Employers come together to future-proof workforce in Solihull

More than 80 leaders and HR professionals from local businesses came together for an inaugural Conference and Expo ‘How to Future-Proof Your Workforce’.

Hosted by Solihull College & University Centre, in collaboration with Solihull Council, The Careers’ Network, and Solihull Chamber of Commerce, the event was a pivotal gathering for local employers seeking to innovate and strategize for the future.

Respected leaders, experts and specialists shared their views, insights and research on challenges faced by more than 70 per cent of employers to attract, recruit, retain and develop a vibrant future workforce.

The theme of the day revolved around inclusive recruitment, training, development, apprenticeships, partnership with schools and Artificial Intelligence (AI); the key elements to building a robust strategy for developing a skilled and adaptable workforce in Solihull.

Carmen Watson, deputy lieutenant of the West Midlands and chair of Pertemps, inspired employers by sharing details of work being done to support organisations with the key skills and talents and the vital changes required to remove barriers to growth.

Valuable world of work data and great examples of hiring and workforce innovation from around the world were revealed in an engaging presentation by Tom Hadley, a Future of Work Activist, author of White Papers and independent speaker.

Strategies and tactics on how to unlock the power of inclusion were shared by Dr Olga Frańczak, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion lead for Recruitment and Employment Confederation.

Vinay Parmar, founder of Dhruva Star, gave a thought-provoking presentation showing why the employee value proposition (EVP) needs to meet the changing needs and demands of employees.

An inspiring and moving presentation was given by Jamie and Sam Grant, directors of Experts By Experience (EBE) who helped debunk some of the common myths surrounding neurodiversity and showcased the rewards and benefits of inclusive recruitment practices.

Masterclasses, workshops and panel discussions gave delegates valuable insights and practical strategies aimed at tackling the most pressing people challenges, and they learned about best practice and support available from training providers, support organisations and the Council.

Delegates were able to network throughout the day and make valuable connections as well as explore the range of local services offered to employers to address crucial workforce challenges.

A visit to the College’s AI laboratory provided the chance to discover the impact of AI and ways of tackling emerging skills gaps and digital transformation.

Susie Ankrett, founder of Plum Executive and organiser of the event, said: “Knowing where and how to access support, training, and development isn’t straightforward. This was a true collaboration bringing together the experts, organisations, services and support that can help organisations be more successful, more confident and have better clarity to create a strategy for a future-proofed workforce.”

Will Shepherd, CEO of Cohesion and chair of the Solihull Employment and Skills Board, said: “From reaping benefits of inclusive recruitment with incredibly committed, intelligent and creative team members, to running school work-experience programmes, I have first-hand experience of the challenges and benefits of many of the topics raised today. 

“This expo has been a great opportunity for employers to share their challenges for recruiting and retaining talent and find out more about the support available in Solihull. Being involved will help to shape future plans for the Board. With the Council’s support, we can bring positive ideas and change to businesses and the workforce in the borough.”

Nadia Davies, director of Business Development at Solihull College & University Centre, said: “To be part of this unique and high-impact event was wonderful! Our Business and Conference Centre was buzzing with high energy, enthusiasm and collaboration. The exceptionally rich content throughout the day exceeded the expectations of delegates, inspiring new ideas, inclusive thinking and innovation.

“I'm excited to be part of the follow-on working groups that have already started to form as a direct result of this superb joint effort!”

Pictured: Employers at the expo