The annual S&B Activate Conference brings together senior in-house lawyers for a day of forward-looking legal insight, market perspectives and actionable ideas to help drive business growth and competitive advantage.
This year’s conference will explore how legal teams can help their organisations navigate change, unlock opportunities and create a stronger platform for sustainable growth.
Expect bite-sized updates, lively discussion and opportunities to connect with peers. We’ll cut through the technicalities and focus on what matters, so you leave with a clearer view of the changing landscape and insight you can act on.
Date: Tuesday 10 November 2026
Timings:
08:15: Registration and breakfast
09:00: Conference begins
13:00: Lunch and networking
Location: Stevens & Bolton, Guildford
Opening keynote: winning the growth race
Andrew Harris, deputy chief economist at Fathom Consulting, will explore the global trends shaping the business environment and what they mean for organisations seeking to grow, invest and stay competitive.
What we’ll cover
Throughout the morning, our speakers will explore:
- Taking the right legal risks – balancing growth opportunities with sanctions, AI, cyber and supply chain risks.
- AI and employment disputes – practical strategies for responding to AI-driven grievances and claims.
- Growth through M&A – understanding where deals create value and where they can lose it.
- Beyond the deal – managing shareholder risk and preventing ownership conflict after growth.
- Streamlining for success – simplifying corporate structures to reduce cost and complexity.
- The human side of governance – preparing for personal challenges that can affect key individuals and business continuity.
We’ll close with an interactive session on turning legal insight into commitment and action, followed by lunch and networking. There will also be opportunities to catch up with peers over breakfast and coffee.
