LiftEx - LiftEx-Exhibition Centre Liverpool, 2025 - Thought Leadership Conference

Headline Sponsor

Headline Sponsor

Thought Leadership Conference

Speakers

Adeoluwa Bamgbade, SCS RAILWAYS JV

Adeoluwa Bamgbade, SCS RAILWAYS JV

Temporary Works Coordinator

13:40-14:10 - Tunnel Boring Machine Shield Extraction on HS2 London Tunnels

Delegates will learn how to challenge assumptions, collaborate to achieve results and manage change effectively.

Anton van der Zalm, VAN BEEST B.V.

Anton van der Zalm, VAN BEEST B.V.

Vice President Corporate Research & Development

13:10-13:40 - From Surface to Seabed and Back: Innovations in Load Release and Retrieval

As subsea operations become more complex and efficiency-driven, the technology behind load release and retrieval continues to evolve. This session explores the latest innovations in subsea installation equipment, with a focus on smarter, safer techniques for deploying and recovering loads from the seabed.
We’ll examine advancements in ROV-operated shackles and hooks, and how these are reshaping industry standards for remote handling, reducing risk, and improving operational uptime. Drawing from field experience, the session will offer practical insights into how new approaches to load management—from surface to seabed and back—are enhancing subsea project execution.
Ideal for professionals involved in offshore operations, marine engineering, and subsea logistics, this talk balances technical education with real-world application.

Ben Dobbs, LEEA

Ben Dobbs, LEEA

Head of Global Industry Standards and Legislation

14:10-14:25 - Machinery Directive: Considerations and updates

Harley Parkin, GGR GROUP

Harley Parkin, GGR GROUP

Account Manager

11:20-11:50 - The Evolution of Lifting Innovation: Advancing Glass Installation, Confined Access, and Zero-Emission Lifting Solutions

This presentation explores how decades of innovation have transformed the specialist lifting industry, from the earliest glass handling breakthroughs to today’s precision robotics and zero-emission equipment.
Attendees will discover how GGR Group has continually advanced the field through a series of UK-first and world-first product developments, including robotic glazing systems, compact spider cranes and the world’s first fully electric telehandler used on HS2.
Through real-world examples and product milestones, the session demonstrates how innovation in glass installation, confined access lifting, and sustainable engineering has changed what’s possible on modern construction and façade projects.

Ian Bannister, LEEA

Ian Bannister, LEEA

Director of Infrastructure

14:25-14:40 - HSE LOLER Review: Update

Kevin Bennison & Darren Biggs, ILLAPG

Kevin Bennison & Darren Biggs, ILLAPG

ILLAPG

16:00-16:30 - Lifting safety through collaboration: How the Industry Lifting Lead AP Group (ILLAPG) is raising standards across the industry

Lifting safety through collaboration: How the Industry Lifting Lead AP Group (ILLAPG) is raising standards across the industry.

Ollie Brown, GLOBALDATA PLC

Ollie Brown, GLOBALDATA PLC

Economist

15:30-16:00 - Vertical Construction amid Evolving International Trade

This session will cover:
- Market Trends
- New Project Developments
- Maritime Trade Dynamics & Implications

Ross Moloney, LEEA

Ross Moloney, LEEA

CEO

10:20-10:50 - Attract, Develop, Retain

Ross Moloney explores how the lifting industry can attract new talent, develop their skills, and retain a strong, motivated workforce. Discover practical steps to raise the industry’s profile, build clearer career pathways, and secure the next generation of lifting professionals.

Tim Battersby, RICONNECT

Tim Battersby, RICONNECT

Technical Sales Manager

12:40-13:10 - Introduction to the Digital Product Passport

- Become familiar with the objectives of the Digital Product Passport
- Understand what we know so far on the DPP
- Learn what we can do now to prepare for future digitalisation requirements

Wim Fabricius, KITO CROSBY

Wim Fabricius, KITO CROSBY

President & Managing Director, EMEA

10:50-11:20 - You are only as strong as your team – Building the future through talent

The lifting industry stands at a crossroads. Companies are grappling with the dual challenge of attracting and retaining new talent while navigating rapid shifts in technology and business models. Vertical integration, advanced manufacturing (“Manufacturing 2.0”), and digitalization are reshaping how we operate, while safety, R&D, and continuous training remain non-negotiable foundations. The future will belong to the organizations that can unite strong teams with innovation, developing the skills and culture needed to create not just a more competitive industry - but a safer one.