The Gartner CIO Leadership Forum US West 2026 is an executive-level conference designed for chief information officers and senior IT leaders who want to sharpen their strategic edge, strengthen partnerships with the business, and lead transformation across the enterprise. Hosted by Gartner, one of the world’s leading technology research and advisory firms, this event brings together technology leaders to explore cutting-edge insights, validated frameworks, and peer-driven strategies that address today’s most pressing leadership and digital priorities.
This year’s Forum is taking place in Phoenix, Arizona, offering in-person access to sessions, one-on-one expert interactions, and networking opportunities tailored specifically for CIOs who are shaping the future of technology leadership.
Why the Gartner CIO Leadership Forum Matters
In today’s environment, CIOs are expected to do more than manage technology. They are expected to influence strategy, support enterprise-wide value creation, and lead organizations through disruption. The 2026 Gartner CIO Leadership Forum provides a curated environment where senior IT leaders can:
- Validate and refine their leadership strategies with data-driven insights and research-based guidance from Gartner experts.
- Strengthen connections with peers facing similar leadership challenges and opportunities.
- Participate in interactive sessions that tackle real issues such as responsible AI adoption, business resiliency, executive influence, and cybersecurity risk.
- Learn practical approaches to leading technology teams in a business context where digital acceleration and innovation are essential.
For CIOs and senior IT executives, this forum is a chance to step back, reflect, and accelerate strategic thinking in a world where technology decisions have direct business impact.
What to Expect at Gartner CIO Leadership Forum 2026?
The Forum combines high-value content, expert engagements, and networking structures to create a focused learning experience:
Keynote and Strategy Sessions
Sessions are structured around the theme of Leadership in Motion, reflecting the evolving nature of the CIO role as technology moves from support function to strategic force. Topics include AI adoption, executive influence, digital resilience, and future operating models.
Role-Driven Tracks
Content tracks are designed to address both technical and leadership priorities, such as CIO as Functional Leader and CIO as CXO, helping participants enhance influence across the enterprise.
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Interactive Peer Discussions and Roundtables
Exclusive small-group formats allow leaders to exchange experiences, tackle shared challenges, and build actionable strategies based on real scenarios.
One-on-One Expert Sessions
Attendees have access to Gartner experts for personalized conversations that help clarify strategic direction and priority planning.
Exhibit Marketplace
Explore the latest in technology solutions from leading vendors and understand how emerging tools can support strategic initiatives and operational goals.
Core Themes and Focus Areas
The 2026 agenda covers a broad spectrum of topics relevant to modern CIOs and senior IT leaders:
Leadership and Influence
Approaches for elevating IT’s role in organizational strategy, decision making, and executive collaboration.
AI Adoption and Responsible Technology
Practical strategies for integrating artificial intelligence responsibly at enterprise scale without compromising governance and resilience.
Cybersecurity and Risk Management
New approaches to securing hybrid environments and balancing performance with risk mitigation.
Business Value and Strategic Execution
Insights on demonstrating the measurable value of technology investments and driving digital outcomes that support revenue and customer experience goals.
Culture, Talent and Change
Sessions on building high-performing organizations and cultivating the leadership capabilities needed to thrive in dynamic business conditions.
These themes form a comprehensive framework for leadership growth, organizational impact, and future readiness.
Featured Speakers and Thought Leaders
The Forum features senior analysts and expert speakers from Gartner, as well as CIOs who are leading transformation in their organizations. Some of the voices on the 2026 agenda include:
- Gene Alvarez –VP Analyst, Gartner
- Mandi Bishop –VP Analyst, Gartner
- Brandon Germer – Senior Director Analyst, Gartner
- Christie Struckman –VP Analyst, Gartner
- Anupriya Sharma – VP Tech Strategy and Programs, Walmart
Learning, Networking and Experience
The CIO Leadership Forum also delivers structured networking and experiential opportunities designed for senior technology leaders:
Peer Networking
Senior leaders can connect with their peers in structured and informal settings to exchange insights and best practices.
Pre-conference Planning Tools
Once registered, participants can use the Gartner Conference Navigator tool to build personalized agendas, register for workshops, and schedule meetings.
Solution Provider Engagement
The exhibit showcase allows attendees to explore strategic technologies and discuss solutions with vendors that support digital acceleration and transformation priorities.
This combination of learning and connection is what sets Gartner conferences apart for senior IT leaders.
Why Gartner CIO Leadership Forum US West 2026 Matters
For CIOs and senior IT leaders, this event is an investment in leadership, strategy, and community. It offers:
- Deep insights grounded in Gartner research and global advisory expertise.
- Practical frameworks and tools that support technology decisions with measurable business impact.
- Peer connections and collaboration opportunities that strengthen leadership networks.
Ultimately, this forum helps technology leaders navigate complexity with confidence and influence outcomes in the enterprise.
👉 Discover more: www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/cio-us-west