The Thought Leaders Series - From Bristol to the World

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Conversations with visionaries

This event series from the University of Bristol Business School brings together innovators and thought leaders from a variety of organisations with world-leading researchers for insightful conversations. A key aim is to discuss a range of contemporary challenges and opportunities affecting a mixture of sectors, businesses and policy areas in Bristol and beyond. These events will be bi-monthly starting with one on Artificial Intelligence, with the second featuring Food and Agri sectors.

In partnership with MOON Executive Search

Event format

The Series offers the opportunity for audiences to both learn from and be inspired by these conversations. Generally, the format will include an invited speaker talk and panel discussion, which will be followed by a networking and drinks reception, including an exhibition of the latest Business School research.

Upcoming events

Future Growth and Trade in the Southwest

28 January 2026

Digital and AI Futures for a Green Economy

April 2026 (date TBC)

Highlights from previous events

AI and Business

Date held: 18 February

This event brought together innovators and leaders from various organisations with researchers to discuss the challenges and opportunities affecting businesses and policy areas in Bristol and beyond.

Speaker: Nigel Toon, AI entrepreneur and Founder of Graphcore.ai

Is the Food System Fit for the Future?

Date held: 24 June

The event gathered a diverse cross-section of stakeholders from government, food businesses, charities, academia, farming, and retail to explore a critical question.

Speaker: Alex Stevens, National Farmers' Union

A group of people discussing around a table

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Our research and education

At the University of Bristol Business School, our research and education drive innovation and impact. We combine cutting-edge academic insights with real-world applications to address pressing challenges, shape ethical leadership, and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Innovation and digitalisation

Our research focuses on innovation and new digital and immersive technologies, considering individual, social and political impact.

Circular Agriculture Hub

Dr Lucy McCarthy, together with Anne Touboulic (Nottingham University Business School), is set to launch an online hub for buying and selling farm produce. The Circular Agriculture Hub confronts the UK’s shocking record on food waste and food poverty, and aims to provide desperately needed income for smaller-scale farmers.

Education

Our part-time Master’s in Leading Strategic Change enables leaders to understand organisational complexity and equips them to lead through change and uncertainty. Find out how this programme can help you become a responsible business leader.