Over 100 delegates attended the Channel Islands Human Capital Summit in Guernsey last week, to hear opinions and insights on the future of work, both in the island and on a global scale.
The inaugural event was organised by Bright Futures, a Guernsey-based charity, and supported by a number of businesses including headline sponsor and leading offshore law firm, Mourant.
In a thought-provoking, day-long schedule, the packed hall at St James in St Peter Port were treated to a broad range of topics, including the changing nature of the workplace, employment law, how technology is shaping the workforce, education, recruitment, diversity and inclusivity, resilience and wellness.
Speakers came from across the globe for the summit, including representatives of some of the world’s largest firms and organisations, including Amazon, The Confederation of British Industry, the Financial Times and the OECD, as well as from the States of Guernsey, Guernsey Finance and other local firms.
The event, which was kicked off with a welcome from Deputy Gavin St Pier, Guernsey’s Chief Minister, was also a great chance for delegates to connect and network with peers and discuss some of the key themes that surfaced during the day.
Jessica Roland, Managing Partner for Mourant in Guernsey, who spoke on employment law in the island and whether it is fit for the future of work, said: “The calibre of speakers and the quality of the sessions were outstanding and we were thrilled to be able to sponsor such a broad-ranging conference. It’s clear that both employers and employees are facing significant challenges, and that the idea of one career for life is fast becoming obsolete.
“As one speaker quite rightly noted, people need to start considering the workplace at a very early age and way beyond traditional retirement – it really has become a ‘cradle to grave’ issue. Guernsey needs to determine if its business practices, culture and legislation are appropriate for the future of work, and to create a diverse, inclusive environment that supports all people at every stage of their careers.”
Bright Futures will be hosting a number of further events throughout the year, with more information available at brightfutures.org.gg
