CLO100 Learning Leaders Forum - Setting the New Standard for L&D Conferences
The CLO100 Learning Leaders Forum left a significant and positive mark on the learning and development community. The Forum brought together Chief Learning Officers and L&D Leaders for two days of learning, discussion, strategic collaboration, and forward-thinking exploration into the future of workplace learning.
A Hotbed of Ideas and Innovation
The forum was dynamic and engaging with the inspiring welcome provided by Laura Overton, who energised participants from the opening address delivered by video due to Covid.
Author and entrepreneur Sam Conniff delivered the opening keynote. Drawing on his experience as a best-selling author and self-proclaimed ‘pirate’, Sam challenged the delegates to embrace uncertainty as opportunity and cultivate creative leadership in a landscape of constant change. His insights set the tone for an event focused on courageous thinking and transformation in these uncertain times.
Helen Fisher explored the "Megatrends Shaping L&D”, giving participants critical perspectives on the global forces impacting the sector, including AI, green skills, workforce shifts and resilience in a changing geopolitical climate.
"There aren't many events as professional, focused and impactful as the CLO100 Forum. As a learning professional I’ve been to many over the years, but none have stood out like this in supporting the development of our vocation." Paul Armstrong, MD, NFP People & Talent
Cathy Hoy, CEO and co-founder of CLO100, contributed her vision and passion, reflecting on the evolving impact of L&D leaders and reinforcing the importance of collaboration and resilience for organisational success.
Other forum highlights included sessions on ‘Mastering Board-Level Conversations’ with Practive, which used Forum Theatre techniques to build communication skills for senior stakeholder engagement, and 'Strengthening Commercial Awareness' with Quantic, which demonstrated how L&D can drive strategic business outcomes.
The event also featured a panel discussion with L&D leaders, who shared their first-hand experiences and actionable strategies for overcoming sector challenges.
Mediazoo’s session on "Elevating Your Boardroom Presence" gave everyone practical tools for building credibility and influencing at the highest levels.
Each session offered valuable, actionable takeaways, cementing the event’s reputation as both a think-tank and a practical resource.
Participants from across industries praised the programme for its expertly curated topics, actionable insights, and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning.
Key Themes and Participant Perspectives
Throughout the event, several key themes emerged. Discussions frequently centred on the strategic role of L&D in driving organisational performance, the integration of AI into learning ecosystems, and the need for human-centric design in impactful learning experiences.
"What an AMAZING couple of days at the CLO100 L&D Leaders Forum. In my 25 years in the profession, I have to say it is the best L&D event I have ever attended!!" Karen Cottam, Global Head of Talent Management, Frontiers.
The collaborative environment was a highlight, with attendees remarking on the power of connection and open exchange of ideas. There was a strong sense of community and shared purpose, with leaders valuing the chance to network with peers and benchmark their strategies against best practices.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Learning Leadership
The forum created space to reflect of current trends and as a launchpad for future action. Participants left with renewed energy and clear priorities for their organisations, showing the collective commitment of learning leaders to innovate and elevate their function.
"Huge thanks to Cathy Hoy, Robert Wagner and the CLO100 team for such a brilliantly delivered inaugural event. I came away with pages of notes and have already started putting new ideas into action - one of the best learning experiences I’ve had." Sarah Maclot, Talent & Culture Director, Pinacle Pet Group
The Forum was expertly concluded by Luke Battye of Sprint Valley running a structured, guided reflection session. This ensured everyone left with clear applicable actions, adding more value to the Forum.
Building on this success
CLO100 is delighted to announce that the next CLO100 Learning Leaders Forum will take place on 1 & 2 June 2026. The next event promises to further the high-level dialogue and thought leadership that have become a hallmark of this unique gathering. 2026 Tickets are Now Available