About this Event
About the conference
Since Building Greater Exeter relaunched in 2024, its members have played a vital role in tackling skills shortages, supporting local people into employment, creating apprenticeship opportunities and delivering social value across major developments in Greater Exeter.
The conference brings together employers, local authorities, developers, education providers, training organisations and strategic partners to celebrate shared achievements, reflect on remaining challenges and shape priorities for the next 12 months. Whether you are a long-standing member or a new organisation interested in supporting the future workforce, you can hear about the impact of collective efforts, influence future priorities and connect with organisations driving change across the construction and built environment sector.
Why attend?
- Gain insight into the latest workforce and skills challenges.
- Influence Building Greater Exeter’s future priorities.
- Network with employers, developers, contractors, local authorities and education partners.
- Showcase your organisation’s commitment to local skills and employment.
- Hear practical examples of successful workforce initiatives and partnerships.
- Contribute to the development of future industry solutions.
What to Expect
Welcome from the Chair
Hear reflections on Building Greater Exeter's journey, the progress we have made since 2024, and our vision for the future.
Address from Exeter College
As Managing Partner of Building Greater Exeter, Exeter College will share its commitment to supporting skills development, workforce growth and employer-led solutions.
Our Impact to Date
Discover the difference our members have made, including:
- Apprenticeships and jobs created
- Young people engaged through schools and careers activities
- Work experience and industry placements supported
- Employment and Skills Plan outcomes delivered
- Employer-led skills initiatives and partnerships
- Social value generated through development projects
Local Authority Panel Discussion
Representatives from local authorities across Greater Exeter will discuss:
- Key achievements over the past 12 months
- Progress against economic growth and workforce priorities
- Major developments and opportunities on the horizon
- How employers can play a greater role in tackling local skills challenges
Interactive Member Roundtables
A key feature of the conference will be facilitated roundtable discussions where members will collaborate on the future direction of Building Greater Exeter.
Together we will explore:
- What more can we do to inspire future talent?
- How can we strengthen local recruitment pipelines?
- What actions are needed to address ongoing skills shortages?
- How can members work together more effectively to achieve our shared objectives?
- What should Building Greater Exeter prioritise over the coming year?
Building Greater Exeter Action Plan 2027/28
The conference will conclude with key recommendations and priorities generated throughout the day, helping shape our future programme of activity and strategic direction.
Agenda
🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration, Refreshments & Networking
Info: Opportunity for members to connect, and engage with exhibitors.
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Chair's Welcome and Annual Address
Info: Reflecting on the journey since the BGEx relaunch in 2024
The importance of employer-led collaboration
The role of BGEx in tackling workforce and skills challenges
Setting the vision for 2027 and beyond
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Exeter College Welcome and Address
Info: Exeter College's commitment as Managing Partner
Supporting economic growth through skills development
How education and industry must continue working together
Future opportunities for employers and learners
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Local Authority Panel Discussion
Info: Panel Members:
Exeter City Council
East Devon District Council
Mid Devon District Council
Teignbridge District Council
Discussion Topics
Looking Back
Major achievements from the past 12 months
Progress against skills and employment priorities
Successful partnership activities
Looking Forward
Planned developments and investment
Future workforce needs
Opportunities for employers to support local growth
Facilitated Q&A
🕑: 10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Refreshment Break
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:55 AM
Roundtable Discussions
Info: What Should We Be Doing More Of?
Members will participate in facilitated table discussions focused on the future direction of BGEx.
Discussion Questions
1. Addressing Skills Shortages
What are the biggest workforce challenges facing your business?
What support is needed to attract and develop talent?
2. Supporting Young People
How can employers engage more effectively with schools and colleges?
What barriers exist and how can BGEx help overcome them?
3. Employment & Skills Plans
How can we maximise social value outcomes?
What good practice should be shared across projects?
4. Delivering Greater Member Value
What additional activities, events and resources would be most valuable?
How can member engagement be strengthened?
🕑: 11:55 AM - 12:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Info: Summary of key actions
Next steps for members
Launch of the 2027/28 BGEx Priorities and Work Programme
Thank you and networking invitation
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Networking Lunch
Event venue & nearby stays
Exeter College Future Skills Centre, Exeter Airport Industrial Estate, Exeter, United Kingdom
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