Speakers
Lee Smith
Workshop
In today’s volatile world, change is inevitable, but far too many transformations fail not because of strategy or technology, but because people are left behind. A people-first approach anchors change in empathy, trust and participation, shifting mindsets rather than merely imposing processes. In this interactive session we’ll explore how internal communication can lead positive change by putting human needs, emotions and behaviours at the heart of the journey. You’ll leave with a framework and practical tools to co-design change with stakeholders, anticipate resistance, and embed lasting adoption through people-first design.
Lee Smith is co-founder of The EX Space, the global learning community for employee communication, experience and engagement professionals, and co-author (with Emma Bridger) of People-First Internal Communication (2025). With over three decades in communication and change consultancy, Lee has advised leading global organisations on improving the employee experience. A Fellow of the IoIC, he co-created the State of the Sector study and helped shape professional standards in internal and change communication.
Emma Bridger is one of the world’s leading experts in employee engagement and experience. Co-founder of The EX Space and founder of People Lab, she helps organisations design meaningful, people-centred change. An award-winning co-author of Employee Engagement and EX by Design and ad co-author (with Lee Smith) of People-First Internal Communication (2025), Emma combines a background in psychology and behaviour change with over 25 years’ experience transforming workplaces. A recognised thought leader and dynamic speaker, she champions better work experiences that empower people and drive organisational success.