CVSL Annual Conference 2026

The Centre for Voluntary Sector Leadership (CVSL) at The Open University Business School is proud to announce its 2026 Annual Conference, marking a monumental milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Centre’s founding. This landmark event, titled "Voluntary Sector Leadership – What Next?", serves as both a retrospective celebration of a decade of impactful research and a forward-looking forum designed to shape the future of the sector.

Over the past ten years, the CVSL has been at the forefront of exploring the unique challenges faced by voluntary organizations, from navigating funding crises to implementing collaborative leadership models. This conference brings together a diverse ecosystem of thinkers and doers to address the evolving landscape of social change. Attendees will hear directly from former and current CVSL directors who will share reflections on how leadership theory has translated into practice within the UK’s voluntary sector.

The 2026 program is specifically designed to be highly interactive. Unlike traditional lecture-heavy formats, this event emphasizes "co-production" of knowledge. Keynote presentations will provide the framework, but the heart of the day lies in the breakout sessions and panel discussions where delegates are encouraged to contribute their own lived experiences. These discussions will directly influence the Centre’s strategic direction for the next decade.

The agenda covers critical themes such as resilient leadership in times of economic uncertainty, the role of digital innovation in non-profits, and the increasing importance of cross-sector collaboration between the voluntary, public, and private spheres. Whether you are an academic looking for the latest research trends or a practitioner seeking peer support and fresh strategies, this conference offers a unique blend of scholarly rigor and practical application.

Held at the beautiful Walton Hall campus in Milton Keynes, the event provides ample opportunities for networking during catered refreshment breaks and a celebratory lunch. For those unable to travel to Milton Keynes, the conference offers a hybrid element, allowing global participants to join via MS Teams for the keynote addresses and contribute to the future-shaping workshops remotely. Join us as we celebrate ten years of leadership excellence and help us define what the next decade of social impact will look like.