Great communications: lessons from the art of speechwriting
Sophie Adelman, Director of Speechwriting and Research, London Stock Exchange Group
Michael Milner-Watt, Head of Executive Communications, Standard Chartered Bank

Most CFOs would probably admit that great communications is probably not a strongpoint for their team. Detail-oriented Finance people often get lost in that detail when they need to communicate with their stakeholders. Complex issues, it turns out, are difficult to communicate in a simple way. Speechwriting teaches us that stories are often the best way to communicate detail, and when words are chosen carefully, they can be extremely powerful in getting a message across. The Global CFO Network is pleased to be hosting a distinguished panel, including London Stock Exchange Director of Speechwriting and Research Sophie Adelman and HSBC CEO Noel Quinn’s Chief Speechwriter Michael Millner-Watt for a practical how-to session on communicating complex message effectively. Sophie was until recently Head of Strategic Communications at the Cabinet Office, having previously worked as Chief Speechwriter to the Foreign Secretary and Chief Speechwriter to the British Ambassador to the US, among many other senior roles. Michael’s career includes stints in corporate communications and journalism at the FT’s The Banker magazine as Editor of Investment Banking and Capital Markets, and as Chief Speechwriter to the CEO of HSBC.

To be followed by a facilitated member discussion.

This session will commence with drinks, and will include light food.