Speakers and agenda
Date: 18 March 2026
Venue: Winding Wheel Theatre
Time: Doors open at 8:00am for the Celebrate Chesterfield Expo, followed by the Celebrate Conference at 10:00am.
The morning will feature high-profile keynote speakers, interactive discussions, and a celebration of the area’s growth, achievements, and future ambitions. Partnered with Stepnell and Vines Legal, this year’s conference explores how investment across the borough is creating new opportunities. The theme is inclusive growth, emphasising the real and measurable benefits regeneration brings to local people.
08:00 AM – Exhibition and networking breakfast
– In partnership with East Midlands Chamber
– Opportunity to engage with local businesses and stakeholders
– Opportunity for businesses to showcase their businesses, supporting the opportunity to trade locally
Meet our exhibitors.
10:00 AM – Conference begins: welcome address
- Delivered by Andy Byrne, Chair of Destination Chesterfield
Andy will reflect on his first year as Chair of Destination Chesterfield and set the partnership’s future plans through to March 2028.
10:10 AM – Staveley success, Ivan Fomin, Chair of Staveley Town Deal
- Showcasing the success of the Staveley Town Deal and what it means for local communities.
10:35 AM – Creating social value through business
Our panel will discuss the roles they play in creating social value and supporting the people of Chesterfield and the surrounding area. The session will be led by Phil Bramley, Editor of the Derbyshire Times.
- Sue Woollett, Social Value Manager, Stepnell
- Catherine Wenborn, Vines Legal
- Luke Mantle, Chesterfield College Group, Construction Skills Hub Focus
11:00 AM – Our Culture
Emily Bowman, Managing Director of Junction Arts and member of Chesterfield Town Board, will bring to life the importance of the cultural sector to Chesterfield and update on projects and events happening across the area.
11.15 AM – In conversation with Huw Bowen
Dr Huw Bowen will share his views on how Chesterfield has progressed during his 18 years as Chief Executive of Chesterfield Borough Council and how he sees the borough’s outlook for the future. Huw will be in conversation with Phil Bramley, Editor of the Derbyshire Times.
11:35 AM – Working together for Chesterfield
Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, will close the event.
11:40 AM onwards – Networking
12.00 PM – Event closes
