CIPD conference to explore new era of work in Scotland

The CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, has unveiled the programme for its annual Scotland Conference, with John-James 'JJ' Chalmers MBE - a former Royal Marine Commando, Invictus Games gold medallist and member of Channel 4's Paralympic presenting team - among the keynote speakers.

Taking place on 17 March 2026 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC), the flagship event will bring together HR and people professionals from across Scotland to explore the key workplace trends, legislation and developments. These practical insights will help support organisations to drive performance, boost productivity and create meaningful impact across their workforce.

As a keynote speaker, JJ Chalmers will share powerful perspectives on leadership, wellbeing and resilience. Drawing on his own experiences of serving as a Lance Corporal in the Royal Marines and his recovery following life-changing injuries, JJ will explore how individuals and teams can grow stronger through challenge and change.

He will be joined by a range of inspiring Scottish leaders as part of the speaker line-up from organisations such as Historic Environment Scotland, Social Security Scotland, Harbour Energy, the Good Work Lab, Morton Fraser MacRoberts LLP and the University of Strathclyde.

The rich conference agenda will offer valuable insights for HR and people professionals to enhance their knowledge, drive capability within their organisations and invest in their own professional development.

Sessions will cover themes such as:

• The AI workplace: What generative intelligence means for jobs, wellbeing and fairness
• Unlocking potential: the strategic value of apprenticeships
• Making wellbeing a strategic imperative

Delegates will also receive a comprehensive update on the latest employment law developments, including the Employment Rights Act 2025, which represents one of the most significant reforms to workers' rights in a generation.

From new rights on sick pay and parental leave, to bans on 'fire and rehire' practices and strengthened whistleblowing and redundancy protections, this session will unpack the key legal changes organisations need to understand and prepare for. It will also provide the opportunity for attendees to put questions directly to a panel of experts.

Peter Cheese, chief executive of the CIPD said:

"As the political, business and technology landscapes rapidly evolve, it's more important than ever for businesses to understand how to navigate future challenges and embrace opportunities - whether around AI or key legislative changes impacting the world of work.

"We are delighted that a range of influential leaders from across Scotland will join us to share their best practice and insight on how they are navigating challenges ahead by building the capabilities of their people. Their expertise will help equip people professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to support their organisation and its people to thrive."

The full agenda and tickets to attend the CIPD in Scotland Annual Conference on 17 March 2026 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) (09:00-17:00) are available to purchase here and at: www.cipd.events.co.uk or email: [email protected]

To find out about exhibiting or sponsorship opportunities email: [email protected]

Notes to editors

• Conference passes cost £250 ex VAT for CIPD members or £300 ex VAT for non-members and £99 ex VAT for students. Group bookings of 5+ will receive an automatic discount of 15% which will be applied at the checkout.
• The CIPD has been championing better work and working lives for over 100 years. It helps organisations thrive by focusing on their people, supporting our economies and societies. It's the professional body for HR, L&D, OD and all people professionals - experts in people, work and change. With circa 165,000 members globally - and a growing community using its research, insights and learning - it gives trusted advice and offers independent thought leadership. It's a leading voice in the call for good work that creates value for everyone.
• www.cipd.org

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