We are delighted to announce that Phil Smith, Chair of Skills England, will deliver his first keynote since taking on the role during the opening keynote session at the Apprenticeships and Training Conference.

Phil was appointed as Chair of Skills England in 2025 and brings with him extensive experience across skills, industry and workforce development. Skills England has been established by the Government to provide strategic leadership across the skills system, working with employers, providers and government to ensure training and apprenticeship pathways better meet the needs of the economy and the future workforce.

Phil’s keynote will set out the priorities for Skills England and his perspective on the direction of travel for apprenticeships and workforce training. This will be followed by a Q&A, giving delegates a valuable opportunity to engage directly on the challenges and opportunities facing employers, providers and policymakers.