The Brighton Chamber Big Debate considered whether we are re-shaping work.

Brighton Chamber has held 120 events since lockdown on 17 March 2020 with over 1800 attendees. Wed 30 Sept was the first virtual Big Debate.

The Big Debates, usually held in person with wine and crisps, bring together Brighton’s business community to discuss, explore and debate a topic. Provoked by the panel, discussion takes place in smaller groups and then key points shared with the wider audience. Outcomes include the sharing of useful valuable information, a temperature check on opinion, and good connections made.

Just like a real physical event, the Chamber team met with panellists and the Chair beforehand to chat, calm nerves, check logistics, say hello. We were soon joined by ten facilitators – Chamber members who had been asked to take on the job of leading the discussion groups.

The topic discussion was ‘The rise and fall of the office and are we re-shaping work?’ over 100 were at the table and the answer was a resounding yes.

Chaired by Richard Freeman of always possible, the panellists and the feedback from the breakout groups x 10 produced a fascinating, sometimes surprising list of valuable messages for ourselves, our businesses and city.

Visit the Brighton Chamber blog to read a summary of the event and for Richard’s thoughts and learning points from the debate.