OCTOBER 2025 SUMMIT
In today’s volatile, opportunity-rich environment, digital disruption is no longer an abstract concept; it’s the defining force reshaping industries, operating models, and customer expectations. For CIOs and CTOs, this shift is more than technological; it’s a mandate to lead transformation at the very heart of the business.
The Digital Disruption Summit is not just another conference. It’s a strategic gathering of technology leaders who are ready to confront what digital disruption really means for their organisations. We will bring digital to life through real-world case studies, candid conversations, and practical insights that speak directly to the challenges and opportunities CIOs and CTOs face every day.
Across keynotes, panel sessions, unconference sections and more, we’ll dive into technologies that are moving the needle. But more importantly, we’ll explore how these technologies will reshape your company’s value proposition, operating rhythm and even leadership expectations.
Digital disruption is not just a tech conversation though – it’s a business transformation story. So, we’ll be focusing on outcomes rather than the hype and asking such questions as:
• How do we unlock and scale innovation without increasing business complexity?
• How do we partner with the CEO and Execs to unlock new business models?
• How do we reorganise our teams and platforms to operate at speed and with agility and resilience?
October's summit is intentionally designed for CIOs and CTOs who are taking the next step. Driving the digital strategy to deliver shareholder value. You’ll walk away with new ideas, real-world lessons, and a renewed sense of your role as a business leader, not just a technology executive. You’ll experience conversations that are honest, practical, and energising.
We welcome all CIOs, CTOs, Heads of Technology and Transformation. Digital leaders who want to lead with impact, build meaningful relationships, and be on the front foot of industry disruption. Join us as we re-think what digital means – and what it makes possible.
KEYNOTES & SPEAKERS
Navigating the future: How tech leaders can thrive in a world of digital disruption
Olly Rees, Head of AI and Innovation at DIGI2AL
From acoustic drone detection in Ukraine to rapid prototyping in NHS hospitals, Olly will unpack practical strategies innovators are using to modernise systems, reduce risk, and deliver value fast – even in turbulent conditions. You’ll leave the session equipped with real world examples where leaders have embraced digital disruption and accelerated their business in ways that wouldn’t have possible without technology.
Watch Olly’s short introduction video.
From Hard Truths to Transformational Change: A CIO’s Role in Digital Disruption
Steve Cairns, Fractional CIO, PiXL
The story begins with a CEO facing mounting pressure, from shifting markets, rising customer expectations, and internal inefficiencies. With so many moving parts and no clear path forward, it’s a moment of uncertainty. That’s where the CIO steps in, not just as a technologist, but as a strategic partner. Steve will explore how digital disruption – guided by a forward-thinking CIO – became the catalyst for clarity, alignment, and transformation, helping the CEO and the wider business not just adapt, but lead with confidence.
Watch Steves’s short introduction video.
Digital Transformation: From Survival to Success – A CIO’s Journey to Business Leadership
Sharon Prior, Founder & Managing Partner, Inovivo
Transform from IT manager to Chief Possibility Officer in this electrifying keynote. Through powerful storytelling and real-world case studies, you’ll master the Three Languages of Leadership that convert technical expertise into business relevance. Learn to speak outcomes instead of outputs, position yourself as an indispensable business strategist, and discover actionable frameworks to elevate your influence within your organisation. Walk away with immediately implementable strategies to become the transformational leader your company needs in 2025 and beyond.
Watch Sharon’s short introduction video.
An Encore in Innovation: Modernising the English National Opera
Madhu Bhabuta, Fractional CIO, ENO
Madhu will be talking about the digital transformation she led at English National Opera. ENO is an organisation that will always prioritise their productions, not technology, but they knew a change was needed to shift things in a way not possible before. Not only to reduce overheads, but also to support future productions and transform the customer experience. Their first bold move was to engage Madhu and Madhu is here today to explain how she then led the ENO on a path of digital transformation which has changed the organisation forever and one that is now ready and able to take advantage of digital world.