The Leadership Summit 2025
"Leading with AI: From Big Innovations to Everyday Wins"
The Summit 2025 has been postponed.
Welcome to Leadership in Full Swing!
Join us for an inspiring blend of talks, workshops, networking, cultural highlights, and an unforgettable ballroom dancing event!
The Leadership Summit is a three-day journey in the heart of Vienna, focused on discovering how to lead with AI in ways that truly work. Join top experts for inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, and dynamic discussions that cut through the AI-noise to deliver real, actionable insights for modern leadership and talent development.
A standout feature of this Summit is that the speakers and experts will be present throughout the entire event, offering ample opportunities for you to engage with them one-on-one and work toward concrete solutions tailored to your specific interests and growth objectives.
And it’s not all business—this program is tailored for you to bring your partners and families and immerse yourselves in Vienna’s cultural charm with exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours and cap off the experience with a grand ballroom event at the historic Hofburg Palace. It’s going to be unforgettable blend of learning, inspiration, networking, and celebration.
Program
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Wednesday, Pre-program |
Thursday, 9:30 – 12:30: Opening session Introduction, Keynotes, and Talks AI Horizons: What lies ahead for Leaders and Organizations AI and the Future of Management: Balancing Autonomy and Algorithm From Knowing to Doing: How AI Agents Are Turning Business Intelligence into Business Action and how you can leverage their power. AI in Action: Best Practices for Everyday Leadership Wins 14:00 – 17:00: Workshop Sessions Moonshot Thinking: Using AI to unlock bold, transformative strategies to take your organization to new heights. Agents at Work: Discover practical ways to integrate AI agents as digital collaborators in your organization to enhance efficiency and results. ACE Your AI: How to make the most of AI for leadership and learning - and what really works Free Evening at Leisure |
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Friday, 9:30 – 12:30: Workshops & work with experts Making it Real: Best practices and lessons learned in implementing AI The Cultural Compass: Understanding and Optimizing Culture with AI You at Your Best: Discover and optimally use your unique strengths through assessments and AI-driven insights. Individual sessions with experts 14:00 – 16:00: Teamwork sessions & work with experts Where Human Creativity Meets AI: Individual sessions with experts 16:30: Closing Session 19:00: Dinner |
Saturday, Morning Cultural sessions & behind-the-scenes tour in Vienna Afternoon Ballroom Brush-Up – Dancing Lesson Evening Private Reception and Ball at The Hofburg Palace, Vienna |
Registration
Register for the Leadership Summit 2025!
Sessions and Workshops
More details on the sessions will be announced soon.
Interactive Keynote:
AI Horizons: What Lies Ahead for Leaders and Organizations
Get a clear view of the AI-driven changes coming in the next months and years, including the rise of AI agents, advanced automation, and smarter decision-making tools. This keynote will explore the tangible impacts AI will have on leadership and organizational strategies, from transforming workflows to reshaping team dynamics. Learn what to expect as AI integrates deeper into everyday business practices and discover how to adapt and prepare your leadership approach to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Keynote and case discussion:
AI and the Future of Management: Balancing Autonomy and Algorithm
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape business landscapes, senior executives, business owners, and entrepreneurs face a pivotal challenge: how to leverage AI's capabilities without losing the essence of human judgment, expertise, and entrepreneurial vision. This keynote session will explore the balance between AI-driven insights and human decision-making, focusing on how AI can enhance, rather than replace, leadership in business operations. Whether you're leading a corporation or building your own business, this session will equip you with insights to navigate the evolving landscape of leadership and entrepreneurship in the AI age.
Interactive Keynote:
AI in Action: Best Practices for Everyday Leadership
Amid the hype surrounding AI, many leaders are still figuring out how to go beyond simple tasks like generating blurbs or translations. This keynote dives into practical, real-world applications of AI for performance improvement, decision-making, HR and talent development initiatives, and learning. Learn how to harness AI effectively in your daily leadership with concrete, ready-to-use tools and best practices. Walk away with actionable insights on using AI to drive measurable results and empower your team for success.
Keynote with live demonstrations:
From Knowing to Doing: How AI Agents Are Turning Business Intelligence into Business Action
We're witnessing a fundamental shift in AI's capability: from systems that provide knowledge to agents that take action. For business leaders, this represents a transformative moment - one that requires rethinking how work gets done, as AI agents become a new type of digital coworker in your organization. You will learn how this shift from knowledge-based AI to action-based agents is revolutionizing how leading companies operate how you can take practical steps to turn business intelligence into business action.
Workshop session:
ACE Your AI: Understanding and Leveraging the Full Power of AI
Success goes through phases—Address, Create, and Execute—whether launching a product or seizing an opportunity. This session explores how to use AI in each phase: Address challenges, Create solutions, and Execute plans. By understanding AI's role in these areas, you'll grasp both its potential and limitations. “ACE Your AI” is the key to leveraging AI as a powerful collaboration tool for real-world success.
Workshop session:
Where Human Creativity Meets Artificial Intelligence
In this breakout session, participants will engage in teamwork to tackle real challenges or opportunities they are currently facing. You'll leverage the combined power of human creativity and AI tools, working together to brainstorm and solve problems. This is where the true magic happens—when human ingenuity meets artificial intelligence to create innovative solutions.
Workshop session:
You at Your Best - Using AI and Assessments to Harness Your Strengths
This workshop invites participants to explore the powerful combination of AI and strengths assessments to unlock their full potential. By taking a tailored strengths assessment (optional), participants will gain deeper insights into their unique abilities and learn how AI can provide actionable solutions to critical questions such as: What are my specific strengths, and how can I maximize them? Who should I collaborate with to address areas of improvement? What strengths can our team leverage to excel, and where might we need complementary talents? How can our organization address challenges like boosting sales, maximizing profits, or driving growth using existing strengths or by identifying new talent? Through this session, participants will discover how AI can analyze assessment results to uncover opportunities, create strategies, and implement solutions to achieve both personal and organizational goals effectively.
Workshop session:
The Cultural Compass: Using AI to Understand, Align, and Optimize Your Team’s Culture
This workshop equips leaders with the tools to understand and align their teams, organizations, or families by exploring their unique cultural dynamics through the Cultural Compass assessment. By identifying what truly matters to people—such as recognition, autonomy, trust, or meaningful work—participants will gain clarity on where individuals and teams stand in relation to these values. Leveraging AI, they’ll uncover actionable insights to bridge gaps between current satisfaction and key motivators, enabling them to optimize their culture. You will learn how to use AI to create strategies that bring everyone on board, fostering engagement, collaboration, and alignment with shared goals. Whether addressing organizational challenges, strengthening family connections, or improving team dynamics, this session demonstrates how AI and cultural insights can drive meaningful, collective growth.
Speakers, Experts, Facilitators
More speakers and panelists to be confirmed soon.
Maks Giordano
You can run an AI event without Maks Giordano—but you shouldn’t. And we definitely won’t. As one of Europe’s foremost AI experts, Maks delivers absolutely eye-opening and thought-provoking presentations around AI and it's potential.
Prof. Eric Weber
Professor Eric Weber, former dean of IESE Business School’s New York campus and member of the Harvard-IESE committee, has been an early adopter of AI, integrating its potential and challenges into his teaching and research.
Dirk Hofmann
Long before AI became a buzzword, Dirk Hofmann was already at the forefront of the field, pioneering innovative ways for global enterprises to unlock the potential of data and AI.
Verena Lauffs
As the Head of the Autoris Leadership Institute Academy, Verena co-develops and runs programs such as "ACE Your AI", "Leading with AI", and the "ACE it! Master Certification" for organizations around the globe.
Prof. Matthias Ehrhardt
Matthias Ehrhardt is tthe Founder and CEO of the Autoris Leadership Institute, specializing in leadership development at the crossroads of AI, technology, and the humanities.
Events and Cultural Program
More details will be announced soon.
Behind the-scenes tours at some of Viennas most beautiful cultural highlights.
Also located steps away from our venue, the Albertina Museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts. Housing one of the most significant collections of classical modern and contemporary art, the museum showcases masterpieces from Monet to Picasso. Our exclusive guided tour will offer an in-depth look at its celebrated exhibits, providing a perfect blend of culture and inspiration.
Brushing up Your Dancing Skills
If you’d like a bit of preparation beforehand, feel free to watch the video above. Then join us on Saturday afternoon for a fun and entertaining brush-up lesson at a Vienna dance school. We’ll get you up to speed on all the steps, so you can glide across the dance floor with confidence. And remember, dancing has a lot to do with both leadership and partnership—so get ready to lead and follow with style!
An unforgettable evening at the Juristenball -
(The Ball of the Legal Professions)
We will spend an unforgettable night at the prestigious Juristenball at the Imperial Palace, one of Vienna's most renowned events. With 3,000 attendees and nine dance floors, there’s something for everyone—from classical waltz and Latin music to traditional Viennese orchestras and even a disco in the basement. The evening kicks off with a reception at 7:00 p.m. and runs through to 5:00 a.m., ending with a final waltz. For those who still want more, an early breakfast awaits. (And don’t worry—you don’t have to be a member of the legal profession to join the fun!)
Optional:
Wiener Opernball
(The Vienna Opera Ball)
For those who feel that they could do two ballroom events within one week, Thursday evening offers the chance to attend the Opernball ("Ball of the Opera"). Hosted at the famous Vienna Opera, just across the street from our venue, this is a unique opportunity to attend one of the most sought-after ballroom events in the world. (Please note that this event is not part of the official program of The Leadership Summit.)
Venues
Additional venues will be announces soon.
The Albertina Museum
Also located steps away from our venue, the Albertina Museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts. Housing one of the most significant collections of classical modern and contemporary art, the museum showcases masterpieces from Monet to Picasso. Our exclusive guided tour will offer an in-depth look at its celebrated exhibits, providing a perfect blend of culture and inspiration.
The Hofburg Palace
The Hofburg Palace, once the heart of imperial Vienna, is where we’ll gather for the prestigious Juristenball. It’s an evening of tradition, live music, and waltzing in the palace’s grand halls. With its rich history and timeless elegance, the Hofburg sets the perfect stage for a truly memorable night.
Österreichische Nationalbibliothek (National Library)
The Austrian National Library (Österreichische Nationalbibliothek), located in Vienna's Hofburg Palace, is Austria's largest library with over 12 million items, including rare manuscripts, maps, and photographs. Highlights include the grand baroque State Hall (Prunksaal) and specialized collections like ancient globes. As both a research institution and cultural hub, it offers exhibitions, tours, and historical archives. The Austrian National Library is just that—an intellectual and inspirational highlight, sparking curiosity and new ideas.
Wiener Staatsoper (The Vienna Opera House)
The Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper) is one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, renowned for its rich history and exceptional performances. Since its opening in 1869 with Mozart's Don Giovanni, it has been a stage for both timeless classics and innovative productions. Hosting over 350 performances a year, the Opera offers a diverse repertoire, ranging from grand operas and ballets to contemporary works. The Vienna State Opera is just that—a place where creativity, innovation, and breakthrough ideas have ignited and continue to do so.
The Leadership Awards
The Leadership Awards 2024/2025:
"Leading with AI"
One of the highlights of the Leadership Summit will be the Leadership Awards Ceremony for 2024/2025. This year's awards, themed ‘Leading with AI,’ will celebrate remarkable leaders and organizations who have who have developed, creatively applied, scaled, or researched AI-based solutions in the areas of leadership development, coaching, personal performance, and social impact.
We are proud to celebrate the people who are at the forefront of a new era in leadership and the winners will be recognized at the Gala Dinner during the Leadership Summit in Vienna, February 2025.
We are proud to celebrate the people who are at the forefront of a new era in leadership and the winners will be recognized at the Gala Dinner during the Leadership Summit in Vienna, February 2025.
Who This Program Is For
Leaders: Executives, managers, and team leads who want to stay ahead of AI trends and integrate proven practices into their leadership approach.
Entrepreneurs: Startup founders and business owners ready to leverage AI to drive innovation, optimize operations, and gain a competitive edge.
Business Family Members: Members of business families seeking to understand AI's impact on the future of family enterprises and how to navigate this transformation effectively.
Leadership and Talent Development Professionals: Senior HR professionals, leadership coaches, and anyone dedicated to harnessing the power of AI to help others grow personally and professionally.
Startups: Innovators who are keen to explore how AI can accelerate growth and transform business models in a fast-paced environment.
AI Enthusiasts: Anyone passionate about the big trends and latest developments in AI, who wants to cut through the noise and focus on practical, real-world applications.
- Your Family!
A Summit For Your Family
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A Summit For Your Family: We would love to have your partner and teenage children (15 years and older) join this unforgettable event.
Program Participation: Your partner and children are more than welcome to attend the sessions and workshops. Experience has shown that participating together, especially in breakout groups, can create a fantastic learning experience for all generations.
Generational Learning: Time and again, it is great to see how much we can learn from the younger generation regarding all things AI.
Tailored Cultural Programs: Additionally, there will be a special program designed just for them, making this event truly enriching for everyone.
Why attend
Benefits and Take-Aways
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Hands-on solutions for YOU: AI isn’t a one-size-fits-all game. That’s why the summit goes beyond simply sharing cutting-edge insights; it’s designed to equip you with AI-driven solutions tailored to the unique needs of you, your team, and your organization. Through practical workshops and guidance from top experts and practitioners, you’ll gain hands-on tools and strategies to implement AI effectively and leverage its power specifically for your challenges, opportunities, and goals.
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Experts at Your Disposal: One particular benefit of this summit is that our speakers and experts—thought leaders in AI and leadership—will be present for the entire program. You'll have the chance to connect with them in conversations throughout the event to explore tailored solutions for your specific challenges and goals.
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AI - Latest Trends and Opportunities: Explore the cutting-edge developments in AI and the new possibilities it brings. Understand how AI is disrupting industries and discover ways to leverage its potential for growth and innovation.
Concrete Best Practices: Learn actionable strategies for implementing AI tools in your daily leadership. Discover hands-on techniques to enhance team performance and streamline workflow.
Creative Problem-Solving: Discover how to effectively blend human creativity with AI tools to develop innovative solutions, keeping you ahead of the curve in any situation.
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High-Level Networking with Purpose: Build deep, meaningful connections with fellow leaders and entrepreneurs in an intimate, prestigious setting. Share experiences, explore collaborations, and foster relationships that drive success.
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Cultural Enrichment: Immerse yourself in Vienna’s rich culture and conclude the summit with an unforgettable ballroom experience.
At a Glance -
The Leadership Summit 2025
Download our one-page overview for key insights, program details, and highlights.
Fees and Packages
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Participant Fee: 4800 EUR (Early bird fee) |
Spouse/Partner Fee: 3100 EUR (Early bird fee) |
Teenager Fee: 2000 EUR (Early bird fee) |
| The fees covers access to all keynote sessions and workshops, all materials, most meals, cultural programs, the dancing lesson event, as well as entrance and a reception before the Juristenball at the Hofburg Palace. Additional fees may apply for optional events like the Vienna Opera Ball. All fees are plus 20% Austrian VAT (where applicable). | ||
Registration
Register for the Leadership Summit 2025!
Contact
Please don't hesitate to reach out to
Verena Lauffs, Head of Autoris Academy
or go to our Contact page.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the main focus of the Leadership Summit 2025?
The summit focuses on leading with AI, exploring both big innovations and practical, everyday applications of AI in leadership. Sessions include keynotes, workshops, and discussions on how to integrate AI into organizational strategies and workflows.
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Who is the Leadership Summit 2025 for?
The summit is designed for leaders, executives, managers, entrepreneurs, business family members, startups, and AI enthusiasts. We also warmly welcome families, with a special program tailored for partners and teenage children (15 years and older).
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What are the key benefits of attending the summit?
Attendees will gain insights into the latest AI trends, learn actionable strategies for AI integration in leadership, explore creative problem-solving methods, and network with fellow leaders in an intimate, prestigious setting. Additionally, participants will enjoy cultural
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I have specific challenges or questions regarding AI. Will the summit help me?
Yes! One of the unique features of the Leadership Summit is that all speakers will be present throughout the entire event. They will be readily available to sit down with you for personalized discussions, answer your questions, ensuring you get the insights and guidance you need.
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Are there any cultural experiences included in the summit?
Yes! The summit offers a cultural tour of Vienna, a ballroom brush-up dancing lesson, and culminates in a grand Viennese Ball at the historic Hofburg Palace. Additionally, there are behind-the-scenes tours of Vienna's cultural highlights, including the Albertina Museum.
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Can I bring my family to the event?
Yes! The summit encourages you to bring your partner and teenage children (15 years and older). They can participate in the sessions and workshops and have access to a special cultural program.
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What is included in the participant fee?
The participant fee covers access to all keynote sessions, workshops, all materials, most meals, cultural programs, the dancing lesson event, as well as entrance and a reception at the Juristenball at the Hofburg Palace. Additional fees may apply for optional events like the Vienna Opera Ball.
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How can I register for the event?
To register, please visit the provided registration link and select the appropriate participation package.
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Do you offer hotel recommendations for participants?
We do not have specific hotels selected, as we know people have their own preferences and loyalty programs. However, if you'd like, we’d be happy to send recommendations tailored to your needs.
Autoris. Leadership in full swing.
Maks has been involved in digital innovation since the early '90s. He’s worked with iconic brands like Red Bull, BMW, Lego, and Sony-Europe, driving transformative projects.
Known for his dynamic storytelling and use of visuals, Maks captivates audiences with insights on digital innovation, mobility, and emerging tech trends. Maks’s presentations on leadership trends and AI are an experience you won't forget. They'll inspire you, challenge your thinking, and leave you ready to embrace the future.
Verena has served as an executive coach, mentor, and facilitator for over 10 years in various learning, talent development, and training programs. She works globally, inspiring individuals and teams to reach their full potential both personally and professionally in areas such as communication, motivation, and problem-solving using Design Thinking.
Verena has worked for companies Roland Berger, Bechtle, IESE Business School, Axel Springer, Blinkist, Watson Farley Williams, ecosio, Save the Children, and more.
With over 20 years of experience, Matthias has advised global corporations like Microsoft, Daimler, and KPMG, as well as unicorn startups and family businesses. His ACE it! Method—a framework focused on Addressing challenges, Creating solutions, and Executing strategies—has become a cornerstone for leaders aiming to foster innovation and growth.
Through his ACE Your AI programs, Matthias empowers leaders to integrate AI into day-to-day leadership, decision-making, talent development, and culture building. By blending human creativity with AI-driven insights, these programs help leaders navigate digital transformation with confidence.
An alumnus of Harvard, Columbia, and IESE Business Schools, with advanced degrees in law, media psychology, and art history, Matthias is known for combining his deep academic expertise with practical, AI-enabled leadership solutions. He frequently teaches at leading business schools and speaks at global events, helping leaders unlock their potential in a tech-driven world.
Eric is currently writing business school cases on AI’s role in leadership and organizational change, helping executives and entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of digital transformation.
With a Ph.D. in Management from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and an MBA from IESE, Eric also holds a degree in mechanical engineering from the Universidad Simón Bolívar. Over his 23 years on IESE’s Executive Committee and 17 years as deputy dean, he has overseen the MBA and Executive Education programs. Under his leadership, IESE has consistently ranked as the world’s top business school for Executive Education.
Eric consults globally for corporations and startups across diverse industries, serves on multiple boards, and volunteers with educational nonprofits. His workshops and lectures, known for their practical approach, are highly regarded by students and executives, effectively bridging technology and leadership.
As CEO of DAIN Studios Germany and a founding member of DAIN Studios, Dirk has been instrumental in shaping the future of AI and data consultancy. DAIN, an acronym for Data, AI (Artificial Intelligence), and Insights, provides comprehensive AI and data consultancy, execution, product development, and training services.
Since its inception in March 2016, DAIN has expanded its footprint to include studios in Helsinki, Berlin, and Munich, growing to a robust team of over 70 seasoned experts specializing in AI, Data Science, AI Ethics, and Data Literacy. The firm has proudly served over 100 renowned international clients across 14 industries, including prestigious names such as Linde, Deutsche Telekom, and Körber. In 2022, the Körber Group became a strategic investor in DAIN Studios, further accelerating its growth.
Dirk's expertise lies in guiding companies through the complexities of data and AI strategy development, fostering data-driven business models, building data ecosystems, and creating AI-powered services. His leadership in driving transformation, change management, and educational strategies has enabled countless organizations to harness the power of data and AI effectively.
With nearly 20 years of experience in the Data/AI domain, Dirk is a sought-after speaker at public forums and internal corporate events. He passionately shares his insights and practical experiences, empowering audiences to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and data.
Dirk holds a Master’s in Media Science, Psychology, and Economics from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich.
Driven by a passion for harnessing the power of AI to solve complex business challenges, Dirk continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the rapidly evolving world of data and artificial intelligence.
If you’re looking for a seasoned expert with decades of deep-tech experience, known for turning complex challenges into feasible AI-driven solutions, Dirk is the person to turn to.