The Board Leaders Reception:
An evening of connection and conversation
On Wednesday, 1 October 2025, Alvarez & Marsal, in partnership with Newcome Advisory (founded by former Sunday Times Associate Editor Oliver Shah), welcomed more than 400 senior business leaders to the Raffles Hotel, London, for the inaugural Board Leaders’ Reception. The evening brought together voices from UK corporates, private equity, political figures, and advisory circles for a relaxed yet impactful gathering, focused on candid and engaged conversation.
The evening began with an introduction from Alvarez and Marsal’s European Lead, Tony Alvarez III, whose opening remarks referenced his pioneering firm into Europe 25 years ago and constructing a market player assisting businesses through expansion, disruption, and reinvention. Contributions from other renowned speakers including the Right Honourable Kemi Badenoch MP sparked thoughtful and direct open discussion, touching upon insights on leadership, transformation, and resilience. Captains of industry and government including Kate Alessi, Sir Jonathan Symonds, Anne Keast-Butler, Levi Roots, Martin Scicluna, and Ruth Cairnie shared peer to peer observations and lessons around volatility, the discipline of fundamentals, and enduring value of trust and integrity.
Tony Alvarez III highlighted that his outlook was very optimistic, stating “What we are seeing is businesses who are very in touch, you’re very realistic with your challenges… You’re activating technology, you’re improving your asset optimisation and you’re realistic that this is the world we live in.”
The Right Honourable Kemi Badenoch delivered an inspiring keynote speech that highlighted her own journey in politics. She brought an interesting perspective to the current climate UK businesses find themselves in and the response from the room was palpable.
Throughout the evening, guests shared their personal perspectives on navigating today’s market complexity, forging new connections and reflecting on the challenges and opportunities ahead. The ‘Captains of Industry’ format allowed for genuine senior dialogue and the kind of strategic thinking that only happens when a group such as this assembles in a relaxed, open setting.
