PPMA Annual Conference 2026
Thursday 23rd – Friday 24th April | Birmingham Metropole Hilton

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We are delighted to announce the PPMA Annual Conference 2026, returning to the Birmingham Metropole Hilton following a number of highly successful events at this venue. This year, we have listened to your feedback and streamlined the conference from three days to two days, ensuring a more focused and engaging agenda while maintaining the high-quality experience you expect.

Who Should Attend:
This conference is designed for HR, OD, and People Managers in the public sector, providing practical insights, innovative ideas, and opportunities to connect with peers across the sector.

What to Expect:
Across two days, delegates will benefit from a dynamic programme featuring:

  • Keynote presentations from leading figures in HR and OD

  • Fringe sessions exploring the latest trends, best practices, and emerging challenges

  • Networking opportunities with peers and sector leaders

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Main stage speakers include:

  • Graeme McDonald, Managing Director, SOLACE

  • Theresa Grant OBE

  • Eddie Copeland, Director, London Office of Technology and Innovation (LOTI)

  • Mark Hardingham CBE QFSM

You can find out more about all the speakers below.

We look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring and impactful PPMA Annual Conference 2026.

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Excellence in People Managers Awards 2026:

On Thursday evening, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of people professionals at the Excellence in People Managers Awards 2026. Join us in recognising and appreciating the hard work, dedication, and innovation of colleagues across the public sector.

To explore all award categories and find full details on how to enter, click below!

Full Agenda Now Available

We are pleased to share that the complete programme of speakers, sessions, and timings below

This year’s agenda includes sessions on leadership, AI and emerging technologies, local government reform, employment law, equal pay, public inquiry learning, and much more.

Bookings Now Open

Registration for the PPMA Annual Conference 2026 is now officially open, secure your place early to avoid disappointment.

To book and pay online click the button below or alternatively, if you’d like to download a booking form to return via email or post click here.

Ticket Options 
We offer a range of ticket options to suit different budgets, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to attend the Conference and benefit from its sessions, networking, and events.

PPMA Members: 

Dates: 23–24 April 2026
Includes 1 night’s accommodation (23 April), lunches, and Awards evening dinner

  • £960 + VAT

Dates: 23–24 April 2026
Access both days of the Conference, including all sessions and lunches. Price: £640 + VAT
(Does not include accommodation or Awards evening dinner)

Access all sessions and lunch on Thursday, 23 April 2026. Price: £480 + VAT
(Does not include accommodation or Awards evening dinner)

Includes the Awards Evening Dinner with bed & breakfast on 23 April 2026 and full access to the Conference on 24 April 2026. Price: £550 + VAT

Join us for the Excellence in People Management Awards Dinner on Thursday, 23 April 2026. Price: £260 + VAT
(Accommodation not included)

PPMA NON – Members: 

Dates: 23–24 April 2026
Includes 1 night’s accommodation (23 April), lunches, and Awards evening dinner

  •  £1,250 + VAT

Dates: 23–24 April 2026
Access both days of the Conference, including all sessions and lunches. Price: £900 + VAT
(Does not include accommodation or Awards evening dinner)

Access all sessions and lunch on Thursday, 23 April 2026. Price: £620 + VAT
(Does not include accommodation or Awards evening dinner)

Includes the Awards Evening Dinner with bed & breakfast on 23 April 2026 and full access to the Conference on 24 April 2026. Price: £750 + VAT

Join us for the Excellence in People Management Awards Dinner on Thursday, 23 April 2026. Price: £380 + VAT
(Accommodation not included)

All Delegates

Overnight stay at The Hilton Birmingham Metropole, NEC, Birmingham B40 1PP. Price: £145 + VAT

Need a room on Wednesday 22 April 2026?

If you require accommodation the night before the conference, you can book directly with the hotel using our exclusive event discount.

Simply click “Book Now” below to reserve your room at 10% off the Hilton’s best available Bed & Breakfast rate.

Once booked, please email [email protected] so we can link your hotel reservation with your conference booking and ensure you remain in the same room throughout your stay.

✨ Highlights from PPMA Conference 2025

Curious about what’s in store for 2026? Take a look at last year’s moments:

  • Inspiring talks from public sector leaders

  • Interactive workshops and practical sessions

  • Networking with peers across the UK

  • Celebrating achievements at the People Management Awards

🎥 Watch the highlights and get a taste of the energy, ideas, and connections waiting for you in 2026!