Lancaster MBA students joined contemporaries from across the North of England for a trail-blazing event showcasing the region as a hub for business talent and opportunity.

The inaugural MBA North Conference 2025, led by Lancaster and Durham business schools and hosted by the University of Leeds, successfully brought together MBA students and employers from six universities.

The event highlighted the strength and ambition of the northern business ecosystem and reinforced the region’s growing reputation for innovation, leadership, and economic prosperity.

“After two years of planning, it was amazing to finally see the MBA North Conference come to life,” said Noeleen Hammond Jones, Deputy Head of Lancaster University Management School Careers, and co-founder of the event. “It was wonderful to see our MBA students thriving, making connections, learning from inspiring alumni and employers, and showcasing the incredible talent we have here in the North.”

MBA North was organised in partnership with Leeds, Sheffield, Newcastle, and Liverpool University business schools, and connected future business leaders with prominent local industries. It promoted senior career pathways in the North and championed efforts to retain top-tier MBA talent within the region.

Attendees engaged in a range of impactful sessions, including a keynote address titled "Building Your Career in the North", an alumni panel "My Career Journey in the North", industry-focused discussions, and a hands-on workshop on personal branding and job search strategies.

One of the day’s highlights was a fast-paced student-employer speed networking session, establishing meaningful connections and career opportunities.