Overview
The second edition of XLRI’s Metamorphose conclave was held on 25 and 26 September 2026 at Mementos by ITC Hotels in Udaipur. More than 80 senior HR leaders representing over 80 organisations participated, making it a significant gathering of HR decision‑makers.
Key Sessions
A McKinsey‑led session on "Agentic AI" examined how artificial intelligence could reshape organisational structures, role design, and governance, drawing strong participation from attendees. A fireside conversation featured Sandeep Bakhshi, CEO of ICICI Bank, who shared personal leadership lessons centred on grit, integrity and long‑term thinking, offering a narrative‑driven learning experience distinct from formal presentations.
White Paper Launch
XLRI’s Centre for HRD launched a white paper that synthesises insights from more than 24 HR leaders across four mini‑conferences – Work Reimagined, Workforce Renewed, Workplace Rebuilt and CHROs as Architects of Future Enterprises. The paper also incorporates survey data from over 160 senior HR and business professionals, providing a comprehensive view of emerging HR practices and the evolving role of the profession.
Event Context and Evolution
The conclave built on the inaugural 2024 edition held in Jaipur, which marked XLRI’s 75th anniversary. Participants who attended both editions noted that the 2026 programme offered sharper discussions, a stronger balance of research, external perspectives, peer exchange and reflection. Planning for the event spanned nearly nine months, underscoring the commitment to creating a regular forum for HR leaders to exchange experiences as technology, economics and policy reshape work.
Venue and Networking
Choosing Udaipur as the venue, away from typical city‑based settings, facilitated informal interactions, family participation and extended conversations beyond formal sessions, enhancing the overall networking experience for sponsors and partners.