The Future of Work: Bridging the Gap

Wed Feb 04 2026 at 09:30 am to 05:30 pm UTC+13:00

New Zealand International Convention Centre | Auckland

Elevate- SkyCity's Rangatahi Employee Resource Group
Publisher/HostElevate- SkyCity's Rangatahi Employee Resource Group
The Future of Work: Bridging the Gap
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The Future of Work is back - bigger, bolder, and buzzing with fresh energy.
About this Event

The Future of Work: Bridging the Gap


We know that a thriving workplace doesn’t happen by accident - it’s co-created with intention.
Every generation plays a role. That’s why this conference isn’t just for Gen Z. It’s for everyone who’s committed to shaping what comes next. Because the future of work is something we build together, and the responsibility is shared.

Join us for a day of dynamic conversations led by inspiring and informative speakers. Together, we’ll explore what’s changing in our workplaces and how we can respond in ways that are intentional, inclusive, and future-ready. You’ll hear real stories, practical insights, and bold ideas that challenge assumptions, spark curiosity, and empower action.

This is your chance to connect, contribute, and co-design a future of work that is human-centred, values-driven, and built for all of us, by all of us.


Full line up to be announced - keep up to date with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/events/thefutureofwork-bridgingthegap7401040027637485568/


Agenda

🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:30 AM
Registrations open for the event
🕑: 09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Conference starts - MC welcome and housekeeping for the day
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:30 AM
Keynote 1: Framing the Aotearoa landscape
Host: Paul Spoonley

Info: To shape the future of work, we need to understand the context we’re operating in. This session provides a deep dive into the Aotearoa New Zealand landscape, exploring demographic trends, workforce shifts, and societal changes that will influence how we work in the years ahead.


🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Keynote 2: The Myth of Generational Divides
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Panel: The Future Is All of Us - Voices Across Generations

Info: A powerful, cross-generational kōrero highlighting shared values, complementary strengths, and the future we can only build together.


🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Keynote 3: Frances Valintine - Future-Proof Your Workforce
Host: Frances Valintine

Info: The world of work is being rewritten — and the people and organisations that will thrive will be the ones brave enough to rethink how they lead, respond and adapt. In this keynote, acclaimed futurist Frances Valintine, CNZM, will cut through the hype surrounding AI and new ways of working to reveal what truly matters for the future of your workforce.
With five generations now working side by side, Frances offers a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on how organisations can adopt emerging technologies, attract and retain exceptional talent. Grounded in real-world insight and forward-looking strategy, this session challenges conventional thinking and reframes what “future-ready” really means.


🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Breakout Sessions

Info: We have a number of breakout sessions for you to choose from, tailored to suit you wherever you are in your career from understanding neurodiversity in the workplace, inclusive leadership, negotiating your pay, successful youth development in organisations (a case study) just to name a few.


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:15 PM
Panel - The Great Workplace Reset: Navigating New Norms
Host: Shaun Philp

Info: As the world of work transforms faster than ever - driven by technology, shifting expectations, global competition, and new definitions of leadership - organisations must adapt to thrive. This panel brings together Chief People Officers and emerging young leaders to explore what the future demands from workplaces, leaders, and teams.
Panelists will unpack the biggest shifts shaping work today, share practical insights on what people expect from employers, and highlight the capabilities and behaviours that will matter most in the years ahead.


🕑: 03:15 PM - 04:00 PM
Panel - How to Navigate a Changing World
Host: Dr Dougal Sutherland

Info: In today’s fast-paced environment, constant change can feel overwhelming. This session explores practical strategies to maintain wellbeing and thrive amidst uncertainty. Featuring three inspiring speakers, we’ll dive into the realities of change fatigue, building change resilience, and overcoming imposter syndrome.


🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM
Networking Drinks
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

New Zealand International Convention Centre, 101 Hobson Street, Auckland, New Zealand

Tickets

NZD 145.00 to NZD 175.00

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