A Fireside Chat – Leading in Real Time

Tuesday 19 May 2026, 6:00pm to 7:30pm

Venue

Lancaster University Management School, Lancaster, United Kingdom, LA1 4YX

Open to

All Lancaster University (non-partner) students, Alumni, External Organisations, Postgraduates, Public, Staff, Undergraduates

Registration

Free to attend - registration required

Registration Info

Please book your place here

Event Details

Join us for a fireside conversation with Simon Gerrard, CEO of Lancashire FA, as he reflects on the experiences that shaped his resilience and the leadership approach he brings to one of the region’s most visible organisations.

The Beautiful Game, the Difficult Decisions: Leading in Real Time at Lancashire Football Association

Simon will explore what leadership looks like in real time: making difficult decisions without perfect information, leading through imposed change, and maintaining trust, compassion and strong relationships when stakeholders want different things.

Drawing on his background and experience across football, business and public life in Lancashire, he will discuss how leaders navigate pressure, protect culture, and balance competing demands while staying true to their values.

This event is open and relevant to a broad audience, including businesses, staff and students. The conversation will also offer students practical insights into leadership, influence and decision-making before they have formal authority.

Registration: 5.15pm - 6.00pm | Fireside Chat: 6.00pm - 7.30pm

Please note this is an IN PERSON event

Speaker

Simon Gerrard

Lancashire Football Association

Contact Details

Name Sonia Stevenson
Email

s.stevenson1@lancaster.ac.uk