

Enhance your business acumen and learn to spot and seize opportunities.

3:15 PM – 4:00 PM: Your Work is Not Just a Billable Hour – Finding Meaning and Impact

Headliner: Alex Bond Burnett, Engagement & Behaviour Strategist, Ambition: Impact

Rediscover the passion and purpose in your work through inspiring stories and actionable insights.

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways

Headliners: The Professional Alternative’s Claire Johnson and Jack Constant
Wrap up the day with a summary of insights and practical steps to apply your new knowledge.