The Unspoken Rules of Career Growth & Progression in the Workplace
Schedule
Thu May 28 2026 at 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
Unity Place | Milton Keynes, EN
About this Event
The Unspoken Rules of Career Growth: Promotions, Progression & Positioning in the Workplace
This panel event is focused on professionals who are serious about progressing their careers and stepping into their next level of growth.
While performance and hard work are important, they are not always the only factors that influence career progression. Many professionals reach a point where they are delivering results but are unsure what it really takes to move forward.
In this session, we’ll explore how to approach career growth more strategically - from understanding how progression decisions are made, how to increase earnings, to building visibility, strengthening your professional positioning, and developing the skills and relationships that support long-term success. We’ll also touch on navigating workplace environments and making intentional moves that align with your goals.
The conversation is designed to offer practical insight into career progression, speakers sharing their journey's and perspectives to help you take actionable steps in your own journey.
It is particularly relevant for:
- Mid-level professionals looking to progress into senior roles
- Managers and emerging leaders navigating the next stage of their career
- Senior professionals who want to continue advancing with intention
- Individuals working in corporate
- Anyone who feels they are performing well but wants to accelrate career growth
- Career-driven individuals looking to move more strategically and with purpose
What we’ll cover
- Navigating workplace dynamics and unspoken rules
- Increasing career earning potential
- Mentorship, sponsorship, and building the right relationships
- Acting on feedback and creating opportunities for yourself
- Positioning yourself for promotions and leadership roles
- Working strategically to accelerate your progression
What to expect
- Insightful panel discussion with experienced professionals
- Actionable advice you can apply immediately
- Audience Q&A
- Networking with like-minded professionals
Why attend
You will leave with:
- A clearer understanding of how promotions and career progression actually happen
- Practical ways to position yourself for your next role or leadership opportunity
- Real insight from professionals who have successfully navigated their careers
- A more strategic approach to moving forward with intention and clarity
- New connections with ambitious professionals across industries who are also focused on growth
Confirmed Speakers:
- Levi Francis - Director, UK Pricing Lead, KPMG
- Rachel Shorter - CFO, Coesia
- Dr Jermaine Wright - Specialist Registrar in Cardiology at Barts Health Trust
- Ramona Williams - Onyx People Services
More speakers will be announced.
This event is sponsored by Unity Place.
About Elevate MK
Elevate MK is a Black heritage professional network based in Milton Keynes focused on creating spaces for connection, learning, and growth.
We bring together a community of ambitious professionals through curated events, meaningful conversations, and opportunities to build professional networks.
Our mission is to create environments where individuals can learn, share experiences, and access the insights and connections that support long-term career progression.
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM
Doors Open
Info: Registration begins at 6pm prompt. There are food and drinks available on arrival for light networking.
🕑: 06:25 PM
Introduction
Host: Stephanie Okumi
Info: A short introduction will be made by Unity Place (sponsors) and Stephanie Okumi, Co-founder of Elevate MK.
🕑: 06:30 PM
Panel Kick-Off
Host: Stephanie Okumi
Info: The panel discussion will be moderated by Stephanie Okumi, co-founder of Elevate MK. The panel discussion will start on time to allow for in-depth conversation and audience participation (Q&A).
🕑: 07:30 PM
Q&A
Info: Audience will use this time to ask questions to panellists.
🕑: 08:00 PM
Networking Social
Info: More networking will take place at Sky Lounge.
Where is it happening?
Unity Place, 200 Grafton Gate, Milton Keynes, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00 to GBP 18.04



















