In an anonymous interview, a former GBS leader issues a stark warning: “Global Business Services, as we know it, will cease to exist.” We’ve heard such predictions before - but this time, the threat feels real. The rapid rise of AI, the collapse of labour arbitrage and the shift toward distributed, digital operating models are rewriting the rules of enterprise services.

In this provocative session, we’ll put GBS leaders under the spotlight — and under scrutiny. Senior business executives will challenge them with the hard questions they’re already asking in boardrooms:

• As AI matures, do we still need GBS? Can automation, GenAI and self-service models deliver what shared services once promised?

• If labour arbitrage is gone, what’s left? When talent can work from anywhere, does the delivery centre model still make sense?

• Has GBS delivered transformation (as they have been promising for years) - or just efficiency?

This is not a session for the faint-hearted. Expect uncomfortable truths, challenging dialogue and a forward-looking debate on whether GBS is in demise - or on the verge of its most important transformation yet.

Recognising excellent work and celebrating achievements is hugely important for the community, especially at a time like this. SSON’s Shared Services & Outsourcing Impact Awards is a globally recognised, annual industry awards ceremony, which honours and celebrates SSC and service delivery teams who have exceeded industry standards in their SS&O initiatives. Tonight is the night we reveal who the winners are for this year and celebrate with them! This year’s awards will be a night to remember! The Awards Ceremony will be presented at the exuberant off-site Gala Dinner, attended by hundreds of SSOW VIPs and attendees, designed to help us network, unwind and celebrate with the best of the best from the industry. Attendance by invitation or for Awards Pass Holders only.

It is inevitable: GBS organizations face frequent shifts in reporting lines driven by evolving corporate strategies, leadership changes and transformation agendas. These changes are happening more often today than ever before. How can GBS leaders maintain stability, alignment and influence through these transitions? In this session, we invite leaders to share first-hand experiences navigating reporting line changes across different organisational models.

· Why reporting lines change for GBS organisations?

· What are your options when they do?

· Hear first-hands experiences from leaders that have experienced this throughout their career