CEO masterclass: from burden to business growth

20th May 2026 12:30 pm

1:30 pm
ageing systems

Outdated systems are not just a technical issue; they’re a strategic one. 

Many mid-sized businesses are held back by legacy systems and processes that no longer fit how the business actually operates.

Like the creaky platforms that aren’t integrated with each other. Or the distracting manual processes that have grown up around them. Or the important software no longer supported by the manufacturer.

You may already be seeing the damage they can do: 

  1. Overheads are too high and economies of scale don’t materialise.
  2. Reporting and business insights are highly manual or impossible due to data issues.
  3. Manual work, errors and friction prevent your business from being agile and innovative.
  4. Your systems are at increased risk of cyber attack, and your cyber insurance and accreditation may be invalid.
  5. It’s difficult to recruit and retain staff, because there are so many irritating manual tasks.

In short, legacy makes it just too hard to move the business forward.

But there are straightforward ways of fixing all these problems – and preparing your business for growth at the same time.

In this masterclass, Freeman Clarke’s expert, business-led technology leaders will explore … 

  • When to replace a system or process and when you can leave it 
  • Why companies get stuck – the barriers to change 
  • The benefits and opportunities of upgrading 
  • Improving valuation through efficiency 
  • How to avoid the cycle repeating. 

Join us for an engaging hour of no-nonsense, business focused information and advice on outdated systems and the clunky processes slowing your business down. 

You’ll come away with straightforward ways of moving towards a more efficient and profitable business – real business transformation with a minimum of hassle. 

Moderator

  • Graeme Freeman

    CEO, Freeman Clarke

    Graeme Freeman

    Graeme co founded the business in 2012, following leadership roles in IT services, commercial software and corporate CIO positions. He supports US expansion, leads strategic partnerships and contributes to thought leadership and marketing content. With experience as a non-executive director, Graeme brings strong commercial insight and strategic perspective to long term growth.

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Speakers

Emma Pownall

Strategy and Marketing Director, Datel

Emma Pownall

Emma Pownall is a senior B2B technology marketing leader who works with CEOs and leadership teams to turn operational complexity, legacy systems, and evolving business demands into opportunities for clearer strategy, improved performance, and scalable growth.

Datel
  • Christine Parker Stubbs

    Regional Director, Freeman Clarke

    Christine Parker Stubbs

    Christine is head of the Freeman Clarke team in the North West, leading a group of passionate, exceptional technology leaders. Often the first person a business leader calls when they see an issue, Christine has deep expertise in identifying the right expert to help overcome the problems of legacy systems and inefficient processes.

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  • Michael Barker

    CTO, Freeman Clarke

    Michael Barker

    An experienced Board-level technology leader shaping technology transformations that deliver real business value. Michael tackles a wide range of problems – including legacy systems – to drive bottom-line performance, efficiency, and growth.

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  • Amy Dowell

    CIO, Freeman Clarke

    Amy Dowell

    An expert CIO who excels at defining and delivering complex technology and transformational change. She specialises in helping businesses adopt, improve, and maximise the use of technology to drive value.

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