Lead Innovation Day 2026

Overview

Lead Innovation Day 2026 is an immersive, invitation-only executive event focused on leading AI and transformation initiatives inside large organizations. Held on May 12, 2026 at EDHEC Business School, Paris Campus, the day brings together around 80 senior leaders (Director level and above) from major organizations to explore how AI is reshaping strategy, operations, and organizational culture. The event emphasizes practical peer learning, real company stories, and hands-on workshops rather than vendor pitches. Attendance is free for selected participants, with seats allocated through an application process.

Format

The day runs from 9:00 to 19:00 and combines keynote talks, company stories, facilitated peer discussions, and interactive workshops. The program is designed to minimize traditional expo elements in favor of focused dialogue and collaborative problem solving. Facilitated sessions encourage attendees to bring concrete challenges and leave with actionable takeaways they can apply the following Monday. With limited capacity (roughly 80 seats), the gathering ensures a high density of senior practitioners and highly relevant peer input.

Agenda and Tracks

The event centers on four strategic themes under the umbrella Leading with AI:

• Business Model & Value Creation: exploring whether AI creates new value or optimizes existing operations.
• Strategy & Execution: aligning AI initiatives with organizational change in an exponential landscape.
• Resistance & Relevance: identifying internal or external blockers and how to make AI projects stick.
• Culture & Leadership: preparing the organization and leadership to guide AI adoption. Breakout workshops and peer discussions are included to translate themes into concrete roadmaps and experiments relevant to attendees’ organizations.

Speakers and Case Studies

Participants will hear from senior practitioners and hosts representing organizations such as ENGIE, Decathlon, Allianz Partners, and others. Notable figures include guest speakers and hosts across technology, operations, and transformation functions. Real-world case studies emphasize practical insights into AI adoption, governance, and workforce impacts, rather than generic success stories.

Workshops and Peer Learning

Small-group workshops offer hands-on experience in building AI roadmaps, testing strategy in AI simulations, and scaling AI initiatives across complex organizations. Facilitators guide structured peer exchanges so participants receive targeted feedback on their own challenges. The format emphasizes honest discussions, actionable outputs, and a peer-led learning dynamic supported by expert facilitation.

Who Should Attend

Lead Innovation Day is designed for senior leaders responsible for AI, digital transformation, or innovation within very large organizations (typically 5,000+ employees). Eligible attendees include Innovation Directors, Chief Digital Officers, AI & Data Officers, and Strategy & Transformation Directors. The event is not intended for consultants or service providers seeking product pitches; it prioritizes peer-to-peer learning among practitioners with direct decision-making authority.

Practical Details

Date: May 12, 2026 Location: EDHEC Business School, Paris Campus, Paris, France Attendee limit: 80 seats Cost: Free for selected participants, funded by advisory partners Application: Apply to join via the event page; selections are based on seniority and relevance to AI transformation themes.

FAQs

Is Lead Innovation Day free? Yes, for selected participants, by invitation, with sponsorship. Who should apply? Senior leaders leading AI or transformation initiatives in large organizations. What makes this different? A curated, private setting focused on peer learning, real-world company stories, and practical outcomes rather than vendor pitches.