Event Timings

2.00 pm	Arrival, Refreshments and Networking
2.45 pm	Panel Discussion with GianMarco Carlà and Industry Guests with an insight into how Networking has shaped their career and opened doors
3.45 pm	Audience Q&A
4.00 pm	Nibbles and Refreshments
4.15 pm	Informal Networking with Panellists and Peers
5.00 pm	Close

The Event

Arena is delighted to invite you to our next Arena Futures networking and development event, designed specifically for emerging talent and future leaders across hospitality and foodservice.

Bringing together ambitious professionals from across the sector, Arena Futures creates opportunities to build meaningful industry relationships, gain practical career insight and develop confidence within a supportive and engaging environment.

Ideal for graduates, early-career professionals, first-time managers and future leaders across hospitality and foodservice.

Set within the vibrant surroundings of KERB Social Club, this event combines inspiring conversation, real-life career stories and relaxed networking with peers and industry leaders.

Headline Speaker

GianMarco Carlà, Chief Operating Officer, Big Mamma Group UK & Ireland

We are delighted to welcome GianMarco Carlà as our headline speaker for this event.

Leading the performance and growth of Big Mamma’s expanding UK and Ireland restaurant portfolio, GianMarco brings a hugely inspiring career story, having started on the restaurant floor before progressing to Chief Operating Officer.

Throughout his career, including previous roles with Soho House and The Ned, GianMarco has built a reputation for people-first leadership, creating high-performing teams and balancing operational excellence with exceptional guest experience.

GianMarco will share honest reflections on his career journey, leadership lessons and the realities of building culture and performance within fast-moving hospitality businesses.

Additional panellists will also be announced.

Topics we'll explore

Our panel discussion will focus on the role relationships and networking can play in shaping successful careers within hospitality, including:

• Building a successful hospitality career and how meaningful relationships can help open doors
• Leadership, people development and creating strong team cultures through collaboration
• Scaling brands while maintaining guest experience
• Confidence, visibility and career progression within hospitality
• How emerging talent can use relationships and opportunities to accelerate growth within the sector

What to expect

Industry insight
An engaging live conversation with GianMarco Carlà and industry panellists tbc, including audience Q&A

Networking opportunities
Time to connect with peers, industry professionals and Arena Networking Navigator mentors in a welcoming and informal setting

Food & refreshments
Complimentary drinks and light bites throughout the afternoon

Community and connection
A supportive environment designed to build confidence, meaningful relationships and lasting industry connections, with Arena Networking Navigator programme coaches available throughout the event to offer networking support and guidance

We look forward to welcoming you for an inspiring afternoon of conversation, learning and connection with Arena Futures.