Tech, AI and networking event in Glasgow

Anna Wadcock is a passionate hotelier with over 25 years of experience leading four-star properties across the UK. As General Manager of Maldron Hotel Newcastle and Co-Chair of the North East Hotel Association since 2022, she plays a key role in developing the region’s hospitality skills agenda. Under her leadership, Maldron Newcastle became the first UK hotel to introduce the fully autonomous W3 ButlerBot room service robot, showcasing her commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Darren is Head of Consumer Technology at CreateFuture, a leading 500-person UK digital consultancy. With over 15 years’ experience, he’s worked hands-on with global brands including Skyscanner, MoneySavingExpert and Heineken to help them realise their ambitions through technology and digital innovation. A passionate advocate for AI, Darren focuses on identifying and implementing AI opportunities that deliver real impact.

Joshua Ryan-Saha is Director of Tourism, Travel and Festivals at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, University of Edinburgh. He established Traveltech for Scotland, supporting over £20m in inward investment to the sector. He advises industry leadership on data, AI, and technology transformation. Globally, he delivers AI and innovation workshops, advising destinations and professionals, including the AI for Opener for Destinations programme, American Hotel and Lodging Association and traveltech investors. His prior experience includes leading data science initiatives and leading innovation programmes like the Longitude Prize at Nesta, which featured on BBC Horizon’s Anniversary episode. Earlier in his career, he managed constitutional reform and reconciliation projects internationally with organisations including UNICEF.

As Senior Insight Consultant at CGA by NIQ, Reuben is tasked with keeping a finger on the pulse of Great Britain’s hospitality market. In such a dynamic environment, and with a wealth of data available, monitoring developments in the sector is a full-time job. Reuben supports the sector’s leading operators, suppliers, and trade associations, with the insights they need to see the industry operating at its full potential.