CITMA Autumn Conference: why join us again in 2024?
At this year’s conference, we’re bringing you together with the UK IP community to benefit from great networking opportunities and collaborative roundtable sessions.
We’re all set for another exciting day full of insight, analysis, and new perspectives on important cases.
To help build further understanding of what to expect, we’ve spoken to three members who previously attended. They tell us what they enjoyed most, as well as what they’re looking forward to at this year’s event.
An invaluable opportunity
From the social aspects to the varied programmes of speakers and topics, our events come with many benefits – often being viewed as an opportunity to expand personal and professional growth.
“CITMA events and conferences represent invaluable opportunities for me to connect with clients, catch-up with friends, and expand my professional network,” Chris Smith, Spoor & Fisher, told us.
He added, “Last year’s event delivered on all fronts, with many friends and clients in attendance. There was even the bonus of being able to watch one of my good friends (and former colleague) deliver one of the ‘fireside’ discussion topics.”
Allister McManus, Elkington + Fife, agreed, saying for him the event is “the chance to learn and network with fellow practitioners from different parts of the country and further afield,” an opportunity which he describes as “invaluable.”
While Charlotte Wilding, Keltie LLP, told us it’s always a key event in her work diary, “It’s great for discussing the latest topics and cases, as well as catching up with friends in the industry.”
Informative learning experiences
Having a great selection of speakers and discussions is always a top priority for us when planning our Autumn Conference. It’s crucial that the event not only provides an opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues but also to nurture and grow your skills.
Many of our members list the highly experienced speakers as the selling point of our event, enabling them to build on their knowledge and understanding of key IP issues.
Chris explained more about this element of the conference and why he particularly enjoys it, “The programme of talks is always varied and interesting, often including representatives from across industry, private practice, government organisations and law enforcement.”
He added, “As a result, the topics feel very fresh throughout the conference and the CPD gained touches many areas of competence.”
While Charlotte was keen to tell us what she’s looking forward to from this year’s programme, “One aspect I find really informative is being able to hear from UK IPO examiners, hearing officers and tribunal staff – it really is invaluable information and practical tips.”
She added, “It’s great to see that we will have a unique opportunity to have even more access to the UK IPO staff with the small roundtable sessions.”
While reflecting on last year’s event, Allister referenced the event’s programme as the key reason for returning this year. He said, “It had excellent speakers and interesting content that was useful to my day-to-day work.”
Like Charlotte, he’s also looking forward to engaging with the UK IPO at this year’s event and described it as “an unmissable opportunity.”
Exciting city locations
Location is also important for us to consider, and we recognise that there is a great appeal to attending an event in a lively city location, that you may not have visited before.
This year we’re heading to Bristol, renowned for its vibrant arts scene, iconic suspension bridge, rich maritime history, and thriving culture of innovation, making it an ideal backdrop for our conference.
Charlotte spoke about her love for an outer-London location when it comes to events like the Autumn Conference, saying, “If you’re able to take time out to attend, I really recommend it. Plus, Bristol is a great city!”
Chris agreed, saying he feels that “attending a conference outside of London offers a slightly different client mix.”
Looking ahead to this year’s new location, he added, “Having never visited Bristol before, I am very much looking forward to this year’s Autumn Conference and once more enjoying the company of clients, friends and new contacts for another highly successful event.”
Allister was also positive about heading to a new city, saying it helps keep the format “fresh and interesting.”
This year’s Autumn Conference is currently open for bookings – secure your place now.