DFK UK&I Annual and Emerging Leaders Conference 2025 – Sheffield

A celebration of collaboration, innovation, and growth.

What made the Sheffield Conference unforgettable?

Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to another unforgettable DFK gathering. We’re especially grateful to those who travelled from across the globe to reconnect with the DFK family. Your enthusiasm and participation made this year’s event truly special, and we deeply appreciate the lasting bonds that make our DFK community so strong.

The conference kicked off with the annual UK&I golf tournament at Lindrick Golf Club, where delegates enjoyed some friendly competition and showcased hidden golfing talents. Meanwhile, the Emerging Leaders group took on high-energy team-building challenges setting the tone for a dynamic and engaging event.

We are delighted that we welcomed:

Over 110 attendees
From over 11 countries

This is DFK. United Globally.

Leadership, Learning & Networking

Managing Partners gathered for an Away Day facilitated by Nigel Jacobs, CEO of DFK International member firm Taylor Leibow LLP, Canada. Simultaneously, the UK&I Tax Group and Audit Group hosted sessions focused on industry trends, practical insights, and knowledge sharing. The Emerging Leaders 2025 cohort engaged in a day and half of intense training with Sue Mitchell, focussing on creating presence and a personal brand.

Keynotes & Panels

The day began with a warm welcome from Robert Hampstead of host firm Landin Wilcock & Co, introducing keynote speaker Jez Rose – a world-renowned behaviour expert and bestselling author. Jez delivered an engaging talk on how understanding human behaviour can transform workplace culture and drive performance.

Additional sessions included:

Global Vision & Inspiration

The final day began with a DFK International update from:

  • Bill Wright, Executive Director & CEO
  • Francesco Nicolini, EMEA Vice President
  • Warren Baker BFP FCA, Deputy President of the Board


Keynote speaker Oli France, expedition leader and adventurer, inspired delegates with stories of resilience and leadership from his global journeys.

We also welcomed Dr Martin Littlewood, a leading performance psychologist with over 20 years’ experience in elite sport, followed by a fireside chat hosted by Silverfin.

The conference concluded with a compelling session by Karl George on AI governance and leadership, exploring the challenges and opportunities AI presents for today’s leaders.

Socials and Networking

Delegates were treated to spectacular Welcome Reception at Cutlers’ Hall, where members reconnected and celebrated the start of the conference in style.

As always a variety of social activities were a key part of the event including darts, beer tasting, chocolate tasting, and a visit to the Sheffield Food Bank, where delegates helped prepare meals for those in need.

The closing Gala Dinner was a dazzling celebration of DFK spirit, complete with disco dancing, fabulous outfits, and incredible food and entertainment. A huge thank you to our Platinum Sponsor, Xero, for making the night unforgettable.

Proudly
Sponsored By

The success of the DFK UK&I Annual and Emerging Leaders Conference 2025 was made possible by the dedication of our hosts and the generosity of our sponsors. Their support enabled us to deliver a truly exceptional event.

And of course, thank you to our keynote speakers, venues, and the delegates who joined us from across the UK, Ireland, and beyond.

It’s been another unforgettable DFK UK&I Conference!

Interested in sponsoring our next conference?

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