HR leaders have never faced a more complex set of challenges. Artificial intelligence is reshaping jobs, skills shortages continue to intensify, employee expectations are evolving, hybrid work has become the norm, and organisations are under pressure to improve productivity while protecting employee wellbeing. At the same time, HR departments are expected to deliver strategic business value through better workforce planning, people analytics, digital transformation and compliance.
Technology is rapidly becoming the key enabler that helps HR teams meet these demands. From AI-powered recruitment and workforce planning to people analytics, digital learning platforms and employee engagement tools, technology is transforming how organisations attract, retain and develop talent. But technology alone is not enough. HR leaders must understand how to implement these solutions while ensuring that people remain at the centre of organisational transformation.
That is precisely why Future HR Summit 2026 has become one of South Africa’s most important gatherings for HR professionals and business leaders.
Taking place on 29 July 2026 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Future HR Summit 2026 brings together senior HR executives, technology experts and business leaders to explore the ideas, strategies and innovations shaping the future of work. The event focuses on practical solutions that organisations can implement immediately to build more resilient, engaged and future-ready workforces.
This year’s summit features an outstanding lineup of speakers from some of South Africa’s leading organisations, including Microsoft, Eskom, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), Old Mutual Investments, MiWay Insurance, Discover Africa Group and Jack Hammer Global. Delegates will also hear from internationally recognised keynote speaker Doug Strycharczyk, CEO of AQR International (UK).
Attendees will gain practical insights from experienced HR leaders including Dr Angie Ontong (the dtic), Londeka Nzama-Nxumalo (RMB), Hywel George (Old Mutual Investments), Ntokozo Bhengu (MiWay Insurance), Valisha Naidoo (Eskom), Andrew McDonald (Discover Africa Group), Michelle Bedford-Shaw (Jack Hammer Global), and Poloko John Ntshatsha, Global Talent Acquisition Leader at Microsoft.
The conference agenda addresses many of the issues keeping HR executives awake at night. Sessions will explore AI and its impact on the workforce, retention strategies for a rapidly changing workplace, building the business case for HR technology investments, employee wellness and burnout prevention, hybrid work and employee engagement, digital learning and continuous upskilling, people analytics, workforce insights, and labour law and compliance.
Future HR Summit 2026 is designed for CHROs, HR directors, HR managers, talent acquisition leaders, learning and development professionals, organisational development executives, payroll and HRIS specialists, people analytics professionals, CIOs, and labour law and industrial relations practitioners who want to stay ahead of the rapidly changing workplace.
Beyond the presentations, delegates will have the opportunity to network with senior HR decision-makers, exchange ideas with peers, and meet leading technology providers showcasing solutions that can improve recruitment, employee experience, workforce management, compliance and organisational performance.
The future of work is already here. Organisations that invest in the right technologies, embrace innovation and build people-centred cultures will be best positioned to attract top talent and remain competitive. Future HR Summit 2026 offers the knowledge, connections and practical strategies needed to lead that transformation.
To learn more about the event, view the full agenda or register your place, visit www.futurehrsummit.co.za.