Governance 2026: Agenda

Evolving programme is subject to slight change

Day 1 - Tuesday 7 July 2026

08:30 Registration and exhibition hall open


09:30 Conference begins


09:35 Welcome address

Linda Ford, Chief Executive, Chartered Governance Institute UK and Ireland 


09:45 Why ethics in governance is important now more than ever - Risk, regulation and leadership

Ethical governance is vital in today’s climate of rising risks, uncertain ecopolitical climate, and demands for accountable leadership. This session explores why ethics matter now more than ever and how they shape resilient, trustworthy organisations.


Speaker: Derek Leatherdale, Senior Geopolitical Risk Adviser, Sibylline Ltd


10:20 Ethics in cybersecurity

Cyber resilience is more than just a technology issue. Understand why cyber governance is key to becoming cyber resilient. This talk will cover:
•    The Cyber Landscape
•    Governing Cyber Risk
•    Cyber Governance Code of Practice
•    IASME Cyber Assurance Standard
•    Becoming Cyber Resilient and Demonstrating Compliance

Speaker: George Quigley, Head of ICA, IASME


10:50 Refreshment break


11:20 The Governance Market

Speaker: Jon Moore, CEO and Managing Director, Core Partnership


11:40 ESG Refresher Session

Responsible sourcing is at the heart of sustainable governance. This session explores how ESG principles and ethical practices can transform supply chains, reduce risk, and build trust. Learn practical strategies for embedding integrity into procurement and driving long-term sustainability.

Speaker: Joshua Domb, Founder and Managing Partner, Gen-R Law


12:25 The AI Wastage Problem


12:55 Lunchtime lowdown

A five-minute recap on this morning sessions


13:00 Lunch break

Lunch and refreshments for all, taking place in the exhibition space


14:00 Breakout sessions

BREAKOUT 1 - Geopolitical follow up session

This break-out session will bring forward insights into how other boards have evolved their approach to geopolitical risk considerations and provide those in strategic governance roles with practical suggestions on how they can support their boards in grappling with this agenda.

Speaker: Derek Leatherdale, Senior Geopolitical Risk Adviser, Sibylline Ltd

BREAKOUT 2 - Getting the most out of your internal board evaluations

Discover how to turn internal board evaluations into actionable insights that enhance performance and governance. Learn practical tips for making evaluations meaningful and driving continuous improvement.

Moderator: Laura Higgins FCG, The CoSec Coach

BREAKOUT 3 - Sponsored breakout session

Topic to be confirmed

Session sponsored by Law Deb


14:35 Movement break

Head to your next session


14:40 Breakout sessions

BREAKOUT 1 - Trust, Culture, and Connection Between Boards and Team

Effective governance isn’t just about compliance, it’s built on trust, culture, and connection. This session explores how boards can foster transparent relationships with their executive teams, align values, and create a culture that supports ethical decision-making and strategic resilience.

Speaker: Laura Higgins FCG, The CoSec Coach

BREAKOUT 2 - Mindful Exclusion

Speaker: The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland

BREAKOUT 3 - Sponsored breakout session

More information to follow


15:15 Tea and coffee break


15:45 Breakout sessions

BREAKOUT 1 – Cultivating Leadership Pipelines in a Changing Governance Landscape

Discover how to build leadership pipelines that strengthen governance amid regulatory change and evolving risks. Learn strategies to align future leaders with integrity and resilience.

Moderator: Terri Le Couteur FCG, Founder, TLC Governance

BREAKOUT 2 – Regulatory follow‑on session with Q&A

Responsible sourcing is at the heart of sustainable governance. This session explores how ESG principles and ethical practices can transform supply chains, reduce risk, and build trust. Learn practical strategies for embedding integrity into procurement and driving long-term sustainability.

BREAKOUT 3 – Sponsored breakout session

Topic to be confirmed

Session sponsored by Board Intelligence


16:20 Movement break

Head back to the main auditorium


16:25 Closing keynote - Psychological safety and compassionate leadership


16:55 Conference close


17:00 Drinks Reception and networking