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CHICAGO — IAOP will host OWS26, a three-day conference focused on how organizations turn strategy into real business results, April 28-30, 2026. The event will bring together business leaders, practitioners and industry experts to discuss how companies are putting plans into action across sourcing, technology, governance and service delivery.
Built around the theme “Where Strategy Becomes Reality,” OWS26 is set for people responsible for making strategy work in day-to-day operations. Hosted at theWit Chicago, the event will focus on issues shaping how organizations operate around AI adoption, changing operating models, supplier governance, and regulatory pressure.
What attendees can expect
OWS26 will feature keynote presentations, interactive sessions and smaller group discussions, along with insights from buyers, providers, advisors and innovators. Hosted by HCS and Baker McKenzie in partnership with global and corporate partners AVASANT, PwC, Kirkland & Ellis, Kelly, Savills, Fannie Mae, Global Mentorship Initiative, Meta, Vee Healthtek, and Voytechnology Partners, OWS26 is for leaders refining sourcing strategies, teams introducing AI into business and delivery models, professionals strengthening governance, organizations rethinking the future of work and those responsible for service delivery and business outcomes.
Schedule at a glance
- Monday, April 27, 2026: Welcome networking event and credential pickup at theWit Chicago, hosted by PwC
- Tuesday, April 28, 2026: Conference sessions, on-site reception and Flyover Chicago networking event at Navy Pier
- Wednesday, April 29, 2026: Conference sessions and cocktail reception
- Thursday, April 30, 2026: Workshop and closing luncheon
About OWS26
OWS26 is an IAOP conference for professionals focused on turning strategy into operational results. Held in Chicago, the event centers on practical insight, peer learning and networking around AI, governance, sourcing, workforce change and service delivery.