About Execs 2026

Executive leadership in the language industry is being tested in new ways as AI reshapes expectations, value is scrutinised more closely, and decision-making becomes increasingly complex. For leaders navigating this shift, clarity, perspective, and informed judgement matter more than ever.

ELIA Focus on Executives 2026 is a dedicated forum for senior leaders to step back from day-to-day pressures and engage in high-level dialogue around strategy, value creation, and growth. Join us in the historic and vibrant city of Chania, Crete, on 14–15 May for the 10th edition of the event, bringing together executive-level discussion, expert insight, and meaningful peer exchange in one of Greece’s most storied destinations.

PROGRAMME

Over two days, under the theme Inside Executive Decision-Making: Creating Value and Growth in an AI-Shaped Industry, the programme is built around a deliberate dual perspective. Participants will explore, first, where localisation truly works today—how clients assess value, make trade-offs, and redesign localisation as a strategic, product-driven capability. The programme then turns to the equally critical challenge of how LSP leaders translate that value into decisions, through credibility, positioning, and a deeper understanding of how buyers actually think and choose.

Through two expert-led sessions, a moderated panel, and a facilitated World Café workshop, participants gain insight into both sides of the equation: what clients really want and expect in an AI-shaped industry, and how to communicate, frame, and defend that value without defaulting to price or traditional RFP-driven models. The programme addresses the industry’s current “AI moment” with clarity and curiosity, supporting more informed decision-making and the development of sustainable, high-impact partnerships grounded in long-term value and trust.

More information about the sessions will be announced soon!

Track 1: When Localisation Works
by Tommaso Rossi

Track 2: Influencing Value and Choice
by Alexander Freeland

13 May
14 May
15 May

19:30 – 23:00

Welcome Dinner at Thalassa Restaurant (venue)

Track 1: When Localisation Works – by Tommaso Rossi

09:00 – 09:30

Open Registration & Welcome Coffee

09:30 – 17:15

Sessions

20:00 – 00:00

Networking Dinner at Sapel Hall

Track 2: Influencing Value and Choice – by Alexander Freeland

09:30 – 10:00

Morning Coffee

10:00 – 17:15

Sessions

Download Programme PDF

SPEAKERS

Tommaso Rossi

Spotify

Director of Localization

Tommaso Rossi

Alexander Freeland

Scotswork

Consultant Senior

Alexander Freeland

Who should attend?

ELIA Focus on Executives is a highly curated forum designed for a select group of senior leaders from the language industry in Europe and beyond. The event brings together owners, CEOs, managing directors, and other senior decision-makers who are actively shaping the future direction of their organisations.

Through a carefully structured programme, participants engage in high-level, candid discussions on strategy, value creation, and growth in a rapidly changing industry. The format encourages meaningful peer exchange, enabling executives to share experience, challenge assumptions, and learn from one another in a trusted, confidential setting.

This is an event for leaders who value strategic dialogue, thoughtful collaboration, and the opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations to reflect on the decisions that matter most.

Benefits of the programme

For you

Strengthen your leadership perspective in the context of rapid industry change.
Join a highly trusted, peer-level community of senior language industry leaders.
Gain actionable insight and dedicated time to reflect on strategic priorities and emerging trends.
Engage in meaningful dialogue with experienced peers facing similar executive challenges.
Contribute to—and help shape—the conversations influencing the future direction of the industry.

For your company

Enhance your organisation’s readiness and competitiveness in an AI-shaped market.
Bring back new strategic ideas, frameworks, and perspectives to inform decision-making.
Gain clearer insight into your organisation’s strengths, risks, and strategic blind spots.
Strengthen performance by applying proven approaches and best practices shared by peers.
Deepen existing partnerships and identify new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

REGISTER

Early Bird Full Rate

- €950
  
  Member
  - Valid until 1 April 2026
  - Applicable to ELIA & ALC members
  - Registration includes access to all sessions, the Networking Dinner, lunches, and coffee breaks during the event.
  - For group registrations, contact us.
- €1100
  
  Member
  - Valid from 2 April 2026
  - Applicable to ELIA & ALC members
  - Registration includes access to all sessions, the Networking Dinner, lunches, and coffee breaks during the event.
  - For group registrations, contact us.
- €1140
  
  Non-member
  - Valid until 1 April 2026
  - A 10% discount to members of ELIA Association Partners: AALC, AASL, AATC, AFIT, Aneti, Apit, ATC, Bliss, CLIA, Federlingue, Juntos, Polot, QSD, TinA and VViN
  - Registration includes access to all sessions, the Networking Dinner, lunches, and coffee breaks during the event.
  - For group registrations, contact us.
- €1290
  
  Non-member
  - Valid from 2 April 2026
  - A 10% discount to members of ELIA Association Partners: AALC, AASL, AATC, AFIT, Aneti, Apit, ATC, Bliss, CLIA, Federlingue, Juntos, Polot, QSD, TinA and VViN
  - Registration includes access to all sessions, the Networking Dinner, lunches, and coffee breaks during the event.
  - For group registrations, contact us.

Register

Cancellation Policy

All requests for cancellation and refunds must be received in writing; this also applies to registration substitutions. Please contact us via email.

To view the full cancellation policy and for more information about ELIA’s Event Terms & Conditions, please click here.

Venue

Minoa Palace Resort Hotel in Chania stands out due its aura of tranquility, harmoniously blended in with the ocean breeze and the lush green surroundings. A preferable choice for artistic rendez-vous, the resort is an equally great host for all sorts of events.

The hotel offers special rates for ELIA’s attendees by 09/04/2026. We recommend that you book your room as early as possible, to secure availability, using the BOOKING LINK.

Double Room – mountain or garden view: €140.00
Double Room – pool view: €150.00
Imperial Double – side sea view: €180.00

Rates are valid from 3 days before and after the event, for single/double occupancy, per night and subject to availability. For pre – or post-event stays, please contact the hotel directly. Climate Resilience Tax: €15.00 per room, per night (payable upon arrival).

Copyright Minoa Palace Resort Hotel

Minoa Palace Resort

Platanias, Chania, Crete

Tel: +30 28210 36500 reservations@minoapalace.gr Visit Website

Social Events

Don’t miss our networking events at Focus on Execs 2026! Connect with fellow attendees, engage with speakers, and mingle with the ELIA Board & Team—all in the signature, inimitable ELIA style.

Welcome Dinner

Wednesday, 13 May / 19:30-23:00
Thalassa Restaurant (venue)

The cost for the welcome dinner is €65 per person and you can sign up during registration. Click here for the menu.

Networking Dinner

Thursday, 14 May / 20:00-00:00
Sapel Hall – Agia Marina

Dinner is included in the price of registration. You are welcome to bring any guest(s) and the cost for each guest is €65. Click here for the menu.