Most organizations know they have a few roles that really matter, and it’s never just the top executive roles; it’s the harder-to-fill, high-impact roles a layer or two down that drive growth, execution, and customer outcomes.

The problem we often see? While organizations can identify these critical roles, when they look closer, the bench for those roles often isn’t as deep or ready as they thought. And why is that? Many struggle to actually build readiness in a meaningful way. That’s where this session will focus: how to get more practical and precise about where your real risk (and opportunity) sits in the talent pipeline.

What makes this different from the typical succession or leadership conversation is that we’ll stay away from theory and “one-size-fits-all” programs. Instead, we’ll share a more hands-on approach to accelerating readiness—using real role clarity, targeted assessment, and development that actually reflect what the job requires. We’ll also have a special guest, Rhonda Rhodes, Director of Leadership & Capabilities Development, who will share how AbbVie brings their critical role strategy to life.

It’s a chance to step back and pressure-test your current approach, pick up a few ideas you can use right away, and see how others are tackling the same challenges—especially when timelines are tight and the stakes are high.

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