Enterprise Futures Showcase – AI & Digital Innovation at Leeds Beckett University

Inspiring Day in Leeds

I attended the Enterprise Futures Showcase – AI & Digital Innovation at Leeds Beckett University, held at The Knowledge Exchange. It was an inspiring day filled with conversation, innovation, and insights into how AI is reshaping business across Yorkshire and beyond. As someone working in digital services, web design, and photography, this event was an invaluable look into how technology is accelerating change for local organisations.

Keynote: AI’s Influence on Business – Philippa Rickard, Freshfields

The event opened with a fantastic keynote from Philippa Rickard, Global Head of Technology Development at Freshfields. She explored how AI is transforming business workflows, legal decision-making, and global operations.

Her message was clear: AI is no longer an optional tool – it’s becoming essential to keep businesses competitive, efficient, and future-ready.

Building a Digital Business Panel

Next was a discussion on building and scaling a digital business featuring:

Stratis Koutsoukos (Chair)
Kirsty Watson – Qualia Academy
Simon Edwards – Green House

AI, Growth & Scaling Business Panel

The final panel focused on how AI supports business growth and sustainable scaling. Speakers included:

Anne-Marie Gallagher (Chair)
Xitiz Rana – Mercury 3 Consult
Neharika Joshi – ARC Building Solutions

Value of University Events

Attending events like the Enterprise Futures Showcase helps bring together professionals, students, and businesses who are all exploring the future of technology. For me, it was a brilliant opportunity to learn, network, and stay ahead with the latest digital insights that I can apply to future web design and digital projects.

Speakers Throughout the Day

Sharing real-world examples of businesses using AI to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and create new opportunities for innovation.

Enterprise Futures Showcase AI and Digital Innovation event at Leeds Business School — Entrepreneurship at Leeds Business School

Speaker Philippa Rickard – AI’s influence on Business

My Ongoing Connection to Leeds Beckett University

My time studying at Leeds Beckett University played a huge part in shaping my motivation, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset. It’s where I first learned the importance of continuous learning, something that still drives my work today in web design, digital services, and photography. Events like the Enterprise Futures Showcase remind me how valuable it is to stay connected, keep learning, and evolve with the rapid pace of AI and digital innovation.

Community & Professional Growth

Inspired by events like this? Whether you’re a business, community group, or charity, I offer web design, digital support, and photography services to help bring your ideas to life. Send a message and let’s create something great together.