In the past, leadership often meant setting a plan and sticking to it. Markets were more predictable, technologies evolved gradually, and strategies could be developed with a sense of stability. Not anymore.
Uncertainty is no longer a passing phase – it’s the new normal, with changes coming faster than many of us can process. For people professionals, this poses a significant challenge: how do we inspire confidence when the path ahead needs us to think differently? How do we turn disruption into opportunity? And how do we lead in a way that helps people and organisations not only survive, but thrive?
These questions are at the heart of the HR in Wales Conference, taking place at Cardiff City Stadium on Thursday 16 October 2025.
The Welsh economy in a global context
While we demonstrate distinctive strengths across key sectors (manufacturing, renewables, life sciences and digital), external factors like global decisions around energy markets, trade policies and geopolitical pressures all influence investment, opportunity, and competitiveness here at home. Leaders in Wales must not only understand these dynamics but anticipate them. Striking a balance between them and staying rooted in community impact and local identity will be central to long-term prosperity.
Technology disruption
Technology adds another layer of disruption. AI, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping how businesses operate and redefining the skills required for success. Some view these technological advances as potential threats with jobs at risk, processes disrupted, and established practices replaced. Others see them as opportunities to unlock productivity, streamline operations, and create new ways of working that empower employees. The future relies on Welsh organisations embracing innovation while ensuring that people stay at the heart of progress.
Resilience as a leadership capability
Resilience isn’t just the ability to bounce back when things go wrong. It’s the capacity to remain steady under pressure, to keep sight of long-term goals, and to align teams in times of change. Resilient leaders pivot when circumstances shift – they learn quickly, adapt decisively, and foster confidence in those around them. In today’s environment, resilience is not a “nice to have”, it’s the leadership skill that separates organisations that thrive from those that stumble.
Creating inclusive cultures
Employee expectations are changing rapidly. Pay and benefits are still a priority, but employees also want workplaces that reflect their values, support individuality, and offer meaningful opportunities for growth. Inclusion is an essential part of organisational success. Recognising generational and cultural differences, addressing barriers, and fostering a sense of belonging helps build strong teams and individuals. As part of this discussion, we’ll explore the recent Supreme Court judgment on Self-ID and consider what it means for organisations in practice and DEI more generally.
Organisational transformation and crisis response
Change is not always gradual, it can be sudden and disruptive. High-profile crises – whether reputational, financial, or operational – test leadership at every level. The ability to respond under pressure, communicate clearly, and protect trust is vital. True transformation goes beyond systems and processes and requires culture, integrity, and strength. Sessions at the conference will explore how leaders can prepare for the unexpected, steer organisations in the toughest moments, and emerge stronger.
Developing future talent through apprenticeships
Skills shortages are a reality across every sectors. Apprenticeships offer a powerful response – building capability for today while establishing sustainable career pathways for the future. Our case study will highlight how apprenticeships are not just about filling immediate gaps but offering accessible routes into employment while helping organisations align growth with community development.
The evolving legal landscape
With constant change comes new risks, rights, and responsibilities. Employment law, equality and diversity requirements, and digital governance are all shifting and HR leaders must stay ahead of these advancements. Understanding the legal context is not simply a matter of avoiding pitfalls. It’s about enabling organisations to operate confidently and ethically in an everchanging environment. By anticipating legal trends, leaders can then turn compliance into a strategic advantage.
Times they are indeed a-changin’, but with the right mindset and the right conversations, leaders can embrace uncertainty with openness and curiosity to build better, stronger organisations.
If these questions matter to you, join us on 16 October 2025 to pause, reflect, connect, hear from expert speakers, and explore how we can tackle these issues with confidence.
Find out more and secure your place at www.hrinwales.co.uk.