International leaders land in Geelong

ORGANISATION developers from across the world converged on Geelong as the city hosted an annual conference.

The 2023 International Organisation Development Conference came to Geelong Regional Library and Heritage Centre from Thursday to Saturday last week, for the first Australian meeting of the body since 2011.

About 100 people attended the event from dozens of countries, where more than 30 local and international speakers shared their thoughts on the future of the field in a “rapidly changing world”.

This year’s conference focused on exploring changes in organisations in the post-pandemic world and how those differences would impact professionals in the field.

Changing needs of workforces and communities, emerging systems and processes, and the unique story of Geelong punching above its weight in business and industry were among the conference’s key themes.

Experienced business leader and Geelong resident Greg Collier provided a local perspective for the event, and said it was a great opportunity for Geelong.

“As a Geelong resident I am excited to host this internationally diverse group in our great city..

“The function and structure of organisations is changing quickly, and we are extremely fortunate to have some of the best minds in the world of OD joining us here in Geelong for this event.

IODA president Noble Kumawu from Ghana said he was pleased to bring the international event back to Australia.

“Our organisation meets in a different country every year, and we are excited to join OD thought leaders from Australia to hear first-hand about some of the unique challenges being faced by organisations in Australia, and to hear about the exciting work that OD professionals are doing here.”