I have gone to a lot of conferences, summits and networking events over the years and I have to say the Executive Leaders Network (ELN) HR Summit was genuinely on another level.

Not only were the speakers second to none, and the topics varied across the HR spectrum; The event stood out for the genuine connections forged among speakers and attendees, who all willingly shared personal stories and challenges alongside their own insights for organisational improvement and change.

A special mention to Tasneem Bhopalwala (CIPD), Annisha Taylor (Assoc. CIPD), Heather Coker, Nicola Richardson, Nicolas Mendoza, David Edwards and Tanya Pryke-Smith who welcomed me so warmly to my first ELN summit and for the insights and stories shared.

Personally, as a younger leader it has been hard to navigate events at times not for the lack of trying or want, but have found age discrimination at the forefront of many interactions whether it be a lack of perceived experience [here I always say it is quality over quantity] or a perception I have nothing to bring to the table - it has been extremely frustrating especially when you don't know someone's personal life and struggles to have the biased assumption, but to see this group of people from across industries and seniorities be so open, engaged and wanting to connect for the future - it truly meant a lot and gave me confidence that we do have the right senior leaders in place [well for these organisations anyway]

Finally, as a big football fan, to have it hosted at Reading Football Club and enjoy the talks on the half way line - made it for an extra special event.

Natalie Quilter
HR Operational Lead at Notting Hill Genesis

#HRSummit #networking #support #diversity #inclusion #agebias #HR