Welcome to Momentum York, a new conference created by professional service businesses, for professional service businesses.
Join over 100 professionals for a dynamic half‑day conference, featuring an expo of local businesses, insightful presentations, and valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the sector.
The inaugural conference in June considered why businesses choose to establish themselves here and helped build confidence in York’s future. This event moves the conversation from why to how, with a specific focus on business growth, local support, and meaningful networking.
Momentum York - York's Professional Services Conference
Welcome to Momentum York, a new conference created by professional service businesses, for professional service businesses.
Join over 100 professionals for a dynamic half‑day conference, featuring an expo of local businesses, insightful presentations, and valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the sector.
The inaugural conference in June considered why businesses choose to establish themselves here and helped build confidence in York’s future. This event moves the conversation from why to how, with a specific focus on business growth, local support, and meaningful networking.
When: Wednesday 18th November 2026, 12-7PM
Where: The Milner Hotel, York
Agenda
- 12-1:30pm - Welcome & Expo (Lunch Provided)
- 1:30-2:30pm - York’s Growth Agenda: How Your Business Can Benefit and Win New Opportunities
- 2:30-2:45pm - Break & Expo
- 2:45-3:30pm - Roland Emmans, Sector Head for Technology & Growth Lending, HSBC UK
- 3:30-4pm - Break & Expo
- 4-5pm - Growing Through Uncertainty: Lessons from Three Local Businesses Leaders
- 5-7pm - Complimentary Drinks, including Speed Networking hosted by York Professionals
Meet The Speakers
Richard Webb, Chief Executive, City of York Council
Richard was appointed as Chief Executive of City of York Council in March 2026 and brings more than 30 years’ leadership experience across local government and the NHS. Passionate about people, places, and partnerships, he is focused on driving sustainable growth, strengthening communities, and ensuring York continues to thrive as a great place to live, work, invest, and do business.
Chloe Wilcox, Head of Procurement, York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority
Chloe leads procurement and commercial activity that helps deliver public services and regional investment. With extensive experience in public sector procurement, Chloe is passionate about creating opportunities for businesses, improving access to contracts, and ensuring public spending delivers maximum value for communities and the local economy.
Roland Emmans, Sector Head for Technology & Growth Lending, HSBC UK
A highly regarded technology sector specialist, Roland brings over 25 years of banking experience and is passionate about helping businesses innovate, scale, and succeed in a rapidly evolving digital economy. At HSBC UK, Roland works with technology businesses ranging from ambitious start-ups to established multinational firms.
Rob Wolfe, Managing Director, CHY Consultancy
Rob is a recognised leader in social value, procurement, and community impact. With more than 20 years’ experience, he helps organisations maximise the social and economic benefits of investment and procurement. Recently appointed by York Central, Rob is helping to embed social impact throughout the development, ensuring it delivers lasting benefits for local communities, businesses, and the wider economy.
More speakers to be announced soon.
Meet The Exhibitors
About Momentum
York is known as a beautiful heritage city, popular with tourists, and proud of its strong hospitality and retail offer. However, less is known about York’s diverse, dynamic, and exciting professional services sector, which often operates behind closed doors. This event will bring the sector together to connect, learn, and grow together.
- Our ambition is to:
Convene and mobilise a new professional services network in York - Showcase the depth of expertise and innovation within our historic city
- Foster connection and collaboration between micro-firms and global companies
- Position York as a hub for professional excellence in the UK
Momentum York is delivered by York BID in partnership with York Professionals, York St John University, HSBC, City of York Council, and West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, with the vital funding support of David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
