IEP Talks Live - Birmingham

About this event:

The IEP are delighted to be returning to Birmingham for our second Talks Live event of 2026, kindly sponsored by AKG UK Ltd

Are you looking to connect with like-minded professionals and explore the future of the employability profession? Then don't miss this amazing opportunity to join our next Talks Live event which takes place in Birmingham.

This is a fantastic opportunity to network and listen to expert speakers as they share their knowledge and expertise, not to mention the chance to enjoy some light refreshments on us and connect with your employability colleagues and peers.

This event is free for all IEP Members to attend. If you are bringing along a guest, they must also be registered.

Here's what's in store: 

13:00 Registration & Networking - Lombard Suite

13:30 Welcome from IEP | Sharon Baker FIEP, Head of Professional Member Services, IEP

13:35 Welcome from Sponsors | Ayden Sims FIEP, Country Director, AKG UK

13:50 Seminar 1 | The best things that we can teach our participants about AI - Simon Mahony - Lead Consulting Partner for Employability Sector, Hudson and Hayes

14:20 Speed Networking

14:35 Seminar 2 | Youth Unemployment – the Regional Challenge and Opportunity - John Hall - Head of Service for Careers and Employment Support - WMCA - WMCA Commissioning

With over 25 years’ experience in employment and skills and accountability for major initiatives such as the Mayor’s Youth Plan, Connect to Work and Careers Hub delivery.

15:05 Speed Networking

15:20 Seminar 3 | Trailblazing Young People - Zack Haider - Community Development Director - Intuitive Thinking Skills

15:50 Refreshments & Networking

16:30 Event Close

About AKG UK

Our purpose is to help people realise their potential and enable progress through health, learning, mindset and employment.
We are a people-first organisation, delivering a collection of locally informed services that support individuals across the UK in building skills, gaining confidence, overcoming challenges, and thriving in meaningful work.

Whether it’s helping someone into their first job, supporting a career change, or guiding someone through life’s toughest challenges, we’re here every step of the way. Our services are designed by experts and delivered by people who’ve walked the same path or have the empathy and experience to understand the complexity of people’s challenges.