Richard Rankin, the chief executive of agricultural and rural services business H&H Group plc, has been named as a panellist for Conference Cumbria 2026.

The event, organised by the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Thursday 1 October 2026 at the Pencil Factory in Keswick. Organisers aim to attract up to 350 business leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers from across the North of England.

Mr Rankin has served as chief executive of Carlisle-headquartered H&H Group since 2018. He joined the organisation following a 20-year career in corporate finance with professional services firms Deloitte and Armstrong Watson. Under his management, the group has expanded its turnover by 73 per cent and established internal development schemes, including its Future Leaders Programme and Farmstock Futures initiative.

The theme for this year's conference is "Be Bold. Be Courageous." Mr Rankin joins a speaker roster that includes England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning head coach Sir Clive Woodward, alongside regional business figures Lou Kneath, Sara Murray, Steve Randles, and Maria Whitehead MBE.

A resident of Cumbria since 2002, Mr Rankin also serves as a director of the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and previously spent a decade on the board of Cumbria Tourism.

Lesley Robinson, head of business growth and support at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Richard Rankin to the Conference Cumbria 2026 expert panel. His impressive track record of leading transformational change, combined with his deep commitment to developing future talent, makes him an invaluable addition to this year’s programme.

“Richard’s experience demonstrates that sometimes the greatest opportunities come from looking at challenges through a fresh lens, and we’re looking forward to hearing his insights on leadership, resilience and driving long-term success.”

Richard Rankin, chief executive at H&H Group plc, said: “I’m looking forward to being part of this year’s Conference Cumbria, particularly given its focus on bold, courageous leadership at a time when I believe it really matters.

"Cumbria’s full of opportunity if you’re prepared to think differently. Being bold isn’t about just making noise – it’s about making clear decisions and backing them, consistently and over time.”

Businesses interested in attending or getting involved can find out more and book online via the Conference Cumbria 2026 Booking Page.