2020 delivered some of the most extreme conditions of change that we have ever experienced in our lifetimes. While this may feel like an anomaly, it’s clear we are now living in a world with more complexity, uncertainty, and volatility – which is requiring us all to respond to change faster than ever before. During this session we will explore how Innovation leaders can accelerate change (and adaptability) in times of uncertainty. You will walk away with: • A model for understanding and navigating uncertainty • Strategies for implementing the science of change • An understanding of your role in leading through this context

Dr. Vanessa Akhtar is a Director at Kotter, a firm specializing in change management and strategy execution. She has worked with organizations around the globe, spanning a variety of industries – including healthcare, education, oil and energy, pharmaceuticals, non-profits, advertising and philanthropic foundations. Her ultimate goal is to help individuals and groups develop critical leadership skills, across all levels of organizations, to better meet the changing needs of today’s complex environment. She is the co-author of the book Change: How Organizations Create Hard-to-Imagine Results Despite Uncertain and Volatile Times (Wiley), with Dr. John Kotter and Gaurav Gupta.