More than 200 people are set to gather in Aberdeen today to hear experts across business, energy, culture and education discuss how we can continue to position the city as a great place to live, work and learn.
More than 20 experts from across Aberdeen and further afield will highlight progress over recent years and discuss how the city can continue its positive contribution to the UK and Scottish economies.
‘Aberdeen: transforming our city’ takes place at the P&J Live in Aberdeen and across four sessions, panellists will discuss, debate and take audience questions on the key projects and issues impacting Aberdeen, from ambitious net zero and city centre regeneration plans, through to the city’s digital strategy and thriving arts and culture programme.
The exclusive line-up of speakers includes not only local voices who can provide detail and context on Aberdeen-specific projects and plans, but also national experts who will share city development best practice and a broader, UK-wide perspective.
Transition & Decarbonise
- Alan James, Chief Technology Officer, Storegga Geotechnologies
- Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Aberdeen Harbour Board
- Stephen Sheal, Head of External Relations, Net Zero Technology Centre
- Dr Oliver Taylor, Senior Manager, City and Corporate Integrated Solutions, bp
Live & Visit
- Claire Bruce, Chair, Visit Aberdeenshire
- Rob Dickson, Director of Industry and Destination Development, Visit Scotland
- Elaine Farquharson-Black, Partner, Brodies
- Jon Matthews, Group Head of Capital Investment and Innovation, AGS Airports
Work & Invest
- Russell Borthwick, Chief Executive, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
- Bob Keiller, Business Advisor, AB15
- Laurence Rockey, Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland, UK Government
- Sara Thiam, Chief Executive, Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI)
Learn & Develop
- Liz Bowie, Chief Executive, AFC Community Trust
- Neil Cowie, Principal and Chief Executive, North East Scotland College (NESCol)
- Professor Peter Edwards, Vice Principal Regional Engagement and Recovery, University of Aberdeen
- Alison Murison, Headteacher, Aberdeen Grammar School
- Professor Steve Olivier, Principal, Robert Gordon University
Also presenting in Aberdeen for the first time is Professor Tim Stonor, managing director of Space Syntax and an internationally renowned urban planner, who will deliver the event’s keynote speech.
Tim is recognised for his work on the role of space in generating social, economic and environment value, and has worked on projects including King’s Cross International Terminal and the Manchester bid for the 2000 Olympic Games.