We are delighted to welcome Howard Leedham, MBE as our guest speaker for the evening. Howard has led an extraordinary career spanning military service, special operations, aviation, international security and business leadership. A decorated Royal Navy officer, Commando pilot and Special Forces commander, he served on operations around the world and was awarded an MBE and a Mention in Despatches for his actions on special operations. Following his military career, he worked as an airline pilot before undertaking a unique role with the U.S. Department of State, supporting border security operations in Afghanistan. His work was formally recognised by the State Department as making the single most significant contribution to border security in the region.

Today, Howard is an accomplished business executive, author and adventurer, known for his remarkable desert expeditions, including leading the recreation of Lawrence of Arabia's historic journey to Aqaba. Drawing on a lifetime of leadership, resilience and adventure, Howard will share fascinating insights from his experiences in some of the world's most challenging environments and the lessons they offer for overcoming adversity and achieving success.