Autumn Influence Dinner

2026 marks a defining moment for the Isle of Man. With a General Election in September that year, the MONEYVAL visit, and almost certainly continuing pressures on the issues that members have told us are most important to their respective organisations: lack of optimism in the Island’s economy; lack of confidence in the Government to manage its finances; difficulties in recruiting skilled staff; housing issues, and costs of regulatory compliance.

The decisions made that year will shape the course of our economy, business environment, and quality of life for the decade ahead.

The UK has set out a bold 10 year vision with Invest 2035. So, what’s our plan? Where should the Isle of Man be aiming as we look to remain competitive, compelling, resilient, and relevant on the global stage?

This event will spark forward-focused thinking—not just about the immediate political milestones, but about what kind of Island we want to become by 2035. How will we innovate, attract investment, and showcase our strengths beyond our shores?

A distinguished panel of business leaders and thought influencers will share their perspectives and along with delegates, enable IoD Isle of Man to support the development of a series of policy ideas that the next administration should consider taking forward post the 2026 Election.

This is YOUR opportunity to be part of a bigger conversation - one that could shape the future of the Isle of Man for generations to come. Don’t miss it..

We are thrilled to announce our keynote speaker - Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein OBE.

Keynote Speaker - Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein OBE

Lord (Daniel) Finkelstein OBE is a columnist, broadcaster and former Executive Editor and Associate Editor of The Times. He is also a member of the Lords and has served as an advisor to the Conservative Party.

Daniel began his career as Chair of the Young Social Democrats, a group of whom went on to join the Conservatives.

After serving as director of a Westminster think tank focusing on social policy, he became a political advisor to John Major and then William Hague and Secretary to the Shadow Cabinet. He played an early role in attempts to modernise the party alongside the likes of David Cameron and George Osborne.

Following a brief spell in data communications, Daniel joined The Times, started their blog, and worked his way up to the leader columns. He's also written a highly regarded and very distinctive statistics-based football review, andregular columns for The Jewish Chronicle.

Known for taking an objective, insider's view of Westminster, Daniel is a prominent commentator in the media, and a regular on Radio 4's satirical panel show The News Quiz. His talks provide a sharp and entertaining insight into the political scene examining the key policies and personalities with wry humour and genuine knowledge.

His book Hitler, Stalin, Mum and Dad is a moving, personal and at times horrifying memoir about Daniel’s parents’ experiences at the hands of the two genocidal dictators of the 20th century. Sex, Lies and the Ballot Box wasshortlisted for the Practical Politics Book of the Year at The Paddy Power Political Book Awards.

© Copyright: JLA All rights reserved

Introducing our panellists -

Simon Collister PhD - Head of Human Understanding UNLIMITED

Garry Manley - Partner, Head of Corporate, Appleby (Isle of Man)

Dr Megan Mathias MBE - Chief Operating Officer, Cabinet Office

Hannah Simons - Head of Sustainability, Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets

John Webster - Chair Manx Technology Group and former economic advisor to Isle of Man Government

Tickets

All options available via Eventbrite or invoice - just contact Rachel

£75 - member

£85 - non member

Table bookings are available, please contact rachel.mckenna@iod.com to enquire.

Tickets include a drink on arrival and three meal course meal with tea/coffee

A set menu will be served.

Any special dietary requirements to be emailed directly to rachel.mckenna@iod.com by Thursday 18 September

Dress Code

Business attire

Accommodation

If you wish to stay overnight, contact The Comis Hotel direct on (01624 661111) for the best rate.