The importance for Welsh businesses of being flexible and agile to survive the pandemic and thrive afterwards will be the theme of a free online conference later this week.

It’s About Time: Flexible and Agile – the Future of Business is set to look at how workers, businesses and the self-employed have needed to change to cope with the pandemic, and how much of that change is here to stay.

This event is organised by NatWest Cymru, the University of South Wales, Darwin Gray Solicitors and the Federation of Small Businesses.

Gemma Collins, business growth enabler with NatWest Cymru, said: “In Wales everyone who can do so has been asked to work from home for much of this year. For a big chunk of that time many people were trying to flex work around caring responsibilities. Add to that the fact that many of our businesses had to pivot very quickly to survive, and it’s little wonder that it feels as though the world of work has been turned on its head overnight.

“As we head into winter the challenge is far from over. We are all still living with the uncertainty that the pandemic is bringing for our families and friends, our jobs and our businesses. This event aims to offer a chance to make new connections, learn from the experiences of others, and discuss and debate how flexibility might be able to help us weather the storm.”

One of the panellists at the event will be Juliet Turnbull, the founder and CEO of 2to3days, a business which aims to connect progressive companies directly to highly capable women who want to pursue their career on a flexible basis. They work with clients across the UK, from brand leaders to buzzing start-ups, all of whom champion the virtues of flexible working and the contribution women make to the profitability and culture of their business.

Juliet said: "We have been banging the drum of flexible working for five years now. Offering flexible working means opening up exceptional jobs to women who want to push themselves further, faster, while raising their families or caring for elderly parents. Those women who were talented assets before their lives changed at home are still exceptional, driven individuals. By offering flexibility, you will recruit a team with diverse experience, opinions and approaches that will lead to creative, innovative solutions and increased profit - potentially on a part-time salary."

As well as hearing from a speaker and a panel, there will also be an opportunity for attendees to discuss some of the issues around flexible working and business agility in virtual breakout rooms.

• It’s About Time will be held on Friday, November 20 between 10am and noon. To register for this free online event visit https://sdi.click/itsabouttimepr.