HIT INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP SUMMIT - JOURNEY TO EXCELLENCE

Big Ideas. Big Discussions. Real Impact.

Access: Exclusive / Invitation Only

Date: Thursday, 19th November 2026 

Location: Crossbasket Castle, High Blantyre, Glasgow 

Capacity: Strictly Limited to 150 Senior Leaders 

Delegate Fee: £295 per person (Classed as a charitable donation to HIT Scotland)

Welcome to the Journey to Excellence

As Scotland’s hospitality and tourism sectors navigate the evolving economic, structural, and human challenges of 2026, HIT Scotland is bringing together 150 of the industry’s most influential leaders for a dedicated day of forward-looking strategy, high-level networking, and practical solutions. 

Hosted at the iconic Crossbasket Castle, this exclusive summit bypasses surface-level management theory. Instead, it focuses on peer-to-peer collaboration, delivering an actionable roadmap designed to protect operating margins, empower teams, and elevate business culture.

What to Expect: The Three Core Pathways

To ensure dynamic dialogue and active participation, delegates will be divided into three intimate cohorts of 50. Throughout the day, you will rotate through three concurrent, 80-minute interactive workshop sessions led by our specialist delivery partners: 

  • Track 1: The Future of Workforce Design 

      (Facilitated by Gary Crawford & Rebecca Hastings, Owendale Advisory)

Move beyond recruitment firefighting. Discover how to intentionally design an employment deal that retains key talent, balances Gen Z motivators with industry veterans, and uses AI and algorithmic scheduling to strip away administrative burnout. 

  • Track 2: The Value Paradox 

(Facilitated by Victoria Taylor & Phil Rombold)

Overcome the pressure of rising costs and guest price sensitivity. Learn how to transition from operational manager to experience architect, using distinct brand identity, storytelling, and premium guest journey design to command higher margins. 

  • Track 3: Culture by Design, Not Default 

(Facilitated by The Culture Builders)

Culture is a key commercial driver. Uncover how to build inclusive, psychologically safe, and high-performing environments that survive under operational stress—moving your organisation from compliance to genuine commitment. 


Keynote & Prospectus Launch

Hosted throughout the day by renowned BBC broadcaster, and friend of HIT Scotland, Stephen Jardine, the summit concludes with a headline keynote address from former RAF Fighter Pilot and leadership expert Sarah Furness, who will share actionable insights on decision-making, resilience, and operational excellence under high stakes. 

Following the keynote, HIT Scotland will officially launch the 2027 Executive & Leadership Programme Prospectus, giving attendees early access to our upcoming executive development cohorts. 

Booking Details

Because this web page is hidden and invitation-only, your link guarantees access to book, but places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until our 150-delegate cap is reached. 

  • Delegate Contribution: £295 per person. 

Note on Charitable Impact: Every ticket purchased is processed as a charitable donation to HIT Scotland, funding future scholarships and development opportunities for emerging talent across Scottish hospitality.