Speaker profiles

2012 Speakers announced

We have great pleasure to announce the following speakers and presenters to the Foundation delegates

Toni Eastwood OBE -  Director of Academy and Talent from Wm Morrisons

Toni has over 23 years’ experience working in business and organisational development, designing and delivering learning and development solutions. She has specialist experience in developing and implementing interventions to support leadership and management development, and for the last ten years, diversity and women in the workplace. A regular contributor to TV, radio and press, Toni has published research into the issues and barriers surrounding ‘The Glass Ceiling’, women in non-traditional sectors and social inclusion. In 2007 Toni was recognised in the New Year’s honours list with an OBE for her contribution to Equal Opportunities.

Darren Blackhurst - CEO of Matalan

Darren has 24 years’ experience within International retailing. He started his career when he joined Tesco in 1988 from University. After spending over 17 years with Tesco in various roles from buyer to Category Director to Commercial Director. Darren joined Asda Executive Board in 2006 as Food Trading Director and was promoted to Executive Group Trading Director (CMO) for Asda in 2008. Darren became Matalan CEO in May 2011. He owns a 1967 VW Camper Van, enjoys time with his kids, plays the guitar and supports Manchester City.

Philip Hesketh -  Motivational speaker

Philip Hesketh is a professional speaker on ‘The Psychology of Persuasion and Influence’. He combines a powerful mix of well researched, persuasive techniques with a unique brand of humour. He inspires, entertains and informs on buying, selling, persuading and influencing work. He is inspirational, motivational and thought provoking and gives ‘can-use-today’ techniques to be more influential. More details:  www.heskethtalking.com

Patrick Marr -  MD of Leading Edge

Patrick is passionate about people, he founded Leading Edge in 2005 following a successful career as a leader in retail. He set out on a mission to support others to make a difference to the teams they lead by leveraging their natural strengths and to create a learning and development business that acts in true partnership.  Leading Edge are a Principal Sponsor of the Oxford Summer School Foundation level.