HR Think Tank: The role of HR in a modern society

HR isn’t just about policies and processes anymore.

Today’s HR teams sit at the heart of organisations, shaping culture, influencing strategy, supporting wellbeing, and helping businesses navigate constant change. From benefits and employee experience to leadership, technology and organisational design, HR professionals often wear many hats.

But what is the role of HR in modern society?

Join us to discuss.

Date: Wednesday 10th June 2026

Time: 9:30am – 11:30am

Location: Bolton Wanderers Football Stadium, Horwich

The discussion

As organisations evolve, so does the HR function.

Some businesses operate with dedicated People & Culture teams, while others rely on lean HR generalists or specialised centres of excellence. At the same time, new challenges are emerging - hybrid work, changing employee expectations, wellbeing, and the growing role of AI in decision-making.

In this HR Think Tank session, we’ll explore how HR has evolved and what it’s becoming.

Key themes

• How the role of HR has evolved in modern organisations
• The growing focus on culture, wellbeing and employee experience
• The importance of benefits and people-centred policies
• Why HR often takes on multiple roles – strategist, coach, mediator and change leader
• The different structures of HR and People teams
• The impact of AI and technology on the future of HR

Agenda

9:30 – 10:00 | Breakfast, registration and networking with peers and hosts

10:00 – 10:10 | Welcome from AfterAthena and Engage

10.10 – 11.10 | Hear from two thought-provoking speakers sharing insights on the evolving role of HR - Speakers to be annouced.

11:10 – 11:25 | Live Q&A and open panel discussion

11.25 – 11.30 | Closing reflections

Optional networking to continue conversations after the session

Why attend

• Connect with other HR and People professionals
• Share perspectives and challenges from across industries
• Gain new ideas around culture, benefits and employee experience
• Contribute to a collaborative conversation about the future of HR

Whether you work in HR, People & Culture, leadership, or are simply interested in the future of work, this session is designed to encourage honest conversation, shared insight and fresh thinking.

Join us as we explore what HR has become, and what it could be next.

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Who are Engage?

Engage is a colleague engagement platform that creates thriving communities. We combine an unmatched understanding of engagement in business with AI and consumer-grade technology, to fuel positive colleague experiences and happier, more productive people.

Who are AfterAthena?

AfterAthena are the trusted strategic partner for HR managers, owner-managers, and health and safety professionals. We specialise in employment law, HR support, and health and safety compliance – but what really sets us apart is how we do business. We're available when you need us, innovative in how we solve problems, and committed to keeping your people and your business safe and compliant.

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Host or Publisher AfterAthena