HRLF IGNITE 2025: Sparking Ideas and Connections…Our Recap

This month, our team attended HRLF Ignite in Boston – the one-day HR conference that brought together a dynamic community of senior HR leaders, all united around one goal: to fuel innovation, connection, and leadership through talent, technology, and business acumen. It was awesome - with a thoughtful agenda and engaging speakers, meaningful networking moments, and energizing activities, HRLF Ignite delivered both inspiration and actionable takeaways for all attendees interested in navigating the future of work.

*"One of the most valuable HR events—hands down."* - Suzanne Solleder

Our team loved meeting so many HR professionals. We went around the office and gathered some feedback.

Rob Cordova’s message about leading through uncertainty and interactive group activity left a lasting impression.

From the start, the conference set a high bar. The agenda ignited powerful conversations about culture, technology, talent, and leadership. And as Suzanne put it, “plenty of networking time” was not just a bonus—it was a core strength of the day.

A Keynote That Sparked Interaction

One of the clear standouts was the keynote session led by Rob Cordova, whose message about leading through uncertainty and interactive group activity left a lasting impression.

"My favorite things about HRLF Ignite were Rob Cordova and our team trading cards – a fun way to meet so many talented people,” said Susan from our team. “I loved the way he had the whole group interact together. And I liked meeting people through the trading cards. I thought that was unique and fun.”

Rob’s session encouraged participants to step outside of their usual circles, sparking conversations that bridged industries and inspired new perspectives.

Purpose, Planning, and People

The content was rich, practical, and forward-looking. Lucy highlighted two clear takeaways:

*“Talent retention isn’t about perks—it’s about purpose.”* - Lucy Jreige

“Talent retention isn’t about perks—it’s about purpose,” recalled Lucy from our team. Succession planning can’t wait until someone leaves. It’s a continuous process that must be embedded in everyday leadership and development conversations.”

From culture to AI to collaboration, the conference tackled HR’s biggest opportunities. Patti offered a future-focused perspective:

“Culture needs to embrace change. If you don’t train your employees on AI, your AI will not be cohesive,” she said. “Teamwork creates such energy. If we all just listen and help each other, we can achieve greatness.”

That energy was echoed by Laura, who emphasized the value of cross-functional collaboration and community:

“Solving problems and creating HR solutions are successful when you bring different skillsets and perspectives to the discussion,” said Laura. “Connections, celebrations, recognition, and development are where companies can alleviate uncertainty and maximize performance.”

*“Despite current economic uncertainties, a real labor shortage is coming—and companies need to be planning for it now.”* - Alice Benson

And Alice captured the mood of the moment—one where uncertainty, belonging, and future planning are top of mind for every HR leader:

“There’s so much uncertainty in companies and the world right now. That’s why it’s even more important to double down on recognition, teamwork, and ways for employees to feel they belong and are valued,” she said. “Despite current economic uncertainties, a real labor shortage is coming—and companies need to be planning for it now.”

Celebrating the HR Community

As a capstone to the day, the annual HRLF Awards recognized the meaningful work HR professionals do every day—celebrating both their impact and the power of community.

As Bob shared:

HRLF Ignite strengthened the community of HR leaders shaping the future of work in New England.

“Connecting with so many talented HR leaders was a powerful reminder of the value HR brings to an organization’s health and long-term success. Celebrating the incredible work being done across our profession during the awards was truly inspiring—and it’s moments like that that make this community so special.”

From purposeful content to high-impact connections, HRLF Ignite 2025 did exactly what it set out to do: spark fresh ideas, ignite meaningful conversations, and strengthen the community of HR leaders shaping the future of work in New England.

As we look forward to next year’s event, be sure to contact us today…we’d love to connect, get to know you and, help your organization find the right HR talent and leadership.