SKILLS 27
Workforce for Growth
Powering Kent and Medway’s economy through people, skills and productivity
The Mercure Great Danes Hotel, Maidstone
Wednesday 17th March 2027
9:00am - 2:45pm
WELCOME
Join us on Wednesday 17th March 2027 for SKILLS 27, Kent & Medway's flagship workforce and skills summit.
Delivered by the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, and funded by UK Government, this year's event will explore how people, skills and workforce capability can drive business growth, productivity and long-term economic success across Kent & Medway.
As employers continue to navigate recruitment challenges, changing workforce expectations, technological advancement and evolving skills needs, SKILLS 27 will offer practical insight, fresh perspectives and actionable solutions that can be applied immediately within your organisation.
The day will bring together employers, education and training providers, industry leaders, policymakers and young people to explore some of the most pressing workforce challenges facing organisations today, including:
- AI and workplace productivity
- Attracting and retaining talent
- Developing front-line managers
- Workforce planning for growth
- Accessing hidden and untapped talent pools
- Green skills and sustainability
- Navigating the evolving skills landscape
Through keynote speakers, employer-led discussions and a programme of interactive seminars, delegates will gain practical tools, useful connections and fresh ideas to help build resilient, productive and future-ready workforces.
Whether you are looking to recruit, develop talent, improve retention, embrace new technologies or plan for future growth, SKILLS 27 will provide the intelligence, support and connections needed to take the next step.
Bring one workforce challenge. Leave with one practical action, one useful tool and one new connection.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
Managing Directors, Business Owners, Senior Leaders, and Learning & Development teams from all sectors and industries across Kent & Medway can look forward to:
- Connect national skills priorities with Kent and Medway’s employer and economic context.
- Give employers practical ideas that can be used without a large HR or training function.
- Create visible dialogue between employers, educators, training providers and young people.
- Reach talent currently overlooked by conventional recruitment, including hidden NEET young people.
The summit offers a unique chance to connect with like-minded professionals, local education and training providers, and key stakeholders. Discover how working together can unlock long-term benefits, boost productivity, and shape a thriving future for Kent & Medway.
KENT AND MEDWAY LOCAL SKILLS IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Building on the success of the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP)
Following the launch of the new Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) 2026-2029, employers, education providers and stakeholders are continuing to work together to address the workforce challenges and opportunities facing our region. Building on the foundations of the first LSIP, the new plan introduces refreshed priorities and a revised sector focus. Alongside continuing support for Adult Social Care, Construction and the Built Environment, Manufacturing and Engineering, and Fresh Food and Land-based Industries, the 2026-2029 LSIP has expanded to include Creative Industries and the Visitor Economy, recognising the growing importance of these sectors to Kent & Medway's economy.
The new LSIP reflects the changing needs of employers across Kent & Medway, with a continued focus on workforce development, digital and AI skills, decarbonisation, employability and SME engagement. The insights and commitment of businesses and partners across the region remain central to shaping a skills system that supports growth, productivity and opportunity for all.
Looking ahead, the LSIP's future priorities focus on building momentum - strengthening workforce capability, responding to emerging economic opportunities and ensuring local people can access the skills needed for future careers. By continuing to collaborate, we can create a more resilient, productive and inclusive economy for Kent & Medway
SKILLS 26 video highlights courtesy of Lavender Blue Media
From 9:00am - Registration and Networking
Join us from 9.00am for refreshments
9:30am - Welcome Address
Tudor Price, CEO at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
9:40am - Keynote Speakers
10:00am - Panel Discussion 1 with Q&A
Facilitated by Jonathan Shaw
Strategic Director at Kent Further Education
11:00am - Coffee Break
11:20am - Seminar Session 1 (coming soon)
12:15pm - Seminar Session 2 (coming soon)
1:05pm - Lunch
1:50pm - Panel Discussion 2 with Q&A
Facilitated by Lucy Druesne
Deputy CEO at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
2:30pm - Closing Address
2:45pm - Event Close and Networking
PANEL DISCUSSION 1
Coming soon facilitated by Jonathan Shaw
Details to follow soon.
Panel Members
-
Coming soon - Leader of Medway Council
SEMINAR SESSION 2
This seminar session will run from 11:20am-12:10pm
Please select from one of the following:
Details to follow soon.
2. Coming soon
Details to follow soon.
3. Coming soon
Details to follow soon.
TUDOR PRICE (Host)
CEO at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
A skilled business leader within both the private and public sector. Proven operational and contract delivery experience with broad commercial expertise in all corporate functions. Experienced Chairperson and facilitator at national and regional level representing cross sector engagement.
Specialities: Leadership, Presentation & communication, Committee work, Bid writing, Economic Development
Relationship management, Operational design & delivery, Contract performance and delivery.
FACILITATED BY: JONATHAN SHAW
Strategic Director at Kent Further Education
Jonathan’s career has been remarkably diverse, spanning roles as a farm worker, care assistant, and social worker before entering politics. He served as a Member of Parliament for three terms (1997–2010), during which he held several ministerial positions, including roles at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). He was also the Regional Minister for the South East and served as a Government Whip.
In addition, Jonathan contributed as a Private Parliamentary Secretary at the Department for Education (DfE) and was an active member of the Education and Skills Select Committee for four years.
Currently, Jonathan is the Strategic Director for Kent Further Education and serves as a board member, having previously been the Chief Executive of the think tank Policy Connect. He is also the Chair of the Blackthorn Trust, a Kent-based mental health charity, and has been running the Medway Leadership Programme for the past 14 years.
FACILITATED BY: LUCY DRUESNE
Deputy CEO at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
Lucy leads strategic initiatives that strengthen business across Kent & Medway. Her responsibilities include policy and representation, as well as the design and delivery of projects that address the needs of local businesses.
Lucy played a pivotal role in developing the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and continues to serve as its strategic lead. The LSIP works closely with employers, sector bodies, and education providers to identify priority skills gaps and solutions that help align training provision with business needs in key growth sectors.
Set in scenic countryside next to the famous Leeds Castle, this Kent hotel has 14 meeting and function rooms for 600 guests.
Public Transport
Hollingbourne Station: 15 minute walk | 3 minute drive
Maidstone East Station: 5 minute drive
Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel
Ashford Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1RE
www.mercuremaidstone.co.uk
