Big Ideas & Bold Strategy: Inside Our Business Studies Student Conference at Disneyland® Paris

Wow — what a conference! This year’s Business Studies Convention at Disneyland® Paris gave students an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the business of Disney, alongside real-world insight into the world of commercial finance with Birchstone Markets.

From brand partnerships to financial decision-making and digital strategy, the day was packed with practical knowledge and industry expertise.

The Power of Strategic Partnerships

We opened the conference with Nick Webb, who leads the Partnerships team at Disney Destinations. Nick shared his experience of building strategic collaborations that bring the Disney brand to life beyond the parks.

Students gained insight into how partnerships are carefully selected and managed to promote brands, expand reach and ultimately inspire customers to experience the magic of Disney. It was a fascinating look at how global brands align values, audiences and long-term strategy to drive growth.

Commercial Finance in the Real World

Next, Lyle Ammon, Head of Commercial Finance at Birchstone Markets, delivered a highly practical session on how finance really works inside organisations.

Lyle moved beyond textbook theory to explore how businesses actually make decisions. He discussed what truly matters when managing financial performance, how organisations approach risk, how growth is funded, and the realities behind budgeting and financing strategies. Students were given an honest and insightful look into the commercial thinking that underpins successful businesses — a valuable perspective for anyone considering a career in finance or leadership.

Digital Strategy & the Online Customer Journey

Following this, Tom Nelson shared expertise on the digital marketing and e-commerce strategies used at The Walt Disney Company. Tom emphasised the importance of understanding target markets and how customers interact with brands online.

From shaping seamless online experiences to using data to inform decisions, students saw how digital strategy plays a crucial role in modern business success — especially for a global brand like Disney, where the customer journey often begins long before arrival.

Curious Minds & Confident Futures

To wrap up the event, students took part in a lively Q&A session, putting their own questions to the experts. It was a fantastic opportunity to explore business, finance and marketing strategies in even greater depth — and the quality of questions reflected just how engaged and ambitious our students are.

This year’s Business Studies Conference truly brought classroom theory to life. By connecting students directly with industry leaders, we’re proud to provide meaningful experiences that build confidence, ambition and a real understanding of the dynamic world of business.

Who joined this year’s conference?

Around 400 students from colleges across the UK travelled by coach or air to Paris and stayed at the Disney Hotel Cheyenne.  Along with a 2 day, 2 Park pass, students also benefited from the Extra Magic Hour and some took advantage of their full time coach to take them on an excursion into Paris.

What did students learn?

Along with the unique opportunity to learn from top brands and industry experts, focused learning resources were also available to download prior to the event.  These are designed to use within the resort to boost learning outcomes. 

The event and resources are designed by educational and industry professionals to align with courses in Business Studies, Marketing, Customer Services and Commerce at Level 2, 3 and beyond.

Don’t miss out in 2027

We run our Business Studies conference alongside our popular Travel & Tourism conference each January at Disneyland® Paris.  This gives colleges the opportunity to team up departments, making travel costs more affordable.

Media Studies Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Business Studies Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Travel & Tourism Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Register your interest in these live educational conferences today →