The future of the UK after Brexit sparks lively debate at SBS
Business leaders gathered at Southampton Business School to hear expert predictions of what will happen when the UK leaves the European Union.
With 100 weeks to go before Brexit, the topical evening seminar was organised with the support of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Business Alliance.
Malcolm Hyde, Director of the Confederation of British Industry in the South East addressed the meeting: “After the referendum and the triggering of Article 50, we are now in the third phase of our exit from the EU. Up to now, this has been marked by initial sparring and political noise but we need clarity as firms know they need to make Brexit work.”
The 50-strong audience then split into groups to discuss what the UK’s exit will mean for international trade, local business and infrastructure, education and skills.
“Emotive language around Brexit is still shaping the debate at present but businesses need to make their voices heard in the months to come so we can seize the opportunities that will arise,” says Business School Teaching Fellow in Accountancy Gavin Midgley who organised the seminar.
Director of Executive Education Paul Bennett adds: “This highly relevant subject to business and individuals attracted a full house of senior executives from the region keen to know more about what Brexit will mean for trade and industry in the region and beyond. We will be returning to the subject later in the year in the Executive Learning Partnership.”
The Executive Learning Partnership brings together leading companies in the region for monthly masterclasses in key business topics. It is led by its partners who draw up the programme, future sessions include gamification, talent management, the psychology of leadership, decision making in uncertain environments and negotiating to win.