Taking Gilbert-Ash’s annual summit to new heights
Consistent internal communication is key for success at Gilbert-Ash.
Each year we coordinate an annual summit which brings together everyone in the company. Building a strong employer brand that lasts is a long-term process, with communications at its very heart.
The summit looks back over the previous 12 months and provides an opportunity for the Board to set their stall out in terms of business priorities for the year ahead. However, with teams split throughout Northern Ireland, the Republic, England and wider parts of Europe, it can be a logistical challenge bringing them all together for the summit.
Therefore, the event takes place at dual locations in central London and in Belfast. Traditionally, the main proceedings took place in Belfast with the event live streamed to the London location. In 2024, we wanted to elevate the experience for the London audience therefore we organised for live events to take place in both locations with seamless links back and forth. The two-hour event included panel discussions both in Belfast and London, a review video of the past year’s highlights, a speech from Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson as well as music from an award-winning choir.
"What a gift this relationship has been..."
Another special element of the event was a speech by Dr Sharon Millard from the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering, along with an address by a young centre user.
Last year Gilbert-Ash had developed a relationship with the centre as it was working on the construction of a hub by Premier Inn hotel in Clerkenwell, London. The team carried out a series of internal and external repairs at the centre free of charge as part of Gilbert-Ash’s community outreach programme. Jago reached out to Sir Michael Palin who was pleased to record a special video to be played at the summit outlining just how much the work carried out by GA meant to everyone at the centre.
It was incredibly humbling to hear him thank Gilbert-Ash. Sir Michael said: “What a gift this relationship has been for the Michael Palin Centre. You can be assured that everything you’ve done and continue to do will be transforming the lives of children who stammer, we cannot thank you enough.” The GA Summit is always a real highlight in the Jago calendar. we enjoyed bringing it to new levels with the live baton being passed between London and Belfast throughout the afternoon. Always a pleasure to help shine a light on Gilbert-Ash’s success and brilliant work.
