About this Event
Leadership isn’t getting easier. Expectations are higher, decisions are more complex, and the margin for error is smaller.
On May 21, join a curated group of leaders for an evening conversation on what it actually takes to lead in today’s environment. This isn’t theory. It’s a candid, cross-sector discussion on navigating pressure, influencing decisions, and staying effective when the stakes are high.
Whether you sit in HR, operations, or executive leadership, one thing is clear: leadership has shifted. The question is whether you have.
Expect real dialogue, diverse perspectives, and practical takeaways you can apply immediately.
This is for you if:
• You are an HR professional at any level, from emerging to experienced
• You are a business owner or organizational leader
• You are in a senior leadership role responsible for people, culture, and operations
• You are a decision-maker navigating change, complexity, and workforce challenges
What you can expect:
The evening is designed to balance insight, discussion, and practical application:
• A moderated panel discussion with perspectives across government, legal, business, higher education, and HR
• A guided conversation with space for honest, real-world insight
• A closing keynote focused on leadership presence, communication, and influence
• Time to connect, discuss, and reflect with HR and business peers, owners, and leaders.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Sunningdale Golf & Country Club (465 Sunningdale Rd W, London)
Parking: Available on site
Tickets: $95 per person (includes Eventbrite fees and plated dinner; advance registration required)
Preferred Group Rate:
Register as a group of 8 and receive $20 off per ticket. Ideal for leadership teams or colleagues attending together.
Venue & Menu
Hosted at Sunningdale Golf & Country Club in Thompson Hall, the evening includes a plated dinner in a professional setting.
Dinner includes:
• Assorted rolls with butter
• Heritage lettuce salad with honey lemon vinaigrette
• Choice of entrée:
Oven roasted chicken breast with sundried tomato pesto cream sauce, basmati rice, and vegetables
OR
Wild mushroom risotto with grilled vegetable kebabs and basil cream sauce
• Dessert: warm cherry pie with vanilla ice cream
• Coffee and tea service
Guests will select their meal preference during registration. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
Speaker Highlights
Host and Moderator:
~ Erika Oakes, Senior Project Manager - TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario
Opening Remarks:
~ Arielle Kayabaga, MP London West | Deputy House Leader, Government of Canada
Panel:
~ Dr. Robert Ventresca, President – King’s University College
~ Arielle Kayabaga, MP London West | Deputy House Leader - Government of Canada
~ David Wood, Executive, Board Chair, and Faculty – Ivey School of Business
~ Nic Preston, Principal Lawyer - Preston Legal | Managing Partner – HRBG
Closing Keynote:
~ Chris McAuley, Founder and Owner - MCAVOY Inc.
Our Valued Partners
A/V Provided by – Music Central Entertainment
Photography provided by – Reid Lucier Photography
Videography provided by – Labourly
Please note that photography and videography will be taking place, and event footage may be used by HRBG for promotional purposes.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Join us for an evening of honest conversation, practical insight, and forward-looking perspective as we explore what it takes to lead through uncertainty.
Seats are limited. Secure your spot and be part of the conversation.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Sunningdale Golf & Country Club, 465 Sunningdale Road West, London, Canada
CAD 81.73 to CAD 103.13
