Strategic Themes Shaped by Industry Leaders
Our Strategic Themes are defined in partnership with the Advisory Committee — a cross-section of senior leaders from across the Oil & Gas sector. Through a series of focused meetings, the Committee identifies the challenges, priorities, and opportunities that matter most right now.
Their perspectives ensure the programme reflects the realities of the industry: the technologies gaining traction, the obstacles slowing progress, and the decisions leaders must get right. This makes the Summit a space for meaningful dialogue, not generic conference content.
2026 Strategic Themes
THEME ONE
Digital Transformation & Data Optimisation
How are leading operators using data to improve margin, reliability, and efficiency across the value chain? This theme explores how EMEA and global O&G companies are standardising data models, connecting siloed assets, and integrating advanced analytics to deliver measurable improvements in capex and opex. From real-time visibility and automated decision-making to enterprise-wide digital workflows, sessions highlight where transformation is genuinely delivering financial and operational impact—and how leaders are prioritising investments for the next 12–24 months.
Strategic Priority Areas
- Change Management & Leadership
- Data Management, Quality & Privacy
- Data Visualisation & Optimisation
- Digital Skills & Talent Development
- Energy-Efficient Technologies & Decarbonisation
- Operational Excellence & Process Optimisation
- Asset Integrity & Reliability Management
THEME TWO
AI & Predictive Maintenance
Where is AI already cutting costs—and where is the next value wave emerging? This theme focuses on real case studies showing how AI-driven predictive maintenance is preventing unplanned shutdowns across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations. Leaders will examine the role of machine learning, anomaly detection, robotics, and remote operations in reducing maintenance costs, improving safety, and lowering emissions. Delegates will uncover what it takes to operationalise AI models at scale, build trust with engineering teams, and demonstrate ROI to the board.
Strategic Priority Areas
- AI & Advanced Analytics
- Predictive Maintenance Implementation
- AI / Autonomous Systems
- Robotics & Automation in Oil & Gas Assets
- Digital Twins for Asset Health & Simulation
THEME THREE
Harnessing IoT, Cybersecurity & Connectivity Technologies
As assets become more connected, the stakes for secure, resilient operations rise. This theme explores the technologies enabling safer and more reliable operations—from advanced IoT sensors and edge computing to network technologies built for remote or hazardous sites. Sessions will address how operators are integrating IT/OT cybersecurity, strengthening defences against evolving threats, and automating field operations. Expect practical discussions on secure connectivity, asset health monitoring, worker safety, and the role of emerging automation in high-risk or inaccessible environments.
Strategic Priority Areas
- Cybersecurity Risk & Threat Detection
- Digital Vulnerabilities in Oil & Gas Networks
- IoT & Remote Connectivity Technologies
- Edge Computing & Real-Time Asset Monitoring
- Human–Machine Teaming
THEME FOUR
Scaling Data + AI Projects with Legacy Tech Integration
The next frontier of digital maturity lies in scaling—not just piloting. This theme examines what it takes to move from successful proofs of concept to enterprise-wide deployment, particularly when dealing with decades-old infrastructure. Leaders will share strategies for integrating new data, AI, and visualisation platforms with legacy control systems and operational technologies. The focus: governance, change management, interoperability, architecture modernisation, and the investment decisions needed to accelerate scalability while protecting uptime and reliability.
Strategic Priority Areas
- Critical Path from Pilot to Enterprise-Wide Scaling
- Legacy Infrastructure & Integration
- Governance & Data Architecture Modernisation
- Change Alignment Across OT/IT Teams