The Future of GBS is on the Line: Challenge Value from the Outside In

GBS leaders are facing one of the most disruptive moments in the industry’s history. Agentic AI is reshaping how enterprises create value, while long-standing operating models remain under pressure to prove their relevance.


Against this backdrop, SSOW Europe 2026 explored GBS value from the outside-in – through the expectations of the business leaders who depend on shared services and GBS organisations every day. Across the Big Ideas Stage, enterprise leaders shared what they need next from service delivery, helping define how operating models must evolve in an agentic age.


Over four days in Lisbon, industry leaders came together to rethink, rebuild and future-proof organisational value. From visionary keynotes to practical transformation strategies, the event delivered actionable insights, meaningful connections and fresh perspectives on the future of shared services and GBS. Thank you to all who participated. We'll see you again in 2027.





With Thanks To The Expert Speakers
Who Led The SSOW 2026 Stage

OUR 2026 STAR SPEAKER

Olympic Champion Linford Christie Inspired with Keynote on Speed, Focus & Excellence

SSON was thrilled to welcome Linford Christie, Europe’s greatest ever 100-metre sprinter and Olympic gold medallist, as the 2026 Big Ideas Keynote speaker, sharing powerful insights on speed, focus and excellence.

From the moment he stepped onto the Big Ideas Stage, the energy shifted. He spoke about focus, discipline, resilience and the pressure of competing when every second matters, bringing the audience right into the mindset of an Olympic champion. A standout moment at SSOW Europe, and a brilliant reminder that excellence is never accidental. It is built through consistency, belief and the drive to keep pushing forward.

The Key Themes That Shaped SSOW Europe 2026

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Value

Moving beyond cost efficiency to unlock tangible business value in process excellence, insights, innovation and growth enablement

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Services

Refining service categories, expanding scope and modernising service excellence as a cornerstone of GBS strategy

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Capability

Building competitive advantages in Continuous Improvement, Change & Project Management, Automation and Agentic AI 

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Experience

Reimagining the customer, stakeholder and employee experience to elevate GBS to the next level

​​Signature SSOW Moments​​

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SSON European Impact Awards

The SSON Impact Awards once again celebrated the achievements of the shared services and GBS community, recognising the teams and leaders driving excellence across the industry. The evening combined a luxury dinner with an inspiring awards ceremony that honoured innovation, transformation and outstanding results.

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SSOWomen in Leadership Day

SSOWomen Leadership Day brought together inspiring women from across shared services and GBS for a day of meaningful discussion, interactive sessions and leadership development. The programme celebrated women’s voices while equipping attendees with fresh perspectives and practical insights to drive impact within their organisations.

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The Partner First Day

Returning for its second year, the SSON Partner First Day reinforced our commitment to connecting the entire ecosystem. The programme supported supplier partners in building more holistic approaches to operating models, transformation and AI enablement, while creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and discussion.

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Unparalleled Networking

SSOW Europe 2026 created multiple opportunities for attendees to connect in memorable settings throughout the week. From private dinners and organised drinks receptions to informal networking across the event, participants built meaningful relationships with peers from across the shared services and GBS community.

2027 Partners & Exhibitors

Interested In Partnering With Us?

As Europe's no.1 SSC & GBS event, Shared Services & Outsourcing Week Europe attracts over 950 influential leaders for four days of strategic discussions, showcases, and networking. Connect directly with senior decision-makers with specific challenges and projects, looking to explore innovative technologies, ideas, and platforms to drive transformation and sustainable growth.

What Our Attendees Say...

Your conference stands unrivalled, bringing together the brightest minds for thought-provoking discussions and groundbreaking ideas.

Global Finance Operations, Services Enablement Lead, Nielsen IQ

I left energized by the bold vision and shared ambition of our global GBS community.

Head of GBS VP, JT International SA

Best GBS conference in Europe with great opportunities to exchange directly with thought leaders.

Head of Shared Services Delivery, Deutsche Telekom

Extremely insightful week learning the latest and greatest of GBS industry. Highly recommended.

Director, GBS Strategy & Transformation, Aptiv

Innovation and real-life use cases that span the industry beyond the hype!

Founder, GBX Consulting

Great mix of strategic panels and sessions. The community feel, combined with real discussion on scaling, automation, and governance, makes it a valuable calendar staple.

VP Biz Dev, BusinessOptix

The networking is second to none and the ability to mix with clients and partners in a relaxed environment is fantastic.

Independent Advisor

Contact The SSOW Team

Europe's No.1 Shared Services & GBS event is back in May 2027! The 27th Annual Shared Services & Outsourcing Week will host the largest group of Shared Services and GBS leaders under one roof ever at the beautiful Estoril Congress Centre in Portugal on 10-13 May 2027.
To secure a spot, book online now. And, for any assistance, please contact us below.

Enquire as a Delegate

Harry Green

Head of Delegate Sales

Enquire as a Sponsor

Sean McVeigh

Partnership Director