Jean-Christophe Novelli, Michelin and 5AA Rosette award-winning chef, is to present a keynote speech at this year’s International Confex 2008, the events industry exhibition taking place at London’s Earl’s Court on 12-14 February. Coffee Republic founder Sahar Hashemi and Fast Future leader Rohit Talwar will also feature as part of the keynote line up.

The first day of Confex will see events industry futurist and award-winning speaker Rohit Talwar highlight the critical challenges faced in the future of the meetings and events industry and present practical ideas on how to respond in innovative ways.

Jean-Christophe Novelli will speak on the second day, offering an inspirational view on how, in this increasingly competitive environment, catering and creativity can deliver success to an event.

Finally, on the third day Sahar Hashemi will give a fascinating insight into how she, along with her brother, founded Coffee Republic and built it into one of the UK’s most recognised high-street brands.

Commenting on the speakers, Duncan Reid, event director at International Confex, said: “This is a great line up and it underlines the growing profile of business experts that are engaging with our industry. Each speaker has a different insight into our industry and we want both exhibitors and visitors to benefit from their knowledge. We look forward to welcoming them to the show.”