GEO BUSINESS 2025: MEET THE MAIN STAGE SPEAKERS
GEO Business returns to Excel London on 4–5 June 2025 with an impressive roster of main stage speakers set to captivate and inspire. This year’s programme brings together prominent figures across industry, academia and government, offering unparalleled insights into the past, present and future of geospatial.
The GEO Business main stage is where insight meets impact. With sessions designed to address the most urgent challenges and opportunities in the geospatial world, these talks offer strategic takeaways and actionable ideas for professionals across the sector. Below are just a few of the conversations coming to GEO Business this June.
Data to decisions: Unveiling the story of a London commercial building
Cameron McDonald, head of geospatial, Knight Frank
Attendees will learn:
- How Knight Frank integrates EPC ratings, amenities, commute patterns, satellite imagery, 3D models and lease data.
- How to apply geospatial intelligence to increase asset value and improve sustainability.
- Practical examples of data-led decision-making in commercial property.
The National Data Library and its implications for the geospatial industry
Holger Kessler (AtkinsRéalis ), Andrew Newman (Open Data Institute), Isabelle Chatel de Brancion (Ordnance Survey), Chris Carlon (The Data City), Richard Shortridge, (AtkinsRéalis ), Sarah Hayes (Connected Places Catapult and Digital Twin Hub) plus a speaker from Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Discussion:
- What the UK’s National Data Library means for geospatial data sharing and strategy.
- How FAIR principles are being applied to ensure high-quality, accessible data
- How private sector data can integrate with national initiatives.
- The role of geospatial data in AI and digital transformation.
How to enhance geospatial skills and education
Simon Navin (Ordnance Survey), Alison Watson MBE (Class of Your Own), Dr. Claire Evans (Bloxham School), Hazel Hendley (Ordnance Survey), Sandy Powell (Murphy Geospatial)
Debate and discussion on:
- Why geospatial skills are critical to the future of infrastructure and innovation
- How industry and education can collaborate more effectively.
- Strategies to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in geospatial professions.
- Opportunities to engage and inspire young people into the sector.
Digital glue: Combining services through smarter practices at Cambridge Children’s Hospital
Enrico Curto, associate mechanical engineer, Ramboll
Attendees will learn:
- How Ramboll used digital platforms to unify cross-disciplinary teams.
- How digitalisation supported sustainability and wellbeing in healthcare design.
- Insights from a real-world case study in complex infrastructure delivery.
The geospatial profession – a diversity of pathways forward
Helen Gilmartin (World Geospatial Industry Council)
The geospatial workforce is shrinking and, without urgent action, it won’t bounce back over the next decade. This session dives into the systemic change needed to safeguard the profession’s future.
Attendees will learn:
- Why geospatial must embrace AI and machine learning to stay relevant.
- How to build geospatial literacy among citizens and decision-makers.
- The critical role of workplace learning in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
- Strategies to attract, develop and retain talent in a shifting workforce.
The main stage at GEO Business 2025 serves as a high-impact forum for the most pressing issues in geospatial. With a focus on real-world case studies, strategic ideas and the voices shaping the profession, the programme reflects the growing importance of geospatial intelligence across sectors.
Whatever their role or level of experience, attendees will come away with practical advice, fresh perspectives and meaningful connections to help shape their work and drive projects forward. The event is free to attend and takes place on 4-5 June at Excel, London and runs alongside Digital Construction Week.