Lead Change™ 2024: Forward-Thinking Practices for Change Pros

Lead Change™ 2024 served as a dynamic platform for change management professionals to interact, learn, and apply. Hosted over three consecutive Wednesday mornings in November 2024, this virtual conference offered practical strategies and progressive tools for leading transformational change initiatives.

Curated by Theresa Moulton, Editor-in-Chief, Change Management Review™, sessions were led by thought leaders and practitioners from around the world exploring topics ranging from neuroscience and generative AI to agile methodologies and purpose-driven leadership. Below are the top insights shared during the conference, reflecting the forefront of today’s change management practice.

10 Pivotal Insights from Lead Change™ 2024

1. Spotlight on micro-trends driving transformational change

Paul Gibbons emphasized the importance of identifying micro-trends—subtle yet impactful changes in organizational patterns that cumulatively drive significant transformation. This approach allows organizations to adapt more effectively by addressing early signs of change.

2. Mapping negative changes to build capacity

Isolde Kanikani’s session presented a transformative framework that helps organizations identify and phase out counterproductive changes. By eliminating these inefficiencies, organizations can better allocate resources and build capacity for high-priority initiatives.

3. Harnessing generative AI for the future of collaborative change management activity

Helen Palmer presented on how working with generative AI can be a collaborative experience in how change management professionals, and any knowledge workers approach their work. Her insights have application for meaningful engagement with knowledge worker stakeholders. Helen also announced the new Change Management Review™ Signature program kicking off in March 2025: Generative AI Skills for Change Professionals is a stimulating learning experience designed to equip practitioners with the skills to work creatively and critically with Generative AI in their change activities.

4. Reshaping capacity management with cultural alignment

Maria Darby presented innovative methods to manage organizational capacity effectively while fostering cultural alignment. Her approach integrates quantitative metrics with a focus on organizational readiness and resilience, offering a holistic view of change management.

5. AI-powered solutions to improve stakeholder engagement

Edwina Pike showcased the integration of behavioral science principles into AI tools for change management. These tools simulate advisory sessions, providing tailored guidance for addressing complex challenges, such as stakeholder resistance and team alignment.

6. Bridging agile and traditional change management strategies

Jason Little shared insights on integrating agile methodologies with traditional change management. He explored how these approaches can coexist to enhance organizational adaptability and drive sustained change.

7. Fostering healthy relationships with executive sponsors

Positive executive sponsorship emerged as a critical success factor. Presenters shared strategies to build trust and collaboration with sponsors, emphasizing the role of clear communication and alignment of goals.

8. Applying neuroscience to reduce stakeholder resistance

Melanie Franklin highlighted recent research on how neuroscience can be applied to enhance change management practices. She discussed how understanding brain responses during change can improve stakeholder communication, reduce resistance, and create more effective change strategies.

9. Embedding purpose-driven leadership in change initiatives

Dima Syrotkin explored the concept of purpose-driven leadership, emphasizing how aligning organizational and individual purpose can energize teams and drive transformation. His session provided actionable steps for leaders to embed purpose into their change initiatives.

10. Connecting global and local perspectives in change management

The global representation at the conference, including participants from the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, and North America, highlighted both common challenges and unique regional practices. This diversity underscored the importance of tailoring strategies to cultural contexts while sharing universal insights.

Lead Change™ 2024 was generously sponsored by Conner Partners and Quello.

A Glimpse Towards Lead Change™ 2025

As Lead Change™ 2024 concluded, attendees were encouraged to look toward the future of the field. Key topics under consideration for the 2025 conference include skill-powered organizations, the ethical deployment of AI, AI adoption strategies, AI coaching, and managing organizational debt. These themes reflect the growing emphasis on sustainable, innovative, and ethical approaches to organizational change management.

Lead Change™ 2024 underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and actionable insights in navigating the complexities of organizational transformation. The momentum gained this year sets the stage for even greater advancements in the field at Lead Change™ 2025.