Using Technology to Drive Value Creation

Whether you’re a part of the tech sector or not, technology is integral to a successful business. The growth of technologies such as cloud and AI are fundamentally changing the business landscape and how we deliver value to our customers.

The panel discussion will offer a deep dive into how investors and business leaders can leverage technology not just as a support function, but as a core driver of growth, profitability, and exit readiness. Discussion points will include:

• How conducting effective technology due diligence can help assess scalability and mitigate risk early.

• The importance of aligning technology strategy with investment theses to accelerate value creation.

• Leveraging AI and automation to unlock operational efficiencies and new revenue streams.

• Preparing portfolio companies for tech-enabled exits that command premium valuations.

A central theme of the panel discussion will be the transformational role of AI in reshaping business models and enhancing EBITDA. Investors will gain practical advice for assessing AI readiness, prioritising digital initiatives, and driving measurable outcomes across their portfolios. Business leaders will hear insight from seasoned PortCo leaders on the benefits and challenges of AI implementation.

We’re proud to welcome a distinguished panel of industry leaders, each bringing deep expertise and unique perspectives across technology, investment, and transformation:

🔹 Ben Houghton – Chief Technology Officer, Abstract Group

Ben is Chief Technology Officer at Abstract Group with over twenty years of experience in delivering Cloud and AI transformations. He has led technology teams at IRIS Software Group, UBS Bank, and Microsoft, specialising in scalable cloud architectures, agentic AI solutions, and technical due diligence. Ben is a recipient of the BCS IT Award for Cloud Transformation Project of the Year.

🔹 Rebecca Fox – CIO & Transformation Leader

Rebecca is an experienced CIO, specialising in digital transformation, AI, and cybersecurity, helping businesses align technology with strategic goals. With experience leading global change programmes and scaling operations, she brings a sharp focus on innovation, risk, and regulatory compliance.

🔹 Chelsea Wilkinson– Co-founder & CEO, DataDiligence

Chelsea is a Senior Executive and Advisor with over twenty-five years of experience across private equity, M&A, and consulting. As Co-founder and CEO of DataDiligence, she helps investors and leadership teams unlock value through data and AI, bringing a global perspective to transformation, risk, and growth.

🔹 Andy Dancer – Entrepreneur & Non-Executive Director

Andy is a serial entrepreneur and Non-Executive Director having overseen multiple exits. During his executive career Andy has operated as a CTO and CEO, delivering outstanding value to customers and investors alike. His key strengths lie in preparing businesses for investment, scaling and exit, overseeing the intersection of technical and commercial operations, and developing digital strategy.

🔹 Will Scales – Investment Director, LDC

Will is Investment Director at LDC, the UK’s leading mid-market private equity firm. Based in Leeds, he works with management teams to unlock growth through strategic investment. He is experienced in delivering value for technology businesses and brings over a decade of experience in corporate finance, including roles at Rothschild & Co and EY.

Technology is not just an enabler, it’s a multiplier of enterprise value. This event will serve as a valuable forum for business leaders, investors, and technology professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and gain actionable strategies for using technology as a catalyst for value creation.

The panel discussion will be followed by an opportunity for networking where drinks and nibbles will be served.

This event is free to attend but registration is required as spaces are limited.

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