Simon Jack, business and economics presenter for Radio 4’s Today Programme and Dennis Reid from Retail Performance Specialists are two of the key speakers taking part in the HTA Garden Futures Conference, sponsored by Hozelock and Scotts Miracle-Gro, which takes place on Wednesday 30 September.
‘Embracing Change’ is the theme of the conference which this year takes place at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire. The event brings together key players in the garden industry to consider cutting-edge practices and ideas from business leaders and experts. Alongside hard hitting business-focussed content, the conference and dinner provide the perfect opportunity for networking with the leading figures in the business.
An overview of the current economic situation will be provided by Simon Jack, best known for his role on Radio 4’s flagship Today Programme as the business and economics presenter. Simon has also presented news on the BBC’s One o’clock, Six o’clock and Ten o’clock News. During the banking crisis in September 2006, he covered the Federal takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the Bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, the bailout of AIG and the Lloyds TSB takeover of HBOS. Prior to entering the world of news-casting, Simon spent ten years in commercial and investment banking in London, New York and Bermuda.
Former international sportsman and Olympic coach turned retail consultant Dennis Reid, from Retail Performance Specialist, has a simple philosophy for life – play to win. He isn’t interested in quick-fix solutions for struggling retailers. He demands corporate fitness that will deliver long-term performance excellence. “Nobody lines up at the start of a race without knowing which way to go and how fast they need to run if they’re going to win, yet many of the retailers I have worked with over the last 30 years are doing just that!” he says. “Running a successful retail business requires complete clarity of purpose, a winning game plan, and a lot of hard work. Too many retailers think that hard work on its own is going to deliver the results.”
Set in 400 acres of tranquil Oxfordshire countryside and with a purpose built auditorium and beautiful ballroom, Heythrop Park will provide a fantastic setting for this year’s HTA Garden Futures Conference and Dinner.
To book your place visit www.gardenfutures.org.uk
