The Thought Leaders Series – from Bristol to the world
A bi-monthly event series from the University of Bristol Business School, bringing together innovators, thought leaders and world-leading researchers for insightful conversations.
Conversations with visionaries
The Thought Leaders Series discusses a range of contemporary challenges and opportunities affecting a mixture of sectors, businesses and policy areas in Bristol and beyond.
The format usually includes an invited speaker talk and panel discussion, followed by a networking and drinks reception, including an exhibition of the latest Business School research.
Organised in partnership with MOON Executive Search.
Upcoming events
Sign up to our mailing list to hear about all future talks in the Thought Leaders Series, as well as other University of Bristol Business School 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 past events
AI and Business
Date held: 18 February 2025
This event brought together innovators and leaders from various organisations to discuss the challenges and opportunities affecting businesses 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
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.
Research
Our Innovation and Digitalisation research group focuses on innovation and new digital and immersive technologies, considering individual, social and political impact.
Innovation
The Circular Agriculture Hub confronts the UK’s shocking record on food waste and poverty, providing much needed income for smaller-scale farmers.
Education
Our part-time MSc in Leading Strategic Change enables leaders to understand organisational complexity and equips them to lead through change and uncertainty.