By Jason Krumwiede, EVP at Aleron | RPOA Advisory Board Member
The RPOA Annual Conference is the premier gathering for RPO executives, talent acquisition leaders, advisors, and technology innovators. It’s where our community comes together to learn, share, and shape what’s next for recruitment process outsourcing. If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve—and hear real stories from industry leaders—this is the place to be.
After the tremendous success of the conference since its launch in 2022, I’m excited to share that registration is officially open for the 2025 RPOA Annual Conference, returning to Chicago on September 28–30 at the iconic LondonHouse. This year’s theme sets the tone: "Listen Up! Powerful Stories Shaping Strategic Talent Acquisition in Uncertain Times."
This year's conference is designed with two core audiences in mind:
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RPO Providers – executives, delivery leaders, and business development pros focused on growth and execution
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Talent Acquisition Executives – employer-side leaders navigating today’s shifting talent landscape and evaluating external partnerships
We also welcome industry analysts, consultants, investors, and technology partners who want to be part of this evolving conversation.
A Community of Peers Driving the Industry Forward
As an RPOA advisory board member for the past six years, my “why” has always been about growing the RPO industry alongside smart, passionate peers. I’ve had the privilege of learning from remarkable leaders at the RPOA—and the annual conference is where that learning comes to life.
We may compete in business, but in this community, we collaborate, challenge each other, and move the industry forward. The conference is where we ask: “Am I the only one seeing this shift?” and hear back, “You’re not alone.”
Despite post-pandemic economic uncertainty—hiring slowdowns, inflation, and cost pressure—our industry has shown incredible resilience. Private equity interest remains strong, and the energy at last year’s conference made it clear: we’re evolving, we’re innovating, and we’re ready to lead.
Innovation as a Strategic Imperative
Technology and innovation will once again take center stage at the 2025 conference. These sessions build on RPOA’s year-round commitment to education, with webinars and forums featuring top technology voices and analysts.
In previous years, futurist Kevin Wheeler challenged us with a compelling vision for recruiting, in which AI could replace up to 80 percent of manual recruiting tasks. This year, we’ll hear from RPOA technology partners to explore where the industry is headed—and how to build a smarter tech stack.
As I shared last year: "Continuous innovation and regular adaptation of your tech stack—not a 'set it and forget it' approach—are essential to meeting customer expectations and staying competitive in today’s market."
What to Expect in 2025
This year, we’re leaning into storytelling—real experiences from RPO buyers, providers, analysts, and technology leaders. Through case studies, peer forums, and analyst-led panels, we’ll explore what’s working, what’s changing, and what’s next.
Some highlights from the agenda:
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Dedicated content tracks for both RPO providers and TA executives
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Market intelligence from leading analysts
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Featured Technology Partner Sessions on both days
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Structured networking, including receptions, small-group dinners, and social events
Final Thoughts
RPO continues to play a strategic role in helping organizations scale, adapt, and thrive. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of talent acquisition—and being part of a supportive, forward-thinking community—join us in Chicago.
Register now and be part of the conversation. I look forward to seeing you there.
