Late Summer Drinks Reception and Annual Address 2025

On 11 September 2025, we were delighted to welcome our members to the Late Summer Drinks Reception and Annual Address 2025, hosted by Volvo Cars and AstraZeneca. We had the privilege to listen to Tom Standage give a preview on The World Ahead 2026, where he provided valuable insights into the future landscape amid ongoing global shifts.

We also had the privilege of listening to experts Lars-Johan Cederbrant, Chief Financial Officer of AstraZeneca AB; Samantha Job, British Ambassador to Sweden; and Anna Mossberg, Board Professional, in a dynamic panel discussion on resilience, innovation, and leadership in today’s rapidly evolving environment.

The panel focused largely on the importance of speed and adaptability in these changing times, with reference to AI, efficient R&D, the importance of finding talent, and finding strength through defence. Discussions highlighted how AI is dramatically accelerating research and development, with post-pandemic efficiencies becoming embedded in standard processes. The need to build regional supply chains was also identified as a strategic move to boost market-specific responsiveness. Access to global talent emerged as a key competitive advantage, with the ability to import specialised skills seen as essential for driving innovation and agility. The panel also explored the strong link between geopolitics and trade, noting how defence investment not only supports domestic growth but also deepens international partnerships—particularly between trusted allies such as the UK and Sweden.

The engaging panel was followed by a lively drinks’ reception, where around 100 of our members had the opportunity to continue the discussions and network.

We extend our sincere thanks to our insightful speakers and to our generous hosts, Volvo Cars and AstraZeneca, for a memorable evening.

We would also like to thank Diplomat Collection for generously sponsoring an overnight stay for our keynote speaker.