DACI has officially announced the lineup of speakers for its upcoming conference, ‘Breaking Barriers in the Multi-Utility Sector: Solutions for a Stronger Future’. The event will take place on Tuesday, 8 April 2025, from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM GMT+1 at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (151 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3WD). The conference aims to address the industry’s pressing challenges and promote innovative, collaborative solutions.
Tackling Challenges in the Multi-Utility Sector
The multi-utility sector, which includes electricity, gas, water, and telecoms, is facing mounting pressures from regulatory hurdles, inefficient processes, and technological fragmentation. This conference will focus on actionable strategies to improve project delivery, enhance collaboration, and streamline legal and contractual processes.
Confirmed Speakers and Key Topics
The conference will feature a range of industry experts sharing insights into multi-utility design, legal processes, contractual challenges, and fibre broadband opportunities. The agenda includes:
✅ Chelsie Singleton, Commercial Manager at DACI Utilities – “The Hidden Challenges of Multi-Utility Design”
With over a decade of experience in the sector, Chelsie will offer insights into navigating the multi-utility process across residential, commercial, and industrial developments, highlighting common pitfalls and solutions.
✅ Laura Wilson, Director at Connections Legal Management – “Understanding the Land Consents Process and Associated Risks”
Laura will discuss the legal complexities of easements, land acquisitions, and consents required for new electricity, gas, and water connections. She will also share strategies to mitigate risks and streamline the process.
✅ Nick Sunderland, Director at Sunderland Ives – “Navigating Contractual Challenges in Construction”
With over 25 years of experience in dispute resolution, Nick will explore common contractual challenges in the construction industry, including issues stemming from inadequate designs and their impact on project delivery.
✅ Nathan Davis, Head of Development at Pulse Fibre – “Fibre Broadband: Overcoming Challenges and Unlocking Opportunities”
Nathan will address the barriers to expanding fibre broadband infrastructure and discuss opportunities for growth and efficiency in the sector.
✅ Lorraine Duffy, Account Director at Aurora – “How IDNOs Drive Time-Critical Connections in the Digital-First, Net Zero Era”
Lorraine will discuss the role of Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs) in accelerating grid connections. She will highlight how IDNOs are driving flexibility and innovation in the energy landscape.
Conference Highlights and Networking Opportunities
In addition to the speaker sessions, attendees can look forward to:
- Breakfast networking from 8:30 AM – a chance to meet industry peers and make valuable connections.
- Coffee break at 10:30 AM, offering further informal networking opportunities.
- Lunch at 12:00 PM, providing a relaxed setting to continue discussions and forge new partnerships.
Why Attend?
The conference offers valuable insights for utility professionals, developers, contractors, and policymakers, providing actionable strategies for improving project efficiency, reducing legal risks, and embracing digital solutions.
How to Get Involved
Tickets are available via Eventbrite. The registration fee includes access to all speaker sessions, networking opportunities, and refreshments.
