Future of Tech | 17 March 2026

 

📍 Venue: Brabners LLP, 100 Barbirolli Square, Manchester M2 3BD

🕔 Time: 10:30 - 16:30 | Please arrive promptly for an 11am start

 

Future of Tech brings together leading voices in law, technology, science and innovation. During this conference, we’ll be exploring the impact that technology has on the environment as well as its role in creating and protecting a more sustainable world. 


Through keynote talks and panel discussions, we’ll examine how emerging technologies — from AI to quantum computing — intersect with legal frameworks, compliance obligations and environmental responsibilities. 


This event offers a space to connect, learn and gain practical insights from experts at the forefront of law and technology. Expect thought-provoking conversations, actionable guidance and opportunities to engage with peers and specialists who are driving real change across the sector.

See below for the full agenda.

We have now reached capacity for this event, if you would like to join us, please register below and we will notify you should a space become available.

Agenda

 

10:30 

Registration opens


11:00 

Welcome & Introduction


11:15

Keynote:
AI at the Crossroads: Driving Growth or Environmental Risk?

Patricia Gestoso-Souto, Global Director at BIOVIA & AI Strategist, Gestoso Consulting

 AI strategist and one of the UK’s most influential women in technology explores the hidden assumptions shaping today’s AI race — from techno-solutionism and AI inevitability to the belief that regulation slows innovation. Patricia will examine how these assumptions shape decisions that can increase resource use, emissions, and environmental exposure.

Drawing on research and real-world examples, she challenges the idea that AI progress must come at the planet’s expense and shows how leaders can deploy AI to drive sustainability, resilience, and smarter, more responsible decision-making.

The result is a new perspective for leaders: the decisions made today will determine whether AI becomes a tool for sustainable growth — or a source of environmental and strategic risk over the next decade. 

11:45

Panel #1: Tech for Good - Turning Innovation into Impact

We’ll discuss how Tech for Good technology solutions are driving positive change for people and the planet. Our panel will dive into the real challenges faced by innovators — from funding and compliance to standing out in a crowded market. Hear practical tips, lessons learned and how expert support can help Tech for Good businesses thrive. 

 

Panellists include:
Paul Myers, Co-Founder and MD at Farm Urban
Liz Ashall-Payne, Founder at Orcha
Anne Jones, Senior Research Scientist, Climate & Sustainability at IBM Research
Matt Bagwell, Chief Marketing Officer at Deep Green

Hosted by:
Simon Lewis, Corporate Lawyer and Head of Social Impact at Brabners


12:30

Lunch break 


13:15

Panel #2: Data Centres & Quantum Computing - Powering the Next Digital Revolution

We'll examine how data centres and quantum computing are reshaping business, sustainability and security, as well as their potential environmental impact — both negative and positive. We'll consider their role in innovation and AI growth zones, as well as regeneration. We'll also explore the balance between innovation and responsibility, from energy use to resource demands and learn how organisations can stay ahead while minimising harm. 

Panellists include:
Adam Nethersole, Vice President of Marketing at Kao Data
Oscar Wallis, Quantum Software Engineer at Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)
Sharon Abram, Technical Director and Data Centre Lead at SLR Consulting
Andy Grant, EMEA Director, Supercomputing, Higher Education and AI at NVIDIA

Hosted by:
Kate Venables, Employment Lawyer and Tech Sector Specialist at Brabners


14:00

Coffee break


14:15

Panel #3: AI & Emerging Tech - Innovating Sustainably for Tomorrow

This session will explore how AI and cutting-edge technologies are transforming industries — and what that means for sustainability. Our panellists will examine the opportunities and risks of adopting high-energy technologies, showcase businesses putting sustainability at the heart of innovation and share practical strategies for responsible tech development. We’ll also discuss how legal and strategic frameworks can support organisations in building a greener, smarter future.

Panellists include:
Umang Patel, Chief Clinical Information Officer at Microsoft
Rashik Parmar MBE, Non-Executive Director, Board Leader and Digital Innovator
Katie Atkinson, Director of the Interdisciplinary Centre for Sustainability Research at the University of Liverpool.

Hosted by:
Rosie Djurovic, Head of AI at Brabners


15:00 

Closing remarks


15:15 

Drinks, canapés & networking