The ICRS Exchange 2026: Agenda Revealed
We're delighted to unveil the agenda for The ICRS Exchange 2026, taking place on 12 November 2026 at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in London and online.
This year's theme, Future Proof. Future Ready., explores how CR&S professionals can navigate a rapidly changing landscape while strengthening their influence, impact and value within organisations.
The sustainability profession is evolving at pace. Artificial intelligence is transforming how work gets done, economic and political shifts are reshaping priorities, and expectations of sustainability leaders continue to grow. This year's programme has been designed to help professionals understand these changes, respond with confidence and build the skills needed for the future.
Agenda Highlights
Attendees can look forward to a day of:
- Inspiring keynote speakers
- Expert panel discussions
- Interactive workshops
- Practical insights and tools
- Facilitated peer networking
- Opportunities to explore emerging trends and challenges in sustainability
View the Full Agenda
Whether you're looking for practical ideas, strategic insights, new perspectives or valuable connections, the Exchange agenda has something for every corporate responsibility and sustainability professional.
Keynote Speaker
We are pleased to welcome Anna Thomas MBE, Founding Co-Director of the Institute for the Future of Work, who will explore the forces reshaping business and society, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence and technological innovation. Her expertise in responsible AI, governance and the future of work makes her an ideal contributor to this year's theme.
Climate Resilience in Action: Lessons from Leaders Across Sectors
Panellists:
• Dana Haidan, Chief Sustainability Officer, Virgin Media O2
• Gabrielle Beran, Programme Director, Climate Action, Centre for Public Impact
• Matt Rooney, Director of Climate Services, Morelli Consulting
Description
How are organisations preparing for a changing climate? This panel brings together leaders from business, consulting and the public sector to discuss how they are embedding climate resilience into strategy, responding to evolving risks, and preparing their organisations and communities for the challenges ahead.
The Future of Social Strategy: Managing Risks, Opportunities, and Impacts
Panellists:
· Matt Sparkes SFICRS, Sustainability Director at Linklaters and Regional Council Member for TISFD
· Thom Kenrick, Head of Social and Community Strategy at NatWest
· Danni Aberg, Head of Social Value at Thrive
Description:
As expectations around social performance continue to evolve, leading organisations are moving beyond isolated initiatives and are taking a more strategic approach to understanding their social impacts, risks and opportunities. Join leaders at the forefront of the social agenda as they discuss the future of social strategy, emerging approaches to measurement, and the role of social considerations in business decision-making.
Workshops and Structured Networking at the ICRS Exchange
We're pleased to announce the workshop and structured networking options for the afternoon Breakout Sessions at this year's ICRS Exchange.
Please note that advance registration is required, and spaces are limited. Attendees will receive a separate registration link prior to the event, with places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Whether you're looking to build new skills, gain fresh perspectives, or connect with fellow sustainability professionals, the breakout programme offers a range of opportunities to learn, share experiences, and expand your network.
Structured Networking
For attendees looking to broaden their peer network and exchange practical experiences, both rounds of Breakout Sessions will also include facilitated small-group networking sessions led by ICRS Senior Fellows. These discussions are designed to foster meaningful connections, encourage knowledge sharing, and provide opportunities to discuss common sustainability challenges and opportunities with professionals from across sectors.
Workshop 1
Winning the Sustainability Narrative: Communicating Value in a Changing World
Led by: Flag
Sustainability professionals are operating in an increasingly complex communications environment, with rising stakeholder expectations, growing scrutiny, and increasing pressure to demonstrate business value and impact. In this interactive workshop, sustainability communications experts from Flag will share practical approaches for developing credible, engaging, and evidence-based communications that resonate with different audiences.
Through discussion and exercises, participants will explore key communications principles, navigate evolving regulatory and greenwashing risks, and test approaches across different channels and contexts. Attendees will leave with practical tools and ideas to strengthen their sustainability communications throughout the year.
Workshop 2
When Strengths Become Constraints: Staying Effective, Adaptable and Resilient
Led by: Liebfrog
We all have strengths that help us navigate complexity, solve problems, and deliver results. Yet under pressure, the very strengths we rely on most can sometimes limit our adaptability, effectiveness, or resilience. As demands increase, understanding how we respond under pressure becomes critical to sustaining performance and wellbeing.
In this interactive workshop, participants will explore how their strengths show up in challenging situations and consider the patterns and behaviours that emerge when pressure is high. Through reflection and discussion, attendees will gain practical insights and approaches for using their strengths more intentionally, helping them remain effective, adaptable, and resilient without losing what makes them successful.
Join Us
The Exchange brings together CR&S professionals from across sectors for a day of learning, collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. If you haven't already secured your place, registrations remain open for both in-person and virtual attendance for members and non - members. In person spaces are limited. Please note registration closes on the 29th of October.
Register now using the link below
We look forward to welcoming you to The ICRS Exchange 2026 as we explore how to become Future Proof. Future Ready. together.