Leading IT in a Volatile Environment

Leverage strategies for leading IT in a volatile environment

In today's volatile environment, CIOs can be key partners in enhancing operational and business resilience by leading from the IT perspective. 

Join us at Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2026 to explore ways to enhance operational and business resilience and get actionable insights to lead with confidence through challenging times.

2026 Conference Agenda

Key Sessions - Navigating the Volatile Environment

Discover sessions designed to address your top priorities as you lead through uncertain times including:

  • The Ripple Effects of AI on Work and Talent
  • Inside the CEO Mindset on AI: The Fears, Dreams and Pressures CIOs Must Navigate
  • What Human Skills Are Needed in the AI Era? What to Protect, Pivot and Purge
  • 3 Essential Steps to Evolve Your Operating Model in the Age of AI and Volatility
  • Practical AI Governance: Preparing for Enforcement of the AI Act and the Wave of Global AI Regulations
  • How CIOs Can Defend Enterprise Competitive Moats as AI Accelerates Business Model Erosion
  • 7 Disruptions You Might Not See Coming: 2026–2031

View All Sessions

*Sessions as of June 1, 2026

The volatile economic environment is top of mind for IT leaders - and you're not alone in your questions. 

As organizations explore how to navigate the volatile environment, there are critical questions that need to be answered, including:

  • What are the pitfalls and best practices for creating an IT strategy in times of disruption?
  • What should organizations focus on that remains constant in an uncertain world?
  • How can I lead organizational resilience from definition to implementation in uncertain times?
  • How do geopolitical factors impact software and cloud contract negotiations, and what strategies can mitigate these risks?
  • How can I effectively deliver difficult news to employees?

At Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo, our expert-led sessions will tackle these questions head-on to equip you with practical solutions that will accelerate your organization.

Get fresh perspectives and collaborate with leading CIOs, industry leaders, and topic experts as you access exclusive Gartner research, solve shared challenges, and engage in unique experiences.

  • Join the Gartner CIO Circle Program—designed for Chief Information Officers, offering exclusive sessions tailored to your priorities to explore new strategies, share ideas, and grow your peer community.
  • Discover critical insights for the year ahead in Gartner Signature Series sessions, including Top Strategic Technology Trends, Top Strategic Predictions, and the CIO and Technology Executive Agenda.
  • Participate in industry roundtables to connect with peers from leading organizations, inspired by the latest research and hosted by a Gartner expert.
  • Attend industry-specific sessions tailored specifically to your organization.
  • Meet one-on-one with a Gartner expert to address your key initiatives and challenges with actionable outcomes.
  • Engage in peer networking events for natural conversations during meals, receptions, and special events.
  • Access the IT Xpo to connect with leading technology providers, explore innovative, cost-effective solutions.

Learn more about Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2026 Conference

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