Budget Debate

Mary Nightingale

The one-time City eurobond dealer has twice been voted Newscaster of the Year by her industry peers. She also covers State occasions and hsd hosted Britain’s Best Dish.

Rt Hon Lord (Norman) Lamont

Norman Lamont occupied No.11 in the 1990s, later described as the most effective Chancellor since the war. As well as reporting on the housing crisis with the Lords’ Economic Select Committee, Norman is now the UK Trade Envoy to Iran, in which he has long-standing expertise; he regards it as the biggest opportunity since the downfall of the Soviet Union. Norman has also represented the UK in official ‘war games’ on the aftermath of the EU referendum.

Rita Clifton

Brand expert Rita was President of the Market Research Society, Vice Chairman and Strategy Director at Saatchi & Saatchi, and CEO and Chair of Interbrand, the company behind the Best Global Brands list. She defines a brand as an organising idea, setting you apart from competition: “It’s about building values and ethics, communicating and living up to them – especially in the digital space where mistakes are never laid to rest. Without trust, you can’t have a brand.” Rita talks about reputation, internal brand management and digital branding.

Robert Guest

Robert is The Economist’s Deputy Editor. Previously he was US editor, business editor, Washington correspondent and Lexington columnist covering American news and politics.

Steve Ridgway

CEO of Virgin Atlantic for over a decade, Steve oversaw the huge expansion of what has become one of the world’s biggest and most respected airlines. Widely admired for their service culture, marketing and innovation, Steve offers an insight into the Virgin brand and strategy. After dinner, Steve reveals the boardroom secrets of Richard Branson and what it was like taking charge of the Virgin Challenger Blue Riband yacht team.