SAFE SPACE SUMMIT
October 23, Chicago, IL
Tentative Agenda
The world of work is WILD right now.
Between balancing what’s happening in the world with the day-to-day of what’s happening in your organization, it can get really overwhelming.
But our toughest problems in HR aren’t going away and still require our attention.
That sparked the idea for the Safe Space Summit. HR leaders need a space where we can come together, learn, connect and kick back. A place where we don’t have to have all the answers, be in confidential mode or always watch what we say.
This isn’t your typical “best practices” snoozefest. No generic panels, no surface-level discussions.
Expect raw, honest conversations about the challenges we’re actually facing, like AI, performance, wellbeing and getting your CEO to actually listen to you. (My lifelong mission).
Come for the real talk. Stay for the game-changing strategies. Leave feeling like you’ve got a whole bunch of new connections with people who get it and are happy to support you.
Hope to see you there,
– Hebba
FOUNDER OF I HATE IT HERE
Thanks to our partners
HR’s Reality Check
A no-BS look at the current state of HR. Hebba breaks down the data, the burnout, and the bold moves HR leaders need to make if we want to stay relevant and sane. Let’s stop sugarcoating, name our real challenges and start recalibrating.
Morning sessions
Leading Through Wild Times
From mass layoffs to massive change, HR is often expected to be the calm in the chaos. This session explores how to lead with clarity, creativity, and courage to build resilient organizations, navigate tumultuous times and deliver a world class employee experience.
Grab a quick bite and network with fellow attendees
Networking Break
Meet and greet with fellow attendees and be sure to check out our sponsors while you rest and recharge!
Lunch
Midday
Lunch & Networking Break
The Performance Problem
It’s not just about low performers, it’s about unclear expectations, outdated processes, and overworked managers. This session unpacks why performance management is falling flat and what HR can do to fix it without becoming the performance police.
Afternoon sessions
Closing Party
A chance to unwind, meet new friends and not be on HR duty at a party!
This Summit is Made for People Like You
Ready to ditch the status quo and build sharper, more effective HR strategies? This summit is for you—CHROs, VPs of People, and senior HR operators who shape talent, budgets, and organizational design. Join us for candid peer conversations and frameworks that drive real impact.
90%
Decision Makers
Director Level and Above
92%
Healthcare, tech, SaaS, education
Top Industries
Safe Space Speakers
PLATINUM
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
Not Ready to Lock It In? No Problem!
Drop your email, and we’ll keep you in the loop with updates, speaker announcements, and exclusive event details that will show you why this summit is worth your time (and inbox space).
Partner with Us and Let’s Build Better Workplaces Together.
Showcase your brand to decision-makers, HR leaders, and workplace innovators who are driving meaningful change across industries. Let’s shape the future we want and make an impact together.
Viceroy Chicago
Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, the Viceroy Chicago offers the perfect backdrop for a day of innovation and connection.
Location
1118 N State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60610 USA
Rates
Book your stay at our exclusive hotel rate and enjoy the summit in style.
Ends Sep. 4
Early rate
For HR leaders ready to transform their workplaces. Limited spots available.
HR Leader Pass
30 remaining
Approval required
$895
Save 28%
Early rate
Ends Sep. 1
$1,045
Regular rate
Ends Oct. 1
$1,245
Late rate
Regular rate
Ends Oct. 2
Late rate
This summit's for senior HR leaders shaping people strategy, systems, and culture
The Trust Gap
Employees don’t quit jobs, they quit broken systems. This session digs into the growing disconnect between HR, leadership, and employees, and what it really takes to rebuild trust across the org.
The CEO-HR dynamic can make or break your people strategy. We’re exploring what great partnership looks like and what happens when it goes off the rails.
Fireside Chat: The CEO <> HR Relationship
Case Study: AI Strategy in Performance
AI isn’t magic, but when used right, it can supercharge certain processes like your performance systems. This session breaks down a real-world AI implementation. What worked, what didn’t, and how it reshaped the way performance is tracked, supported, and scaled.
Scaling Intentionally With HR Tech + Ask Us Anything
Too many tools, too little ROI? Our expert panel will dive into what it really takes to scale your HR tech stack without creating chaos. Bring your questions—this is your chance to get candid advice and bold opinions on your tech dilemmas.
We’ll kick off the day with self-assessments focused on major challenges facing HR leaders in 2026 and beyond. Throughout the day, we’ll pair expert-led sessions with interactive exercises to help you identify problems and craft actionable solutions.
