04 March 2026 
Tesni Carter, CUBO Communications Officer
CUBO’s 2026 Summer Conference, one of the leading annual events for campus and commercial services professionals across UK and Irish Higher Education, will take place at the University of Warwick on 8–9 July 2026.
This year’s theme, ‘Reimagining Possibility: New Models, New Mindsets for Sustainable HE Commercial Performance’, reflects the significant changes reshaping the Higher Education landscape. With tighter budgets, shifting student expectations, underused campus spaces and rapid technological development, universities are under growing pressure to rethink how their commercial services operate. Efficiency alone is no longer enough. Institutions need new approaches to income, leadership and day-to-day delivery to move forward with confidence, while staying true to their mission and values.
The CUBO 2026 Summer Conference programme is designed to support senior leaders as they navigate this evolving environment, offering practical insight into how fresh commercial models and new ways of thinking can help build long term resilience. Through case studies, shared practice and expert led discussion, delegates will explore how innovative commercial approaches can be embedded, how technology can support the design of services that meet the needs of today’s students, and what it takes to build the financial resilience that enables university commercial teams to thrive, not just survive. The programme also examines how to develop agile, confident teams capable of delivering meaningful impact in a continually changing sector.
This year’s speaker lineup brings together leading voices from technology, journalism, generational insight and sector innovation. Allister Frost, Microsoft’s first Head of Digital Marketing Strategy and a recognised expert in future ready mindsets, will explore how universities can foster entrepreneurial thinking across teams. Felicity Hannah, a multi award winning journalist specialising in personal finance, consumer affairs and business, will examine commercial resilience and sustainable income models in a challenging financial climate. Dr Paul Redmond, an internationally respected authority on generational change and the future of work, will share insights into supporting the growing population of commuter students and creating inclusive campus experiences. Peter Moore, CEO and Founder of Lolly, will discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on Higher Education and how institutions can prepare students for an AI driven future through technology adoption and skills development.
The conference will once again culminate in the prestigious CUBO Awards, celebrating excellence, creativity and innovation across student and campus services. This year’s ceremony will be hosted by National Geographic explorer and award-winning broadcaster Piers Gibbon, known for his documentary work and global storytelling. Alongside a rich and thought-provoking programme, delegates will enjoy numerous opportunities to connect and network, including informal sessions throughout the conference, a social evening featuring a selection of street food vendors, and the CUBO Awards and Gala Dinner.
Full programme details, session timings and booking information are available on the CUBO 2026 Summer Conference webpage.
