On Friday 17th November, the Sussex Economic Forum debuted its first conference at the Brighton Hilton Metropole Hotel. With Sussex’s economic growth and development as the main core of the topics discussed, the event was attended by many high-profile politicians, universities, councils and top businesses.

Identity are proud to have been main sponsors of the Sussex Economic Forum, networking with some fantastic companies, both local to the Sussex area as well as UK wide.

Proceedings began with a sumptuous gala dinner on the evening of Thursday 16th November, with keynote speakers Richard Cripps, Managing Director of Rix and Kay Solicitors, and Charles Horton, Chief Executive of Thameslink Railway.

Identity’s Head of Digital Shéa Bennett spoke on the first panel of the day – Digital Infrastructure In Sussex – alongside Chairman of the Sussex Chamber of Commerce David Sheppard, Executive Director of Sussex Innovation Centre Mike Herd, Gatwick Diamond’s Executive Director Rosemary French OBE, MP of Eastbourne and Willingdon Stephen Lloyd and Director of the UK Trade Policy Observatory and Economic Professor at the University of Sussex, L. Alan Winters.

Key highlights of the debate included internet connection issues across the county as well as employment within the digital industry in Sussex.

Sir Vince Cable, leader of the Liberal Democrats, was the conference keynote speaker. The effect of Brexit on the county and country, views on an early general election and local community issues were among the many highlights of Mr Cable’s speech.

Other panels throughout the day included Road, Rail, Air and Sea Infrastructure, Sussex Economic Growth and the Effect of Brexit, and Employment and Education within the county and surrounding areas. Each saw participation from fantastic speakers offering their key insights into these topics, including MP for Bexhill and Battle Huw Merriman, South East Organiser for RMT Union Paul Cox, Councillor David Tutt the leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, MP for Hove and Portslade Peter Kyle and Investigator Scientist and Cognitive Expert Dr. Sam Wass.

The 2017 Sussex Economic Forum was a fantastic success. Congratulations to organisers Carrot Events and we very much look forward to being a part of the event for years to come.