The Institute hosted its annual Members’ Reception at Warwick Castle on Thursday 25 September 2025 – an event that brought together members from across the community to celebrate leadership, share ideas, and reflect on a year of remarkable progress.
Now a much-anticipated date in the Institute’s calendar, the reception offers members the chance to meet in person, exchange experiences and explore new perspectives on leadership. Places are allocated by ballot, making it one of the Institute’s most in-demand events – a night that celebrates both achievement and community.
Guests were greeted by a knight in armour and live music from the Vyne String Quartet, setting the tone for a unique evening that blended history with forward thinking.
Hosted by Emrys Green, Chair of the Institute of Leadership, the evening’s programme featured a line-up of speakers from across our community:
- Gemma Stewart-Young, Director at Make Strides and recipient of two Leadership Project grants
- Ben Hobbis, Founder and CEO of Step Up Network
- Dr Tarek Jomaa, Co-founder and CEO of Synthosis and shortlisted Institute Advocate of the Year 2025
- Lucy Oakshott, Director of Business Development at CPL One, publishing partner for EDGE Magazine and EDGE Online
The evening concluded with reflections from John Mark Williams, CEO of the Institute, who highlighted shared successes from the past 12 months and outlined bold plans for the year ahead.
From the Institute’s flag flying high above the castle to the connections made in the Great Hall, the evening captured the essence of the Institute’s community – leaders learning from one another, celebrating growth, and inspiring action.
“Thank you to the Institute of Leadership for an amazing event here at Warwick Castle. Fantastic location, lovely people to speak to and network with — a great event.”
