PortmanDentex Leadership Conference: shaping our future 

The PortmanDentex Leadership Conference provided a platform for empowering clinicians and colleagues to take themselves and their practices to the next level.

On 3 December 2024, over 500 clinicians and colleagues from across the PortmanDentex network gathered at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham for the Shaping Our Future Leadership Conference. The day was a celebration of progress, values, and the unwavering commitment to care for people, clinical excellence and business growth. It was a time to reflect on the achievements of the past year, engage with one another, and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that lay before the organisation and the dental sector as a whole.

At its core, the conference highlighted how PortmanDentex has successfully balanced being a purpose-driven business whilst delivering robust sustainable growth. From inspiring keynote addresses from leaders within the PortmanDentex group and guest speakers, including Baroness Sue Campbell, to interactive clinical development sessions, the event underscored how the business’s values – rooted in celebrating individuality, growing together and aiming higher – continue to fuel its expansion while keeping its people and patients at the heart of everything it does.

One team, one purpose

The conference opened with an address from Sam Waley-Cohen, group CEO and founder of PortmanDentex. He reflected on the merger that created PortmanDentex as a single unified organisation – a milestone that solidified the company’s shared purpose of enabling better health and happiness
across lifetimes.

‘One year on from the merger, it is clear that we are now one company, with a shared purpose and strong values,’ Sam stated. The spirit of unity was palpable in the conference room, as colleagues from different parts of the business celebrated their
collective journey.

Despite the challenges that come naturally with process of merging two businesses,  Sam shared how the business successfully grew by 9% last year. This has allowed PortmanDentex to reinvest in its people through training and growth opportunities for colleagues and clinicians, pay rises and bonuses for colleagues, as well as further investments in clinical excellence and patient care. For Sam, the message was clear: ‘The goal is to lead change, aim higher, and be the best dental group in the world.’

This was the rallying cry for the day, emphasising that success is measured not just by financial metrics, but by the positive impact the organisation has on its people and the quality of care it provides to patients.

Leading from within

A highlight of the conference was the address by Rebecca Sadler, newly appointed chief clinical officer and practising dentist, who has been with PortmanDentex since its early days. Rebecca’s practice was the very first to be acquired by Portman Dental Care 16 years ago. Her practice’s growth from a single location to a thriving 14-surgery business is powerful proof of the company’s commitment to clinical excellence.

Rebecca’s long-standing journey with the organisation reflects not only her personal growth but also the company’s dedication to empowering its clinicians. Rebecca’s story is a testament to the opportunities PortmanDentex provides for growth and leadership and her role is a reminder of how the company nurtures long-term talent and enables clinical leaders to take on pivotal roles in shaping the future of dental care. It also reflects the company’s deep understanding of the value of clinical leadership in driving the business forward.

Louise Oates, the newly appointed chief operating officer, shared her inspiring career journey, having started as a dental nurse and rising to one of the highest leadership positions in the company. Her story was a powerful reminder of how personal drive and passion, coupled with a culture of support and development such as that within PortmanDentex, allows people to reach their full potential.

Her words underscored the company’s commitment to its core value of ‘growing together’ and fostering a supportive environment where every colleague is encouraged to take ownership of their career development.

The theme of empowerment resonated throughout the day, exemplified by these two remarkable women who have carved successful careers in dentistry through their own drive and determination, which was inspirational to all in attendance.

A vision for the future

Another key message from the conference came from Owen James, managing director UK and Ireland. Owen spoke of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in an ever-changing world – one that is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. In the face of these challenges, Owen emphasised the importance of adaptability, highlighting that PortmanDentex’s ability to evolve and support its clinicians and colleagues will be crucial to its continued success.

‘It’s not about change for change’s sake,’ Owen stated. ‘We need to continue to evolve to counter external factors and capture new opportunities and fulfil the potential that we know we have as a business. The focus will remain on supporting our clinicians and colleagues by investing in new systems and processes, best-in-class technology, our practice estate, and importantly, our people – through their pay, development, and training.’

It’s clear to see that patients and care are very much at the heart of the business. Owen explained: ‘The business growth that we’ve seen and that we want to continue to build on then translates into ultimately the thousands of transformative experiences that we deliver for our patients week in, week out. That’s really exciting and really what we’re all here to do.’

Owen also highlighted that PortmanDentex is at an ‘inflection point’ following the merger: ‘We’re one team, one business, one brand and we are in a place where we can build on that foundation and take it forward.’

‘Twelve months from now,’ Owen said, ‘I want to see continued growth, deeper engagement with our clinicians, and greater progression within our practices and support teams.’

A varied programme

The day also offered networking opportunities with colleagues as well as suppliers in the exhibition hall, inspiring clinical sessions and interactive practice manager sessions.

Delegates were treated to a rousing keynote speech from Baroness Sue Campbell who shared insights from her experience as chairman of UK Sport and director of women’s football with the Football Association where she played a pivotal role with the success of the Lionesses.

The afternoon saw an insightful wellbeing and mental resilience talk with Dr Mahrukh Khwaja who discussed various steps that can be implemented in dental practices to nurture a culture that allows employees to flourish. 

A purpose-led future

Leadership Conference was not just an event to celebrate past success but also to set the tone for the future. 

As the day drew to a close, guests were excited to attend the gala dinner and awards ceremony, an inspiring evening that recognised the incredible talent within the PortmanDentex group. Through the insights shared on the day, and the fantastic atmosphere in the room, it became evident that PortmanDentex is focused on sustainable growth that aligns with its core values of clinical excellence, care for people, and investment in the future.

Watch the full video of the event here.

Excited to join the journey? For careers: [email protected], clinical opportunities: [email protected] or if you’re thinking about selling your practice: [email protected]. Visit portmandentex.com for more.

This article is sponsored by PortmanDentex.