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

14:10-14:50 - 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

13:30-14:10 - 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.

LEEA

LEEA

LEEA is the leading trade association for the lifting industry, promoting enhanced standards and sustainable development.

10:20-11:00 - Future-Proofing the Lifting Industry: Perspectives and Predictions

Join LEEA for an expert look at the forces shaping the lifting industry. Explore emerging trends, technological innovations, and strategic insights that will define the sector’s future, and gain practical guidance to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

Ollie Brown, GlobalData Plc

Ollie Brown, GlobalData Plc

Economist

14:50-15:30 - Vertical Construction amid Evolving International Trade

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

Tim Battersby, RiConnect

Tim Battersby, RiConnect

Technical Sales Manager

12:50-13:30 - 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

11:00-11:40 - 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.