Leading through pressure starts with people

Just announced at Retail Conference 2026

The retail property sector has spent the past few years navigating continual change.

Economic uncertainty, evolving consumer expectations and shifting investment priorities have challenged businesses to think differently about how they plan, lead and make decisions. While every organisation has experienced these pressures in different ways, one thing remains consistent: strong leadership plays a critical role in how businesses respond.

For those shaping New Zealand’s retail places—from shopping centre owners and developers to investors, asset managers and leasing professionals—the ability to lead through uncertainty has never been more important.

That’s why we’re pleased to announce Tim Bateman, Founder & CEO of O-Studio and former Māori All Blacks captain, as the closing keynote speaker for RECON 2026.

Drawing on 17 years in elite high-performance environments, Tim will share the habits, mindsets and behaviours that consistently underpin successful teams. His keynote will explore the role of preparation, accountability, resilience and culture, translating lessons from professional sport into practical strategies for business leaders operating in fast-moving and demanding environments.

While the context may differ, many of the challenges are familiar.

Building trust across teams, making confident decisions under pressure, maintaining high standards and leading through periods of uncertainty are all part of today’s retail property landscape. These are the qualities that enable organisations to adapt, seize opportunities and continue delivering value, even when market conditions are challenging.

This year’s RECON theme, Progress under Pressure, recognises that progress doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from leaders who are willing to learn, adapt and bring others with them.

As the conference draws to a close, Tim’s keynote will provide attendees with practical leadership insights that extend well beyond the retail sector. His session will leave delegates with strategies they can apply within their own organisations, whether they’re leading major developments, managing retail assets, delivering leasing outcomes or supporting high-performing teams.

RECON brings together the people shaping the future of retail property across New Zealand. Over two days, attendees will explore emerging trends, hear from leading retailers and industry experts, experience innovation through exclusive site tours, and connect with peers facing many of the same opportunities and challenges.

The conversations that begin at RECON don’t end when the conference closes. They influence decisions, strengthen professional networks and help build confidence for the months and years ahead.

In a year where every decision carries greater weight, RECON offers the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, gain fresh perspective and return with practical ideas to strengthen your leadership and your team.

Be part of the conversation this October as Tim Bateman closes RECON 2026 with practical lessons in leadership, resilience and high performance.

Register now → 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the retail property industry’s most anticipated events.

RECON26 | Retail Conference 2026 - New Zealand International Convention Centre

29 October 2026 @ 07:45 am – 07:15 pm

Venue: New Zealand International Convention Centre

Member: $665.00
Non-Member: $920.00

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