Former top FBI negotiator Chris Voss to headline leadership conference in Prague

In a world grappling with leadership challenges, former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss is set to take center stage at the upcoming Leaders of The Future conference in Prague. The event, scheduled for Oct. 8, 2024, at Prague Castle, aims to address the pressing issues of global leadership in an era marked by armed conflicts, economic instability, and climate concerns.

Voss, who now helps companies mediate difficult business talks, is renowned for his expertise in high-stakes negotiations. He will share insights gleaned from his experiences dealing with terrorists and kidnappers. Voss's participation underscores the conference's focus on developing empathetic and effective leadership skills in an increasingly polarized world.

"What is the future of leadership and how to be a good leader? Currently, world leadership is in crisis," says Radim Pařík, president of the Association of Negotiators and organizer of the conference. "As a consequence, armed conflicts are not only threatening, but have unfortunately already become a reality."

The conference comes at a critical time when traditional leadership models are being questioned. Pařík emphasizes the need for a new approach, stating, "A good leader of the future puts social values above their own benefit, listens but does not confuse empathy with compassion, and never achieves consensus through coercion."

Other notable speakers include Pavla Gomba, Executive Director of Czech UNICEF, and Zdeněk Zajíček, President of the Chamber of Commerce. The event will also explore the impact of Generation Z on leadership dynamics and decision-making processes.

Voss will deliver a talk on how to leverage emotional intelligence in leadership, drawing on FBI negotiation strategies. He will demonstrate how understanding emotions can lead to better leadership and stronger commitment from employees. The former negotiator will also present real-world examples of leaders who successfully united clients, employees, and even competitors in challenging situations.

The Leaders of the Future Conference takes place at Prague Castle on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024. Buy your tickets here.