UNLEASH America 2023: The Must-Attend HR Event in Las Vegas – Your Ultimate Guide!

As we gear up for UNLEASH America 2023, I am excited to present my ultimate guide to this year’s groundbreaking show at Caesar’s Forum – our first year at this fantastic venue. Credit goes to my amazing team and our partners for their hard work in laying the foundation for years to come, creating “The International Festival of HR.” With a myriad of exceptional sessions, speakers, and experiences, I’ve distilled the highlights to help you navigate the complexities of the show. It is time to prepare for a memorable journey as we explore the future of work, unearthing innovative solutions and insights that will propel you, your team and your organization forward.

What’s on at UNLEASH America?

The biggest customer complaint at UNLEASH is there are too many great things happening at the same time. First world problems, we will have to continue taking that one on the chin.

I have broken it down here so you can get a better sense of what lies ahead in this guide and visit UNLEASH America to deep dive or register.

The conference

For those arriving early and eager to maximize their networking and learning opportunities, UNLEASH enhances our Pre-event and Partner events on Tuesday, April 25, with an array of stimulating summits and bootcamps. Our line-up includes the prestigious Vendor Summit, Talent Acquisition Summit, HR Tech Summit, and the immersive Talent Intelligence Bootcamp by The Josh Bersin Company.

Don’t miss this incredible chance to connect with industry leaders, learn from the best, and celebrate the future of HR at UNLEASH’s exhilarating Kick-off Party, graciously sponsored by our friends at HireEz.

As HR leaders, future of work enthusiasts, and technology pioneers, join us in exploring our new home for the next three years – the state-of-the-art Caesars Forum, nestled at the foot of the iconic High Roller. Get a glimpse of this video as we unveil the captivating experience that awaits you in this exceptional venue, where innovation, progress, and meaningful connections come together to redefine industry standards and drive growth.

Pre-events (Tuesday, April 25)

VENDOR SUMMIT: Experience the exclusive UNLEASH VENDOR SUMMIT, where you’ll connect with HR tech peers and industry leaders. Immerse yourself in valuable networking opportunities, gain cutting-edge insights, and walk away with a competitive edge. Speaker Faculty: Mercer | Leapgen, SAP SuccessFactors, Aptitude Research, Unit4, Accenture, Deloitte, HireEz, Workhuman, Aspect43, Appcast.

HR TECH SUMMIT: Discover unparalleled insights at the UNLEASH Vendor Summit, an exclusive event tailored for the HR tech community. Connect with key players, learn from industry leaders, and enhance your competitive edge. Dive into sessions covering HR tech market trends, scaling in challenging markets, go-to-market strategies, and the CHRO-CFO-CIO perspective on evaluating technology. Speaker Faculty: Microsoft, Panasonic, General Motors, Mercer Leapgen, LinkedIn, Deloitte, ClickUp.

TALENT ACQUISITION SUMMIT: Boost your talent acquisition success at our exclusive half-day summit. Immerse yourself in a series of insightful sessions, network with industry peers, and learn from top experts. This dedicated track will provide you with a deep understanding of the current talent landscape, winning strategies for diversity recruiting, repurposing internal talent, data-driven decision-making, and the power of compensation transparency. Speaker Faculty: Vertex Pharmaceuticals, JLL, Sanofi, Appcast, Alcon, Marvell Technology, Recruiting Toolbox.

SKILLS STRATEGY BOOTCAMP: Discover the ultimate HR bootcamp, a one-of-a-kind, invitation-only event led by global renowned industry analysts Josh Bersin and Dr. Kathi Enderes. Workshop your skills strategy, gain actionable insights, and collaborate with industry peers. Create a future-proof workforce by diving into the proprietary Four R’s model, addressing business challenges, and leaving with a tailored skills strategy model for your organization.

Keynotes Day 1 (Wednesday, April 26)

The Great Reset: The Irreversible Connection of People and Purpose

Unlock the potential of people and purpose with Dean Carter, Chief People & Purpose Officer at Guild, in this transformative UNLEASH keynote. Discover the powerful connection between talent and organizational success. Join Dean Carter, a powerhouse in People and Culture, as he shares his invaluable insights on rethinking the role of CHROs and harnessing the potential of the American workforce. Dean’s extensive experience across various sectors offers a unique perspective on shaping the future of work responsibly.

Teaming Up With AI: Unleash the Smart Teams of the Future

Discover the power of AI-human collaboration in Dr. Vivienne Ming’s captivating UNLEASH keynote. Learn how smart teams of the future will seamlessly integrate technology and human skills for unparalleled success. Meet Dr. Vivienne Ming, a distinguished theoretical neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and founder of Socos Labs. With a wealth of experience in AI-driven research, Dr. Ming brings unique insights on harnessing the potential of AI-human collaboration and fostering innovation in organizations.

Exponential HR: Revolutionizing Your Organization with the Latest AI Tools and Skillsets

Explore the synergy between humans and technology in our rapidly changing world with Maurice Conti, visionary futurist and technology expert. Delve into the latest emerging technologies and discover strategies to harness their power. Join Maurice as he unveils pragmatic solutions to leveraging Generative AI, Immersive Reality, and more in your organization. With extensive experience working with global corporations and governments, Maurice offers a unique perspective on thriving amidst uncertainty by evolving mindsets and skillsets.

Keynotes Day 2 (Thursday, April 27)

Cultural Intelligence: The Power of Building Successful Multicultural Teams

Discover the keys to navigating virtual cross-cultural teams with Erin Meyer, the world’s foremost renowned culture expert and INSEAD professor. Learn to leverage cultural diversity while overcoming communication challenges in a global environment. Erin provides valuable insights into managing cross-cultural complexities and offers strategies for effective international collaboration. With a wealth of experience living and working across continents, she equips global leaders with the tools to understand diverse management styles and enhance the success of their multicultural teams.

Economist Outlook: Unleashing America’s Talent Marketplace

Explore the evolving labor market with three of world’s leading economists and analysts as they discuss challenges, opportunities, and strategies for success amidst economic uncertainties and workforce transformation.

• Gad Levanon PhD Chief Economist The Burning Glass Institute: Renowned economist and expert on US and global labor market trends, Gad offers valuable insights on the impact of economic developments on employers.
• Kathi Enderes PhD SVP Research The Josh Bersin Company: With 20+ years of experience, Kathi’s passion is making work more meaningful, and her research supports clients with evidence-based insights in HR, talent, and technology.
• Andrew Flowers Labor Economist AppCast: Andrew’s expertise in economic policy and the US labor market brings clarity to the changing economic landscape, making him one of the most sought-after voices in the media and HR industries.
• Julia Pollack PhD Chief Economist ZipRecruiter: Acclaimed labor economist, Julia provides powerful perspectives on employment dynamics, job market shifts, and the evolving talent landscape, inspiring action and innovation.

There’s something for everyone at UNLEASH!

The Who’s Who of HR attends UNLEASH, reward your team with an unparalleled experience! This year 150+ speakers have been handpicked to fuel 14 Stages, 4 Summits, 3 Boardrooms where innovation, learning, and inspiration collide. Witness the best in HR and future-proof your organization where HR teams can dive into the ultimate HR adventure!

• Main Stage: Unleash the future of HR today! Witness the best speakers and experts on the planet and redefine work at our infamous Main Stage.
• HR Tech Stage: Revolutionize HR with cutting-edge tech. Join us and discover the future of human-centric solutions.
• Recruitment Stage: Elevate your hiring game with next-gen recruitment technology. Don’t miss the secrets to a dynamic workforce.
• Learning & Skills Stage: Master the skills needed for tomorrow, today! Bridge the gap and future-proof your organization.
• Talent Stage: Redefine talent management with advanced solutions. Join the revolution for the ultimate HR breakthrough.
• HR Transformation Stage: Revamp your HR for the post-COVID era. Embrace change and thrive in the new world of work.
• Total EX Stage: Unlock the secret to employee eXperience mastery. Learn game-changing approaches beyond money.
• Culture & Purpose Stage: Ignite purpose and transform your company culture. Make their mission yours.
• DEIB Stage: Passionate DEIB advocates captivating hearts and minds, inspiring change-makers to champion inclusive, equitable, and diverse world.
• Wellbeing Stage: Empower wellbeing in the new world of work. Learn how to uplift, motivate, and energize your employees.
• Influencers Stage: Engage with HR visionaries and forward-thinkers. Uncover the heart of modern HR.
• Innovation Stage: Discover ground-breaking tech and witness the future at the Innovation Stage.
• Product Stages – Spotlight A and Spotlight B: Explore the latest HR tech solutions, unveiled first at UNLEASH.

UNLEASH Boardroom

Step into the world of innovation, executive experience and exclusivity at UNLEASH’s extraordinary boardrooms – ELVIS, BRITNEY, & ELTON. Gain vital insights on strategic system selection from Deloitte, discover the future of work with Forrester, and uncover investment trends in HR tech. A stellar lineup of industry experts, including Josh Bersin, Madeline Laurano, Mike Ettling, Robin Erickson, Elliott Masie, Erin Meyer, and many more, awaits you.

Engage in intimate workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and transformative strategies that will revolutionize your organization.

• Startup Sit Down with Josh Bersin: Get up close and personal with HR guru Josh Bersin in this exclusive Startup Q&A. Discover secrets to success and gain valuable insights from the industry’s best.
• Deloitte: HR Tech Hacks: Unleash the power of HR tech with Deloitte’s game-changing hacks. Revolutionize your approach and optimize performance.
• Strategic Growth & Selling an HR Tech Company with Mike Ettling: “Learn from Mike Ettling as he reveals the blueprint for strategic growth and successful HR tech exits.
• Amazon Learning & Certification: Unlock your full potential with Amazon’s cutting-edge learning and certification program. Seize the opportunity to elevate your skills and industry knowledge.
• UNLEASH Advisory Boards & Industry Councils: Collaborate with top HR leaders and visionaries at the UNLEASH Advisory Boards. Contribute to the future of work and make a lasting impact.
• Investment Trends in HR Tech with Aptitude Research: Stay ahead of the curve with Aptitude Research’s insights into HR tech investment trends. Be informed, invest wisely, and flourish.
• The Conference Board Roundtable: Engage in thought-provoking discussions at The Conference Board Roundtable. Network with industry experts and shape the future of HR.
• Future of Work Predictions with Forrester: Peer into the future with Forrester’s bold predictions for the world of work. Embrace change and adapt to the future.

UNLEASH Night Summit (DAY 1: 18:00 – Weds, April 26^th)

Location: Caesar’s Forum Plaza

Experience UNLEASH’s Night Summit at the outdoor plaza in Caesars Forum, where 1,200 esteemed clients gather under the watchful gaze of the High Roller and the setting Vegas sunshine. Immerse yourself in an evening of vibrant networking, drinks, and entertainment, as you connect with the who’s who of the HR industry from America’s leading organisations. Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to forge lasting relationships, share insights, and celebrate the future of HR.

This is our inaugural Night Summit in the US and Very Special Thanks needs to go to our AWESOME SPONSORS:  WalkMe (Biergarten), Indeed (Mini Golf), Eightfold (Casino Royale).

• Celebrate HR Innovation over a Cold Brew Raise a Toast at WalkMe’s Biergarten and Connect with Visionaries.
• Swing into Networking Master Your Mini Golf Skills and Forge Meaningful Connections with Indeed.
• Place Your Bets on a Winning Future: Embrace the Casino Royale Experience with Eightfold.
• Soar to New Heights at UNLEASH’s HIGH ROLLER: Enjoy breathtaking views, drinks, refreshments, and exclusive matchmaking meetups as you spin around the iconic Las Vegas wheel, compliments of UNLEASH.

Fail to plan, plan to fail

DOWNLOAD THE UNLEASH EVENT APP TODAY!

Get ready to maximize your UNLEASH America experience with the award-winning UNLEASH app! This innovative platform is your one-stop shop for seamless event navigation, tailored networking opportunities, and exclusive content. Here’s why you MUST download the app as soon as it becomes available. Seven reasons to download the UNLEASH App.

• Personalized Agenda: Customize your event schedule by registering for sessions that align with your interests and goals. Stay up-to-date with real-time notifications and never miss an insightful discussion, audience sentiment or keynote presentation.
• One-to-One Meetings: Take advantage of UNLEASH’s smart matchmaking feature to connect with vendors that fit your unique needs. Schedule private meetings, explore product offerings, and build lasting partnerships.
• Efficient Navigation: Effortlessly navigate the complexity of UNLEASH America with UNLEASH’s interactive floor plan. Pinpoint exhibitor booths, conference rooms, and amenities with ease.
• Exclusive Content: Access speaker bios, presentation materials, and other valuable resources to enhance your understanding of the event’s key topics and themes.
• In-App Networking: Grow your professional network by connecting with fellow attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. Engage in discussions, share insights, and foster meaningful connections that last beyond the show.
• Real-Time Updates: Stay informed with live event updates, announcements, and last-minute changes to ensure you get the most out of your UNLEASH America experience.
• Post-Event Engagement: Continue the conversation and access event content even after UNLEASH America has concluded, allowing you to revisit critical takeaways and maintain connections.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your UNLEASH America experience! Download the UNLEASH app now and unlock a world of unparalleled event engagement, networking, and insights.

The exhibition

OUR AWESOME SPONSORS!

We are incredibly grateful and proud to introduce our esteemed headline sponsors for this year’s UNLEASH America. In the face of unprecedented challenges over the last few years, these exceptional organizations have stepped up to breathe new life into the events industry and provided unwavering support to our mission of empowering HR leaders across the globe.

Amazon Training and Certification, Deloitte, Eightfold, HireVue, Paradox, Reejig, Visier, and Workhuman have demonstrated their commitment to innovation, growth, and the future of work by partnering with us. Their invaluable contributions not only enable us to create a world-class event but also help shape the landscape of human resources, talent acquisition, and learning and development.

As we come together to celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of the HR community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our phenomenal sponsors for their dedication and vision. Their support has reinvigorated the industry and paved the way for a brighter future. Visitors at UNLEASH America this year will have the opportunity to connect with market-leading companies and explore the cutting-edge solutions that are transforming the HR landscape.

Amazon Training and Certification offers a comprehensive suite of learning resources designed to empower HR professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to drive organizational success. By attending UNLEASH America, you’ll have a unique opportunity to engage with Amazon Training and Certification experts, explore cutting-edge training programs, and discover how to elevate your HR team’s performance.

Deloitte, the global leader in HR consulting and advisory services, provides forward-thinking solutions that help organizations navigate complex HR challenges and drive business growth. Don’t miss the chance to connect with Deloitte’s industry experts at UNLEASH America, where you’ll gain invaluable insights on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices in human capital management.

Eightfold’s revolutionary AI-driven talent platform is transforming the way organizations attract, engage, and retain top talent. By attending UNLEASH America, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with Eightfold representatives and learn how their groundbreaking technology can help you optimize your talent acquisition process and build a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

HireVue is a pioneer in video interviewing and pre-hire assessment solutions, helping organizations streamline their hiring process and make better, data-driven decisions. Join HireVue at UNLEASH America to explore their innovative platform and discover how you can enhance your recruitment strategy and improve the candidate experience. 

Paradox’s award-winning conversational AI platform, Olivia, is revolutionizing the way companies engage with candidates and employees alike. Visit Paradox at UNLEASH America to experience the power of their AI-driven assistant and learn how you can create more personalized and efficient HR processes with the help of conversational AI.

Reejig is a next-generation talent intelligence platform that harnesses the power of data to help organizations make smarter, more strategic talent decisions. Meet with Reejig’s team at UNLEASH America to explore how their cutting-edge technology can empower your HR department, optimize workforce planning, and drive better talent outcomes.

Visier is a leader in people analytics and workforce planning solutions, enabling organizations to make data-driven decisions that drive better business outcomes. Connect with Visier at UNLEASH America and learn how their comprehensive analytics platform can help you uncover actionable insights, enhance employee engagement, and shape the future of your organization.

Workhuman is a pioneer in social recognition and continuous performance management solutions, helping organizations create a more connected, engaged, and human-centric workplace. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with Workhuman’s experts at UNLEASH America and discover how their innovative solutions can foster a culture of recognition, boost employee morale, and drive business success.

UNLEASH Startup – The Network Never Stops!

Celebrating a decade of our powerful tagline, “The Network Never Stops” is the driving force behind UNLEASH Startup. It embodies the perpetual growth and dynamism of our ever-evolving community. As innovative startups emerge year after year, they invigorate, diversify, and strengthen the connections within our network. At the core of UNLEASH Startup is an unwavering commitment to nurturing a vibrant ecosystem that fosters collaboration, inspiration, and endless possibilities.

UNLEASH America startup competition 2023

Schedule Highlights:

• Exciting Announcement: Top 4 Finalists to be revealed on March 31^st.
• Esteemed Panel: 12 Expert Judges evaluating innovative startups.
• Exceptional Talent: 60 Passionate Founders are vying for a spot in this year’s grand finale at the iconic Caesars Forum, Las Vegas.
• DAY 1 (Wednesday, April 26)
  • 11:35-12:40 Lightning Round (Winner to Final)
  • 14:00-15:05 Final

Startup moderator

Peter Phelan, CEO & Founder of ValuesCulture, is an influential figure in the HR industry, known for his passion for shaping organizational culture and driving excellence. A seasoned speaker and moderator, Peter brings a fresh and dynamic energy to UNLEASH. As an advisor to numerous companies, his expertise and valuable connections make him an invaluable asset to startups seeking guidance and growth. We are thrilled to have Peter moderating the UNLEASH Startup competition final, where his insights, sense of humor and enthusiasm will inspire and engage all those in attendance.

Our UNLEASH America Startup judges

We are truly honored to present an exceptional panel of judges for this year’s UNLEASH Startup competition. Comprised of the best and brightest in the HR industry, our esteemed judges represent a diverse range of expertise, experience, and accomplishments. From visionary leaders and innovative strategists to influential analysts and renowned investors, this remarkable group of individuals embodies the pinnacle of excellence in the HR landscape.

Their collective wisdom and unique perspectives elevate the competition, positioning it as both the longest-running in HR and the market leader, while providing invaluable insights to participating startups. As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of these industry luminaries, we are incredibly grateful for their dedication to shaping the future of HR and nurturing the next generation of trailblazers.

The presence of these distinguished judges is a testament to the extraordinary caliber of the UNLEASH Startup competition, making it an event not to be missed.

• Josh Bersin, a distinguished industry analyst and veteran of UNLEASH Startup competition. Josh is known for his deep understanding of the HR and Learning tech landscape. His expertise, visionary outlook, and ability to uncover ground-breaking solutions make him an invaluable addition to the UNLEASH Startup competition panel, where his insights will undoubtedly shape the future of work.
• Sadie Bell, the VP of Innovation & Deployment at Hewlett-Packard, is a powerhouse in the world of tech and innovation. With her keen ability to spot opportunities and drive transformative change, Sadie is a leading practitioner whose expertise is invaluable to the UNLEASH Startup competition.
• Mike Ettling, CEO of Unit4, is a luminary in the enterprise software arena, having previously helmed industry giants such as NGA HR (Alight) and SAP SuccessFactors. Mike’s exceptional leadership skills and strategic prowess have made him a cornerstone of the HR tech world. As an invaluable asset to the UNLEASH Startup competition in both vendor and advisory capacities, is complemented by his role as a prominent investor and revered mentor. His passion for nurturing the next generation of innovators makes him an inspiring force in the industry.

• Sarah White, the CEO & Founder of Aspect43, is a trailblazer in the world of digital HR transformation and talent acquisition. With her keen eye for identifying emerging workforce trends and her dedication to nurturing the next generation of HR tech innovators, Sarah’s presence on the UNLEASH Startup competition panel is a testament to her exceptional talents.
• Ben Visser, CEO & Founder of allygatr, is an investor with a passion for supporting ambitious entrepreneurs. As a first-time participant in the UNLEASH STARTUP competition, Ben’s fresh perspective and commitment to fostering innovation will be instrumental in identifying the competition’s most promising startups.
• Evelyn McMullen, Research Manager at Nucleus Research, boasts a formidable career in the tech industry. With her sharp analytical skills and dedication to uncovering groundbreaking solutions, Evelyn’s contributions to the UNLEASH Startup competition will be nothing short of game-changing. 
• Elaine Orler, Managing Director at Cielo, is an accomplished industry leader and entrepreneur with an exceptional track record of spotting and nurturing talent. With her razor-sharp intuition and deep understanding of the talent acquisition landscape, an UNLEASH veteran, Elaine’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding the lightning rounds at UNLEASH STARTUP.
• Maureen Jules-Perez, Managing VP & People Tech at Capital One, is a distinguished leader known for her ability to harness technology to create meaningful change. Her keen insights and commitment to innovation make her an invaluable addition to the UNLEASH STARTUP lightning rounds.
• Kathi Enderes, Senior VP Research at The Bersin Company, is a highly respected analyst with a remarkable ability to identify emerging trends and uncover industry-shaping insights. Kathi’s expertise in the HR tech landscape will bring a fresh and inspired perspective to the lightning rounds at UNLEASH STARTUP.
• Gerry Crispin, Gerry Crispin, affectionately known as the Man in the Hat, is a recruitment genius and the father of candidate experience. Gerry has spent decades redefining the talent acquisition landscape with his innovative approach and unmatched expertise. A true pioneer in the field, his contagious passion and strategic acumen have made him an industry icon. His invaluable guidance during the UNLEASH STARTUP is sure to inspire the next generation of innovators, as they follow in the footsteps of this legendary visionary.
• Brent Skinner, Co-Founder & Director & Principle Analyst at 3Sixty Insights, is a highly regarded analyst with a keen eye for discovering game-changing solutions. His expertise in the HR and workforce technology sector will be invaluable in guiding and inspiring the UNLEASH Startup lightning rounds.
• Mahila Amjad, Principle at Leeds Illuminate, is a dynamic leader with a passion for empowering organizations to reach their full potential. Her strategic vision and commitment to innovation make her an invaluable addition to the UNLEASH Startup lightning rounds, where her insights will help identify the most promising startups.
• James Holzer, Managing Partner at Drake Star Capital, has 25 years of experience with software and technology-enabled services, including roles at CIBC and Wells Fargo. His vast knowledge and commitment to innovation make him invaluable in identifying promising HR tech startups during UNLEASH STARTUP lightning rounds, contributing to the success of future industry leaders in the HR Technology World.

There is so much more to choose from and the only way you can decide on this is by diving into the event website yourself and registering today.

See you in Vegas! Marc.

Founder & CEO of UNLEASH, Marc Coleman is leading the charge in revolutionizing the human resources industry through the power of community, technology and Ai. His passion for creating dynamic event experiences focused on the future of work drives the formation of powerful connections, that inspire intelligent action, valuable industry alliances, lifelong learning and friendship. With his unique blend of human insight and major event expertise, Marc’s vision is to positively impact and shape the future of work and AI for the greater good.

FUTURE DATES:

UNLEASH AMERICA 2024 – THE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF HR!
May 8-9, CAESARS FORUM, LAS VEGAS

UNLEASH WORLD 2023 – THE MOST INFLUENTIAL HR EVENT IN THE WORLD
17-18 October, PARIS CONVENTION CENTRE

UNLEASH WORLD 2024 – THE MOST INFLUENTIAL HR EVENT IN THE WORLD
16-17 October, PARIS CONVENTION CENTRE