Forward Motion – Harnessing collective strength to shape change

Forward Motion is amplified by leaders who reimagine possibilities, navigate complexity and lead with purpose. As workforce expectations evolve and technology reshapes the world of work, people leaders play a critical role in building future-ready workforces, championing wellbeing and safety, and enabling responsible AI and digital transformation.

The 2026 VIC HR Leadership Summit will explore the priorities shaping the future of work, including sustainable people strategies, workforce capability, employee engagement and recognition, data-driven decision-making, leadership development, and organisational resilience.

Featured presenters:

• Jessica Lantieri, Chief People & Culture Officer, Judo Bank
• Silvana Sgro, Chief People & Engagement Officer, Monash Health
• Victoria Halliday, Chief People Officer, Australia Sector, QinetiQ
• Laura Cheail, General Manager, People Services & Solutions, Snowy Hydro
• Naz Wilson, Head of Engagement. Funlab
• Lauren Mackenzie, Head of Culture & Capability, Energy Australia
• Karlie Cremin, CEO, DLPA
• Dani Cuff, CEO, Harrison McMillan
• Philip Woods, Director, Catalyst Strategy

+ more

Topics to be explored:

• Unlocking human potential – building a future-ready organisation through people, partnerships, collaboration, innovation and technology
• Sustainable people strategy – prioritising well-being, engagement and resilience to support long-term success
• Future workforce – investing in upskilling, reskilling and capability development to meet changing needs
• Retention and engagement – fostering a culture of learning, connection, recognition and growth
• Responsible AI and digital transformation – enabling ethical, secure and people-centred adoption of AI and emerging technologies
• Safety-first culture – strengthening the link between people, safety and leadership to support workforce well-being and performance
• Future-focused leadership – developing inclusive, agile and accountable leaders who champion well-being and performance
• Data-driven workforce planning – leveraging workforce insights and analytics to inform strategic decisions
• Employee experience – responding to evolving expectations for flexibility, purpose, inclusion, career growth and recognition
• Recognition and reward – creating meaningful frameworks that celebrate contribution, reinforce values and drive performance
• What’s Next? Exploring emerging trends that will shape people leadership, business outcomes and future workforce success

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