Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has announced Claire Aindow, Pro Vice Chancellor for Growth and Development at the University of Cumbria, as the latest confirmed panellist for Conference Cumbria 2026.
She brings more than three decades of experience across higher education, partnership development and regional growth to this year’s event.
Taking place on Thursday October 1 at the Pencil Factory in Keswick, Conference Cumbria will bring together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers from across the region for a day of inspiring keynote speakers, thought-provoking discussions and meaningful networking opportunities.
As Pro Vice Chancellor for Growth and Development, Claire leads the University of Cumbria’s growth agenda, ensuring its academic portfolio responds to regional and national priorities while overseeing collaborative partnerships, international student recruitment and the development of the university’s international college.
The announcement is another exciting addition to Conference Cumbria 2026, which this year carries the theme Be Bold. Be Courageous.
With more than 30 years’ experience in higher education, Claire has built a career centred on innovation, collaboration and creating opportunities.
Beginning as a lecturer and senior lecturer in law before progressing into senior leadership roles, she has also worked as a communications consultant specialising in new media for the public sector, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing organisations across the North West.
Claire’s commitment to growth extends beyond academia. Alongside her leadership responsibilities at the University of Cumbria, she is co-chair of the university’s Athena Swan initiative, championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and serves on the board of Carlisle College.
Lesley Robinson, head of business growth & support at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Claire to the Conference Cumbria 2026 expert panel.
“Her extensive experience in higher education, regional collaboration and strategic growth will bring an invaluable perspective to the conversation.
“Claire has dedicated her career to developing people, building partnerships and ensuring organisations are equipped for the future. Her insight into innovation, skills and sustainable growth will undoubtedly inspire delegates from across Cumbria’s business community.”
Claire said: “It is a privilege for me to participate in Conference Cumbria 2026. Being Bold is the only sensible strategy in the current business environment so the conference theme could not be more timely.
!Cumbria is flying in so many ways, and as Cumbria’s university we are excited to play our part in innovation and growth – bringing the right people with the right skills at the right time to our county. I’m looking forward to sharing my insights and benefiting from hearing yours.”
Holding a Law degree from the University of Cambridge and a Master’s in Development Education and Global Learning from UCL, Claire has a particular academic interest in sustainability and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, helping shape initiatives that prepare organisations and communities for the future.
Conference Cumbria has grown significantly over recent years and now attracts delegates from across Cumbria and beyond, with ambitions to welcome up to 350 attendees in 2026.
This year’s event will feature headline speaker Sir Clive Woodward alongside a growing programme of inspiring speakers, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to support business growth, leadership and innovation.
Recent speaker announcements have also included Lou Kneath, Sara Murray, Steve Randles, Maria Whitehead MBE and Richard Rankin, further strengthening what promises to be one of the county’s most inspiring business events.
A limited number of sponsorship opportunities and tickets remain available for businesses looking to align themselves with one of the region’s most prominent business events.
