20 August 2026 09:00 - 09:15
Chairperson opening remarks
Opening remarks from our chairperson.
This opening session sets the tone for the day ahead, framing the conversations, themes and questions that will run through every session.
20 August 2026 14:30 - 15:15
Interactive roundtable discussions
Let the conversations begin.
You’ll take part in a closed-door roundtable, each focused on a specific challenge people leaders are working through behind the scenes. Every table has a defined topic and an experienced host, you simply choose the discussion most relevant to you.
Topics include:
Gail Tharakar - AI won't fail because of the tech — it'll fail because of the people
Brad Longenecker - Beyond the 9-Box: Identifying Future Capability, Talent Risk, and Organizational Value in the Age of AI
Deliece Knights-Barnett - When Transformation Stalls: Real Cases, Shared Accountability, and What Changes the Outcome
Melissa Bering - Leading with Humanity Through Difficult Conversations
20 August 2026 16:30 - 17:00
Fireside chat: The CPO of 2030: what the role demands and how to get ready
The role of the Chief People Officer is evolving faster than ever. As organizations face rapid technological change, shifting workforce expectations, and increasing pressure to deliver measurable business outcomes, the expectations placed on people leaders continue to expand.
This session explores what the CPO role will demand by 2030 and how leaders can prepare for it today. It looks at the capabilities, mindset shifts, and strategic responsibilities that will define the next generation of people leadership — from enterprise influence and AI adoption to workforce transformation and business resilience.
The discussion focuses on how today’s HR leaders can position themselves not just as functional experts, but as critical architects of organizational performance and growth.
Key Takeaways:
What the CPO role is likely to demand by 2030
The capabilities and leadership traits future-ready CPOs will need
How people leaders can prepare for evolving expectations around AI, strategy, and business impact
20 August 2026 17:00 - 17:05
Closing Remarks
A chance to reflect on the day's learnings before the event wraps up.