Rise & Thrive: Championing Social Mobility in Greater Manchester
Join us for an insightful panel discussion on social mobility and how businesses can rethink entry routes, understand societal challenges, and support career growth. This event will explore the barriers individuals face when moving into work, as well as the hurdles they encounter while advancing in their careers.
Our expert speakers will provide actionable strategies for companies to champion social mobility and align their efforts with the updated Greater Manchester Strategy. Learn how businesses can develop inclusive workplaces, drive meaningful change, and contribute to a fairer and more accessible job market for all.
What to Expect:
- Engaging discussions with industry leaders
- Practical insights on reviewing entry routes and supporting career progression
- A deep dive into the role of Greater Manchester in advancing social mobility
- Networking opportunities with professionals passionate about creating change
Who Should Attend?
- Business leaders, HR professionals, and recruiters
- Policy makers and community advocates
- Anyone invested in building a more inclusive workforce
Register Now Secure your spot and be part of an important conversation that shapes the future of work in Greater Manchester. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!
About the Speakers:
Zahoor Ahmad is Group Head of Social Mobility, Inclusion and Belonging for the Co-op group with over two decades of experience in equality, diversity and inclusion practice garnered across and range of industries, including the public, private and charitable sectors. He currently serves as a member of the Co-op Group’s Exec Board.
As a graduate of psychology, he fosters a behavioural approach, and has been instrumental in pioneering approaches to tackling non-inclusive behaviours and structural inequalities. He has led D&I teams in the MoD, the finance sector, the emergency services and the charitable sector. He has worked in a wide range of multi-agency environments collaborating and leading programmes across education, health and early careers. He is a specialist inclusive coach and mentor, and frequent keynote speaker on topics ranging from socio-economic inequality to re-imagining inclusive leadership.
John is a passionate entrepreneur and expert communicator with 25 years’ experience supporting major UK organisations. Ten years ago, he founded Social with no clients or income, growing it into a national, purpose-led B Corp agency. A Fellow of the RSA and graduate of Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses programme, John champions inclusive growth and place-based impact. He’s known for his empathy-led leadership, deep commitment to communities, and expertise in built environment communications and stakeholder engagement.
Dr Carl Austin-Behan OBE DL is a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and former LGBT Advisor to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Currently Greater Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Community Ambassador. This role includes visiting schools, youth groups and workplaces to promote diversity, equality, inclusion and respect as well as working on projects with Community Action, Public Sector Liaison and LGBTQ+ Networks across GM.
Carl was one of the last people to be discharged from the RAF in 1997 due to his sexuality although having an exemplary service record. He joined Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in 1998 and left 1999, then went on to win Mr Gay UK 2001.
Having served on Manchester City Council representing Burnage from 2011 – 2018, Carl was the first openly gay Lord Mayor of Manchester 2016 – 2017. Also owns his own Cleaning Company VA Clean – working with Property Management Companies specialising in the communal areas of apartment blocks.
Carl has devoted himself to LGBTQ+ advocacy. Ambassador for The Proud Trust, George House Trust, Broughton House; Patron of Contact Theatre, Manchester Proud chorus; Chair of Pro-Manchester EDI Network, City of Trees Trust. He was also a founder member for Fighting with Pride (LGBT veterans charity run by veterans. The first and only lived-experience charity addressing the health and wellbeing of LGBT+ veterans.) he passionately promotes diversity, equality and inclusion within our communities. In November 2019 Carl was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and was awarded an OBE in the 2020 Queens New Year’s Honours List for services to Charity and the LGBTQ+ Community.
Carl is married to Simon and they have a 5 year old daughter Willow, who they have duel parenting arrangements with a Lesbian couple.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
