🗓️ Monday 2nd February 2026
🕐 16:00 GMT
📍 Online
Join us for Research in Practice: a community meet-up for academic and applied researchers. This facilitated meet-up is designed for members working in academic research, applied research, or as part of research-led projects across industry, education, and the public sector.
Hosted by a member of the Business Agility Think Tank, with support from our communities engagement team, the session provides a supportive space for gentle professional networking alongside structured, facilitated exploration of tools, techniques, and shared learning.
Participants will have the opportunity to exchange practical insights, discuss common challenges, and learn from others navigating the realities of research within complex, adaptive systems.
The session is intentionally informal and participatory, balancing conversation with practical takeaways. Whether you are an early-career researcher, an experienced academic, or a practitioner contributing to research programmes, you are welcome to join and contribute at a level that feels comfortable.
What to expect?
- Light, inclusive networking with peers working in research contexts
- Facilitated discussion and shared learning
- Exploration of tools, tips, and practices that support effective research
- Cross-disciplinary perspectives grounded in business agility principles
No preparation is required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn with others.
Speakers
Jon Ward
Ex CEO and Managing Director Jon Ward operates at the crossroads of agile, artificial intelligence, and business strategy. He lives by the Atlantic Ocean in Westward Ho!, England, with his wife, Tatiana.
A lifelong learner, Jon is currently a Principal AI Consultant with Automation Consultants and is exploring the application of Digital Models and AI to foster agility. Recently, he piloted modern working methods using agentive AI within a software solutions provider in the global financial services sector. Recognised as a Thought Leader by the professional body, the Agile Business Consortium, and a member of the Consortium's Business Agility Think Tank.
- LinkedIn:
- https://linkedin.com/in/jon-ward-26780/
Dawn Newman
As part of her role in Communities Engagement at The Agile Business Consortium, Dawn is dedicated to fostering collaboration and connection within the agile community. Dawn supports members by curating resources, facilitating knowledge sharing, and encouraging networking, ensuring that the right tools and guidance are available to help individuals and teams thrive in their pursuit of business agility.
Dawn has over 15 years of experience in digital transformation, professional development, and community building. Her career has seen her work across various industries, where she has successfully driven initiatives that bring people together to solve complex problems, enhance digital capabilities, and champion organisational change.
Outside of her professional life, Dawn enjoys spending time with animals, listening to live music and making things from string and yarn. She is also a keen advocate for lifelong learning and personal development, always seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge and skills.