Social Values in Business Panel Session

Join us for an engaging Keynote Panel session sponsored by BITA, where industry leaders will explore the role of social values in business today. This dynamic discussion will delve into how companies can integrate ethical practices and community-focused strategies into their business models, driving both sustainable growth and positive societal impact. Attendees will gain insights into innovative approaches, real-world success stories, and practical strategies to balance profitability with social responsibility, positioning their organisations for long-term success in a rapidly evolving market.

Speaker Bios:

Tom White - 
Tom White is a sustainability professional who is currently completing an MSc in Sustainable Business at the University of Manchester. He has worked in a range of social impact roles in social housing and architecture, including as Impact Lead at international architecture practice ADP and as the Social Value Specialist at housing association Great Places. He will shortly be starting a PhD in Business and Management, again at the University of Manchester, with a focus on corporate governance at employee-owned businesses. 

Paul Whitnell - 
I am the President and founder of BITA (the British and Irish Trading Alliance), and native Corkman living in Kent. With my background in politics and sales, I have a wide range of skills that I bring to bear on any problem I come across. My passion to connect people and encourage business is what drove me to create BITA in 2012, and what spurs me to continue growing this amazing community of businesses.

Lisa Allen-
With over 25 years of experience in the charity sector, Lisa Allen is a driving force behind the success of the Pink Ribbon Foundation, where she oversees the day-to-day operations of the organisation. Her dynamic role includes managing high-profile corporate partnerships, celebrity engagement and events, as well as leading the Foundation’s social media presence.

Lisa has been the creative mind behind several standout fundraising campaigns including ‘Catwalk for a Cause,’ ‘SHOOT4PINK,’ and ‘Walk a Mile a Day,’ and she has developed the glamorous annual PINKLondon gala in collaboration with international artist Filippo ioco. During the pandemic, she launched the official Pink Ribbon online store in partnership with British brand Teemill, creating a sustainable fashion line where 100% of profits support those affected by breast cancer - #wearyoursupport.
Her background in retail and sales has been a powerful asset in the nonprofit world. As described by friend and Foundation Patron Anthea Turner, “no one can ever say no to Lisa.”
Outside of her work with the Foundation, Lisa has combined her passion for travel and philanthropy by launching Pink Lady Travels, a boutique travel service that donates a portion of each booking to breast cancer causes. 

Lisa’s mission is simple: to raise awareness, inspire giving, and create unforgettable experiences that make a difference.

Jo Love - 
BA HONs Interior Design is an Interior Designer who has built two successful interior brands.
With over 25 years of industry experience, Jo’s expertise lies in her varied and unique creative approach. Jo’s work is rooted in wellness, exceptional quality and crafting spaces to support human experience.  The application of Psychology, neuroscience and intuition all assist to create unique individual spaces.
LOVEs design products sell globally and has been awarded many accolades including Interior designer of the year, best luxury housing, highest selling product design, best luxury development. Jo speaks about her work in UK and Europe  and runs workshops and an ambassador for Leeds charity Getaway Girls.
Jo inspires the the creativity of the LOVE team who are highly experienced talented designers, stylists and technicians.                                                                               
LOVE’s clients span across sectors and include major UK housebuilders, private clients, business owners, education, community and hospitality
Corinne Cooper is a senior leader and Chartered Management Institute Level 7 qualified professional with extensive experience in driving social value through community investment and strategic leadership. As Community Investment Manager for Places for People (PfP) in the South of England, she oversees a diverse portfolio of over 100 projects focused on sustainable resilient communities; health and wellbeing; employment, skills and training and financial/ digital inclusion. With a strong background in housing and support services, Corinne has led large, dispersed teams and delivered impactful change across complex organisations. Her work is rooted in a deep commitment to building resilient, inclusive communities.

Dean Pamphilon -
Worked within the Bathroom Industry for 40 years and in that time have developed many water saving products always placing sustainability at the heart of all product development. I have also used my profile within the industry to raise over £250,000 for various charities.