Keynotes

View the full conference programme (PDF).

Richard Parks – Extreme Environment Athlete

Richard Parks is a world record-holding extreme environment athlete, having previously been a Welsh international rugby player. His pioneering expeditions and projects have pushed the boundaries of human performance whilst each having a social or charitable impact. He is a Sport Wales Board Member, award-winning author, BAFTA nominated television presenter and Visit Wales ambassador.

Richard first made history in 2011, becoming the first ever person to climb the highest mountain on each of the world’s 7 continents and stand on all 3 poles (The North Pole, The South Pole and the summit of Everest) within the same calendar year. He completed his world first expedition named The 737 Challenge in under 7 months. A feat which has been recognised by the Guinness World Records and broadcast internationally.

In 2014, Richard became the fastest Briton in history to ski solo and unsupported the from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole, taking 9 days off the previous British record and becoming the first Welshman to complete this iconic 1,240km expedition. His journey was broadcast on Channel 5, the series since shown in over 14 countries.

Sir Clive Woodward, OBE

Sir Clive Woodward, OBE returns to the Housing Technology conference five years after his 2013 keynote appearance, with the theme of ‘Tackling Change’.

Clive’s reputation as an innovative leader is driven by his determined approach to challenge traditional schools of thought and find new and different ways of operating. In his talk on ‘Tackling Change’, he will highlight the importance of embracing change and will illustrate how teams and individuals’ ability to take on board and learn new skills and perform under pressure in a constantly changing environment are two key skills for succeeding in today’s workplace.