PARC Launches 2026 Programme
The backdrop
PARC's 2026 programme launches amid continued political and economic volatility. 2025 saw mainstream politicians under threat in much of Europe and a US president re-writing the global conventions that have persisted for the last half-century. Businesses rapidly repositioned on Net Zero, ESG and DEI in response to the new administration’s stance. Meanwhile, military conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza had impacts far beyond their borders, China's influence continued to grow, climate disasters intensified and the global economy returned to its pre-Covid sluggishness. Economic forecasts by the IMF and OECD remained downbeat. Politicians now boast about growth rates that would have been called disastrous twenty years ago.
These challenges are becoming structural features of global geoeconomics. The world's ageing population reached another milestone in 2025 as India's fertility rate fell below replacement level. China's workforce is forecast to shrink by 50 million over the next decade. The productivity slowdown, entrenched in advanced economies for nearly two decades, now afflicts emerging economies too. Skills shortages are likely to become a regular feature in some industries as countries race toward Carbon Net Zero simultaneously, requiring the same skills and resources at the same time. Politicians across the spectrum promise to tackle these issues, while lacking the resources and policy levers to do so.
Why this is important for your business
Political volatility and economic uncertainty complicate trade and investment decisions. Skills shortages will intensify and spread to new sectors. While AI developments may eventually improve productivity, early indications suggest short-term challenges for many organisations.
How organisations deploy, develop, reward and retain their people will be critical to success. At PARC, we believe organisations need leaders who can scan the wider environment, anticipate the future and develop compelling business strategies. Our 2026 programme provides the insights Reward Leaders need to navigate these challenges.
Focus of the PARC 2026 programme
Our 2026 programme of learning, research and speaker events supports those building the organisations of the future. We've designed sessions to help reward practitioners deliver their broadening remit while influencing the cultural and behavioural changes that enhance performance and productivity.
The year opens with geoeconomics and business strategy, followed by our Spring conference examining the productivity puzzle and AI's impact. Skills-based events will cover strategic reward, AI application, scenario planning and stakeholder engagement. We'll conclude with economic commentary and a dinner with a former British Ambassador to Ukraine.
Our 2026 speaker list features experts from business, academia, consultancy and journalism. We've also launched a new website and community platform with clearer signposting for leaders, colleagues and learners.
As we evolve our offerings, we remain focused on supporting your current role while enabling your career progression. We look forward to being your learning and insights partner throughout 2026.
Please find the latest version of the PARC Programme below.