Jason Sudeikis, known for his portrayal of Ted Lasso in the Apple TV+ series of the same name, will headline the SHRM Annual Conference & Expo 2025 as the opening main stage speaker, the organization announced May 29.
The event, billed as the world’s largest HR gathering, will take place June 29 to July 2 at the San Diego Convention Center and online. Sudeikis will appear in a fireside chat with Betty Thompson, chair of the SHRM board of directors, to discuss themes including civility, accountability, and leadership in the workplace.
Ted Lasso’s values at work
Sudeikis’s role as the relentlessly optimistic Lasso earned accolades for presenting an alternative model of leadership rooted in empathy and kindness. The show was awarded a Peabody for challenging toxic masculinity and promoting positive workplace values.
“Jason Sudeikis’s award-winning portrayal of Ted Lasso took the world by storm and redefined leadership—not through authority or ego, but through civility, empathy, optimism, and a belief in others,” said Thompson. “This is a powerful reminder that true leaders are accountable for their actions. By fostering trust, owning their decisions, and demonstrating integrity, they inspire others to do the same.”
Event to cover broad HR topics
SHRM25 will include 375 curated sessions addressing HR challenges such as AI integration, pay transparency, talent acquisition, and employee experience. The conference will feature both in-person and virtual programming, allowing HR professionals worldwide to attend.
Organizers said attendees can expect practical insights from industry experts and networking opportunities with peers, with Sudeikis’s appearance setting the tone for the four-day event.
SHRM represents nearly 340,000 members across 180 countries and says its initiatives impact over 362 million workers and their families.
