In November, Calls9’s Founder and CEO, Adam Roney, joined an impressive lineup of thought leaders at the "Supporting Growth in Greater Manchester" event. Co-hosted by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and Eversheds Sutherland, the event attracted business leaders, policymakers, and innovators eager to tackle the pressing issues shaping the region’s economic future.
The event kicked off with an engaging introduction by Marcus Bokkerink, Chair of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), who framed the critical questions under discussion. As Greater Manchester continues to grow, how can devolution be leveraged to unlock even greater opportunities? What persistent hurdles must businesses overcome to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape? And most importantly, how do we ensure that the momentum benefits everyone, including consumers who are vital stakeholders in this growth narrative?
A Panel of Experts on Growth, Innovation, and Fair Competition
Adam Roney shared the stage with an esteemed group of experts:
- John Wrathmell, Director of Strategy, Research & Economy at GMCA
- Raquel Ortega-Argilés, Director of the Productivity Lab at The Productivity Institute
- Damian Waters, Regional Director of the CBI in the North West
The panelists unpacked complex issues ranging from the impact of devolution on economic acceleration to the necessity of digital transformation for businesses. Discussions highlighted the imperative for companies to embrace innovation, use digital tools effectively, and upskill their workforce. This conversation naturally wove into the role of the CMA in protecting consumers while promoting fair competition, particularly with their newly bolstered consumer protection enforcement powers.
Thank You to Our Contributors and Participants
We are immensely grateful to our hosts, exceptional panelists, and everyone who contributed to this critical dialogue. Your engagement and input are crucial as we work together to build a thriving, inclusive, and forward-thinking Greater Manchester.
Let's keep the conversation going as we look forward to more opportunities for collaboration and impact.