GMA ANNOUNCES NEW EVENT FOR 2026

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced a new addition to the industry calendar: the GMA Conference 2026 - that they describe as "a full day of practical learning and big industry conversations."

Hosted at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Thursday 12 March, they say the event will bring together leading experts and experienced practitioners from across the UK and beyond for an immersive programme designed to inform, inspire, and connect.

The GMA say the day will include:

• Expert Speakers: including: Ruth Mann (Head of Integrated Crop Technologies, Agrii), Tony Hanson (Environmental Solutions International), Daniel Ratling (Grounds and Estate Manager at Whitgift School), broadcaster Mark Clemit, Chris Hunter (GMA), Will Brierley & Mark Ferguson (All England Lawn Tennis Club), and John Lawrence (Edgbaston Priory Tennis Club), with more names to be announced soon.
• Practical Sessions: Offering actionable insights with real-world case studies, including a behind-the-scenes look at Lord’s full-scale pitch renovation
• Interactive Panels: CPD-rich discussions tackling the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector
• Soft Skills Matter: Build leadership, communication and team management skills to complement your technical expertise. 

The GMA say attendees can build their own agenda to focus on the skills and knowledge most relevant to their career. Networking will run throughout the programme and a guided tour of Edgbaston’s facilities will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at excellence in action.

After the conference, delegates are invited to stay for the GMA Industry Awards.

Sarah Hunter, head of events at the GMA, said, "We’re incredibly proud to be launching a dedicated conference for the sector in 2026. Grounds professionals operate in a fast-changing environment, and there’s a real appetite for events that combine practical learning with the chance to connect with others facing similar challenges.

"One of the real strengths of this programme is that delegates can tailor their day by choosing the sessions and speakers that are most relevant to their role. This conference delivers exactly that - flexibility and depth. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Edgbaston for what promises to be a standout day."