Doncaster Chamber Announces Third Annual Women in Business Conference

Doncaster Chamber is set to host its third Women in Business Conference this March, uniting inspirational female leaders from across the region to celebrate ambition, share lived experiences, and champion the power of women supporting women.

Taking place on 25 March 2026 at the Legacy Centre, the conference will shine a spotlight on the female entrepreneurs, innovators and business leaders who are shaping Doncaster’s economic landscape. Building on the success of previous Women in Business events, this year’s conference aims to delve deeper into the real challenges women face and explore practical, solution-driven ways to address them collectively.

The event is proudly sponsored by DN Colleges Group and Advance Doncaster. DN Colleges Group 2024 strengthened their support for equality and diversity in 2024 by signing the national Association of Colleges Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Charter. Their sponsorship of the Women in Business Conference reflects these pledges in action, reinforcing their mission to create opportunities and elevate under‑represented voices. Advance Doncaster, an employability programme supporting local people into work, joins them in backing the event, highlighting their shared dedication to creating accessible pathways, developing talent, and strengthening Doncaster’s workforce.

Danny Fenwick, Deputy Principal at DN Colleges Group, added: “Supporting this conference is a natural extension of our commitment as an organisation. We work hard to create environments where every individual feels empowered to thrive, and that includes championing women in leadership. Initiatives like this play a vital role in raising confidence, building networks and opening doors for women in our region, and we are proud to stand behind it.”

This year’s programme features three dynamic panel discussions, an In Conversation, and two powerful keynote speeches, which are designed to give women at every career stage practical insight into leadership, decision-making, and influence. These themes align with the wider South Yorkshire Women in Business Conference programme. making, and influence. These themes align with the wider South Yorkshire Women in Business Conference programme.

The first panel will see Emma McSkelly, Founder & CEO of NCM Auctions, Lindsay Atkins, Managing Director of Clarks Vehicle Conversions and Sarah Chadburn, Director of Compliance at One Call Insurance, kickstarting the event with a discussion on Leading Bold Decisions When the Stakes Are High.

Next, attendees will hear from the workforce of the future including Morgan Powell, Prison Employment Lead at Ministry of Justice, Charley Whitehead, Marketing Manager at Example Marketing and Ava Laverick, Executive Support Apprentice at St Leger Homes of Doncaster as they explore What Today’s Top Talent Actually Expects.

The following panel brings together Shelley Houlbrook, Operations Director at Highfield, Sam Foster, Co-owner & Director of Yorkshire Talent Partners and Karen Staniforth, Group People Brand and Responsibility Director at HEB Group questioning which Networks Actually Move the Needle.

The final panel will feature a conversation between Jodie Duggan, Managing Director of Enablement Group, and Lisa Tansley, Deputy Principal at Communication College Doncaster, as they explore the theme Redefining the Professional Journey.

Jill Wood, Managing Director of Signum Facilities Management and President of Doncaster Chamber, and Susannah Matschke, Data & AI Consulting Leader, will be joining us with insightful keynote speeches.

Jade Dyer, Chief Operating Officer of Doncaster Chamber, said: “This conference is a celebration of the incredible talent, ambition and leadership that women bring to Doncaster. Each year, we’re inspired by the energy and expertise contributed across every sector, the Chamber’s role is to champion that momentum. With the brilliant speakers, panellists and partners joining us this year, I’m confident that the insights shared will empower progression, leadership and a thriving Doncaster business community.”

The Chamber hopes this year’s conference will inspire new connections, spark meaningful conversations and help shape a more inclusive, ambitious and connected future for Doncaster’s women in business.

More details and booking information can be found on the Doncaster Chamber Events Website.