A leading expert in technology magic, optical illusions and mentalism, Keelan has captured the attention of audiences around the world with his dynamic presentations and engaging insights, specifically in the area of teaching of how to use the mindset of a magician to enhance imagination, innovation and creativity.

With a career spanning nearly three decades, he has worked with international companies like Microsoft, BMW and Google, hosted and featured in more than 100 television programmes – including his own TV series called “Playing Tricks” – and has even performed for King Charles.

As one of the most sought-after magicians in the world, Keelan promises to engage attendees with his skills and will help to provide some light entertainment in between our conference sessions.

Economics director at the Construction Product Association (CPA).

He oversees one of the most respected teams of economists in the industry, producing the quarterly Construction Industry Forecasts, Construction Trade Surveys, State of Trade Surveys and various bespoke research, some of which has been featured in the Guardian and Financial Times. Noble has also been interviewed on BBC News and Sky News, and has written for Construction News and Building magazine.

Noble will be using his extensive experience to share the latest updates on the changing economics of the UK construction industry and the wider UK economy with our attendees.

Managing director of the Insight Retail Group and executive editor of Insight DIY, will be providing further business-led insights to help identify what trends and opportunities will impact on the building materials sector and how can merchants and manufacturers respond.

Steve is an international speaker and independent consultant in the retail industry, working with a wide range of high-profile clients including retailers, brands and marketplaces. Last year, he was recognised as one of the Top 100 Retail Influencers by RETHINK Retail and the Top 100 Retail Tech Influencers by The Retail Technology Innovation Hub.

With 30 years of experience in the home and garden industry and a particular interest in the latest trends and technology, Steve is well positioned to comment on the ideas and initiatives that are likely to re-shape our industry for many years to come.

For more than 30 years, Paul has been an elite performer in two of the most competitive industries on the planet: elite sport and performance psychology.

Football fans will know Paul from spells at Tottenham Hotspur, Burnley and Norwich City. He made over 300 appearances and was a key member of two Championship winning teams, as well as gaining 40 caps for Northern Ireland during his sporting career.

Since leaving football, he has published a book, The Stupid Footballer is Dead, and featured on several programmes across some of the UK’s biggest sports broadcasters including the BBC, Sky Sports, TalkSport and, what was then, BT Sport. He has also worked as a performance psychology coach with the academies at Norwich City and later Crystal Palace.

At the NMBS Conference, Paul will be discussing three key topics around psychology – performance, leadership and teamwork – to help attendees to engage teams to consciously improve their mental performance, help leaders elevate their belief in what is possible, and cultivate an elite performance environment.

CEO of the Bradfords Group. David has been part of the Bradfords Group for more than a decade, starting as business development director of Bradfords Building Supplies in 2014 before becoming managing director and then Group CEO in 2019. He is also the southwest chairman for the BMF and a h&b Group board member.

Many people will be familiar with the Bradfords Group which now has an estate of 44 branches and 870 employees. The business itself is 254 years old and the Somerset-based business provides a fantastic example of why it is so important to move and change with the times. In the words of David, Bradfords has “survived world wars, epidemics, pandemics, floods and famines” so the business insight he will be sharing at the Conference is something that other independent merchants can definitely learn from.

In his session, David will discuss how merchants grow and remain relevant in the years ahead. As new competitors, customers, markets and methods of construction emerge, merchants need to be understand how to help and support existing and future customers through this period of change.

The founder and CEO of Bubo.AI, an AI-driven pricing engine that uses software as a service (SaaS) technology and expertise to determine the optimal price point for every individual transaction, which has redefined pricing strategies within the B2B distribution sector and showcases the transformative power of artificial intelligence.

Alan’s broader engagement with AI extends to his academic role as professor of enterprise analytics at Birmingham University, while also holding fellowships at Teesside University and Newcastle University. He is also the chief technology officer at Treat-Neuro Muscular Disease, leading a team that is leveraging AI to fuse patient and medical data, driving research and treatment innovations in neuromuscular diseases.

In his presentation, Alan will be discussing how advanced AI algorithms can optimise pricing decisions and the potential of AI to drive economic efficiency and competitive advantage in today’s market, as well as pricing strategies and customer retention.

Best-selling business author, will be sharing his insight into what he’s learned about inspiring teams from his experiences as a sales professional and business owner – something that is particularly important as the industry battles to not only attract people into construction, but also keep the talented people it already has.

After starting his career as a police officer in Bristol, Adrian left the police force to pursue his entrepreneurial urge. He set up a dairy business before diversifying into a wide range of other areas ranging from frozen food to recruitment and property.

Adrian then entered the IT industry. From corporate sales manager of US Robotics, he moved to leading distributor Northamber plc as group sales and training manager where he led a team of 150 and discovered his ability to inspire others.

Since publishing his first book in 2002, Adrian has written about an array of topics around business and personal development. His most recent book, TNTs – Tiny Noticeable Things, outlines his approach to the positive changes that can elevate teams, boost employee happiness, and improve customer perceptions.

Commercial director of h&b Buying Group LLP, who will be updating delegates on the retrofit landscape in the UK and the challenges and opportunities it offers the sector.

With over a decade of experience across various roles in the building materials industry, Glenn specialises in strategic purchasing, supply chain management, and market expansion, as well as enhancing the value and operational efficiency of businesses in the independent merchant sector.

He began his career in the builders’ merchant industry at MKM Building Supplies, advancing from sales to branch director. Glenn was also an Industry Advisor for Enable, a software platform for managing complex rebate deals, as well as being Chairman of the Builders Merchant Federation Young Merchants group for three years.

In addition to his role at h&b, Glenn is also the co-founder of two businesses: Cocuun and VOLLT. Glenn’s career reflects a blend of traditional industry expertise and innovative entrepreneurial ventures, driven by his dedication to both economic and environmental sustainability.

Dean has worked at NMBS for more than 20 years. He originally started in the finance department before becoming part of the marketing team and later taking on the sales side of the business. In May 2022, Dean became the chair of the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF) Tools, Workwear and Fixings Forum.

Dean will be providing an update on NMBS’ apprenticeship programme, highlighting the benefits for not only the apprentices, but for businesses and its employees, as well as updating on what NMBS is doing to encourage and promote apprenticeships within the industry over the next few years. Charlie will also be sharing her own experience of completing an apprenticeship and the development opportunities it has allowed.

Charlie joined NMBS as a marketing apprentice. Since completing her qualification in August 2023, she has gone on to become an advocate for apprenticeships in the construction industry and speaks publicly about her passion and experience.

Charlie will be providing an update on NMBS’ apprenticeship programme, highlighting the benefits for not only the apprentices, but for businesses and its employees, as well as updating on what NMBS is doing to encourage and promote apprenticeships within the industry over the next few years. Charlie will also be sharing her own experience of completing an apprenticeship and the development opportunities it has allowed.

IT expert and CEO of Intercity Technology, will be leading a session on one of the biggest issues facing all businesses in 2024: cyber security.

With a 40-year career in defence, aerospace and technology, Charlie has an impressive track record in delivering business transformation and growth. He progressed through the ranks at BAE Systems to lead its £1.2bn Global Land Business and held board-level positions in its Maritime and Air Sector divisions.

As non-executive director on the Board of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, Charlie supports the executive board in the development and delivery of policy to support 2,500 local businesses of all sizes across many sectors. He recently won a lifetime award at the Innovation Awards 2022 for his contributions to the business industry and wider community.

He is a fellow of the Institute of Directors and Association for Project Management, the deputy chairman on the Board of Innovation West Midlands, and is also a board advisor on Cyber Security.

Charlie will be discussing the challenges that cyber security presents business and how to address these throughout the business.