BCO ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN BIRMINGHAM | NEXTGEN ACTIVITIES

The BCO’s NextGen community is growing fast. Numbers have increased up more than a quarter over the past year to more than 1,200 members, making the NextGen contingent a third of the total BCO membership. This vibrant community will play an important role in this year’s conference. This year’s offering includes a series of events targeted at NextGen members, as well as several networking opportunities.



 

WEDNESDAY 22 MAY

10:30 - 12.30: Networking Brunch for NextGen Early Arrivals

We are delighted to welcome anyone who will be arriving ahead of the conference to join us for an informal networking brunch. Hosted at Medicine Bakery at The Mailbox, it will be a fantastic opportunity to meet people and make connections before the conference begins. We encourage all NextGen members to come together, mingle and chat over brunch that will set you up for the rest of the day. More details to follow.

13:00 - 15:00: NextGen Walking Building Talk & Tour

Colmore Row (St Philip's Cathedral)

Ahead of the conference, get to know Birmingham’s civic and business heart with a walking tour of the city’s Colmore Business District. Focussed in and around Colmore Row, nestled in Birmingham’s heart, explore the city’s rich history and architectural legacy. Initially a residential haven for the affluent in the 18th century, Colmore Row transformed into a thriving business district during the Industrial Revolution.

The street’s architecture mirrors Birmingham’s evolution, showcasing a blend of Georgian, Victorian, and modern styles. These structures, each with its unique story, have played a significant role in Birmingham’s history, symbolising the city’s economic and cultural development. Details on meeting points and times will be shared soon.

18.00 - 18:30: NextGen Mentoring

The mentoring programme is a unique opportunity for NextGen members to be paired up with experienced mentors and benefit from their knowledge on how to excel in the office sector. At this drop-in session held at the Birmingham Library before the Drinks Reception, you will be able to link up with your mentor face to face in before the conference starts.

20:00 - 21:30: NextGen Networking Drinks & Food

This informal drinks event gives NextGen members the chance to catch up after the first day of the conference and connect with new contacts ahead of the Post Dinner Drinks, hosted by the NextGen. Meet at the Distillery ahead of the post-dinner drinks.

21:30 - 24:00: Post Dinner Drinks Hosted by the NextGen

All are invited to join the NextGen community for an evening of drinks and discussion. This drinks reception will provide the chance for all BCO members to mingle and meet with colleagues and friends. Held at the same bar as the NextGen Networking Drinks, this will be a great chance to explore the night life on offer in Birmingham.



THURSDAY 23 MAY

10:45 - 11:30: NextGen Coffee break

Take some time out from the morning’s proceedings by coming along to the NextGen Breakout area for a coffee. You will also be able to catch up with the NextGen committee and learn more about how to get involved. Hosted in the ICC, refreshments will be provided.

 

18:30 - 19:30: NextGen Pre-Party meet up 

Before the party kicks off, join us for a drink and a chat at Cosy Club. Another opportunity to make new contacts before walking together to the party at Luna Springs, enjoying some of Digbeth’s best street art along the way.



FRIDAY 24 MAY

10:45 - 11:30: NextGen Coffee break

Take some time out from the morning’s proceedings by coming along to the NextGen Breakout area for a coffee. You will also be able to catch up with the NextGen committee and learn more about how to get involved. Hosted in the ICC, refreshments will be provided.