Event Details

DFK International is excited to announce our Global Conference 2025 will be held in Edinburgh, Scotland.


We encourage all delegates to stay until the end of the scheduled programme to fully benefit from the insights and expertise shared throughout the event. Our keynote speakers and panelists have generously given their time to contribute to these discussions, and your presence ensures a vibrant and engaged audience. Thank you for your consideration and for helping us create a respectful and enriching environment for all.

This year's event is your chance to connect with fellow DFK members worldwide, gain fresh perspectives, and strengthen the relationships that unite us across borders.


Our annual Global Conference brings the DFK community together. From Munich to Singapore, London to Miami, and most recently Sydney, our conferences have provided members with invaluable opportunities to collaborate, learn, and build lasting connections.


"In my opinion, DFK conferences provide great opportunities to meet other professionals, coming from all over the world, to exchange ideas and experiences and to expand networks, relations and above all, friendships."

- Francesco Nicolini


Edinburgh promises to continue this tradition in a city rich with history, culture and innovation. With a programme designed to inspire discussion and provide practical solutions to shared challenges, as well as plenty of opportunities to connect outside of sessions, this is an event not to be missed.


"Bennett Thrasher want to become a global firm, and for us, DFK conferences are an opportunity to build our global network which is extremely important for our continued growth."

- Ben Miller

Venue

We look forward to welcoming you to stay at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh.


Reservations at the agreed rates may be made until 19th May 2025. After this date we cannot guarantee the DFK rate.


On making your reservation, guests are required to provide a credit/debit card to guarantee their room and the Hotel requires all reservations to be guaranteed with a deposit equal to one night's room and tax.


The Hotel shall accept payment in the form of major credit cards with valid expiration date. Guests will be required to pay the balance of their own accommodation on arrival to the hotel. All Client Guests will be individually responsible for payment of their own room, tax, and incidental charges.


Should a Client Guest cancel a reservation, the Hotel shall refund the deposit, provided notice of cancellation is given 7 days prior to arrival.


Click here to book your room​

Sheraton

1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

If you have any questions please contact Caroline Cassidy

Contact Organizer

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Speakers

We know that what makes a conference truly valuable isn't just what happens in the room, but the ideas and discussions that continue beyond it.


That's why DFK events feature world-class keynote speakers who bring a wealth of experience and expertise, inspiring and challenging us to think differently. Our keynote sessions are designed to spark new ideas, encourage meaningful discussions, and offer practical takeaways that you can apply within your firm. We carefully select speakers who are leaders in their fields - whether it's business, leadership, technology, or beyond - to ensure that their insights resonate with our global audience.

  • Rebecca Adlington (OBE)

    Rebecca Adlington

    OBE

    Rebecca Adlington is Great Britain’s most successful female swimmer. She became a household name following her two-gold medal winning performances at the Beijing Games in August 2008 and her unique blend of charisma and charm allied to her dedication and professionalism in the pool has made her a global superstar, and a role model for female athletes around the world.

    Becky’s drive and thirst for success meant that she won a medal in each of the Olympic finals she swam. A four-time Olympic medallist in the 400m and 800m Freestyle, she won two Gold medals in Beijing 2008 and two Bronze medals in London 2012.

    Following her success in Beijing, Becky was awarded an OBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace and accepted the Laureus World Sports Awards ‘Breakthrough of the Year Award’ from Sebastian Coe.

    Becky announced her retirement from elite swimming in 2013 and has since undertaken numerous roles in swimming commentary and punditry. A mainstay for the BBC’s coverage of the 2015 World Championships, the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 2017 World Championships in Budapest, the 2018 European Championships in Glasgow, the 2019 and 2020 International Swimming League, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and most recently the 2024 Paris Olympics, Becky is an articulate and respected media presence.

    Following her retirement Becky announced a vision for her legacy; a swimming initiative with the goal that every child in Britain will be able to swim 25 metres by the time they leave primary school. Her famous drive has been channelled into this vision ever since and across the UK, Swim! delivers proven child-led programmes, by experts in premium and family friendly centres, to provide a best in class learn to swim! experience for 0-11 year olds.

    In June 2016, Becky became a Patron of Women in Sport to help support the charity’s work in transforming sport for the benefit of every woman and girl in the UK. Becky is also an ambassador of the Encephalitis Society, a national charity and the only resource of its kind in the world supporting people affected by the illness.

    A trusted voice for women in sport, Becky is an experienced ambassador, spokesperson and pundit as well as a full time business owner and mum to her two children, Summer & Albie.

    Becky is a well-practiced and eloquent public speaker. Sharing the journey of her career, Becky talks about motivation and dedication as well as how teamwork is fundamental in achieving success in anything. Becky talks about recognising what is truly important, focusing on wellbeing and how to find mental resilience when there are so many uncontrollable factors. In addition to speaking of her earlier sporting experiences, Becky also draws on her learnings as a business owner and how she has dealt with change.

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  • Fredrik Hรคrรฉn

    Fredrik Härén

    “The World of Creativity” delves into my extensive research over the past decade, where I studied human creativity across 50 countries and interviewed thousands of creative individuals from diverse backgrounds. This speech celebrates the essence of human creativity and provides practical insights on unlocking our creative potential.

    Key Takeaways:
    Inspiration and Motivation: Attendees will leave feeling inspired and motivated, with a renewed sense of creative confidence.

    Practical Insights: The speech offers actionable lessons on how to foster creativity in personal and professional settings.

    Cultural Appreciation: Emphasizing the importance of curiosity and open-mindedness, it encourages embracing ideas from various cultures—a vital message for a global audience.

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  • Jonathan Pain (Director of JP Consulting)

    Jonathan Pain

    Director of JP Consulting

    An Axis of Autocracy and a New Geopolitical and Economic Reality.

    We are experiencing an extraordinary confluence of economic and geopolitical disruption and dislocation.
    What does this mean for the global economic outlook?
    Are we witnessing ‘An Axis of Autocracy’ between Russia, China, Iran and North Korea?
    How will this shape and define the geopolitical landscape in the years and decades ahead?
    Jonathan Pain sees the world as a giant jigsaw puzzle and each day the pieces are changing.
    He will share with you the picture that he sees emerging over the years ahead.

    view more

Conference Agenda

We are excited to be offering a packed agenda! We have the perfect blend of technical and sessions and networking activities that delegates have come to expect from a DFK event!*


Monday 7 July 

DFK Executive Board Meeting (by invitation only)


Tuesday 8 July

DFK International Tax Seminar

DFK Members Council Meeting (by invitation only)

DFK International Welcome Reception at Edinburgh Castle


Wednesday 9 July

Day 1 Conference featuring Fredrik Hรคrรฉn

Global Golf Tournament/Highland Games/Whisky Tasting (choice of activity)

Global Dine-Arounds


Thursday 10 July

Day 2 Conference, plus breakout sessions in the afternoon featuring Jonathan Pain

DFK International Farewell Gala at the National Museum of Scotland


Friday 11 July

Day 3 Conference** featuring Rebecca Adlington OBE


*Please note this schedule is subject to change and is correct as at 24.03.2025

**Guests are free to depart from 2.30pm

Social Programme

Monday 7th July

Early Arrivals Meet and Greet Drinks and Dinner! 

Additional Fee: This dinner is at delegates' own cost and is not included in the delegate fee. 

Join your fellow early birds for an Early Arrivals Meet and Greet Drinks and Dinner!  

Tuesday 8th July

Welcome Reception at Edinburgh Castle

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Queen Anne Courtyard for a welcome fit for royalty, with exclusive access to view the Crown Jewels.


(Please note that photography is strictly prohibited. We kindly ask that you respect this requirement, as anyone found taking photographs will be asked to leave the reception by Castle staff.)


The welcome reception officially kicks off an exciting week and provides an excellent opportunity to meet and connect with fellow delegates.


Welcome drinks and canapรฉs will be served throughout the evening.


Time: 7:00 PM โ€“ 11:00 PM

Dress Code: Smart Casual

Transportation Provided


We look forward to welcoming you!

Wednesday 9th July

๏ปฟGolf Tournament

Additional Fee: ยฃ200 to include green fee, dinner and transportation.

Tee times from 2pm, followed by a golfers dinner and drinks at the Clubhouse. 

 

COURSE

For more information on the course please visit Gullane Golf Club โ€“ No.2​  

Important Information 

  • Golfers should wear standard golf club attire when on property.
  • Trolleys and push carts will be available. Motorised carts/buggies are limited to those with documented medical conditions.
  • We will send an email to all those who registered for golf once registration closes with a form to indicate whether they want to hire clubs and which they require (left/right)
  • A few caddies may be available. Please call the club ahead of time to arrange a caddie: +44 (0)1620 843 767

Highland Games

Additional Fee: ยฃ150 per person to include activity, afternoon tea and transportation 


Experience the Highland Games​!


Scotland's Highland games were traditionally held by Scottish Clan Chiefs to test their men's strengths. Observing their performance, the Chief would decide who was best suited for different tasks. The fastest runner would become the messenger, and the strongest men would become the warriors. 


Today, the games are still enjoyed by Athletes who train to compete for Scottish and international prizesโ€ฆand now our DFK Family! 

You will get to compete in "Clans" in each of the following activitiesโ€ฆthere will be winner and "loser" prizes! 

โ€ขCaber Tossing 

โ€ขHammer Throwing 

โ€ขScots Stone Putt 

โ€ขBagpipe Workshop 

โ€ขScottish Dancing Class 

โ€ขWelly Wang 

โ€ขStag Hoopla 


We don't expect anyone to have any prior experience, so these events are designed for complete beginners, both male and female, and children. 

This activity will take place on the grounds of the breath-taking Norton House​, and guests will also enjoy a beautiful afternoon tea to recharge after the activities. 


Time: 2:00 PM โ€“ 5:30PM

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and sensible footwear

Transportation Provided

Whisky Makers' Cellar Tasting

Additional Fee: ยฃ95 per person


Whisky Makers' Cellar tasting located in the atmospheric vaults of Johnnie Walker. This is a 90-minute experience that involves an in-depth focus on the role of the cask in the whisky-making process and the opportunity to taste four whiskies drawn direct from the cask, as well as sampling an exclusive Johnnie Walker Princes Street expression created by one of our master makers, only available at Johnnie Walker Princes Street.  


Capacity of 18pax - Book early to avoid disappointment!

Time: 2:00 PM โ€“ 3:30PM

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and sensible footwear

Transportation Provided

Whiskey and Chocolate Tasting

Additional Fee: ยฃ65 per person  


The Johnnie & The Chocolatier: Luxury Whisky & Artisanal Chocolate Pairing is a unique hour-long journey where you will expertly nose and taste a selection of exceptional whiskies including Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Johnnie Walker Ghost & Rare Port Dundas and Johnnie Walker Legendary Eight, each paired with a luxury chocolate truffle, created by Iain Burnett, the Highland Chocolatier, culminating with the highly sought-after Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet.  


Capacity of 18pax - Book early to avoid disappointment!

Time: 3:15 PM โ€“ 4:15PM

Dress Code: Comfortable clothing and sensible footwear

Transportation Provided

Dine Arounds

Additional Fee: This dinner is at delegates' own cost and is not included in the delegate fee. 

Get to know your fellow delegates in a more intimate setting. Delegates will be given the opportunity to split in to smaller groups and enjoy a dinner at local restaurants. 

The DFK Conference team will contact you closer to the event to give you an opportunity to sign up for a restaurant of your choice.


Time: 6:30 PM โ€“ 9:30PM

Dress Code: Smart/casual

Thursday 10th July

Gala Ball

Enjoy a Gala evening like no other at the beautiful National Museum of Scotland, a true Scottish evening for all, featuring the famous Drum and Retreat on departure. 


Time: 7:00 PM โ€“ 12 midnight

Dress Code: Black Tie (Kilts encouraged!)

These 2 companies offer pre order, so guests should contact prior to arrival with sizes etc and then they will be ready for them.

Group Kilt Hire Packages for Scottish Themed Events by Reel Time (reel-time.co.uk)​

Kilts for Rent | Kilt Hire - Kinloch Anderson​

Transportation Provided

Community

Connect with 12 people attending this event

GSRSMVCK

Conference Terms and Obligations

The Global Annual Conference is sold to delegates as a package and it will not be possible to offer refunds to delegates that opt out of the core elements, which include the welcome reception and dinner; all business sessions; and the social activities and meals. Some activities are optional and are at an additional cost โ€“ this is clearly indicated where applicable.


Other than in exceptional circumstances, refunds to delegates who need to cancel will only be provided to the extent to which DFK is able to recover costs from suppliers. 


Cancellations must be notified in writing to caroline@dfk.com no later than 15th June 2025 to avoid charges. After this date, charges will apply. Members are permitted to allocate their place to another delegate from their firm to avoid cancellation charges.

All travel and hotel costs are the responsibility of delegates and guests. DFK take no liability for these costs.


Minimum numbers are applicable to some activities and if we do not reach that minimum number, we reserve the right to cancel the activity before we go on-site. In this instance, you will be pre-notified.


Delegate obligations

  • Delegates agree to comply with any requirements communicated by DFK or Event venue employees, contractors or agents, including instructions relating to health and safety, fire safety or consumption of food and drinks.
  • Delegates must inform DFK of any specific access or other requirements (e.g. dietary requirements) as soon as reasonably practicable, but in any case before the date of the Event.
  • Delegates agree to conduct themselves appropriately in their attendance at the Event. DFK reserves the right to exclude or remove from the Event any person for disruptive, inappropriate, or abusive behaviour, at its absolute sole discretion.

Indemnity

  • Delegates shall indemnify DFK in full for any direct or indirect loss or damage it incurs as a result of the delegate's acts or omissions, including any losses arising from damage to the venue, DFK or third-party property or failure to comply with any requirements specified by DFK.

Limited Liability

  • DFK will take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of delegates, but will not be liable in contract, tort or otherwise for any indirect or consequential losses, including but not limited to loss of profit, loss of use, costs or expenses, or other claims whether caused by DFK, its employees, contractors or agents arising from delegates taking part in an Event.