Young Professionals Network Returns at Annual Conference 2026

31/07/2026

Young professionals from across the credit union movement will come together in Leeds this September for a dedicated Young Professionals Network (YPN) event, taking place as part of the All Together Money Annual Conference 2026.

The event will be held on Saturday 12 September, from 9am–1pm at The Queens Hotel, Leeds, bringing together emerging talent from across the movement for a morning focused on purpose, professional development, networking and collaboration.

Sam Plester, CEO of Mission Brands Consulting, will lead the main session, exploring the importance of how credit union professionals operate on the frontline, what their work means to them personally, and the difference they can make for the members and communities they serve.

Through an interactive and practical session, Sam will encourage attendees to explore purpose, ethos and values and consider how these principles can be reflected in the everyday delivery and experience of financial services.

Sam said “Young professionals have a hugely important role to play in shaping the future of the credit union movement. This session will be an opportunity to step back from the day-to-day and really think about why we do what we do, the values that guide us and how those values come through in every interaction we have with members.

“I’m looking forward to creating a really interactive session where people can share their own experiences, challenge their thinking and take away practical ideas about how they can make an even greater difference within their organisations and the communities they serve.”

Alongside the main session, the morning will provide plenty of opportunity for young professionals to meet colleagues from credit unions across the country, exchange ideas and discuss potential opportunities for future projects and collaboration.

Emily Alexander, Chair of the Young Professionals Network and part of the Penny Post Group, said:

“The Young Professionals Network is all about creating a space where the next generation of people working within our movement can connect, learn from one another and have a voice in shaping its future.

“Whether you are new to the credit union sector or have already started to build your career within the movement, this event is a fantastic opportunity to meet people facing similar opportunities and challenges, share experiences and build relationships that can continue well beyond Annual Conference.

“I would also really encourage CEOs, managers and senior colleagues to think about the young professionals within their own teams who could benefit from getting involved. Supporting people to build their networks and develop their confidence is an investment not only in their own careers, but in the future strength of our movement.”

The YPN event forms part of the wider All Together Money Annual Conference 2026, taking place on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 September at The Queens Hotel in Leeds.

Places for the dedicated YPN event are £75 per person, with lunch included. Attendance is free for anyone who has already booked and paid for a full weekend or Saturday day-rate place at Annual Conference.