Featured events

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

In- house Global Mobility professionals.

What to expect

• a combination of small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues and presentations from technical experts
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences and the expertise of technical experts
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here.

What attendees have to say:

"I really enjoyed the Expat Academy Huddle. It was a great opportunity to connect and share knowledge with other Global Mobility professionals. Especially the discussion parts were very useful; to share cases and learn from what others are doing (or not doing and why)."Bianca Balker, FrieslandCampina Corporate Centre

"A great opportunity to learn from a wide and varied range of experiences and experts."Pat Farrant, ING

"It was great to have access to other Global Mobility professionals from other companies in order to compare situations.  I also gained a greater knowledge of immigration issues and the wider aspects of GM."Karen Fendley, BackOffice Associates

"It is good to hear about the hot topics, such as the Posted Workers Directive, but also good to see what other companies are doing and what approach they are taking on a variety of subjects."Emile de Ruiter, Celanese

“I always enjoy attending the Expat Academy sessions. The agenda is aligned with market trends and focus areas within Mobility. The discussion panels facilitate knowledge sharing. I can always bring back an outside-in perspective to my Management Team.” Zainab Sultani-Naby, TomTom

Who should attend

• been in a Global Mobility role for less than 12 months
• a non-Global Mobility specialist who wishes to broaden their Global Mobility knowledge

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to demystify the Global Mobility world, explain the fundamentals of Global Mobility practice, and aid your professional development. You will end the day with a greater understanding of Global Mobility and have the confidence to put your newly-learnt knowledge in to practice as soon as you get back to your desk

What to expect

• split into small groups to share experiences and raise questions
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks and over lunch to grow your network
• course handbook to add notes to and take away for reference

What you will learn

• understand the jargon used by your Global Mobility colleagues and be able to explain information to assignees
• be aware of how organisations support their assignees and families whilst overseas
• how to spot any tax compliance issues and seek further professional advice as appropriate
• help the business to take proactive steps to minimise immigration challenges

What our members have to say:

"This course covered all the Global Mobility basics and allowed me to consolidate my knowledge in key areas such as tax and immigration. I would recommend this course not only to those new to Global Mobility but also to professionals who wish to refresh and update their knowledge.  I am really looking forward to continuing with the next course." Jorge Capella, Deloitte

"The course gives you a greater appreciation for how complex the world of Global Mobility is. It will certainly help in the way we approach and engage with GM Managers. It was great and makes me even more determined to promote the value of some of the support services. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!" Teresa Wighton, BUPA                 

"In one day I have learnt what I could have in shadowing for a month. I have come away with lots and lots of knowledge and the handout will be really useful." Chloe Freedman, Brambles                                          

 "Immigration responsibilities are transferring to the GM team so the training today will help hugely.  The training booklet will be really helpful when relaying the information to the rest of the team" Amy Farricker, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 

Our Conference is always a great opportunity for the Expat Academy community to get together, be inspired and informed.  This year, with a theme of Fit for Future, it’s all about taking the time to invest in yourself, understanding how to work smarter and not harder and channelling your inner superhero!  Come and learn how to play to your strengths and see some of the progressive initiatives and effective partnerships that exist in the GM space. Learning, networking and good humour guaranteed!

What YOU have to say about us and the conference:

"The Expat Academy conference is the most worthwhile day you’ll spend away from your desk all year; industry updates, networking opportunities, a key note speaker and a chance to have all your questions answered by people actually working in GM. I came away with renewed enthusiasm for my role and a whole toolkit of practical solutions to my most immediate issues." Jean-Claire Flanagan, CGI

"Expat Academy has provided me with straightforward, practical advice on how to drive, influence and market our global mobility function." Samantha Thorne, University of Nottingham

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

In- house Global Mobility professionals.

What to expect

• a combination of small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues and presentations from technical experts
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences and the expertise of technical experts
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. 

Overview

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

In- house Global Mobility professionals.

What to expect

• a combination of small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues and presentations from technical experts
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences and the expertise of technical experts
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. 

9.30am-10.00am: Coffee and registration

10.00am-10.45am: Global Corporate Wellness, an Engagement Challenge

Presented by Greg Casson, Optum, representing UnitedHealthcare Global

Building a company culture that drives proactive, preventative care for employees can be a challenge for employers. Even more so, when those employees are globally mobile, often with the dependents relocating with them. This presentation explores the challenges employers face around active engagement with wellness in the workplace programmes and how they can better prepare for a higher level of engagement with employees.

10.45am-11.30am: Global Health Trends, an Exciting Future

Presented by Kathryn Ager, Grayling

Advances in healthcare over the past 20 years have been truly staggering; we’ve seen breakthroughs in everything from cancer treatment to 3D printing, and robotic surgery. Over the next two decades we can expect more ground-breaking developments, from the use of AI in medicine to personalisation and advances in immunotherapy. However, as the population ages and grows, healthcare systems in the UK and the world over are facing increased pressures. This presentation will consider how current health trends such as preventative healthcare will be necessary to combat the challenges provided by demographic change and the prevalence of lifestyle associated diseases.

11.30am-11.45am: Break

11.45am-12.30pm: Career Move or Into the Wilderness

Presented by Jayne Carrington, EOPH Ltd

Working abroad for many is a significant and highly enjoyable career move with benefits for the organisation, the family and for self. New challenges, social and cultural adaptation, often a focused and purposeful role all bring enormous satisfaction and fresh career impetus.

But for others the decision leads to loneliness, unhappiness and disenchantment. These become “wilderness years” and often lead to significant well-being issues. Families can feel uprooted and there may be a strain on significant relationships, career progress

seems to stumble, and high-performing talented people can feel lost and unable to make a contribution. Evidence shows a high drop-out rate, from international assignments.

Jayne will look at contemporary evidence on the impact of such assignments on individuals, their families, and their organisations. More particularly she will examine what positive steps can be taken by organisations and by individuals before, during, and after such assignments to minimise risk and maximise personal well-being leading to enhanced business performance.

12.30pm-13.30pm: Networking lunch

Introduction and objectives

• Diagnostic task: your strengths and weaknesses
• What makes a good presentation? And a good presenter?

Using your voice

• Activity: How do I sound?
• Intonation to maintain interest
• Pacing and pausing
• Activity: Practice exercises

Re-examining your use of English for presenting

• Language for emphasis and impact
• Activity: Practice exercises

Understanding your audience

• Identifying audience expectations and needs
• Clarifying your purpose and objective for the presentation
• Direct and indirect, high and low context communications
• Group vs. individual focus

Preparing your presentation

• Tailoring key messages for a specific audience
• Choosing your presentation structure, style and format
• Preparing and working with notes and slides

Delivering your presentation

• Effective opening and closing
• Using humour and anecdote
• Improving your ‘active’ listening skills
• Handling difficult questions from your audience
• Dealing with silence

Action Planning and final Q&A

What our attendees have to say:

"This was a really great training course to attend as we all have to present ourselves everyday in different ways. I will definitely recommend it to others in my company." Sangeeta Shetty, JP Morgan Chase

 "My ability to present my work to colleagues in the business in a relatable way is so important. This course will help me be at my best at those times." Natasha Howlett, Deloitte

"Quickly put at ease and given the confidence to understand what I’m already doing well. Excellent specific steps and suggestions to improve my performance." – Helen Hardy, Ferguson

"Wonderful session with Boo (trainer), who was incredibly enthusiastic and infectious with a memorable communication style. The session was paced, intimate and relaxed, putting everyone at ease. There was structure which provided space for personal feedback and individual goals and areas for growth. I’ve left the session feeling empowered and inspired. One of the best sessions I’ve had (and there weren’t any slides!) Boo is a fantastic speaker, very engaging and relatable." Leigh Best, Publicis, Group

Overview

Registration is from 9.30am for a 10.00am start.  The Huddle will  will be followed by networking drinks from 4.30pm - 6.00pm.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

Members of the Expat Academy Symposium Network, i.e. Global Mobility professionals managing an expatriate population in excess of 100 people

What to expect

• small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. For an idea of what was discussed at previous Huddles and the takeaways for attendees, read these posts.

What our members have to say:

“You are allowed to be as vocal as you want and never pushed into it.” Clare McDonagh, UBS

No matter how well you think you have mobility covered someone in the room will have looked at it from an angle that you haven’t – sometimes, just sometimes, that fresh perspective is priceless. You can't ask for more than this. I’ve been to many networking events in my career and the level of sharing in this group is off the chart! – James Watts, DNV GL

“Most fun and friendly industry event I have been to. Format is simple but perfect.” Stuart Ferguson, Deloitte

Registration is from 9.30am for a 10.00am start.  The Huddle will be followed by networking drinks from 4.00pm - 6.00pm.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

Members of the Expat Academy Club 100 Network, i.e. Global Mobility professionals managing an expatriate population of fewer than 100 people

What to expect

• small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. For an idea of what was discussed at previous Huddles and the takeaways for attendees, read these posts.

What our members have to say

“I am in a stand-alone role so the opportunity to hear from other mobility professionals and find out what other mobility teams are up to is invaluable.  Being able to benchmark/cross-check mobility issues with other organisations in the Club 100 Network gives me credibility as a trusted advisor in my own organisation.” Dominique Dee, Eversheds Sutherland

"The forum to find out what other mobility teams are doing is fantastic” Steve Hawkins, AB AGRI Ltd

"Having knowledge of industry standards when speaking with the business to support or argue points that are raised is invaluable." Helen Hardy, Ferguson Group Services

The aim of the Global Head Network is to facilitate shared learning, connect on current issues and provide the platform for thought leadership within the Global Mobility Industry.

Attendees submit agenda points and topics are categorised and circulated ahead of the meeting to ensure the facilitated discussion is as strategic as possible on the day

Who should attend

• been in a Global Mobility role for less than 12 months
• a non-Global Mobility specialist who wishes to broaden their Global Mobility knowledge

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to demystify the Global Mobility world, explain the fundamentals of Global Mobility practice, and aid your professional development. You will end the day with a greater understanding of Global Mobility and have the confidence to put your newly-learnt knowledge in to practice as soon as you get back to your desk

What to expect

• split into small groups to share experiences and raise questions
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks and over lunch to grow your network
• course handbook to add notes to and take away for reference

What you will learn

• understand the jargon used by your Global Mobility colleagues and be able to explain information to assignees
• be aware of how organisations support their assignees and families whilst overseas
• how to spot any tax compliance issues and seek further professional advice as appropriate
• help the business to take proactive steps to minimise immigration challenges

What our members have to say:

"The course gives you a greater appreciation for how complex the world of Global Mobility is. It will certainly help in the way we approach and engage with GM Managers. It was great and makes me even more determined to promote the value of some of the support services. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!" Teresa Wighton, BUPA   

"In one day I have learnt what I could have in shadowing for a month. I have come away with lots and lots of knowledge and the handout will be really useful." Chloe Freedman, Brambles                                          

"Immigration responsibilities are transferring to the GM team so the training today will help hugely.  The training booklet will be really helpful when relaying the information to the rest of the team." Amy Farricker, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer 

"This training will really help us to keep up-to-date with the industry and its trends. It is also useful to understand the challenges GM teams have to deal with." Sophie Tailor, Sterling Lexicon

"We are trying to write and update current policies and put proper process in place, so it was great to be here today and hear all points that needs to be considered." Petra Budinova, Laing O'Rourke

Registration will be from 9.30am for a 10.00am start. The Bite Size Briefing will be followed by networking drinks.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to get you thinking, enhance your specialist Global Mobility knowledge and aid your professional development.  You will end the day with improved knowledge to translate into your own world and put into practice when you get back to your office.

What to expect

• theatre-style seating with presentations from speakers
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What our members have to say:

"A very good mix of topics. Different companies providing examples of what they have done is really insightful, and it's good to know how others are faring with current key issues." Lizzie Boddington, Capco

"Some great technological content, pitched at the right level." Sonal Wadher, Tesco

"I thought that today’s session was perfect for a comprehensive overview. I look forward to attending the next session." Claire Gladstone, Legal and General Investment Management

"Keeping up to date on current GM trends and issues is critical for a successful GM program. It ensures we can work in true partnership with the business, talent, and HR to add real value." Lucy Chittenden, Aon

"It’s always valuable to keep on top of new trends but the networking part where you can share practices is also something I find incredibly useful." Ariane de Wilde, Qinetiq

Registration is from 9.30am for a 10.00am start.  The Huddle will  will be followed by networking drinks from 4.30pm - 6.00pm.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

Members of the Expat Academy Symposium Network, i.e. Global Mobility professionals managing an expatriate population in excess of 100 people

What to expect

• small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. For an idea of what was discussed at previous Huddles and the takeaways for attendees, read these posts.

What our members have to say:

“You are allowed to be as vocal as you want and never pushed into it.” Clare McDonagh, UBS

No matter how well you think you have mobility covered someone in the room will have looked at it from an angle that you haven’t – sometimes, just sometimes, that fresh perspective is priceless. You can't ask for more than this. I’ve been to many networking events in my career and the level of sharing in this group is off the chart! – James Watts, DNV GL

“Most fun and friendly industry event I have been to. Format is simple but perfect.” Stuart Ferguson, Deloitte

Registration is from 9.30am for a 10.00am start.  The Huddle will be followed by networking drinks from 4.00pm - 6.00pm.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to work collaboratively with your peers to overcome the challenges keeping you awake and get answers to the burning questions causing you angst. As the day’s agenda is built around what the attendees want to cover, and is finalised just a week before the Huddle, the conversations are guaranteed to be of immediate benefit.

Who should attend

Members of the Expat Academy Club 100 Network, i.e. Global Mobility professionals managing an expatriate population of fewer than 100 people

What to expect

• small roundtable sessions to discuss current issues
• feedback from other tables to learn from wider experiences
• corporate updates from members on their latest challenges and projects
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What you will learn

To ensure what is discussed at this Huddle reflects the burning issues of the day, the agenda is only determined a week in advance, and will be posted here. For an idea of what was discussed at previous Huddles and the takeaways for attendees, read these posts.

What our members have to say

“I am in a stand-alone role so the opportunity to hear from other mobility professionals and find out what other mobility teams are up to is invaluable.  Being able to benchmark/cross-check mobility issues with other organisations in the Club 100 Network gives me credibility as a trusted advisor in my own organisation.” Dominique Dee, Eversheds Sutherland

"The forum to find out what other mobility teams are doing is fantastic” Steve Hawkins, AB AGRI Ltd

"Having knowledge of industry standards when speaking with the business to support or argue points that are raised is invaluable." Helen Hardy, Ferguson Group Services

The day promises to provide a great opportunity for the Expat Academy community to get together, be inspired and informed.  With this in mind there will be the opportunity to hear from an expert panel about the triumphs and challenges they have faced in managing stakeholders. We will also break for Huddle sessions giving you the chance to discuss your burning issues and challenges. There will be the chance to listen to a top panel from the world of Global Mobility as they are placed under the spotlight in ‘Question Time’ and be inspired by our keynote, Debra Searle MVO MBE, as she shares her story on achievement against all odds. 

Registration will be from 9.30am for a 10.00am start. The Bite Size Briefing will be followed by networking drinks.

Why you should attend

The aim of the day is to get you thinking, enhance your specialist Global Mobility knowledge and aid your professional development.  You will end the day with improved knowledge to translate into your own world and put into practice when you get back to your office.

What to expect

• theatre-style seating with presentations from speakers
• mix, mingle and chat during regular breaks & over lunch
• networking drinks bring the day to a close

What our members have to say:

"A very good mix of topics. Different companies providing examples of what they have done is really insightful, and it's good to know how others are faring with current key issues." Lizzie Boddington, Capco

"Some great technological content, pitched at the right level." Sonal Wadher, Tesco

"I thought that today’s session was perfect for a comprehensive overview. I look forward to attending the next session." Claire Gladstone, Legal and General Investment Management

"Keeping up to date on current GM trends and issues is critical for a successful GM program. It ensures we can work in true partnership with the business, talent, and HR to add real value." Lucy Chittenden, Aon

"It’s always valuable to keep on top of new trends but the networking part where you can share practices is also something I find incredibly useful." Ariane de Wilde, Qinetiq