Datalyst returns to spark innovation

A North East data and technology event is set to bring together industry leaders, innovators and analysts to explore the growing role of data, artificial intelligence and analytics in driving business performance and innovation.

Datalyst 2026 will return to The Catalyst in Newcastle, building on the success of last year’s event with a programme designed to help organisations better understand and harness emerging technologies.

Founded through a collaboration between Analysts Network North East, Catalyst, The OR Society and the National Innovation Centre for Data, the one-day conference will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities.

The event aims to equip delegates with practical insights into using data and AI to improve decision-making, strengthen strategy and support innovation-led growth.

Sessions will be delivered across three dedicated streams – Core, Vision and Techniques – covering subjects including artificial intelligence, planning and forecasting, robotics and automation, data governance, audit and quality, visualisation and communication, and faster decision-making.

The Core programme, hosted in The Catalyst’s main theatre, will feature presentations from industry experts, business leaders and emerging talent, while the Vision and Techniques streams will offer more interactive sessions focused on strategic thinking and practical implementation.

Among the headline speakers are Lee Rorison, chief executive of Newcastle-based data solutions company Seriös Group, and Paul Wealls, principal consultant at Lenovo, who will share insights into their strategic partnership and how the Seriös ONE platform is helping Sunderland AFC tackle complex data challenges.

Elsewhere, Accenture's John Howlett and Staci Lattimer Gallon will lead a session examining the ethical implications of Large Language Models (LLMs), exploring the societal impact of AI adoption and the importance of education and robust governance frameworks in technology deployment.

Alongside the conference programme, attendees will have access to an exhibition space showcasing organisations working at the forefront of data and AI innovation across the UK.

Seriös Group, founded in 2020 by Lee, has been confirmed as headline sponsor.

The data solutions specialist works with organisations across sectors including financial services, retail, healthcare, technology, gaming and the built environment, helping them unlock greater value from data through services spanning data engineering, systems integration, analytics and quality assurance testing.

Organisers expect the event to attract professionals from across industry, academia and the public sector, further strengthening the North East’s growing reputation as a hub for data, analytics and digital innovation.

Paul Wilson, managing director of Catalyst, said: “Expect a corker! We’ve built and improved upon Datalyst ‘25’s tremendous success in every sense – befitting of the outstanding support from the National Innovation Centre for Data and its home at The Catalyst.

“We believe the quality and variety of speakers and sponsors is second to none, and attendance is set to follow the same amazing upward trend. 

“Book your ticket now, while you still can!”

To find out more about the event, view the full programme and secure your place, click here.

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