Xerocon London is almost here. With a packed agenda boasting everything from top-notch keynotes to brilliant breakouts as well as a whole host of other activities to take part in, including on-the-ground haircuts and coffee and cream chillout zones, we can’t wait to welcome you back.
Most important, however, is the chance for us to gather together again without the need for screens, webcams and time spent figuring out your best Zoom angle. But don’t take our word for it – we spoke with three amazing accountants to find out what they are most looking forward to at Xerocon London 2022.
A lengthy absence
In-person events have been much missed these past few years, with our accountants describing a long period with zero Xerocons.
Malcolm Pope, Partner at Shorts, says, “Xerocon has genuinely been a highlight of the team’s year, and therefore not being able to go (for understandable reasons) has felt like something has been missing from our lives. A couple of team members even started to make a case for attending overseas Xerocons before the London dates were announced.”
And Malcolm and his team aren’t alone. Russell Frayne, Head of UK Digital Accounting Solutions at Azets, adds, “I’ve really missed the opportunity to network and mix with lots of like-minded individuals. I’ve also missed face-to-face delivered content rather than through a screen and, of course, the Xerocon party.”
We also spoke with Kathryn Wellum-Kent, Business Service Director at Monahans, who will be attending Xerocon London for the first time this year.
Kathryn shares, “This is my first opportunity to come along to Xerocon. I changed roles during the pandemic so I’m now more involved with Xero and the whole digital accountancy world so I’ve been waiting patiently for Xerocon to come back so I can experience it, after everything I’ve heard. I’ve got high expectations now, but I’m sure you’ll deliver.”
Back with a bang
While absence makes the heart grow fonder, we’re absolutely thrilled to be returning this month.
Asked what she was most excited about the event, Kathryn says:
“So many things! I’m looking forward to hearing some great speakers, meeting up with people who I don’t get to see very often, and finding out what Xero is planning over the next year. Mostly, I’m looking forward to the feeling I’ll have on the way home when I’ll be both energised and shattered by everything that has happened over the previous 48 hours.”
Malcolm also shares his plans for the event: “We’ve increased the number of team members who attend Xerocon each year, so there’s a mix of Xerocon experience within the nine of us who are attending. I always enjoy seeing that first reaction of someone experiencing Xerocon for the first time.”
As for what he’s most looking forward to, Malcolm adds:
“I’ve found that the Xerocon experience helps the team bond more closely – the party probably helps with this! And personally, I’m looking forward to catching up with other firms who we’ve come to know through Xero, as well as the Xeros (past and present) and app partners who we’ve worked closely with over the past ten years. I’m a big believer that you can always learn from others, and Xerocon gives you the opportunity to do this in a relaxed and open way.”
Russell also discusses his expectations for Xerocon London: “I’m looking forward to seeing the new product releases from Xero and plans for the future (there’s always a bombshell dropped at Xerocon!) as well as developments in the wider ecosystem to add further value to our client offering.”
Finally, Malcolm describes his enjoyment of the balance of talks and breakout sessions.
“The challenge of finding something relevant for several thousand accountants seems to be met with ease,” he says. “I always see this as an essential part of my year and given that 100% of the team who were invited said ‘yes’ within hours, I’d suggest that they see it the same way too!”
Counting down to Xerocon London
Xerocon London is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see you there on 20-21 July at Tobacco Dock, London. In the meantime, why not join the conversation on social media, using the hashtag #Xerocon, or check out our Twitter or Instagram for live updates at the event.
