Navigating Leadership in the Age of Data and AI
Following the success of the inaugural iTnews Executive Retreat Security Leaders Edition, a new focus emerges – data and artificial intelligence. The first retreat brought together senior technology and security leaders for candid conversations on resilience, leadership, and operating under pressure.
As shared by Saleshni Sharma, APAC CISO at W.R. Berkley, “The small-group offsite format allowed for meaningful connections with leaders across technology, security, risk, and privacy.” Rebecca Meli, CTO at Australian Progressive Group, echoed this sentiment, saying, “It was a great balance of meaningful conversations and time to reset. Hearing the real experience of peers is what I value most.”
Understanding the Shift
AI and data are rapidly reshaping how organisations operate, compete, and make decisions. For senior technology leaders, the challenge is no longer understanding the potential but navigating what comes next. Investment is increasing, expectations are rising, and the pressure to move from experimentation to real business outcomes is intensifying.
Meanwhile, leaders are being asked to make critical decisions around governance, risk, capability, and long-term strategy, often without clear precedents. The iTnews Executive Retreat: Data & AI Leaders Edition has been designed to create space for those conversations, enabling practical discussion, peer insight, and shared learning away from day-to-day pressures.
A Curated Experience
Taking place on 28-29 May 2026 at Château Élan in the Hunter Valley, the Data & AI Leaders Edition will bring together a curated group of senior technology, data, and AI leaders for an overnight retreat focused on leadership in a rapidly evolving landscape. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect in a more informal setting, with wine and cheese tasting, nine holes of golf, a HydroDeck spa, and toasted marshmallows by the firepit.
Additionally, the format is designed to encourage open, peer-level conversation. With a small group of attendees and a mix of facilitated sessions and informal networking, the retreat creates the conditions for more honest, practical exchanges. For example, attendees can expect to engage in discussions around the latest trends and challenges in data and AI, as well as share their own experiences and insights.
Practical Insights and Actionable Advice
Furthermore, the retreat will provide attendees with practical insights and actionable advice on how to navigate the complexities of data and AI. This will include discussions around governance, risk, and capability, as well as strategies for driving business outcomes and creating long-term value.
Finally, the retreat will also provide opportunities for attendees to connect with peers and build relationships that can last beyond the event. As shared by previous attendees, the retreat offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and build connections with leaders across technology, security, risk, and privacy.
Therefore, if you are a senior technology leader looking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of data and AI, the iTnews Executive Retreat: Data & AI Leaders Edition is an event not to be missed. With its unique format, curated group of attendees, and focus on practical discussion and shared learning, the retreat offers a unique opportunity to gain insights, build relationships, and drive business outcomes.
However, spaces are limited, and attendees are encouraged to register their interest early to avoid missing out. To find out more and register your interest in attending, click here.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iTnews Executive Retreat: Data & AI Leaders Edition offers a unique opportunity for senior technology leaders to navigate the challenges and opportunities of data and AI. With its focus on practical discussion, peer insight, and shared learning, the retreat provides a unique space for leaders to connect, learn, and drive business outcomes.
Meanwhile, the event also offers a chance to build relationships with peers and engage in meaningful conversations around the latest trends and challenges in data and AI. Therefore, if you are looking to navigate the complexities of data and AI and drive business outcomes, the iTnews Executive Retreat: Data & AI Leaders Edition is an event not to be missed.
Additionally, the retreat is designed to be engaging, informative, and interactive, with a mix of facilitated sessions, informal networking, and social activities. For example, attendees can expect to engage in discussions around the latest trends and challenges in data and AI, as well as share their own experiences and insights.
Finally, the retreat will provide attendees with practical insights and actionable advice on how to navigate the complexities of data and AI, as well as strategies for driving business outcomes and creating long-term value. Therefore, if you are a senior technology leader looking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of data and AI, the iTnews Executive Retreat: Data & AI Leaders Edition is an event not to be missed.
