Innovate,
Adapt &
Transform
Shaping our workplaces for the future




Innovate,
Adapt &
Transform
Shaping our workplaces for the future








Old Course Hotel, St Andrews | 12 – 13 November 2024
Our annual conference brings like-minded people professionals together to help shape the future of work in Scotland’s local authorities.
As HR and OD professionals, we understand the pivotal role we all play in shaping working environments that foster excellence, growth, efficiency, and wellbeing for our employees, and in turn drive success for our organisations and our communities alike. Our conference is all about collaborating to enhance HR and OD practices across local authorities in Scotland. Prepare to be inspired by a stellar line up of speakers who will spark your imagination about the future of work.
Topics include re-thinking HR, designing our organisations for the future and adapting to change, making effective use of AI, the future of flexible working, public sector reform, wellbeing and performance, and employment law. Get insights, strategies and tools to help you navigate the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities within the public sector in Scotland.
Connect with like-minded professionals from Scotland’s local authorities and other public sector organisations. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to shape the future of work and working lives in Scotland’s public sector. Book your ticket today and be part of a community committed to driving positive change within our organisations and ultimately, the communities we serve.

The future of work

Reimagining HR

Wellbeing and resilience

Adapting to change

Public sector reform

Talent management

Practical uses of AI in HR

Employment law

Workforce planning

Delivering transformational change

Organisation design and development

Collaborative working

Flexible working
Join us in St Andrews in November
The Venue
We are delighted to be returning to the wonderful Old Course Hotel in St Andrews, where you can experience Scottish hospitality and service second to none.Â
The main presentations and charity dinner will take place in the Hall of Champions, with the exhibition and coffee area in the Hall of Champions foyer.Â
Keynote Speakers
We have a stellar line up of speakers who will share their insights and expertise to help you think about your current challenges and the future world of work.Â
Panel Discussion
On Wednesday morning we have a panel session on designing our organisations for the future with insights from Argyle & Bute Council, Oracle and Dale Carnegie.
Breakout Sessions
Delegates have a choice of breakout sessions on both days. Choose between sessions on the CIPD’s Working Life Scotland research, AI, flexible working and public sector reform.
Exhibition
We will be joined by a small number of exhibitors, who will be showcasing a range of products and services that can help you to support and develop people and your organisation.
Charity Dinner
Our charity dinner is always a memorable evening, and we’re delighted to continue our support for Variety Scotland this year.
We are excited to be joined by Basil, Sybil and Manuel from the Faulty Towers Dining Experience to ensure an unforgettable evening!
Networking Opportunities
Networking is an important part of the conference, and we will be building in plenty of time for networking and discussion into the programme so delegates can share what’s happening in their Council, and hear about what’s working for others.
We have a stellar line up of speakers who will share their insights and expertise to help you plan for the future world of work.
Most of our keynote sessions will include time for group discussion and feedback so delegates can share and learn with like-minded people professionals from across the the SPDS network.