Silicon Valley Comes to the UK

 Today I was one of 50 CEOs from growing tech companies across the UK invited to an event run by SVC2UK – “Silicon Valley Comes to the UK”. 

 
We started the day at the London Stock Exchange where we were invited to the opening ceremony.  Once the market opened, we had a champagne (apparently obligatory for such occasions) reception and heard from one of the directors of the exchange.  We also all got to sign the official log book of the exchange opening – which contains the signatures of many illustrious figures from prime ministers to business leaders.
 
Next we were invited for a day of inspiring speakers and networking at the Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London (pictured) – not a bad pad!  We heard from the Lord Mayor Vincent Keaveny, Sherry Coutu (entrepreneur and thought leader on innovation), Anne Boden (CEO of Starling Bank), David Hornik (Partner at Lobby Capital), Mathew Wilson (Co-Founder, Omnipresent), Pete Flint (Partner at NFX) and many others.  We had the opportunity to discuss the challenges in our own business with mentors, and learn from peers.  A very productive day.

Just time for one more networking reception (in less auspicious surroundings before getting a late train back to Edinburgh  - now catching up on e-mails and the like as I travel…

Working from my office at home may be a bit of a let-down after today's venues!