Global insights to be served up at annual dinner

SHEFFIELD Chamber of Commerce will welcome the new business year with a global futurist as guest speaker at its annual dinner event.

Rohit Talwar will speak at the Chamber's flagship annual dinner on January 31 at Sheffield's Cutlers' Hall.

The event is a flagship Chamber event that attracts an audience of more than 500 guests every year, including business leaders from across the city region and a host of dignitaries.

Mr Talwar is widely held as one of the world's top 10 global future thinkers and has delivered keynote speeches to business and political leaders worldwide.

He has spoken and consulted on five continents and more than 30 countries for some of the largest and most innovative organisations and companies worldwide.

The chief executive of think tank Fast Future is particularly well known for his focus on emerging global trends, innovation and the rise of fast growth economies such as China, India, the Middle East and Africa.

His recent research has focused on the future of China and India, future investment opportunities in Africa and the future of the travel and tourism market in the Middle East.

He is also an active investor in the most innovative ventures he sees on his global travels.

Vernon Tolson, Chamber events and marketing manager, said that the annual dinner being promoted as kick-start to what is expected to be a year of innovation and progress, which made Mr Talwar the perfect guest speaker.

"Rohit advises global corporations, innovative start-ups, family businesses, investment funds and governments on addressing key trends, developing inspiring future visions and delivering innovative change," he said.

"The annual dinner is an ideal opportunity to entertain corporate clients at a prestigious venue and an event steeped in history."

Also speaking on the night will be Tom Riordan, chief executive of regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and Sheffield Chamber president Richard Wright.

The black tie annual dinner will start at 7.30pm and is open to Sheffield Chamber members and their guests only. Tickets cost £84 and include a five-course meal with table wine, port, coffee and mints.