Hereford is set to welcome one of the biggest gatherings of defence and security experts in the UK at the first ever Defence and Security Expo next year.
Supported by Skylon Park, Hereford’s Enterprise Zone, Harrison Clark Rickerbys solicitors and the University of Wolverhampton, the event at the Courtyard Theatre on February 1 will feature speakers from national defence and security bodies, including the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Department for International Trade (DIT).
It will be the first major forum in the area for the sector, which has historic roots in the county through the Armed Forces including the SAS alongside growing commercial significance in the region.
Skylon Park is the only Enterprise Zone in the country with a specific focus on security and defence, providing ready-made and dedicated supply chain opportunities as well as land for investors looking to relocate and expand.
Mark Pearce, Managing Director of Skylon Park, said: “This event will be one of the biggest gatherings of defence and security sector experts in the UK, and Herefordshire is exactly the right place for it.
“It will be a prime opportunity to showcase Skylon Park with our unique defence and security sector focus, that builds on Hereford’s association with UK special forces.”
The event is expected to attract business owners and managers, procurement contractors and defence and security experts from across the Midlands.
Key industry speakers will include:
- Philip Margerison, who manages the MoD’s Defence Suppliers Service, advising and guiding companies interested in becoming MoD suppliers
- Wing Commander Philip Lamb, the DIT’s assistant director for air services in Europe, who handles trade opportunities
- Steve Brittan, chief executive of the MoD’s Defence Solutions Centre, which links international customers with UK defence and security businesses
- Dr Emma Philpott, chief executive of the IASME consortium, offering cyber security accreditation for businesses against international standards
- James Marment, MD of Exsel Dytecna Engineering, whose military background has informed his work on strategic planning, specialising in the Middle East
- Tim Williams, Qinetiq’s asset tracking specialist
- Ian Maxted, Gloucestershire Police’s Safer Cyber Co-ordinator
- Steve Thomas, founder of X-Reach, cyber security specialists based at Skylon Park.
For more information, to book tickets or to register to become an exhibitor, visit www.hdse.co.uk.
