Reinventing Events for HR Leaders with Robbie Jones

Big HR conferences often promise valuable networking, but how many meaningful conversations actually happen with the people making strategic decisions?In this episode of the HRchat Podcast, Bill Banham is joined by Robbie Jones, CEO and Co-Founder of Double Centurion Events and a global advisor in HR technology and people platforms, to explore why the traditional conference model is evolving and what senior HR leaders are looking for instead.Drawing on experience from both the events industry and the HR tech sector, Robbie explains why many CHROs and CPOs have grown tired of crowded exhibition halls and generic agendas. Instead, they're seeking curated, invitation-only experiences where they can have honest conversations with peers, build trusted relationships, and tackle the biggest challenges shaping the future of work.The conversation explores the thinking behind the Leaders Summit for HR & People series, including its concierge-style delegate experience, executive think tanks, and carefully selected mix of HR leaders and solution providers. Bill and Robbie also discuss the growing impact of AI on HR, the importance of trust and authentic networking in a post-pandemic world, and why memorable venues—from Lord's Cricket Ground to Niagara Falls—can help create stronger business connections.Whether you're an HR executive, people leader, HR technology provider, or event organizer, this episode offers fresh insights into what makes executive communities thrive and how live events can deliver genuine value beyond the exhibition floor.In this episode you'll discover: Robbie's journey from global exhibitions to HR technology and executive events  Why many senior HR leaders skip traditional expos in favor of curated experiences  How invitation-only summits create stronger conversations and better ROI  The biggest topics dominating executive HR discussions, including AI, leadership, wellbeing, and workforce transformation  Why relationship-building has become more important than ever in today's HR landscape  How the Leaders Summit for HR & People is rethinking executive networking Connect with Robbie Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbiejonesdce/Learn more about the Leaders Summit for HR & People series: https://www.theleaderssummitforhr.com/canada/ If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to HRchat, leave a review, and share it with a colleague who wants more meaningful HR conversations.Support the showFeature Your Brand on the HRchat PodcastThe HRchat show has had 100,000s of downloads and is frequently listed as one of the most popular global podcasts for HR pros, Talent execs and leaders. It is ranked in the top ten in the world based on traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness. The podcast is also ranked as the Best Canadian HR Podcast by FeedSpot and one of the top 10% most popular shows by Listen Score. Want to share the story of how your business is helping to shape the world of work? We offer sponsored episodes, audio adverts, email campaigns, and a host of other options. Check out packages here.Follow us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletterCheck out our in-person events