Doncaster Chamber celebrates the collaboration of the region after busy week of conferences.

Doncaster Chamber delivered two major events last week that brought together more than 250 professionals from across South Yorkshire to focus on leadership, skills and the future of the regions’ workforce. Across the Women in Business Conference and Skills Seminar, attendees from businesses, providers and local leadership engaged in an open discussion, shared expertise and helped shape ambition for South Yorkshire’s economic and talent development.

The Women in Business Conference, held at The Legacy Centre, drew over 100 attendees and created an open, supportive environment for honest discussion about leadership and the future of work.

Hosted by Amelia Banful, the event reflected the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to creating spaces where local talent can connect, build confidence and broaden their influence.

Across the day, speakers and participants from a wide range of industries contributed to a strong sense of community, demonstrating the depth and diversity of leadership emerging across the region. Keynotes from Jill Wood, President of Doncaster Chamber and Managing Director of Signum Facilities Management, and Susannah Matschke, Head of Data and AI Consulting at Sopra Steria Next, reinforced the importance of championing talent, embracing change and creating inclusive pathways for future leaders.

As Jade Dyer, Chief Operating Officer at Doncaster Chamber, reflected: “This conference was about creating space for honest conversations and shared learning. What stood out was the openness of our speakers and the appetite in the room to challenge, reflect and grow together.”

The following day, collaboration took centre stage once again as the Chamber hosted the South Yorkshire Skills Seminar at the Hilton Garden Inn, Doncaster Racecourse. Bringing together more than 80 employers, training providers and strategic partners, the seminar marked a significant step in shaping the region’s second Local Skills Improvement Plan. By convening those who directly influence South Yorkshire’s workforce and economic direction, the Chamber created a forum for candid discussion about shared challenges and collective opportunity.

Opening remarks from Kate Josephs and closing reflections from Dan Fell underscored the ambition, pace and unified approach needed to strengthen the region’s skills system. Attendees engaged in constructive conversation about aligning provision with employer needs, supporting priority and emerging sectors, and ensuring the region is well positioned to respond to future labour market demands.

The seminar showcased the willingness of partners across South Yorkshire to work together to improve outcomes, close long‑standing gaps and shape a workforce strategy that can adapt through to 2029.

Taken together, the two events highlight the pivotal role Doncaster Chamber continues to play in convening partners, encouraging collaboration and providing platforms for honest discussion and shared action. Whether championing leadership or helping shape the region’s strategic skills plan, the Chamber remains focused on supporting businesses, strengthening regional networks and ensuring South Yorkshire continues to develop the talent, capability and confidence needed for long term economic success.