annual conference 2026

Changing Perceptions

The North Highlands is changing – and so are the conversations shaping its future.

Our 2026 annual conference – Changing Perceptions – brings together industry leaders, investors, policymakers, educators and community voices to explore one of the UK’s most dynamic regions. From renewable energy and infrastructure to skills, innovation and investment, this conference shines a spotlight on the opportunities, expertise and ambition driving growth across the North Highlands.

Too often, perceptions of the far north fail to reflect the reality. This event challenges those assumptions, showcasing a region that is quietly world-class, rich in talent and increasingly central to national economic priorities.

Through keynote speakers, industry updates, panel discussions and real-world success stories, delegates will gain valuable insights, make meaningful connections and discover why organisations are choosing to invest, innovate and build their future here.

Join us to hear the stories behind the headlines, connect with the people driving change, and be part of the conversation shaping the North Highlands of tomorrow.

BOOK YOUR SPOT

Wednesday 9 September

Norseman Hotel, Wick

Book via Eventbrite

Agenda

The Focus North Conference will explore how changing perceptions of opportunity, local expertise
and career pathways can help strengthen the future economy of the North Highlands.

Registration and networking

09:00-10:00
Arrival, refreshments and networking

Part 1: Changing Perceptions of Opportunity

10:00–10:25
Welcome and opening remarks

10:25–11:20
Emerging Opportunities Across the Region
Regional project and investment updates, followed by audience Q&A

11:20–11:40
Refreshment break

Part 2: Changing Perceptions of What’s Here

11:40–11:50
Quietly World Class
Short film celebrating local skills, innovation and capability

11:50–12:05
Connecting Local Strengths to Future Growth

12:05–12:50
Infrastructure for Growth
Panel discussion followed by audience Q&A

12:50–13:45
Lunch and networking

Part 3: Changing Perceptions of Pathways

13:45–14:15
Perceptions of Economic Growth
Interactive session

14:15–14:55
Building Confidence for the Future
With Dee Bleakley

14:55–15:05
Minecraft Education: Reinventing Our Communities

15:05–15:35
Powering Futures

15:35–15:50
From Classroom to Career

15:50–16:00
Closing reflections and call to action

Speakers

Mark Williams, Murphy

Mark Williams is an experienced Operations Manager currently leading Project Integration across the SSEN Transmission ASTI Framework for Murphy, supporting the Pathway to 2030 programme. With over three decades of experience in infrastructure and energy projects, Mark oversees strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and operational governance across multiple transmission and civils workstreams in the Highlands. Mark plays a key role in ensuring safe, on-time, and successful execution of enabling works and future infrastructure, while maintaining strong relationships with SSEN and local stakeholders.

Janet Bromham - Flow Country Partnership

As Project Manager, Janet Bromham co-ordinates the Partnership’s activities to restore peatland and manage The Flow Country World Heritage Site. A registered Scottish Charity, the FCP aims to reinvest profits from carbon sales to scale up peatland restoration and deliver community benefits, unlocking significant economic, social, and environmental benefits for Caithness & Sutherland.

Janet has a BSc in Geography, MSc in Marine Resource Management, and over 30 years’ experience working in the environment sector. Previous career roles include Scottish Natural Heritage, the RSPB, the Cairngorms Partnership and Highland Council. Janet has two grown-up children and lives near Nairn with her partner Jim and dog, Willow.

Malcolm Macleod - Highland Council

Malcolm is the Assistant Chief Executive for Highland Council responsible for Place. His responsibilities cover Property and Assets; Planning and Economic Development; Facilities and Fleet Management; Housing and Communities and Operations and Maintenance. Recently, Malcolm has led multiple transformational projects including the Highland Investment Programme and the £315m Highland City Region Deal. Malcolm is a graduate of Glasgow and Strathclyde Universities and brings decades of experience in Planning and loval government. He has held several roles at Highland Council including Development Plans Manager, Head of Planning and Environment, the Council’s Lead on Organisational Redesign and Executive Chief Officer for Infrastructure, Environment and Economy before assuming his current role in May 2024.

Dee Bleakley - Mindset Coach & Motivational Speaker

Originally from Belfast, Dee started his career as a teacher of geography. Making the most of any situation and having the ability to turn challenges into opportunities is central to Dee’s character and message. Dee shared his message with students and parents locally, before starting his own speaking business in 2016. Dee now travels all over the UK and Europe working with schools, universities, businesses and corporate clients on how to unlock potential and improve performance.
https://www.deebleakley.com

Missed last year's conference? Watch the highlights below.

Coming soon...

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