In a recent questionnaire, ESSA members told us they are not short of confidence or capability, but that they are operating in increasingly volatile conditions. In these circumstances, performance is shaped less by certainty or technology, and more by the quality of human judgement. 

Indeed, human judgement is the true competitive advantage in complex and uncertain environments. That is why the ESSA 2026 Leadership Summit will explore how judgement in leaders and their teams can be sharpened and built upon. 

Through a combination of talks and practical exercises, the day will follow a clear path from our teams, to ourselves, and then to the power of both working effectively together. We will examine how to create the motivation and culture for people to perform at their best. The summit will also explore how high-quality collaboration improves results in complex conditions. 

The ESSA 2026 Leadership Summit will also provide delegates with the opportunity to hear a sector leader’s perspective on how conditions are shaping the exhibitions and events industry in 2026, as well as to question a panel of experts on strategic growth and exit options including MBO, M&A and private equity. 

Delegates will leave with practical tools to strengthen team performance, improve decision-making and support human judgement even in times of uncertainty.