Acumen Business Convention: the most anticipated business event in Brighton
14th April 2025Fifteen years of the Acumen Business Convention has taught the Sussex business community one thing – expect the unexpected.
Acumen Business Convention is a staple in the Sussex business calendar. It seamlessly integrates captivating live entertainment with the insightful renowned speakers, inspiring local legends and the ample networking opportunities. Business leaders always mark the convention in their diaries well ahead of their holidays.
Keynote session
In celebration of the wonderful Sussex community, Brighton is intertwined throughout the convention. As part of their keynote session, we will hear from Sarah Willingham, the new owner of Brighton’s iconic i360. Recognised as one of UK’s ’35 Most Successful Women Under 25’ and among ‘500 Most Influential People in Britain’. Willingham will share her exceptional business journey on the convention day.
Starting as a waitress at the age of 11, she transformed businesses as a fresh graduate before striking out on her own in 2003 to manage a diverse portfolio of investments. She later founded the UK’s leading hospitality group Nightcap PLC, broke new ground as a Dragon to Dragon’s Den, being the first working mum with four children under nine(!) and now the proud new owner of Brighton’s i360.
For the big 15th anniversary, the keynote session doesn’t stop there. Prepare to be captivated by the No.1 bestselling author, Peter James. James transforms real-life experiences into extraordinary crime mystery novels. Immersing himself in his craft, he brings Brighton & Hove to life with remarkable precision and insight. His immersive storytelling will expand your horizons when conquering professional challenges.
Inspiring line-up
The convention’s diverse line-up further includes Adam Pearson, accomplished actor, TV host and passionate disability campaigner, who will share insights on overcoming adversity; Rob Starr MBE, a distinguished entrepreneur, charity leader, author, and recipient of King’s Honour recognition.
Beyond the main stage, experts from the Sussex business community will share invaluable insights, including Carole Gilling-Smith, consultant gynaecologist and founder of Agora Fertility Clinic. As a renowned expert and leading advocate for inclusive fertility and reproductive medicine, Carole will share her inspiring entrepreneurial journey of building the wonderful Agora Clinic. Ade Holder, an expert in SEO and digital strategies, is another speaker. Prepare to be enlightened by his insights to maximise your online presence. Penina Shepherd, the founder of Acumen Law, will also take to the stage with an inspiring talk.
A day of deception
In a day packed with excitement, 300 business leaders locked in for inspiration, mesmerising live entertainment, meaningful connections, and then… there’s been a murder! Gasps and whispers throughout the crowd, but who done it? The biggest murder mystery in business convention history.
In honour of captivating keynote speaker, Peter James, the master of mystery, something sinister will lurk beneath the surface. Prepare for betrayal, twists and deception while the murder investigation unfolds throughout the day.
Will your investigative skills be enough to determine the culprit?
The Acumen Business Convention is not just about attending; it’s about building genuine, valuable business connections. The ample networking opportunities provide the ability to tailor your networking to you.
And… as if that is not enough, there is also… the CreativePod
Buck-Off After-Party to finish off the day with lots of laughter and scrumptious Greek food from Nostos Catering at the Grand Hotel.
Prepare for an evening to remember with Sussex Business Stand-Up Showcase. Watch with great amusement as members of your local business community transform into amateur comedians. Will they have what it takes to get the crowd laughing with them?
And, if that is still not enough, hold on tight for the
‘Buck-Off’, the mechanical bull challenge. Compete with your business community to claim the title of the longest rider, or cheer your community on from the sidelines. This is entertainment you won’t want to miss!
Tickets
This annual sell-out event is a non-negotiable in the Sussex business community’s diary. Don’t miss your chance to join this momentous occasion of the 15th Acumen Business Convention. Secure your tickets before they sell-out at: