HR, Culture & Benefits Meetup

Whether you are navigating the complexities of a multi-generational workforce or seeking strategic ways to protect your bottom line in an evolving tax landscape, you will find the answers here.

This is a space for leaders who share a passion for people and culture, and who understand that the future of their business depends on the synergy between financial health and employee well-being.

What you'll learn

Connecting local leaders to redefine the employee experience.

09:00 - 09:30 | Registration & Networking Breakfast

Begin your morning by connecting with fellow leaders and innovators from Bristol's thriving tech and financial sectors over a selection of locally sourced breakfast treats.

09:30 - 09:50 | Session 1: The Art of Talent Retention

In this opening session, we delve into the psychology of the modern employee. We will explore how HR leaders can identify the subtle signs of disengagement before they lead to a departure, transforming potential turnover into a renewed commitment to your company's mission.

09:50 - 10:10 | Session 2: Gen Z: How is the new generation redefining culture of work?

The workplace is changing, driven by a generation that values purpose as much as profit. We will examine how Gen Z is redefining leadership and culture, providing you with the roadmap to build an environment where young talent thrives and leads.

10:10 - 10:30 | Session 3: 2026 Workforce Costs & Tax Efficiency: benefits as tax savings strategy

Looking ahead to the workforce costs of 2026-27, this session provides a tactical guide to achieving fiscal efficiency through strategic employee benefits. We will explore how the benefits model directly correlates with tax savings, allowing your business to navigate the evolving tax landscape with confidence.

Learn how to significantly reduce your National Insurance contributions and other employment-related tax burdens by shifting towards a smarter, benefit-led compensation strategy that delivers more real-world value to your team while protecting your bottom line.

All speakers to be announced soon.

How to adapt to Gen Z expectations and work culture
How to make the business case to leadership - benefits as a driver, not a nice-to-have.
Quick wins you can implement this week and improve retention.

Who should attend?

HR & People Leaders

Building a wellbeing programme with limited resources and a team that actually expects results.

Founders & SME Owners

Competing for talent against bigger companies and looking for smart, cost-effective ways to stand out.

Operations & Finance Managers

Needing to justify every benefits spend and prove ROI to the leadership team.

Event organisers

This event is a collaborative effort between SideUp and our esteemed partners S&W and FinTech West.

Our shared goal is to create a thriving community where local businesses support one another.

SideUp is a flexible benefits platform that empowers employees to use their benefits where they matter most, helping them navigate rising everyday costs with ease. For employers, it’s a smarter way to drive engagement, retention, and culture by turning traditional perks into meaningful, real-world support while reducing tax and turnover costs. One platform for every life plan.

S&W is one of the UK and Ireland’s fastest growing accountancy and advisory firms, they’ve been there, as a trusted partner, helping businesses and individuals meet challenges and seize opportunities across generations. In a world that is constantly evolving they help their clients thrive by simplifying the complex, illuminating new paths, and shaping solutions that really make a difference.

FinTech West is the representative body for fintech in the South West of England. A trusted, inclusive and open community, it brings together financial services firms, fintechs, technology and professional services, academia, investors, regulators and policymakers to connect, collaborate and create opportunity.