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Datalyst 2026 names keynote speakers

Datalyst 2026 organisers are thrilled to announce keynote speakers for the premier data and technology conference returning to Newcastle on Friday, June 26.

Lee Rorison, founder and chief executive of Seriös Group, and Paul Wealls, principal consultant sports – SSG at Lenovo, have been named as keynote speakers at Datalyst 2026, which will once again showcase the North East as a global destination for data excellence.

Seriös Group is also headline sponsorship of Datalyst 2026, bringing a bigger and bolder evolution for the event, engaging with professionals across industry, public, third-sector and academic communities.

Founded in 2025, through a collaboration between Analyst Network North East, Catalyst, The OR Society and the National Innovation Centre for Data, the conference enjoys deep-rooted partnerships with professional bodies including ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW The ORS and the Royal Statistical Society while forging many new relationships for this year.

Driving elite sport transformation: Seriös Group & Lenovo

The headline partnership underscores the region’s growing reputation for digital transformation at scale. As part of the sponsorship, Lee and Paul will share exclusive insights into their strategic partnership and the transformative work for major football clubs.

The session will also cover the successful implementation of the Seriös ONE, its AI data solution technology at Sunderland AFC, demonstrating how local expertise is being harnessed to solve complex data challenges for iconic sporting institutions.

Lee Rorison, founder and chief executive of Seriös Group, said: “Datalyst is a valuable opportunity for us to share how data is delivering real-world results across enterprise organisations and elite sport.

“Our work with Lenovo in elite sport will show what’s possible when strong partnerships and specialist expertise come together to address the complex challenges football clubs face, from fragmented data that limits its value to operating in an intensely competitive environment where small margins matter.”

A global and regional hub for innovation

In a further boost to the event’s credentials, alongside a host of top-is it top drawer speakers and sponsors, Accenture has joined as Vision Stream sponsor, highlighting the North East’s ability to attract global powerhouses alongside homegrown innovators.

On their support of the event, Accenture said: “At Accenture, and within our Advanced Technology Centre in Newcastle we are deeply committed to supporting the growth of the North East’s technology and data ecosystem.

“Sponsoring Datalyst reflects our belief in the power of collaboration between industry, academia and the public sector to unlock the full potential of data and AI.

“Events like Datalyst play a vital role in showcasing the region’s strengths, attracting investment, and building the skills and confidence needed to turn innovation into real-world impact — helping Newcastle and the wider North East continue to establish itself as a leading hub for data-driven growth.”

Across three dedicated streams, the Datalyst agenda will equip delegates with practical insights into using Data and AI for good, covering:

• Faster and Better Decision Making
• AI, Robotics & Automation
• Leadership
• Visualistion & Communication
• Data Management
• Governance, Ethics & Legalities
• Careers
• Audit & Quality
• Start-up & Scale up
• Finance and Risk AI Use cases

Event Details

• Event: Datalyst 2026
• Date: 26 June 2026
• Location: The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
• Tickets: Available now via Eventbrite

About Datalyst: Datalyst is a one-day event bringing participants together to explore the latest shifts in Data, AI and Analytics. It is designed to help businesses and professionals advance their work, sharpen their skills and discover new ways to harness technology for maximum value and meaningful impact.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Bdaily Publishing .