At LEAD Network, we’ve been busy preparing for our Annual Conference, which is taking place in Budapest this year, with the theme of Leading Sustainable Change. We’re looking forward to welcoming our participants for getting inspired by authentic stories, learning how to drive change in DEI, and celebrating achievements toward creating diverse and equitable workforces at the exclusive event in the European FMCG & Retail Sector. 

What’s happening at the Annual Conference?

The LEAD Network Annual Conference gathers 800+ individuals from across Europe who are dedicated to our mission. Participants will join plenary sessions with industry leaders, and have extensive opportunities to network with peers. They will also be able to choose from over 20 breakout room discussions, on topics ranging from organisational culture and allyship to wellbeing at work.

Networking in a unique venue 

We are particularly looking forward to our Networking Celebration Dinner, which is taking place at Budapest’s stunning Museum of Fine Arts. The museum opened in 1906, and “displays the treasures of international and Hungarian art spanning from ancient times to the end of the eighteenth century, while its large-scale temporary exhibitions attract hundreds of thousands of visitors.” During the evening event, participants will have the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, expand their network, and forge impactful partnerships. 

Our conference welcomes people of all levels within the industry, and we’re particularly focused on helping attendees: 

• Become more inclusive leaders and team members who can navigate uncertainty with confidence.  

• Learn to balance work & life, sustain personal performance, and foster a growth mindset.  

• Engage middle management, build resilience, foster psychological safety, and leverage AI.  

• Explore DEI trends, innovations, and gender equity through intersectionality. 

Meet the Speakers 

We’re delighted to welcome an exceptional group of diverse speakers to the conference, including amongst many others: 

• Cécile Béliot, CEO, BEL GROUP
• Ctirad Nedbálek, VP Human Resources,
Albert Czech Republic (part of Ahold Delhaize group)
• Elaine Bowers Coventry, President, Operations East Europe, The Coca-Cola Company
• Noel Keeley, CEO, Musgrave

A message from our CEO 

“We look forward to welcoming you all to our Annual LEAD Network event in Budapest. We have a great line up of inspiring speakers, but also opportunities to connect, engage, celebrate and take action to create a more equitable world.” — Allyson Zimmermann, CEO of LEAD Network 

Thank you to our sponsors 

For those of you joining us at the Annual Conference, see you in Budapest! You can find more information here.