Conference

Strategic Workforce Forum

Book now for our annual flagship event for senior workforce leaders to discuss the future of workforce planning.
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General information

Time
13 October 2026 08:00 - 14 October 2026 15:30 GMT
Audience
Open to all

Speakers

  • A round head and shoulders picture of Ben Morrin who is wearing a blue suit jacket and white shirt against a plain grey background
    Ben Morrin External link icon
    Incoming CEO NHS Employers
  • Headshot of Danny Mortimer
    Danny Mortimer External link icon
    Director General of People DHSC
  • Headshot of a man, smiling, wearing a brightly coloured shirt
    Neil Mullarkey External link icon
    Communication expert and improv performer

A dedicated forum for NHS workforce leaders

The Strategic Workforce Forum is a secure and confidential space designed for NHS workforce leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue around future strategic workforce planning and the advancement of the people profession.

The forum isn’t a conference; it’s a place for discussion and exchange of ideas. It’s where senior workforce leaders come together to lead the conversation and influence at a national level.

Participants to the event will benefit from hearing directly from our guests who will offer valuable insights to enhance leadership adaptability, address present-day challenges, and equip leaders with practical tools to support and strengthen their teams.

"This is my favourite conference of the year — it’s particularly good for connecting with others." (Chief people officer)

Who can attend

This event is strictly for strategic people leaders within the NHS, this will include:

  • human resources directors (HRDs)
  • chief people officers (CPOs)
  • directors of workforce.

Programme

The two-day programme is taking shape, confirmed speakers so far include:

  • Danny Mortimer, the recently appointed DHSC director general for people, who will focus on the commitments, headline projections and policy implications in the 10 Year Workforce Plan.

  • Ben Morrin takes up the role of NHS Employers chief executive in July. Ben will reflect on his first 100 days in post, while exploring the impact and opportunities presented by the major workforce developments in 2026.

  • Neil Mullarkey, communication expert and improv performer, will lead a session incorporating humour to cover courage and creativity, using improv to empower leadership in complex times.

  • Martine Wright, Paralympian and inspirational speaker, will outline her story of transformation, moving from despair following her involvement in the 7/7 London bombings, to determination and triumph. 

Book your place

If you would like to attend the conference please fill out the booking form.

Cost

The cost of the forum is £420 per person. This covers full access to the two-day event and includes your accommodation and meals. 

Registered delegates will receive confirmation of their place upon completing the booking form.  

Attending the event

Timings

(These timings are subject to change)

The event begins on Tuesday 13 October with registration at 10am and the first session starts at 11am. All delegates will come together for dinner on Wednesday evening.

The conference closes at 3:30pm on Wednesday 14 October.

Location

East Midlands Conference Centre, Beeston Lane, Nottingham, NG7 2RJ

By car

The East Midlands Conference Centre is 10 minutes from J25 of the M1 and the centre of Nottingham.

By rail

The East Midlands Conference Centre is approximately four miles away from Nottingham train station and two miles from Beeston train station.

Accommodation

Bookings include one night's accommodation at the Orchard Hotel and Restaurant which is located next door to the conference venue. 

Partnerships, sponsorship and exhibition opportunities

This event offers unique access to board level NHS workforce leaders. We have a range of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities - see the partnership brochure for further information, or get in touch with Henry Crawford to discuss further.

Download our partnership brochure.