What to Expect at an Evanta Inner Circle


Community Blog
Written by Clare Ryan

JANUARY 16, 2024

Here at Evanta, a Gartner Company, members of our exclusive C-level communities gather year-round to make local connections and share global insights with peers from the world’s leading organizations. Community members participate in a range of in-person and virtual programs, and one of the most popular is the Inner Circle, where they convene for an evening of networking, dinner and facilitated discussions. 

Inner Circles are one of our most intimate community gatherings, and we host hundreds of them across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia each year. If you have not joined your Evanta community or attended an Inner Circle before, the relaxed setting is designed for members to build deep relationships with their true, C-level peers and have informative conversations around pressing business challenges. Members can expect to enter a networking reception followed by interactive roundtable discussions, casual networking, sharing of discussion takeaways over dinner, and close with a social hour.

One community member said, “The ability to connect with peers and engage in meaningful discussion is incredible, and being able to compare talking points and program capabilities with others in the same role is remarkably beneficial and insightful.”

Another shared, “An extremely valuable session, including both thought leadership on key topics as well as an enjoyable networking element. The right people were in the room to ensure effective sharing.”

Governing Body Members for each community shape the agendas, and the discussion topics are tailored to the executives’ mission critical priorities. With this focus, members have the opportunity to “compare notes,'' collaborate, and share cross-industry perspectives for ways to tackle common obstacles. Some upcoming discussion topics in 2024 include managing the ongoing expectations of AI, cost optimization in an uncertain future, supporting a data-centric culture, and leading through transformation and technology implementations.

One CFO community member shared their experience, "The range of topics covered during the sessions was both relevant and insightful, offering valuable insights into the world of finance and leadership. I left feeling inspired and better informed, with a strong network of connections to tap into."

We often hear members say that one of their greatest challenges as a leader is “feeling lonely at the top” and not having a confidante within their organization as they try to drive meaningful change. They appreciate how their Evanta community – and especially the structure of the Inner Circles – allow them to form lasting connections with peers in their local community who can help advance both their professional and personal aspirations. Here is what a few had to say: 
 

The peer networking opportunity Evanta provides is immeasurable. The safe space we are given where we can share insights, as well as ask questions, are highly beneficial to our roles in technology no matter the industry.”

This [Inner Circle] is one of my favorite events for really getting a chance to know your peers in the area. I always leave with a few great ideas and a renewed sense of purpose when I am back in the office the next day.”


If you are not already an Evanta member, apply to join your local community, and don’t forget to take a look at the calendar to see when your community is gathering next.