Thursday, September 11

The People Factor: Leadership, Innovation & Culture in Action

Join us at The People Factor event to dive into the world of leadership, innovation, and culture - it's where inspiration meets action!

By EQ Consultants

Date and time

Location

Commodore Airport Hotel

449 Memorial Avenue Christchurch, Canterbury Region 8053 New Zealand

Lineup

Agenda

8:30 AM - 9:00 PM

Registration & Arrival Coffee

Welcome networking and registration check-in.

9:05 AM - 9:15 AM

Opening Remarks & Welcome

Steve Kennedy

9:15 AM - 9:30 AM

Strategic Recruitment - How To Attract Talent That Isn't Actually Looking

Rob Malpass

In today’s competitive talent landscape, the best candidates often aren’t actively job hunting — they’re busy excelling in their current roles. This session dives into the art and science of strategi...

9:35 AM - 10:05 AM

Crisis-Ready Leadership - Leading With Confidence Through Turbulent Times

Join our expert panel as they share lived experience and key lessons in leading through uncertainty. Gain insight into the mindset, adaptability, and communication needed to lead effectively in times...

10:10 AM - 10:30 AM

Employment Law: What Is Changing - And What Business Must Learn Now

Gareth Abdinor

With the legal landscape constantly shifting, staying informed is essential. Gareth will highlight the most recent changes in employment law and what they and proposed changes could mean for your org...

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Morning Tea & Networking Break

Enjoy refreshments and make meaningful connections with industry peers, speakers, and fellow leaders.

11:05 AM - 11:25 AM

Culture Survey Insights: Uncovering hidden truths in your organisation

Amy Lawson

What’s really going on inside your culture? Learn how to design, deploy, and interpret effective culture surveys to reveal hidden trends, build engagement, and drive lasting cultural change.

11:30 AM - 11:50 AM

Keynote: Governance Trends in 2025 - Why Future-Focused Governance Starts Now

Bruce Irvine

Stay ahead of the curve with an expert overview of emerging governance practices shaping the future of leadership. Learn what’s changing, what matters most, and how to future-proof your organisation’...

11:55 AM - 12:40 PM

Panel Discussion: Extraordinary Leadership

Every Great Leader Has a Story—And a Lesson to Share Hear from leaders who’ve redefined what it means to lead. This dynamic panel will share the stories behind their leadership journeys. Expect real ...

12:45 PM - 1:05 PM

Keynote: Health & Safety - Why Compliance Isn’t Enough

Garth Gallaway

What business have learned about true safety culture. Shift the focus from ticking boxes to building a true culture of care. Garth will explore how to make health and safety an integral part of leade...

1:05 PM - 1:15 PM

A Word From Our Sponsor - Business IT Limited

Mark Howard

Business IT delivers smart, secure, and scalable technology solutions to businesses across New Zealand. Their exceptional and experienced team provides expert support in managed IT services, cybersec...

1:15 PM - 1:30 PM

Wrap-Up & Closing

Steve Kennedy

Amy Lawson

Reflections, key takeaways, and next steps.

About this event

Event lasts 5 hours
Free venue parking

EQ Consultants is thrilled to bring you The People Factor: Leadership, Innovation & Culture in Action, a free half-day conference designed to support the professional development of leaders and organisations in Canterbury. In today's challenging economic climate, developing your leadership team and organisational culture is more important than ever. This event is our way of giving back to the local business community and equipping you with the tools to navigate and thrive.

What to Expect:

This action-packed event will feature expert keynotes, dynamic panel discussions, and insights on critical topics including:

Crisis-Ready Leadership: Leading With Confidence Through Turbulent Times

Employment Law: What Is Changing—And What Businesses Must Learn Now

Culture Survey Insights: Uncovering Hidden Truths in Your Organisation & Why This Is Critical to Your Business’s Future Success

Governance Trends in 2025: Why Future-Focused Governance Starts Now

Extraordinary Leadership: Why Every Great Leader Has a Story –And a Lesson to Share

Health & Safety: Why Compliance Isn’t Enough—What Businesses Have Learned About True Safety Culture.

Strategic Recruitment: How to Attract Talent That Isn’t Actually Looking

Whether you're a CEO, General Manager, senior or middle manager, or HR professional, this event offers valuable learning and networking opportunities to help you drive success.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for CEOs, General Managers, senior and middle managers, and HR professionals who are committed to professional growth and fostering a thriving workplace. If you’re focused on building leadership excellence and organisational performance, The People Factor is for you.

Call to Action:

Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting event. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from industry experts, gain fresh insights, and connect with fellow professionals.

Register now!

In association with Business IT

Frequently asked questions

What is the cost?

This conference is completely free. EQ Consultants is giving back to the Christchurch business community during these challenging economic times. We know SMEs are managing tight budgets while still needing leadership development—so we're removing financial barriers to quality professional growth.

Who should attend?

This conference is ideal for CEOs, General Managers, senior and middle managers, and HR professionals who are committed to professional growth and fostering a thriving workplace. If you’re focused on building leadership excellence and organisational performance, The People Factor is for you

Is there a limit on attendees?

Yes, spaces are limited to ensure an intimate, engaging experience with quality networking opportunities. Register early to secure your spot. We kindly ask you to limit tickets per organisation to 4. If you would like to reserve more than this please contact us directly.

What should I bring?

Just bring yourself, business cards for networking, and a notebook if you prefer taking handwritten notes.

Are there any sponsorship opportunities?

Organized by

EQ Consultants

Early bird discount

FreeSep 11 · 8:30 AM GMT+12