Inside the 26th People Development Summit, Lisbon
Senior L&D leaders and solution providers gathered for three days of strategy sessions, curated 1:1 meetings and meaningful networking.
From 11–13 March, senior Learning & Development leaders and solution providers gathered at the Dolce CampoReal Hotel in Lisbon for the 26th People Development Summit. Three days designed to spark meaningful conversations, share practical insight, and build connections that drive real progress.
Setting the Tone
The Summit began on Wednesday afternoon as attendees arrived and quickly moved into conversation, with informal networking, a wine tasting and a cookery workshop creating a relaxed and open environment from the outset.
As the evening progressed, discussions continued over dinner before the opening keynote from Dr Alison Edgar MBE. Her session delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking start, setting the tone for a summit focused on growth, resilience, and the evolving role of people development.
“It was fantastic connecting with so many thoughtful leaders in learning and development, all navigating the same exciting (and complex) challenges facing our profession right now.”
— Head of L&D, JP Morgan Chase
Insight, Challenge and Practical Takeaways
Thursday brought the Summit fully to life. A series of strategy sessions explored key themes shaping the future of L&D - from leadership capability and workforce transformation to the growing influence of AI in learning.
The format encouraged open, peer-led discussion, giving delegates the space to move beyond theory and share practical challenges, experiences and ideas.
“The mix of strategic learning, networking and really helpful conversations… was so valuable.”
— Head of Learning & Organisational Development, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Alongside the sessions, curated 1:1 meetings provided dedicated time for focused conversations between delegates and solution providers - enabling attendees to explore live challenges and identify relevant solutions in a structured and efficient way.
“The chance to have curated 1-2-1 sessions with suppliers was fantastic.”
— Head of HR, LADbible Group
For solution providers, these meetings also created clear commercial momentum, with many leaving the Summit with strong follow-up conversations already underway.
“Came away with several high-potential conversations and a much clearer view of current priorities across the L&D space.”
— Account Director, Coursera
“The intimate format, the quality of delegates, and the personal attention from the Summit Events team made every meeting meaningful. We left with some follow-up conversations and a genuine sense of connection.”
— CEO and Partner, Sapered
Informal networking continued throughout the day, with delegates consistently highlighting the value of connecting with peers facing similar challenges.
“I really valued being able to meet others in similar roles and hear that we’re all facing similar challenges.”
— Assistant Head of Professional Development, Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Royal NHS Trust
The day concluded with an evening at Quinta de Sant’Ana, where conversations carried on in a relaxed setting away from the meeting rooms.
Space to Think, Time to Connect
Friday’s final sessions and meetings focused on skills-based organisations, measuring learning impact, and the growing role of AI in talent development.
Across the three days, one theme remained consistent: the value of stepping away from day-to-day responsibilities to reflect, connect, and think more strategically.
“What a great Summit - the broader format with space for connection, conversation and shared experience opened up the networking, and the tighter control over the schedule with vendors kept conversations focused and meaningful.”
— Director: L&D for Global Patient Safety, AstraZeneca
Delegates left the Summit with fresh perspectives, stronger networks, and ideas ready to be put into action.
“I left with a clearer sense of where the wider market is moving and how our own strategy can continue to evolve.”
— Head of L&D, Lanes Group
A Format That Delivers
Feedback across the Summit consistently highlighted the quality of conversations, the calibre of attendees, and the strength of the overall format.
“Brilliant event… the planning was super slick, meaning we didn’t have to think about anything outside of making great connections.”
— Founder & Managing Director, Evolved Learning Solutions
“The structure of the 1:1 meetings combined with informal networking created a great environment for meaningful discussions.”
— Account Director, Coursera
What Happens Next
As the 26th edition came to a close, one thing was clear - this Summit is not just about discussion, but about momentum.
Delegates and solution providers left Lisbon with new connections, fresh perspectives, and ideas ready to be put into action.
The countdown is already underway for the next People Development Summit, where those conversations - and collaborations - will continue.