- All Speakers
- Keynote Speakers
- Breakout Sessions
- Executive Leadership Series
- Growth Strategies Labs
- CMO Masterminds Series
- Power Breakfasts
- Lunch & Learns
Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
As one of the Media Managers at Pannos Marketing, Abby manages and executes organic SEO strategies that not only enhance search visibility but also improve user experience by aligning with website functionality and design. Abby collaborates across teams to implement omnichannel approaches that drive ROI and optimize conversion actions. With a background in paid media, Abby brings a holistic perspective to campaigns, ensuring that SEO efforts complement broader marketing strategies for maximum impact. Abby also has extensive experience in the paid side of digital media, assisting the media team in reaching digital results that regularly exceed industry benchmarks, including those of Google.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
Alex Matjanec
CEO of Wysh
As the Founder and CEO of Wysh, Alex Matjanec is a visionary entrepreneur at the forefront of the financial technology revolution. Leading a dynamic team committed to pushing the envelope to make financial protection more accessible and user-friendly, he defines his purpose and that of his company to empower every person to live life to the fullest by providing the confidence of financial protection\nAlex has been pivotal in helping Americans navigate their banking choices with unparalleled insight since 2008. That is when he launched MyBankTracker, a platform known for its comprehensive comparisons of banking products, which serves over 1.5 million visitors monthly and partners with giants like Ally Bank and Chase, establishing itself as a premium financial resource.\nHis work not only reflects a deep understanding of the digital finance ecosystem but also a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Through his leadership at Wysh, Alex continues to inspire and challenge the status quo, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative financial future.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Interest Rates: Protection is The Next Frontier in Deposit Growth
Copperleaf 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Alex Matjanec
CEO of Wysh
Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Powering 3x Revenue Growth with a AI Rewards Model
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
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Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Alexandra is a Vice President in Client Strategy at Deluxe focusing on business development and retention. With 15 years of experience as a strategic program manager, Alexandra has a proven track record developing and implementing omnichannel marketing campaigns for both B2B and B2C segments. She partners with leading data providers, top commercial printers, shipping partners and digital giants to ensure comprehensive and effective marketing strategies. Her expertise includes strategic campaign design, business case development, competitive landscape analysis, offer optimization, creative development, procurement and postal optimization. Alexandra has successfully designed and executed 4,000 omnichannel campaigns during her tenure at Deluxe.\nAlexandra graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. with Honors in Communication.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Precision Marketing: Connecting with Customers at Life’s Critical Moments
Starvine 8+9 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ann Handley, Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs, is a digital marketing pioneer and bestselling author frequently published in leading business media including Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. At the Forum 2025, you’ll step into the future of content creation with Ann, as she shares unique, actionable insights on how financial brands can use AI to escape marketing mediocrity and ignite tangible results.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Escaping Mediocrity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
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Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
With more than 25 years of financial expertise, Ben Udell is the driving force behind “future proofing” Lake Ridge Bank. As a leader in digital innovation, he enjoys working where technology, marketing, and data analytics intersect with consumer financial needs. He’s a leading banking expert in leveraging practical applications of generative AI and is never afraid to be disruptive went it allows him to find innovative ways to improve the client and associate experience. Recently named one of Bank Beat’s “Rising Starts in Banking”, he’s been helping train and consult with other bankers to help them see how AI can transform their organization. In his free time, he creates content for robotsarepeople.net, an AI and technology focused site, speaks on digital transformation, and writes about the financial industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI in Banking: Practical Applications for ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Ben is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research, a research organization that brings Fortune 500 businesses inside the inner-most lives of their customers. Nonfiction’s findings have been featured by ABC News, MSNBC, and FastCompany, and their work has inspired the creation of a new division at Disney, new flavors of Doritos, and national public service campaigns addressing public health issues.\n \nPrior to Nonfiction, Ben was the Head of CPG Research under Scott Galloway at L2 (acquired by Gartner). Ben volunteers as an Admissions Ambassador for his alma mater, Georgetown University, and has served on the boards of the Harvard Business Review, the Archdiocese of New York, several startups, and the Somerset Hills Ball Club, where he is currently the program’s t-ball commissioner. He lives in NJ with his wife and four young boys.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Benjamin Conant is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of MANTL, a financial technology firm offering the industry’s first Relationship Banking Platform. MANTL’s unified account origination technology empowers banks and credit unions to seamlessly open loan and deposit accounts on any banking channel in real time. \nBen is a serial entrepreneur and engineering leader. Before founding MANTL, Ben architected and led the development of business-empowering technology systems at several startups and was a math teacher. Ben holds a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy, economics, and computer science from Vassar College.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Titans of Deposits: Best Practices for Unlocking Growth
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Since Brian joined PWCampbell as National Accounts Executive, he has become a thought leader in the financial institution sector, bringing together creativity, strategic insight, and a profound comprehension of consumer and employee behavior. With dedication to pushing boundaries and questioning traditional design approaches, he focuses on crafting innovative strategies that engage audiences and drive results. During his tenure at PWCampbell, Brian has collaborated with major financial institutions nationwide to align customer and employee needs in response to ever-evolving branch expectations. Additionally, he is a graduate of ABA Bank Marketing School and serves on the NJBankers Retail Banking Committee.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
As Q2’s chief marketing officer (CMO), Carlos leads marketing vision, strategy, and initiatives to elevate brand awareness and drive demand for Q2’s industry-leading digital banking and lending solutions. He’s also responsible for spreading the word about Q2’s people-first culture, unparalleled industry expertise, and the differentiated value and success Q2 delivers to customers.\n \nCarlos brings a wealth of knowledge to Q2, having served as CMO at K2, a low-code automation solution leader, where he evolved the company’s go-to-market approach. At Kony, Carlos led marketing efforts, including the creation and launch of Kony’s next-generation digital banking vision and brand, which led to Kony’s successful acquisition by Temenos.\n \nCarlos has spent over 20 years in transformational digital technology, including web content management and advanced personalization at Vignette, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive recommendations at Baynote, and mobile-first innovation at Kony.\n \nCarlos is passionate about building highly collaborative, high-performing teams committed to excellence and delivering strong results. Off the clock, Carlos enjoys exploring new places with his family, attending concerts across the country with his daughter, and cheering on his favorite teams with his son.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fusing Marketing Strategy with Next-Gen Tech to Personalize Digital-Banking Experiences
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
World-renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan shares his “Dogma of The Dog Whisperer” and teaches you what he’s learned about mankind by studying man’s best friend. In this riveting, heartfelt keynote, he shares his unique approach to training and leadership based on principles of trust and loyalty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Cesar Millan: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
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Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
Chelsea Daniel
National Sales Representative at 360 View
Chelsea Daniel has spent nearly 15 years helping bankers understand the power of CRM and navigate the process of CRM adoption at their financial institution. As a former AVP of Client Services, she successfully led the CRM implementation for over 100 banks and credit unions. She is currently a national sales representative and can be found traveling coast to coast proclaiming the benefits of CRM. She resides in Nashville with her family and spends too much money on houseplants that may or may not stay alive.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unearthing Your Data Goldmine: How 360 View Helps Harness Your Wealth of Information
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
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Chelsea Daniel
National Sales Representative at 360 View
Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Chris Cox serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Apiture and oversees all aspects of business operations. Previously, Chris was the General Manager of First Data’s digital banking business. He also led mobile payment product development efforts at First Data. Prior to joining First Data, Chris was a Principal Consultant at Diamond Management & Technology Consultants and a Staff Consultant at CSC Consulting. Chris has more than 20 years of experience in banking, payments, mobile commerce, product innovation, and technology strategy. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Miami University in Ohio, and an MBA from Duke University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unlocking the Power of Data: What’s Your Financial Institution’s Data IQ?
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
With over 15 years of experience in digital experience strategy, Christina Baker is the Director of Strategy at SilverTech, where she partners with clients to define business goals and develop customized, omnichannel strategies that deliver measurable success.\nChristina is known for creating exceptional user experiences, collaborating with designers, engineers, and stakeholders to align strategic objectives across projects. Her expertise spans healthcare, utilities, banking, manufacturing, and eCommerce, with a focus on user experience, content strategy, SEO, digital transformation, data strategy, and personalization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Colin Walsh is the founder and CEO of Varo Bank, the first all-digital, nationally-chartered U.S. consumer techbank built from the ground up. Varo’s mission is to advance the cause of financial inclusion and opportunity for all. Colin is uniquely positioned to lead the digital bank revolution building on his years of experience in consumer banking at large global financial institutions. He led Europe’s largest credit and charge card business as an Executive Vice President at American Express. Colin also led the UK’s largest mortgage and savings businesses at Lloyds Banking Group, and served as Managing Director for the firm’s retail bancassurance, credit, debit and merchant acquiring businesses.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Varo: Sustainable Growth Through Product Innovation and Digital Marketing
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Cory is an experienced financial services executive successfully melding strategy, technology, design, operations and marketing into consistent go-to-market discipline that consistently achieves Y-O-Y growth from high performing teams. Over the last decade he has led global product, sales and marketing teams at BlackRock and BNP Paribas. He began his career as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Started with no ideas about marketing but deeply curious about why people buy/sell products and solutions in the regulated industry called banking. Two plus decades later – Smith Barney/Citigroup, Bank of America, JP Morgan, Neuberger Berman, People’s United Bank and Flagstar – I still love what I do.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Navigating Challenges & Avoiding Pitfalls
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Danielle Herd Webb serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer for Texas Bank and Trust Company.\nDanielle began her career in the financial services industry in 1998. Prior to joining Texas Bank and Trust in 2014, she held various retail and securities related management positions with JPMorgan Chase & Co in both the East Texas and Central Dallas markets. In her current role, Danielle oversees and manages the bank’s branch network operations, which includes 20 full-service banking locations throughout East Texas and North Texas, serving customers in 16 unique communities, as well as the bank’s contact center. She also leads product development and the bank’s deposit growth strategy, playing a key role in shaping the customer experience at Texas Bank and Trust.\nBeyond her professional responsibilities, Danielle is active in her community. She serves on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Board of East Texas, as well as the strategic committees of Marvin Methodist Church and Grace Community School, and contributes her expertise to additional non-profit organizations.\nDanielle earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from Baylor University. She and her husband, Kent, live in Tyler, Texas. Together, they enjoy spending time with their five children and are actively involved in their faith and fitness communities.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Geotargeting & Segmentation Strategies for Acquisition & Growth
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
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Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
Dave DeFazio is EVP of Strategy & Solutions at StrategyCorps. He’s armed with a passion for banking strategy, and always exploring the intersection of data, marketing, and technology. He downloads banking apps for fun.\nDave enjoys helping clients evolve their products for improved productivity, engagement, and growth. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a B.A. in Economics and Mathematics.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Connecting the Dots: Fintech Innovations & the Future of Banking
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
David Acevedo
President of 360 View
David has been with 360 View for 17 years. Prior to joining 360 View, David was Senior Vice President and Director of Sales for Interchange Bank, a $1.8 billion commercial bank headquartered in New Jersey. As President of 360 View, David helps banks and credit unions see the value of implementing CRM to build profitable, long-term client relationships. He specializes in working with financial institutions to help them retain and grow long-term relationships with their clients. Offline, you can find him at the Jersey Shore or on the golf course, which also includes the “19th Hole.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unearthing Your Data Goldmine: How 360 View Helps Harness Your Wealth of Information
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
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David Acevedo
President of 360 View
David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Carlson is the VP of Sales at MANTL. Prior to MANTL, Carlson worked with community financial institutions for more than 15 years to develop and implement scalable growth strategies. He has presented at numerous conferences on topics such as new customer acquisition strategies, sales and marketing initiatives, revenue growth, strategic planning, and team development.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Gain control of your growth in 2025: strategies to lower cost of funds and improve profitability
Starvine 6+7 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Eldred is the Chief Experience Officer for Solarity Credit Union ($850 million, Yakima, WA). With three decades in financial services across a variety of community banks and credit unions, his background includes marketing, product development, customer and digital experience, business intelligence, branch and call center operations. Connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/davideldred/
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Tellerless Branches: Improving CX Through Digital Transformation
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:25 – 3:45 PM
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David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Schultz is the Founder and CEO of Media Logic, a nationally recognized marketing agency that has specialized in financial services for more than 30 years. Media Logic has led strategic marketing initiatives for a broad range of clients from industry leaders like Visa, Chase and U.S. Bank, to regional and community banks and credit unions, including PNC Bank, Zions Bancorp and PenFed. \nDavid is passionate about delivering on the agency’s goal of maximizing CLTV. He and his team have helped hundreds of clients optimize customer onboarding to drive early engagement and long-term profitability. Media Logic is known for creating innovative multi-channel communication programs that leverage data-driven insights to segment customers effectively, reinforce product value and set the stage for cross-selling.\nDavid is also an early-stage investor focused on start-ups that provide beneficial disruption and sustainability. His portfolio currently includes more than a dozen companies that were founded and built by a very diverse group of entrepreneurs. When he invests in a company, David also offers strategic guidance around branding, positioning and demand generation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Onboarding ROI for Checking & Debit Accountholders
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
One of the funniest comedians on the planet, David Spade is a celebrated actor from TV classics like Saturday Night Live and Just Shoot Me, famous for his hilarious skits and sarcastic satire. Don’t miss his private stand-up comedy performance exclusively for Forum 2025 attendees.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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David Spade: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
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David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Delene Gilbert has served as the Director of Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank since 2021, bringing a diverse background in banking and small business ownership to the role. Her leadership and industry expertise have been instrumental in positioning Prism Bank as a trusted financial partner for Oklahoma’s cannabis industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Growth Opportunities & Challenges in the Cannabis Banking Market
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Dominic Venturo is Senior Executive Vice President and the Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bancorp. He has spent the past 25 years with U.S. Bank in positions of increasing responsibility within digital, innovation and product management. As Chief Digital Officer, Dominic is responsible for setting and executing the enterprise-wide digital strategy for U.S. Bank. The Digital team works to empower our customers with excellent digital experiences, so they can bank when, where, and how they want, with smart, personalized tools that help them manage their money. Under Dominic’s leadership, U.S. Bank has been recognized as a leader in digital banking, including the No.1-rated mobile app in the industry, among numerous other accolades for digital mortgage tools, mobile check deposit, user experience and more. Dominic was Chief Innovation Officer at U.S. Bank from 2015 to 2020. Prior to that, he led the innovation team for U.S. Bank’s payments division and held a number of other payments-related positions. Dominic also held various roles primarily focusing on Small Business at Bank of America and its predecessors from 1989 to 1998. An accomplished speaker and industry visionary, Dominic has received numerous awards, including being named to the Top 25 Most Influential Innovators list by Innovation Leader, Elite 8 by Bank Systems and Technology, Innovators to Watch by Bank Innovation and Mobile Banker of the Year by Bank Technology News. He has served on the national board of Girls With Impact (GWI), a nonprofit that focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The program helps women ages 14-24 increase their confidence, college readiness and professional skills – expanding the talent pipeline of women, particularly women of color, across industries. Dominic has also previously served as a corporate board member for enterprise software firm R3 and was a former board member of the Minneapolis College Foundation. Dominic earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Oregon State University and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Building a Resilient Digital Banking Platform
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
E.J. Kritz is the Executive Experience Officer at DBSI, a renowned design-build firm in the financial services industry. He has worked with some of the finest brands in banking, retail, and hospitality as a global customer experience consultant and keynote speaker. E.J. has served in CX and sales strategy leadership roles at both TD Bank and Santander, served on the advisory board of the Interactive Customer Experience Association, and has contributed to work in USA Today, The Washington Post, and more. A resident of Charleston, SC, E.J. is all about shaking up what’s considered “normal” and makes no apologies for telling it how it is.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Digital + Human: Delivery Strategies for the Next-Gen Branch Experience
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Des Moines native and community advocate Emily Abbas joined Bankers Trust, the largest community bank in Iowa with $7 billion in assets, 10 years ago as the first-ever Chief of Staff and added the role of Chief Marketing Officer six months later. Five years ago, she also took on the leadership role for the bank’s Retail Branches, Private Banking, Residential Mortgage, Cash Vault, Call Center, and Financial Services teams. Prior to joining the banking industry, Emily’s work was primarily in marketing and communications at national and international insurance companies.\nEmily’s values align well with community banking, as she personally volunteers more than 340 hours annually through non-profit board and committee roles with Iowa Bankers Association, United Way of Central Iowa, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, Principal Charity Classic, and more.\nEmily was named a national “Outstanding Women in Banking” by BankBeat Magazine in 2022. She was named the first-ever “Marketing Executive of the Year” in 2019 by the Iowa American Marketing Association Chapter, but is prouder that her team was awarded “Marketing Team of the Year” in 2022. She was featured as one of “14 People to Watch in 2014” by The Des Moines Register and was honored as a “Woman of Influence” by the Des Moines Business Record in 2016 and 2021. Even with these many accolades, the accomplishment she is most proud of is her division’s 225+ team members’ “best in class” level of employee engagement.\n
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Attracting & Retaining Next-Gen Retail Customers
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
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Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric is the co-founder and CEO of Rival, a leading marketing consultancy for challengers, working with start-ups to help them scale and incumbents like JP Morgan, Reebok, and Unilever to help them innovate. Over the last 20 years Eric has been lucky enough to help build some of the biggest brands in the world in various in-house marketing and advertising agency roles. Before co-founding Rival in 2021 he was the Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer of 11:FS, a challenger fintech consultancy for nearly three years. He was also one of the first 15 employees and MD, EMEA of VaynerMedia reporting directly to Gary Vaynerchuk for seven years.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Next-Gen CMO: Essential Skills & Leadership Strategies from Marketing Visionaries
Juniper 1 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
With a background in marketing and a flair for branding, creativity, and consumer-centric innovation, this pioneering entrepreneur, visionary leader, and disruptive genius founded ground-breaking consumer wellness brands Method and OLLY. At the Forum 2025, Eric Ryan will reveal his secrets on how to radically revolutionize everyday categories with brands that inspire fans and create passionate advocates.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Brand Evanglism
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
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Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gaurav Bhatia serves as the Chief Marketing Offi cer and Head of Retail Deposits at PenFed Credit Union and joined PenFed in 2019. He is responsible to growing deposits leveraging all customer channels\nPreviously he served as the Chief Digital Offi cer for NewDay USA where he lead business operations, marketing/digital strategy, technology, brand, and customer experience and technology. He has held senior leadership positions at several large Fortune 500 including AARP, Capital One, Sabre Holdings (parent of Travelocity.com) and NIIT Technologies, with customers in the travel and fi nancial services. Gaurav holds a Master’s degree in Information Systems, an MBA in Marketing & Strategy and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also has completed the executive leadership program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Retail Deposit Growth Playbook: Adaptive Strategies for Evolving Customer Expectations
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
As President and CEO of Adrenaline, Gina leads change by inspiring the company’s clients and team members, the market, and the industry by envisioning and creating the future of brand experiences. One of the original founders of Adrenaline, she exemplifies the company’s culture and vision and generates meaningful experiences that drive and deliver business advantage. Known for her analytical prowess, razor-sharp customer insight, design brilliance, and ability to lead transformational change, Gina ignites audiences across the financial industry with thought leadership and storytelling. She is regularly featured in publications and keynotes at leading conferences each year and serves as co-host of the award-winning Believe in Banking Podcast.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branding for Growth: Navigating M&A Success Through Strategic Integration
Juniper 4 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Gunny is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research. Gunny has authored and co-authored Nonfiction studies such as The Secret Financial Lives of Americans, Intimacy in America, America’s Secret Music Playlists, and Saving Americans from the News. Before Nonfiction, Gunny was the Head of Strategy at VICE Media’s digital agency. Gunny is a founding board member of Brooklyn Poets – the literary nonprofit – and an advisory board member of DVRGNT Ventures, a venture capital fund dedicated to underestimated founders from underrepresented geographies. He’s a graduate of Coatesville Area Schools and Columbia University. He splits time between New York City and Nashville, where he lives with his wife and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James Robert Lay is one of the world’s leading digital marketing authors, speakers, and advisors for growth-minded brands. \nAs a digital anthropologist, James Robert has studied the intersection of marketing, sales, technology, and human behavior for over twenty years. He has written two number-one best-selling books including, Banking on Digital Growth and Banking on Change, in addition to hosting the Banking on Digital Growth podcast, which is ranked among the top five percent of all podcasts in the world.\nJames Robert is also the founder and CEO of the Digital Growth Institute, where he is on a mission to help financial brands stop losing loans and deposits. He has been named a top global financial services influencer to follow by The Financial Brand. At the same time, his insights are frequently featured in outlets such as U.S. News & World Report, Entrepreneur Magazine, Quartz, American Banker, and Credit Union Times, among many others.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forum 2025 Growth Strategies: Turning Ideas Into Action
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James White
General Manager of Banking at Total Expert
James White, General Manager, Banking Industry at Total Expert, has been driving growth for financial institutions for over 25 years. He combines his strategic background working across every department at financial organizations with a dedication to the industry and Southern charm. James has worked with some of the largest banks and credit unions in the world and hundreds of other financial institutions both big and small. He has been a contributor to\nTheFinancialBrand.com, Credit Union Times, and Fortune.com. James believes in the power of an empathetic bank or credit union to create customers and members for life.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Winning Customers for Life: Building Relationships That Thrive in Any Rate Environment
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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James White
General Manager of Banking at Total Expert
Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Innovator, designer, strategist, futurist, transformer of brands for growth, Jean-Pierre Lacroix is President of Shikatani Lacroix Design (SLD). Jean-Pierre Lacroix is strongly committed to design innovation. In addition to pioneering the successful firm, Jean-Pierre is also Past President of The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario, Past President of DIAC (Design Industry Advisory Committee), board member of SEGD (Society of Environmental Graphic Designers), as well as former Director of the Packaging Association of Canada. SLD is a global branding firm specializing in transforming customer experiences for financial institutions and retailers’ brands. A key tenet of the company’s approach is the constant review of trends and market dynamics influencing ideal transformation outcomes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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What Will Save Community Banking
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeff Shaw has been the President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union since the beginning of 2020. Before that, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Wasatch Peaks formed in 2011 when several credit unions merged—Alliance, Weber, and SummitOne. Having been a part of the leadership team at Weber Credit Union, Jeff was an integral part of the merger. Jeff’s 25+ years of experience working in credit unions and his holistic understanding of financial institution operations enables him to serve the Wasatch Peaks community with excellence and commitment.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeffery Kendall
CEO of Nymbus
Jeffery Kendall, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in technology and financial services, serves as the Executive Chairman and CEO of Nymbus. His career is distinguished by a strategic approach to banking transformation, driving innovation in an industry poised for change. Kendall’s leadership philosophy centers on the belief that financial institutions can thrive by embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative business models, viewing progress as a continuous journey rather than a fixed destination.\nAt the helm of Nymbus, Kendall is pioneering a paradigm shift in how financial institutions collaborate with technology providers. He champions a model of shared accountability, where vendors are invested in the long-term success of their solutions. This forward-thinking approach, combined with Kendall’s proven track record of exponential growth—exemplified by his tenure at Kony DBX where he drove 500% growth in under three years—positions Nymbus as a critical ally for financial institutions seeking to modernize their operations and capture new market opportunities.\nKendall’s vision at Nymbus goes beyond technological upgrades. He emphasizes a comprehensive approach that combines people, processes, products, and market strategies. By challenging industry conventions and exploring new avenues for growth, Kendall has established himself as a thought leader in shaping the future of banking technology. His strategic insights and commitment to transforming financial services continue to influence the trajectory of the industry, making him a respected voice in boardrooms and at industry forums alike.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Banking Verticalization to Accelerate Your FIs Growth Strategy
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
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Jeffery Kendall
CEO of Nymbus
Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Smith is Zions Bancorporation’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Operations Officer. As a member of the company’s executive committee, she drives transformative technology initiatives, at enterprise scale, for long term customer value. In 2006, Jennifer joined Zions as the Chief Audit Executive after holding various positions at Wells Fargo from 1995-2006. She holds B.A. and M.S. degrees in economics from the University of Utah. Jennifer’s work has been recognized by various industry organizations. Most recently she was awarded YWCA of Utah’s Outstanding Leadership Award in Social and Business Innovation. She was also honored as one of American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024; won the Women Tech Council’s Technology Leadership award in 2018 and the Decade of Impact award in 2024. In 2013, she was globally selected as an International Women’s Forum Leadership Fellow; the following year, she was selected to the first cohort of Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders. Jennifer is committed to serving her community. She serves on The Children’s Center of Utah’s Board of Directors, the Women’s Leadership Institute’s Board of Advisors, and the University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Science’s Advancement Board. She has previously held Board of Director positions at YWCA of Utah, United Way of Greater Salt Lake, the Berkana Institute, and People Helping People. She is a previous Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah and Women Who Succeed mentor.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Lessons Learning from a Core Banking Conversion
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jennifer Sobotta, CFMP is the Vice President and Marketing Director at Forward Bank, where she leads with vision and innovation to drive transformative marketing strategies and strengthen community connections. With a distinguished background in financial services marketing, Jennifer consistently delivers forward-thinking solutions that enhance brand visibility and foster lasting customer relationships.\nA recognized leader in shaping the future of Forward Bank, Jennifer is a graduate of the ABA School of Bank Marketing & Management and maintains her Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) designation. She has been fiercely supportive of the financial services industry serving on both the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) section and the Marketing Committee.\nJennifer is one of the inaugural members of Forward Bank’s AI Council, which drives the direction, governance and speed of implementation of AI initiatives across the organization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI Roadmap to Amplify Marketing Efficiency
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:20 PM
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Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jeremy is an experienced strategist, with over 20+ years experience helping leading companies modernize their martech stack, centered on data, AI and personalization. Over the last 10+ years, Jeremy has interacted with and helped Salesforce’s biggest financial service customers, including Edward Jones, Schwab, JP Morgan Chase, Rocket and State Farm Insurance with their customer engagement initiatives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Host of the Executive Leadership Series
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Thursday at ALL
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Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
Strategic marketing leader with 20+ years of experience driving brand growth through customer-focused programs that resonate with diverse audiences across Financial Services, Retail, and Education industries. Proven expertise in developing and executing innovative financial education and financial wellness initiatives. Skilled in full-funnel marketing and cross-channel management, creating impactful campaigns that address customer needs and improve business outcomes. Adept at designing thought leadership and educational content to foster trust, engagement, and brand loyalty. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a BS in Economics and a Master’s in Sales and Marketing.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Huntinghouse serves as the Vice President of Marketing at TAB Bank, where his innovative leadership has transformed the marketing department, driving record-breaking growth. With over 16 years of experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, John excels in utilizing data analytics, demand generation, and digital marketing to craft strategies that significantly boost revenue and market share. His accomplishments have earned him the title of Utah Business Magazine’s 2022 Marketer of the Year, and under his guidance, TAB Bank’s marketing team was named the 2024 Marketing Team of the Year. A seasoned speaker, John has shared his insights at more than 50 conferences nationwide. Beyond his executive role, he imparts his knowledge as an adjunct professor of marketing at Weber State University, helping shape the next generation of marketers. John also serves as a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Board, contributing to thought leadership in the marketing industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Turbocharging the Business Lending Pipeline
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
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John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Dr. John Ratzan is an Accenture Senior Managing Director who has more than 25 years of experience in the Banking industry. In his current role, John leads the Financial Services North America Data & AI business as well as leads the Accenture business at a global Bank. He leads client relationships with business and technology leadership and consults on the business strategy and technology vision to deliver technology, process, and operational transformations. His expertise is in data, analytics, banking, payment systems, artificial intelligence, and innovation. Prior to his current role, John has led several transformations for global FS clients leveraging the aforementioned expertise and capability. John’s degrees are: MIS, MS MIS, MBA from University of Arizona and DBA doctoral degree focused on artificial intelligence from Pace University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Scaling Gen AI Responsibly: Steps to Establish Responsible AI
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Johnson Cook is the co-founder and president of Atlanta-based Greenlight Financial Technology, the leading family fintech company on a mission to help parents raise financially smart kids. Greenlight offers an award-winning banking app for families that helps parents teach their kids and teens how to earn, save, spend wisely, invest, and more. The company serves more than 6.5 million parents and kids, who have collectively saved and invested more than $700 million towards their financial futures. Greenlight also partners with more than 100 leading banks, brands, credit unions, and employers to bring its family finance solution to more families through the Greenlight for Banks, Greenlight for Credit Unions, and Greenlight for Work programs. Greenlight has raised more than $560 million from investors Andreessen Horowitz, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Truist Bank, Synchrony Bank, Ally Bank, Live Oak Bank, Wellington Management, TTV Capital, Canapi Ventures, Relay Ventures, and others.\nMr. Cook’s entrepreneurial spirit began at Georgia Tech where he met his wife and started his first company. Johnson was a partner in the launch of the Atlanta Tech Village, is a past President of Entrepreneurs Organization Atlanta (EO), and has been recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur Of The Year. He is an angel investor, a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), a Trustee of the Woodruff Arts Center, and an active member of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Johnson is also a licensed pilot and loves to sail catamarans with his wife and three teenagers.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Blueprint for Growth: Winning With Gen Z & Gen Alpha
Juniper 4 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
In our AI-driven world, creativity has become the true currency of success. Creative problem-solving and inventive thinking are crucial to overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities — the indisputable competitive advantage. In this energizing and actionable talk, NY Times bestselling author and renowned innovation expert Josh Linkner will teach you a proven system to drive breakthrough creativity, and how to transform ideas into groundbreaking successes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Rethinking Creativity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
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Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing AI to Personalize CX in Digital Channels
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
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Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
As a leader for brand experience for Adrenaline, Juliet is laser focused on how to leverage brand for delivering business advantage. A renowned brand expert, she is known for her empathy-led, research-backed approach. Connecting the disciplines of brand design, experience design, and marketing, Juliet forges competitively unique platforms that help brands stand out and connect with the hearts and minds of employees, customers, markets, and all those who influence choice. A journalist turned strategist, Juliet has 20-plus years’ experience in building some of the globe’s most notable brands, including Coca-Cola, Virgin, Samsung, the International Olympic Committee, Visa, and S&P Global. As a brand thought leader, Juliet oversees brand and editorial strategy for Believe in Banking, the mission-oriented multimedia platform for banking leaders, and she’s regularly tapped by industry trade publications for her branding expertise.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branch Renaissance: Driving Acquisition, Cross-Selling & Engagement
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
Kerry Graham
VP of Marketing at First Service Credit Union
Kerry Graham has over 35 years of experience in marketing and graphic design, with nearly a decade leading marketing initiatives in the credit union industry. As Vice President of Marketing at First Service Credit Union, he leverages data-driven strategies to engage members and deliver impactful results. His creative vision and leadership have played a key role in enhancing member experiences and advancing organizational growth. Outside of work, Kerry enjoys working out, reading, and cooking. He and his wife have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two young adults.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How To Outperform Your Competitors In 3 $teps
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Kerry Graham
VP of Marketing at First Service Credit Union
Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kerry-Ann is the dynamic CMO of the JMMB Group, a leading Caribbean-based financial services group headquartered in Jamaica. With over 20 years of experience in financial services marketing, her expertise and insights make her a sought after international speaker, a recognized thought leader and a member of the Forbes Communications Council.\nAs the visionary producer and host of the unique podcast series, The Internal Marketing Podcast, Kerry-Ann is passionate about revolutionizing the way companies build their brands. Her podcast delves into innovative strategies for internal marketing, engaging and empowering employees to become brand ambassadors and drive business growth from within.\nKerry-Ann holds an MBA in Marketing from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Hidden Growth Engine: Internal Marketing to Drive Brand Advocacy & Revenue Growth
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Known as Mr. Wonderful on the hit TV show Shark Tank, he’s one of the most insightful and influential marketing, branding, and media experts in the world of finance. Hear his candid, unvarnished views on the banking industry in this signature no-holds-barred keynote “Lessons from a Shark.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Kevin O’Leary: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Since joining PWCampbell in 1998, Kevin has advanced through various roles, acquiring an in-depth understanding of the design-build process. He has been instrumental in the creation and growth of the Branded Environments division, where he managed operations, developed strategies, and set business objectives. In his current position as Chief Strategy Officer, Kevin collaborates closely with fellow senior managers to enhance and evolve the company’s business operations, implement strategic initiatives, and lead planning efforts that contribute to the company’s long-term vision and success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Advisory vs. Transactional Service: How One FI Leverages Technology to Differentiate their Brand, Service, & Experience
Starvin 3+4 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lamont Young leads Citizens Consumer Digital transformation, which delivers modern, seamless customer experiences across all digital channels. With a laser focus on the customer, his team optimizes the firm’s digital channels and sales to deepen and grow customers in key markets and across the country.\nPrior to joining Citizens in 2012, Young held several top leadership positions at Bank of America in online and mobile banking, digital sales, digital media and content development. Before joining Bank of America, Young was the founder and CEO of a start-up firm that provided critical services to growth-stage companies.\nLamont earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University and his Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University.\nHe is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the American Marketing Association, the advisory boards for Mass Challenge Fintech, Winthrop University College of Business, the National Association of Black MBAs and Year Up Banking and Customer Success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Engaging the Next Generation of Banking Customers
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lili Tomovich is the Chief Marketing & Experience Officer for Barclays US Consumer Bank where she oversees customer experience, marketing technology, channel strategy & optimization, brand, creative & sponsorships, product & partner marketing, consumer insights and research. Lili is a transformational marketing executive who has spent her career building leading brands in the financial services, retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries across the US and Canada.\nPrior to joining Barclays Bank in 2021, Lili was Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Collaborative responsible for the e-commerce platform for natural home and personal care products. Previously, Lili was the Chief Experience and Marketing Officer for MGM Resorts International, a $15B global hospitality and entertainment company. Her financial services industry experience includes nearly 10 years at Mastercard, where she served as head of Marketing for Canada and Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing for the US market. She held additional marketing leadership roles with LoyaltyOne, Rogers Communications, and Citi.\nLili is a member of the Board of Directors of Dine Brands Global. She holds an MBA from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brock University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Human Connections
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lindsey Johnson joined the Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) as President and CEO on July 5, 2022. Since that time, Johnson has served as a strong advocate for America’s leading banks in Washington, D.C., helping the industry navigate and chart the future of the consumer retail banking industry, amidst challenges—from increasing regulatory pressures to the rapidly evolving financial services marketplace. More recently, Johnson has worked with leading policymakers across the ideological spectrum to project confidence in the strength of the American financial system following months of market volatility. She was named one of Washingtonian’s Most Influential People in 2023, and frequently appears in media outlets, including the Associated Press, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and POLITICO. Prior to joining CBA, Johnson served as President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers, where she worked with member companies to advance the value of private mortgage insurance to borrowers and taxpayers. Johnson previously held positions at PwC, as well as in the U.S. Senate, where she served as the Republican Staff Director for the Senate Banking Committee’s National Security and International Trade and Finance (NSITF) Subcommittee, as well as a Senior Policy Advisor to Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois). Johnson also was Director for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta for seven years, representing the Bank in D.C. at the highest levels of government during several key legislative reforms that impacted the Bank including the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and Dodd-Frank Act. A native of Texas, Johnson began her career in D.C. working with former House Republican Conference Chair J.C. Watts in the private sector. She received an MBA from Georgetown University. Johnson is a Director on the Board for Habitat for Humanity Northern Virginia, an Advisory Council member for National Housing Conference, and an Advisory Board Member for the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Advisory Committee. Johnson also was the 2018-2019 past-president of Women in Housing and Finance. She resides in Arlington, Virginia, with her husband and three children.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Future of Banking in a Changing Regulatory Environment
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 PM
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Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Lisa Nicholas is SVP Strategy at Vericast working in Austin, Texas. She specializes in marketing and digital transformation for the financial services industry. Nicholas has more than 30 years of experience in banking and high-tech industries. She has worked with companies to transform their marketing, sales, lending, branches and operations functions with a focus on transformation from traditional to omni-channel by leveraging technology and data.\nBefore Vericast, Lisa was at IBM Consulting, Wipfli and DBS where she was president of a CUSO leading digital transformation. Prior to DBS Lisa was Chief Digital Officer for Austin-based Amplify Credit Union where she spearheaded the development of its digital sales program, including a shift in architecture and systems to support sales, marketing and fulfillment teams.\nLisa is a frequent speaker at industry events such as Salesforce Dreamforce and Connections conferences, Salesforce Marketing Cloudcast, CUbroadcast, CUES Technology Council and more.\nNicholas earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in marketing from St. Edwards University
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Driven Personalization– Strategies for Hyper-Local Success
Starvine 3+4 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
How did a university-trained astrophysicist become the No. 1 female poker player in the world? Hear how Liv Boeree mastered the game of high-stakes decision-making, and how you can use principles like bias reduction to power your own success. She’ll show you the secrets of rational thinking — where science and strategy intersect — and how your team can navigate your organization through uncertainty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Champions of Rationality
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
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Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Maggie Burke is the Director of Sitecore Operations at Americaneagle.com, where she manages complex website development projects from start to finish. Drawing on her deep technical knowledge, she leads large development teams while keeping projects on schedule and within budget. Maggie specializes in financial industry websites and has a proven track record of coordinating multiple workstreams to deliver high-quality results. Her ability to effectively manage all aspects of project execution makes her a key leader on the Americaneagle.com team.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
With over 6 years experience in the social media space I love helping organizations turn likes, comments, shares and DMs into tangible and impactful results. \nAs the Senior Manager of Enterprise Acquisition at Hootsuite, I leverage my skills in social strategy, social selling, and the Hootsuite solution to create and execute effective gameplans that align with our customer’s mission and vision. \nI lead a team of Account Executives who are responsible for partnering with organizations to ensure they can leverage social media to achieve their business objectives. \nI am passionate about helping organizations improve their social media presence and engagement, and I value innovation, collaboration, and customer connection.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Your People: Driving Business Outcomes Through Employee Advocacy in Social Channels
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Mary McCleaft is a Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel, where she has driven digital transformation initiatives for the past nine years. Specializing in ecommerce solutions, she leads website redesign and re-platform projects with a focus on navigation, personalization, and mobile-responsive design. Her analytical approach to understanding user behavior has resulted in significant improvements in customer engagement across Citadel’s digital platforms. McCleaft brings a unique blend of technical insight and strategic thinking to her role, consistently delivering solutions that balance innovation with practical implementation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Matt leads Salesforce Marketing Cloud’s Financial Services Industry strategy, drawing on 27 years of experience across advertising agencies, startups, and technology consulting. His expertise in helping clients develop actionable digital strategies is reinforced by a decade at Salesforce. Matt’s primary focus is analyzing market trends and emerging technological advancements to understand their impact on the customer experience.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Michael Scicolone
VP of Financial Services at Claritas
Michael Scicolone is a seasoned sales leader with 15+ years of experience driving growth and innovation in the financial services industry. At Claritas, he spearheads the Credit Union & Small Banking vertical focusing on empowering\nbanks and credit unions with cutting-edge data-driven solutions that optimize operations, enhance member experiences, and unlock strategic insights. His commitment to delivering tailored solutions has positioned Claritas as a trusted partner for financial institutions seeking cutting-edge products and services.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How To Outperform Your Competitors In 3 $teps
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Michael Scicolone
VP of Financial Services at Claritas
Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Michael Stojda leads exagens corporate strategy and mission to help community financial institutions cost-effectively grow and win against big-banks by emotionally engaging people through digital channels and catalyzing them to save, spend, borrow and invest wisely. With a passion for customer success and building companies, Mike has run F1000 business units & divisions, and companies – from start-ups to turnarounds to taking a U.S. company public. When not working, he can be often found skiing anything with snow, camping, or enjoying a good bottle of wine with family, friends & colleagues. Mike holds degrees in Mechanical, Aerospace and Industrial Engineering and an MBA.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Technology: Using Behavioral Science to Drive Growth and Loyalty with Emotionally Intelligent Banking
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Morgan Domsohn serves as a Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel, where she specializes in creating and optimizing customer journeys across digital platforms. She brings deep expertise in content management, personalization, and digital marketing automation to drive engagement and business growth. Working closely with cross-functional teams, Domsohn leads initiatives that enhance user experience and strengthen Citadel’s digital presence through data-driven strategies and innovative solutions.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
As CMO of Navy Federal Credit Union, largest credit union in the nation with more than 14 million members and over $177B in assets, Pam leads brand and product marketing. She is well versed in brand building and demand generation. She is the conduit between the organization and current and prospective members, keeping a pulse on the needs of both for their mutual benefit and success. Pam is passionate about accurately capturing what the credit union stands for, going beyond building brand awareness to generating loyalty and trust from Active Duty, Veterans and their families. She is a leader motivated by doing what is right not only for the millions of Navy Federal members around the world, but also for the military community at large.\nPrior to becoming CMO, Pam served as the senior vice president of Marketing and Communications overseeing the advancement of Navy Federal’s brand story of unsurpassed member service. She was instrumental in the development and launch of Navy Federal’s brand platform and tagline: Our Members Are the Mission®. Pam also directed all marketing and advertising strategy, including research and both public and industry relations. Never one to pass up a chance to run, Pam has competed in marathons across the nation. She recently checked off a bucket list goal to run a marathon in every state in the U.S.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Three Pillars of Marketing
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Rob has 17 years of experience in the banking industry and was previously employed by Trustmark National Bank as Director of Marketing. A native of Memphis, Rob is a graduate of Delta State University and Leadership Mississippi. He graduated with honors from the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and is currently enrolled in the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking. In the community, he serves as Treasurer on the Friends of Children’s Hospital board of directors and also serves as a national alumni board member for Delta State University. Rob and his wife, Tamyne, have three children; Larisa, Patrick and Nikolai.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Profitable Deposit Growth Through Advanced Data Analytics
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
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Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
According to Ron Tite, the creative force behind brands like Fidelity, Kraft, Intel, and Microsoft, data is dangerous because numbers are boring. In this captivating and hilarious talk, Ron will challenge you to let go of your addiction to metrics and spreadsheets so you can connect with your audience on a human level. You’ll discover that the true power lies not in your data but in the stories you tell with it.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Powered Stories
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
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Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Rusiru Gunasena is Senior Vice President, RTP® Product and Strategy at The Clearing House, where he leads the product management and strategy team for The Clearing House’s RTP® network. In this role, Rusiru oversees the ongoing growth of the RTP network, a modern platform for real-time payments that connects banks, credit unions, and fintech customers to move money with immediate payment confirmation. Rusiru is a payments and fintech leader with more than 20 years of experience across multiple industries. He is a strong advocate for digital payment innovation and continues to influence the U.S. payments ecosystem by participating in various industry workgroups and committees. Rusiru has experience as an entrepreneur and a diverse leader involved in start-up ventures and Fortune 100 companies worldwide across multiple industries. Prior to joining The Clearing House, Rusiru was the Managing Director of JHA PayCenter with responsibility for leading Jack Henry’s Faster Payments strategy and building a central payment hub for fintechs and financial institutions. He holds an MBA from University of Louisville with an Entrepreneurship concentration and a bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, where he was an honors recipient.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Instant Payments: Riding the Wave Into the Future
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Sathish Muthukrishnan was named chief information, data and digital officer for Ally Financial Inc. in December 2019. In this role, Muthukrishnan is responsible for advancing Ally’s technical and digital capabilities, including cyber security and infrastructure, and accelerating the company’s growth and evolution as a leader in the digital financial services sector. He is based in Ally’s Charlotte corporate center and reports to Ally CEO Michael Rhodes.\nMuthukrishnan has held a number of senior technology leadership roles with substantial scale and global reach, and previously served as the chief digital and information officer for Honeywell Aerospace, a nearly $14 billion revenue business within Honeywell International. He brings to Ally more than 20 years of technology leadership experience in complex businesses with high availability and reliability requirements on their technology. Ten years were spent in financial services with American Express prior to joining Honeywell.\nMuthukrishnan graduated from University of Madras with a degree in engineering, specializing in computer science. He is a member of the Advisory Board of WIT International and was recipient of the Chairman’s Award for Innovation for several years at American Express. He was named to Board of Directors at BRP Group, Inc in 2023. Muthukrishnan has more than 25 filed patents in the manufacturing, payments and digital technology space.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Deploying Generative AI for Efficiency and Growth
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Scott is a digital marketing leader with 20+ years’ experience helping lead Fortune 1000 brands to new levels of success through innovation, strategy, and customer-centered initiatives. New Media Advisors partners with financial brands to accelerate growth in owned and earned digital channels with an emphasis in content marketing and SEO. Prior to founding New Media Advisors in 2020, he previously led digital marketing channels at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and Choice Hotels International. While at Bank of America (2010-2019), Scott helped to launch Better Money Habits into an industry-leading financial education platform and developed the SEO and Content Centers of Excellence. Scott is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an active Rotarian in Cary, NC. He’s an aspiring at-home-cook who enjoys golf, pulling for the Tar Heels, family vacations and spending quality time with his wife, sons, and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sean Payant serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for Haberfeld which is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Sean leads the consulting, account executive, client services and creative teams. Haberfeld specializes in assisting financial institutions with overall marketing, data analytics, execution, and training as it relates to growing retail and business customers, increasing low-cost funding, and improving overall profitability. Sean’s team also oversee Haberfeld’s online coaching platform, Cultivate™ designed to grow banking leaders and their teams, Plus One™ referral platform, eLearning Programs, Special Programs, and Organizational Development practice.\nSean has more than 25 years of experience leading team development and strategic planning sessions for financial institutions, for profit corporations and not for profit organizations. He has spoken at more than 200 industry banking schools, executive meetings and conferences.\nSean holds a Bachelors degree from Midland Lutheran College, and Masters and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Overcoming Strategic Contradictions in The Banking C-Suite
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Sharon Cook joined Vericast in January 2024 overseeing Financial Institution Client Strategy. She brings over 20 years of financial industry experience from working in consumer banking, wholesale lending to financial institutions, and now as a financial services partner for acquisition and growth strategy. Throughout her career, she has held key positions leading marketing and communications teams, including her most recent past role as Chief Marketing Officer. At Vericast, Sharon leads a team of former bank and credit union executives who deliver marketing and data strategy to Vericast clients, to help them achieve their deposit and lending acquisition and growth marketing goals.\nSharon is a frequent speaker on brand loyalty, women in banking, crisis communications, and various other leadership topics impacting financial institutions.\nSharon graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Art’s degree in communications and journalism and has a Master of Business Administration degree in organizational leadership from Brenau University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Your Marketing Budget for Maximum ROI
Juniper 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Srini is the Head of Product, Technology, and Customer Operations at Blend, where he orchestrates the company’s product vision, technology strategy, and operational excellence to drive innovation and exceptional customer outcomes. With over 23 years of experience, Srini has held leadership roles in product management, engineering, and customer operations, demonstrating a proven track record of scaling SaaS businesses, optimizing operations for enterprise growth, and delivering accelerated value creation for stakeholders. Prior to joining Blend, he served in senior positions at PlanSource and IBM, where he developed and implemented strategies that drove technological advancement and enhanced product and shareholder value.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Revolutionizing Banking with AI: From Cost Savings to Personalization
Starvine 11 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sue Hermann serves as Chief Marketing Officer for BOK Financial, a top 25 financial institution that has fueled the growth of consumers, businesses and wealth clients for more than a century. As CMO, Sue has responsibility for telling the story of BOK Financial’s brand, lines of business, people and the impact the company in the communities it serves. She leads a team of professionals in shaping and creating multi-channel campaigns that attract qualified leads, engage existing clients and develop prospects.\nThe work of her team has earned several industry accolades, and Sue has been recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal and a Top Women in Marketing by Ragan Communications. Sue holds a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Wright State University.\nSue lives in Denver and enjoys spending time with her daughters, reading, hiking and cooking (with varying results).
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Aligning Marketing with Business Outcomes
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
As Executive Vice President at Berkshire Bank, Sumant leads Berkshire One, and award-winning digital sub-brand, overseeing its strategic direction, P&L management, and growth initiatives. His leadership also spans Strategic Planning, Marketing & Communications, Client Experience, Deposit Products, Strategic Projects, and Data & Analytics—all with a focus on delivering measurable impact.\nSumant’s career has been built on a cornerstone of strategic transformation and innovation, consistently driving results. At Berkshire Bank, he led a 3-year enterprise-level transformation program, focusing on optimizing expenses, driving digitalization, and reigniting growth across key verticals. These initiatives not only enhanced operational efficiency but also unlocked significant shareholder value and strengthened the bank’s competitive position for long-term success.\nIn the digital space, he’s passionate about client-centric innovation. Sumant developed and launched an award-winning digital banking platform, implemented advanced analytics and CRM systems, and built a robust data warehouse—transforming how we engage clients and streamlining operations for scale.\nSumant has successfully navigated a number of complex M&A and divestment transactions, aligning stakeholders and delivering impactful outcomes.\nPrior to Berkshire Bank, as Chief Corporate Credit Officer, he scaled specialized lending verticals with a pristine credit record, executing high-profile transactions in private equity, venture capital, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Competing at the Speed of Digital: How One Regional Stepped Up Its Game
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:20 PM
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Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Sumeet Grover is the Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union, leading enterprise-wide digital, marketing, banking/lending/investment products, payments, analytics, and member experience functions. Alliant is a leading digital financial institution and has recently been recognized as the best in the industry by the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Kiplinger, Bankrate, Nerdwallet, CNET, and more. Before joining Alliant, Sumeet had a nearly two-decade career at Citibank. During this time, he held leadership positions across marketing, digital, client experience, operations, and technology functions. As a visionary leader, advisor, and board member, Sumeet has a proven track record of heading crossfunctional global teams, developing and executing strategic roadmaps, delivering exceptional customer experiences, maximizing business growth, accelerating digital transformation, optimizing performance, and generating long-term value. Sumeet specializes in digital strategies, full-funnel marketing, customer experiences, brand management, organic and paid channels, omnichannel marketing, media, content, communication, personalization, marketing operations, MarTech, data, and digital capabilities. He is a dynamic speaker sharing insights on marketing strategies, digital innovation, customer centricity, and advanced technologies at various events such as industry conferences, webinars, and podcasts. He is regularly featured in American Banker, PYMNTS, and other industry-wide publications. Sumeet has been recognized for his work by his peers with industry accolades, including a Fellowship from The Marketing Academy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, a Master’s in Business Administration, and executive certifications from The Wharton School, Columbia Business School, and the Yale School of Management.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Digital Banking Challenger Mindset
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Surjit Chana is a seasoned entrepreneurial technology and digital transformation leader. He currently serves as the CEO/President of Tech4Good Consulting. He brings over 35 years of global experience in technology, strategy, marketing, and governance. He has held executive leadership roles in several prestigious organizations, including IBM, where he was a key senior leadership team member for a decade. At Tech4Good Consulting, Surjit is committed to empowering organizations to harness emerging technologies, such as AI, for social good. His company specializes in guiding financial institutions—banks, credit unions, and microfinance entities—on aligning business and technology strategies with their core mission, optimizing technology infrastructure, enhancing client experiences, implementing AI-driven solutions, transforming their operating models, and implementing good governance. Tech4Good also invests in emerging tech companies focused on delivering positive societal impacts. As a Harvard Fellow with the Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI), Surjit exploresthe intersection of technology and leadership, focusing on how organizations can strategically integrate digital transformation to enhance governance, operating models, and long-term impact. In addition to his corporate achievements, Surjit serves on the boards of several esteemed organizations. He is the lead director for strategy and chair of the Technology Committee for Beneficial State Bank and its holding company, Bancorp. He also chairs the Board of Directors at Care for the Homeless, is a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) Technology Committee, and sits on the board of his alma mater, the University of Surrey Foundation. Surjit holds certifications from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD.DC) and Carnegie Mellon University in cybersecurity oversight. Surjit’s career spans key leadership roles such as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, and General Manager, and he is recognized for his expertise in digital transformation, M&A, marketing, P&L management, and corporate governance. He holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Surrey, UK, and has multiple patents from his pioneering work on transaction processing systems and AI at IBM. Having lived and worked in the UK, Europe, Asia, and the USA, Surjit brings a truly global perspective to his work, blending technological acumen with a deep commitment to leveraging innovation for the greater good.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing Emerging Technologies as Catalysts for Growth
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
As the former Head of Digital Marketing at companies like Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder, Swan Sit has created iconic campaigns resulting in double-digit growth. In her Forum X talk, Swan will dissect the innovative marketing strategies behind these successes as she unravels the art of storytelling and how financial institutions can craft compelling, authentic and emotional brand narratives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Strategic Narratives
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
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Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Todd Purcell is the Head of Digital Strategy, Planning and Partnerships at TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank. In this role, Todd leads a team of digital experts accountable for the development and execution of a unified digital strategy and roadmap for U.S. Digital Banking. His team provides connectivity across Consumer and Small Business products, store and call center channels and technology platforms. His team also keeps a pulse on external trends and leading FinTech providers to ensure TD Bank’s digital experiences exceeds customer expectations.\nTodd has over 25 years of experience as a digital strategy and marketing executive with the demonstrated ability to define and execute a compelling vision to drive digital transformation. He has held senior leadership positions at Webster Bank, MetLife, EY, The Hartford, USAA, Smith Barney, American Express, and JP Morgan Chase acting as a champion for the power of creating a truly connected customer experience across sales, marketing, and servicing.\nTodd has an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Fordham University and a BS in Business Management from Cornell University. He lives with his wife, Staci and their dog, Remi and has two sons, Evan and Alec. Todd enjoys long distance running, any book by Stephen King and is a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Customer-Centric Digital Transformation
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
For more than 20 years, Vickie Sherman has been a marketing executive helping companies get their best work into the world to increase value.\nShe’s currently the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank and Pacific Premier Trust (NASDAQ; PPBI). She leads the marketing, branding, and sales enablement efforts for commercial, treasury management, retail, commercial real estate, SBA, community banking, specialty banking, commerce escrow, franchise capital, and Pacific Premier Trust. \nPrior to joining Pacific Premier, Vickie led marketing at three financial institutions: Mechanics Bank, Rabobank, and Golden 1 Credit Union. Her achievements included record-high growth in loans, deposits, new customers, brand health metrics, and social media. \nVickie is in her third and final year at Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. She earned her MBA from the University of California Davis Graduate School of Management and her Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California San Diego. She laughs heartily and often, walks her talk, and loves what she does.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forging Strategic Partnerships
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Victor Alexander is Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank, where he is responsible for Key’s Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Deposits and Payments, Business Banking, Wealth Management, and Home Lending lines of business nationally. The Consumer Banking team serves more than 3 million clients with branch offices in 15 states and a national multi-channel distribution.\nVictor has been with Key throughout his entire career, most recently as Head of Home Lending. Previously, Victor served as Key’s Corporate Treasurer and led Key’s Corporate Strategy team, which oversees Key’s corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic investment activity.\nVictor received a B.S. from John Carroll University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.\nHe currently serves on the Board of Directors at John Carroll University, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, the Musical Arts Association (Cleveland Orchestra) and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Punch Above Your Asset Size in a Highly Competitive Marketplace
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Wil Reynolds, Founder and CEO of Seer Interactive, is a globally recognized thought leader in SEO and digital marketing. In 2002, after his then-boss wouldn’t let him volunteer on his lunch break, Wil launched Seer with a vision to combine digital expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. Under Wil’s leadership, Seer has expanded into a top-tier digital marketing agency offering services like SEO, Paid Media, Analytics, and Creative. From mid-sized to Fortune 500, Seer services clients in Banking, Higher Ed, SaaS, high tech, and pharma. As a certified B Corp, the Seer team is dedicated to crushing goals for their clients and uplifting their community – and each other, full stop.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Google: Digital Marketing Strategies for the New Realities of AI-Powered Search
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
Young has been providing strategic guidance to businesses for over 25 years. With a focus within financial services, he’s led digital product organizations at Chase and also helped VC backed start-ups in mortgage lending and investing. At CI&T, Young is responsible for developing customer experience strategies for clients who need to navigate heavily regulated industries. His client experience spans a variety of brands including Wells Fargo, BlackRock, Invesco, TIAA, Chase and Charles Schwab. He holds a BBA in Business Analysis and Information Systems from Texas A&M University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The GenAI Disruption: What’s Next for Marketing in Banking
Starvine 10 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ann Handley, Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs, is a digital marketing pioneer and bestselling author frequently published in leading business media including Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. At the Forum 2025, you’ll step into the future of content creation with Ann, as she shares unique, actionable insights on how financial brands can use AI to escape marketing mediocrity and ignite tangible results.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Escaping Mediocrity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
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Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
World-renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan shares his “Dogma of The Dog Whisperer” and teaches you what he’s learned about mankind by studying man’s best friend. In this riveting, heartfelt keynote, he shares his unique approach to training and leadership based on principles of trust and loyalty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Cesar Millan: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
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Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
One of the funniest comedians on the planet, David Spade is a celebrated actor from TV classics like Saturday Night Live and Just Shoot Me, famous for his hilarious skits and sarcastic satire. Don’t miss his private stand-up comedy performance exclusively for Forum 2025 attendees.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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David Spade: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
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David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
With a background in marketing and a flair for branding, creativity, and consumer-centric innovation, this pioneering entrepreneur, visionary leader, and disruptive genius founded ground-breaking consumer wellness brands Method and OLLY. At the Forum 2025, Eric Ryan will reveal his secrets on how to radically revolutionize everyday categories with brands that inspire fans and create passionate advocates.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Brand Evanglism
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
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Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
In our AI-driven world, creativity has become the true currency of success. Creative problem-solving and inventive thinking are crucial to overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities — the indisputable competitive advantage. In this energizing and actionable talk, NY Times bestselling author and renowned innovation expert Josh Linkner will teach you a proven system to drive breakthrough creativity, and how to transform ideas into groundbreaking successes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Rethinking Creativity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
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Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Known as Mr. Wonderful on the hit TV show Shark Tank, he’s one of the most insightful and influential marketing, branding, and media experts in the world of finance. Hear his candid, unvarnished views on the banking industry in this signature no-holds-barred keynote “Lessons from a Shark.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Kevin O’Leary: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
How did a university-trained astrophysicist become the No. 1 female poker player in the world? Hear how Liv Boeree mastered the game of high-stakes decision-making, and how you can use principles like bias reduction to power your own success. She’ll show you the secrets of rational thinking — where science and strategy intersect — and how your team can navigate your organization through uncertainty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Champions of Rationality
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
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Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
According to Ron Tite, the creative force behind brands like Fidelity, Kraft, Intel, and Microsoft, data is dangerous because numbers are boring. In this captivating and hilarious talk, Ron will challenge you to let go of your addiction to metrics and spreadsheets so you can connect with your audience on a human level. You’ll discover that the true power lies not in your data but in the stories you tell with it.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Powered Stories
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
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Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
As the former Head of Digital Marketing at companies like Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder, Swan Sit has created iconic campaigns resulting in double-digit growth. In her Forum X talk, Swan will dissect the innovative marketing strategies behind these successes as she unravels the art of storytelling and how financial institutions can craft compelling, authentic and emotional brand narratives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Strategic Narratives
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
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Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
With more than 25 years of financial expertise, Ben Udell is the driving force behind “future proofing” Lake Ridge Bank. As a leader in digital innovation, he enjoys working where technology, marketing, and data analytics intersect with consumer financial needs. He’s a leading banking expert in leveraging practical applications of generative AI and is never afraid to be disruptive went it allows him to find innovative ways to improve the client and associate experience. Recently named one of Bank Beat’s “Rising Starts in Banking”, he’s been helping train and consult with other bankers to help them see how AI can transform their organization. In his free time, he creates content for robotsarepeople.net, an AI and technology focused site, speaks on digital transformation, and writes about the financial industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI in Banking: Practical Applications for ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Ben is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research, a research organization that brings Fortune 500 businesses inside the inner-most lives of their customers. Nonfiction’s findings have been featured by ABC News, MSNBC, and FastCompany, and their work has inspired the creation of a new division at Disney, new flavors of Doritos, and national public service campaigns addressing public health issues.\n \nPrior to Nonfiction, Ben was the Head of CPG Research under Scott Galloway at L2 (acquired by Gartner). Ben volunteers as an Admissions Ambassador for his alma mater, Georgetown University, and has served on the boards of the Harvard Business Review, the Archdiocese of New York, several startups, and the Somerset Hills Ball Club, where he is currently the program’s t-ball commissioner. He lives in NJ with his wife and four young boys.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Benjamin Conant is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of MANTL, a financial technology firm offering the industry’s first Relationship Banking Platform. MANTL’s unified account origination technology empowers banks and credit unions to seamlessly open loan and deposit accounts on any banking channel in real time. \nBen is a serial entrepreneur and engineering leader. Before founding MANTL, Ben architected and led the development of business-empowering technology systems at several startups and was a math teacher. Ben holds a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy, economics, and computer science from Vassar College.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Titans of Deposits: Best Practices for Unlocking Growth
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
As Q2’s chief marketing officer (CMO), Carlos leads marketing vision, strategy, and initiatives to elevate brand awareness and drive demand for Q2’s industry-leading digital banking and lending solutions. He’s also responsible for spreading the word about Q2’s people-first culture, unparalleled industry expertise, and the differentiated value and success Q2 delivers to customers.\n \nCarlos brings a wealth of knowledge to Q2, having served as CMO at K2, a low-code automation solution leader, where he evolved the company’s go-to-market approach. At Kony, Carlos led marketing efforts, including the creation and launch of Kony’s next-generation digital banking vision and brand, which led to Kony’s successful acquisition by Temenos.\n \nCarlos has spent over 20 years in transformational digital technology, including web content management and advanced personalization at Vignette, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive recommendations at Baynote, and mobile-first innovation at Kony.\n \nCarlos is passionate about building highly collaborative, high-performing teams committed to excellence and delivering strong results. Off the clock, Carlos enjoys exploring new places with his family, attending concerts across the country with his daughter, and cheering on his favorite teams with his son.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fusing Marketing Strategy with Next-Gen Tech to Personalize Digital-Banking Experiences
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
Dave DeFazio is EVP of Strategy & Solutions at StrategyCorps. He’s armed with a passion for banking strategy, and always exploring the intersection of data, marketing, and technology. He downloads banking apps for fun.\nDave enjoys helping clients evolve their products for improved productivity, engagement, and growth. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a B.A. in Economics and Mathematics.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Connecting the Dots: Fintech Innovations & the Future of Banking
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Schultz is the Founder and CEO of Media Logic, a nationally recognized marketing agency that has specialized in financial services for more than 30 years. Media Logic has led strategic marketing initiatives for a broad range of clients from industry leaders like Visa, Chase and U.S. Bank, to regional and community banks and credit unions, including PNC Bank, Zions Bancorp and PenFed. \nDavid is passionate about delivering on the agency’s goal of maximizing CLTV. He and his team have helped hundreds of clients optimize customer onboarding to drive early engagement and long-term profitability. Media Logic is known for creating innovative multi-channel communication programs that leverage data-driven insights to segment customers effectively, reinforce product value and set the stage for cross-selling.\nDavid is also an early-stage investor focused on start-ups that provide beneficial disruption and sustainability. His portfolio currently includes more than a dozen companies that were founded and built by a very diverse group of entrepreneurs. When he invests in a company, David also offers strategic guidance around branding, positioning and demand generation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Onboarding ROI for Checking & Debit Accountholders
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Delene Gilbert has served as the Director of Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank since 2021, bringing a diverse background in banking and small business ownership to the role. Her leadership and industry expertise have been instrumental in positioning Prism Bank as a trusted financial partner for Oklahoma’s cannabis industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Growth Opportunities & Challenges in the Cannabis Banking Market
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
E.J. Kritz is the Executive Experience Officer at DBSI, a renowned design-build firm in the financial services industry. He has worked with some of the finest brands in banking, retail, and hospitality as a global customer experience consultant and keynote speaker. E.J. has served in CX and sales strategy leadership roles at both TD Bank and Santander, served on the advisory board of the Interactive Customer Experience Association, and has contributed to work in USA Today, The Washington Post, and more. A resident of Charleston, SC, E.J. is all about shaking up what’s considered “normal” and makes no apologies for telling it how it is.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Digital + Human: Delivery Strategies for the Next-Gen Branch Experience
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric is the co-founder and CEO of Rival, a leading marketing consultancy for challengers, working with start-ups to help them scale and incumbents like JP Morgan, Reebok, and Unilever to help them innovate. Over the last 20 years Eric has been lucky enough to help build some of the biggest brands in the world in various in-house marketing and advertising agency roles. Before co-founding Rival in 2021 he was the Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer of 11:FS, a challenger fintech consultancy for nearly three years. He was also one of the first 15 employees and MD, EMEA of VaynerMedia reporting directly to Gary Vaynerchuk for seven years.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Next-Gen CMO: Essential Skills & Leadership Strategies from Marketing Visionaries
Juniper 1 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gaurav Bhatia serves as the Chief Marketing Offi cer and Head of Retail Deposits at PenFed Credit Union and joined PenFed in 2019. He is responsible to growing deposits leveraging all customer channels\nPreviously he served as the Chief Digital Offi cer for NewDay USA where he lead business operations, marketing/digital strategy, technology, brand, and customer experience and technology. He has held senior leadership positions at several large Fortune 500 including AARP, Capital One, Sabre Holdings (parent of Travelocity.com) and NIIT Technologies, with customers in the travel and fi nancial services. Gaurav holds a Master’s degree in Information Systems, an MBA in Marketing & Strategy and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also has completed the executive leadership program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Retail Deposit Growth Playbook: Adaptive Strategies for Evolving Customer Expectations
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
As President and CEO of Adrenaline, Gina leads change by inspiring the company’s clients and team members, the market, and the industry by envisioning and creating the future of brand experiences. One of the original founders of Adrenaline, she exemplifies the company’s culture and vision and generates meaningful experiences that drive and deliver business advantage. Known for her analytical prowess, razor-sharp customer insight, design brilliance, and ability to lead transformational change, Gina ignites audiences across the financial industry with thought leadership and storytelling. She is regularly featured in publications and keynotes at leading conferences each year and serves as co-host of the award-winning Believe in Banking Podcast.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branding for Growth: Navigating M&A Success Through Strategic Integration
Juniper 4 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Gunny is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research. Gunny has authored and co-authored Nonfiction studies such as The Secret Financial Lives of Americans, Intimacy in America, America’s Secret Music Playlists, and Saving Americans from the News. Before Nonfiction, Gunny was the Head of Strategy at VICE Media’s digital agency. Gunny is a founding board member of Brooklyn Poets – the literary nonprofit – and an advisory board member of DVRGNT Ventures, a venture capital fund dedicated to underestimated founders from underrepresented geographies. He’s a graduate of Coatesville Area Schools and Columbia University. He splits time between New York City and Nashville, where he lives with his wife and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James Robert Lay is one of the world’s leading digital marketing authors, speakers, and advisors for growth-minded brands. \nAs a digital anthropologist, James Robert has studied the intersection of marketing, sales, technology, and human behavior for over twenty years. He has written two number-one best-selling books including, Banking on Digital Growth and Banking on Change, in addition to hosting the Banking on Digital Growth podcast, which is ranked among the top five percent of all podcasts in the world.\nJames Robert is also the founder and CEO of the Digital Growth Institute, where he is on a mission to help financial brands stop losing loans and deposits. He has been named a top global financial services influencer to follow by The Financial Brand. At the same time, his insights are frequently featured in outlets such as U.S. News & World Report, Entrepreneur Magazine, Quartz, American Banker, and Credit Union Times, among many others.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forum 2025 Growth Strategies: Turning Ideas Into Action
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Innovator, designer, strategist, futurist, transformer of brands for growth, Jean-Pierre Lacroix is President of Shikatani Lacroix Design (SLD). Jean-Pierre Lacroix is strongly committed to design innovation. In addition to pioneering the successful firm, Jean-Pierre is also Past President of The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario, Past President of DIAC (Design Industry Advisory Committee), board member of SEGD (Society of Environmental Graphic Designers), as well as former Director of the Packaging Association of Canada. SLD is a global branding firm specializing in transforming customer experiences for financial institutions and retailers’ brands. A key tenet of the company’s approach is the constant review of trends and market dynamics influencing ideal transformation outcomes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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What Will Save Community Banking
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
Strategic marketing leader with 20+ years of experience driving brand growth through customer-focused programs that resonate with diverse audiences across Financial Services, Retail, and Education industries. Proven expertise in developing and executing innovative financial education and financial wellness initiatives. Skilled in full-funnel marketing and cross-channel management, creating impactful campaigns that address customer needs and improve business outcomes. Adept at designing thought leadership and educational content to foster trust, engagement, and brand loyalty. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a BS in Economics and a Master’s in Sales and Marketing.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Dr. John Ratzan is an Accenture Senior Managing Director who has more than 25 years of experience in the Banking industry. In his current role, John leads the Financial Services North America Data & AI business as well as leads the Accenture business at a global Bank. He leads client relationships with business and technology leadership and consults on the business strategy and technology vision to deliver technology, process, and operational transformations. His expertise is in data, analytics, banking, payment systems, artificial intelligence, and innovation. Prior to his current role, John has led several transformations for global FS clients leveraging the aforementioned expertise and capability. John’s degrees are: MIS, MS MIS, MBA from University of Arizona and DBA doctoral degree focused on artificial intelligence from Pace University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Scaling Gen AI Responsibly: Steps to Establish Responsible AI
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Johnson Cook is the co-founder and president of Atlanta-based Greenlight Financial Technology, the leading family fintech company on a mission to help parents raise financially smart kids. Greenlight offers an award-winning banking app for families that helps parents teach their kids and teens how to earn, save, spend wisely, invest, and more. The company serves more than 6.5 million parents and kids, who have collectively saved and invested more than $700 million towards their financial futures. Greenlight also partners with more than 100 leading banks, brands, credit unions, and employers to bring its family finance solution to more families through the Greenlight for Banks, Greenlight for Credit Unions, and Greenlight for Work programs. Greenlight has raised more than $560 million from investors Andreessen Horowitz, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Truist Bank, Synchrony Bank, Ally Bank, Live Oak Bank, Wellington Management, TTV Capital, Canapi Ventures, Relay Ventures, and others.\nMr. Cook’s entrepreneurial spirit began at Georgia Tech where he met his wife and started his first company. Johnson was a partner in the launch of the Atlanta Tech Village, is a past President of Entrepreneurs Organization Atlanta (EO), and has been recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur Of The Year. He is an angel investor, a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), a Trustee of the Woodruff Arts Center, and an active member of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Johnson is also a licensed pilot and loves to sail catamarans with his wife and three teenagers.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Blueprint for Growth: Winning With Gen Z & Gen Alpha
Juniper 4 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
As a leader for brand experience for Adrenaline, Juliet is laser focused on how to leverage brand for delivering business advantage. A renowned brand expert, she is known for her empathy-led, research-backed approach. Connecting the disciplines of brand design, experience design, and marketing, Juliet forges competitively unique platforms that help brands stand out and connect with the hearts and minds of employees, customers, markets, and all those who influence choice. A journalist turned strategist, Juliet has 20-plus years’ experience in building some of the globe’s most notable brands, including Coca-Cola, Virgin, Samsung, the International Olympic Committee, Visa, and S&P Global. As a brand thought leader, Juliet oversees brand and editorial strategy for Believe in Banking, the mission-oriented multimedia platform for banking leaders, and she’s regularly tapped by industry trade publications for her branding expertise.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branch Renaissance: Driving Acquisition, Cross-Selling & Engagement
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kerry-Ann is the dynamic CMO of the JMMB Group, a leading Caribbean-based financial services group headquartered in Jamaica. With over 20 years of experience in financial services marketing, her expertise and insights make her a sought after international speaker, a recognized thought leader and a member of the Forbes Communications Council.\nAs the visionary producer and host of the unique podcast series, The Internal Marketing Podcast, Kerry-Ann is passionate about revolutionizing the way companies build their brands. Her podcast delves into innovative strategies for internal marketing, engaging and empowering employees to become brand ambassadors and drive business growth from within.\nKerry-Ann holds an MBA in Marketing from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Hidden Growth Engine: Internal Marketing to Drive Brand Advocacy & Revenue Growth
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
With over 6 years experience in the social media space I love helping organizations turn likes, comments, shares and DMs into tangible and impactful results. \nAs the Senior Manager of Enterprise Acquisition at Hootsuite, I leverage my skills in social strategy, social selling, and the Hootsuite solution to create and execute effective gameplans that align with our customer’s mission and vision. \nI lead a team of Account Executives who are responsible for partnering with organizations to ensure they can leverage social media to achieve their business objectives. \nI am passionate about helping organizations improve their social media presence and engagement, and I value innovation, collaboration, and customer connection.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Your People: Driving Business Outcomes Through Employee Advocacy in Social Channels
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Rusiru Gunasena is Senior Vice President, RTP® Product and Strategy at The Clearing House, where he leads the product management and strategy team for The Clearing House’s RTP® network. In this role, Rusiru oversees the ongoing growth of the RTP network, a modern platform for real-time payments that connects banks, credit unions, and fintech customers to move money with immediate payment confirmation. Rusiru is a payments and fintech leader with more than 20 years of experience across multiple industries. He is a strong advocate for digital payment innovation and continues to influence the U.S. payments ecosystem by participating in various industry workgroups and committees. Rusiru has experience as an entrepreneur and a diverse leader involved in start-up ventures and Fortune 100 companies worldwide across multiple industries. Prior to joining The Clearing House, Rusiru was the Managing Director of JHA PayCenter with responsibility for leading Jack Henry’s Faster Payments strategy and building a central payment hub for fintechs and financial institutions. He holds an MBA from University of Louisville with an Entrepreneurship concentration and a bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, where he was an honors recipient.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Instant Payments: Riding the Wave Into the Future
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Scott is a digital marketing leader with 20+ years’ experience helping lead Fortune 1000 brands to new levels of success through innovation, strategy, and customer-centered initiatives. New Media Advisors partners with financial brands to accelerate growth in owned and earned digital channels with an emphasis in content marketing and SEO. Prior to founding New Media Advisors in 2020, he previously led digital marketing channels at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and Choice Hotels International. While at Bank of America (2010-2019), Scott helped to launch Better Money Habits into an industry-leading financial education platform and developed the SEO and Content Centers of Excellence. Scott is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an active Rotarian in Cary, NC. He’s an aspiring at-home-cook who enjoys golf, pulling for the Tar Heels, family vacations and spending quality time with his wife, sons, and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sean Payant serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for Haberfeld which is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Sean leads the consulting, account executive, client services and creative teams. Haberfeld specializes in assisting financial institutions with overall marketing, data analytics, execution, and training as it relates to growing retail and business customers, increasing low-cost funding, and improving overall profitability. Sean’s team also oversee Haberfeld’s online coaching platform, Cultivate™ designed to grow banking leaders and their teams, Plus One™ referral platform, eLearning Programs, Special Programs, and Organizational Development practice.\nSean has more than 25 years of experience leading team development and strategic planning sessions for financial institutions, for profit corporations and not for profit organizations. He has spoken at more than 200 industry banking schools, executive meetings and conferences.\nSean holds a Bachelors degree from Midland Lutheran College, and Masters and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Overcoming Strategic Contradictions in The Banking C-Suite
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Sharon Cook joined Vericast in January 2024 overseeing Financial Institution Client Strategy. She brings over 20 years of financial industry experience from working in consumer banking, wholesale lending to financial institutions, and now as a financial services partner for acquisition and growth strategy. Throughout her career, she has held key positions leading marketing and communications teams, including her most recent past role as Chief Marketing Officer. At Vericast, Sharon leads a team of former bank and credit union executives who deliver marketing and data strategy to Vericast clients, to help them achieve their deposit and lending acquisition and growth marketing goals.\nSharon is a frequent speaker on brand loyalty, women in banking, crisis communications, and various other leadership topics impacting financial institutions.\nSharon graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Art’s degree in communications and journalism and has a Master of Business Administration degree in organizational leadership from Brenau University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Your Marketing Budget for Maximum ROI
Juniper 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Surjit Chana is a seasoned entrepreneurial technology and digital transformation leader. He currently serves as the CEO/President of Tech4Good Consulting. He brings over 35 years of global experience in technology, strategy, marketing, and governance. He has held executive leadership roles in several prestigious organizations, including IBM, where he was a key senior leadership team member for a decade. At Tech4Good Consulting, Surjit is committed to empowering organizations to harness emerging technologies, such as AI, for social good. His company specializes in guiding financial institutions—banks, credit unions, and microfinance entities—on aligning business and technology strategies with their core mission, optimizing technology infrastructure, enhancing client experiences, implementing AI-driven solutions, transforming their operating models, and implementing good governance. Tech4Good also invests in emerging tech companies focused on delivering positive societal impacts. As a Harvard Fellow with the Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI), Surjit exploresthe intersection of technology and leadership, focusing on how organizations can strategically integrate digital transformation to enhance governance, operating models, and long-term impact. In addition to his corporate achievements, Surjit serves on the boards of several esteemed organizations. He is the lead director for strategy and chair of the Technology Committee for Beneficial State Bank and its holding company, Bancorp. He also chairs the Board of Directors at Care for the Homeless, is a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) Technology Committee, and sits on the board of his alma mater, the University of Surrey Foundation. Surjit holds certifications from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD.DC) and Carnegie Mellon University in cybersecurity oversight. Surjit’s career spans key leadership roles such as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, and General Manager, and he is recognized for his expertise in digital transformation, M&A, marketing, P&L management, and corporate governance. He holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Surrey, UK, and has multiple patents from his pioneering work on transaction processing systems and AI at IBM. Having lived and worked in the UK, Europe, Asia, and the USA, Surjit brings a truly global perspective to his work, blending technological acumen with a deep commitment to leveraging innovation for the greater good.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing Emerging Technologies as Catalysts for Growth
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Wil Reynolds, Founder and CEO of Seer Interactive, is a globally recognized thought leader in SEO and digital marketing. In 2002, after his then-boss wouldn’t let him volunteer on his lunch break, Wil launched Seer with a vision to combine digital expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. Under Wil’s leadership, Seer has expanded into a top-tier digital marketing agency offering services like SEO, Paid Media, Analytics, and Creative. From mid-sized to Fortune 500, Seer services clients in Banking, Higher Ed, SaaS, high tech, and pharma. As a certified B Corp, the Seer team is dedicated to crushing goals for their clients and uplifting their community – and each other, full stop.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Google: Digital Marketing Strategies for the New Realities of AI-Powered Search
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Colin Walsh is the founder and CEO of Varo Bank, the first all-digital, nationally-chartered U.S. consumer techbank built from the ground up. Varo’s mission is to advance the cause of financial inclusion and opportunity for all. Colin is uniquely positioned to lead the digital bank revolution building on his years of experience in consumer banking at large global financial institutions. He led Europe’s largest credit and charge card business as an Executive Vice President at American Express. Colin also led the UK’s largest mortgage and savings businesses at Lloyds Banking Group, and served as Managing Director for the firm’s retail bancassurance, credit, debit and merchant acquiring businesses.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Varo: Sustainable Growth Through Product Innovation and Digital Marketing
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Dominic Venturo is Senior Executive Vice President and the Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bancorp. He has spent the past 25 years with U.S. Bank in positions of increasing responsibility within digital, innovation and product management. As Chief Digital Officer, Dominic is responsible for setting and executing the enterprise-wide digital strategy for U.S. Bank. The Digital team works to empower our customers with excellent digital experiences, so they can bank when, where, and how they want, with smart, personalized tools that help them manage their money. Under Dominic’s leadership, U.S. Bank has been recognized as a leader in digital banking, including the No.1-rated mobile app in the industry, among numerous other accolades for digital mortgage tools, mobile check deposit, user experience and more. Dominic was Chief Innovation Officer at U.S. Bank from 2015 to 2020. Prior to that, he led the innovation team for U.S. Bank’s payments division and held a number of other payments-related positions. Dominic also held various roles primarily focusing on Small Business at Bank of America and its predecessors from 1989 to 1998. An accomplished speaker and industry visionary, Dominic has received numerous awards, including being named to the Top 25 Most Influential Innovators list by Innovation Leader, Elite 8 by Bank Systems and Technology, Innovators to Watch by Bank Innovation and Mobile Banker of the Year by Bank Technology News. He has served on the national board of Girls With Impact (GWI), a nonprofit that focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The program helps women ages 14-24 increase their confidence, college readiness and professional skills – expanding the talent pipeline of women, particularly women of color, across industries. Dominic has also previously served as a corporate board member for enterprise software firm R3 and was a former board member of the Minneapolis College Foundation. Dominic earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Oregon State University and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Building a Resilient Digital Banking Platform
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Smith is Zions Bancorporation’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Operations Officer. As a member of the company’s executive committee, she drives transformative technology initiatives, at enterprise scale, for long term customer value. In 2006, Jennifer joined Zions as the Chief Audit Executive after holding various positions at Wells Fargo from 1995-2006. She holds B.A. and M.S. degrees in economics from the University of Utah. Jennifer’s work has been recognized by various industry organizations. Most recently she was awarded YWCA of Utah’s Outstanding Leadership Award in Social and Business Innovation. She was also honored as one of American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024; won the Women Tech Council’s Technology Leadership award in 2018 and the Decade of Impact award in 2024. In 2013, she was globally selected as an International Women’s Forum Leadership Fellow; the following year, she was selected to the first cohort of Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders. Jennifer is committed to serving her community. She serves on The Children’s Center of Utah’s Board of Directors, the Women’s Leadership Institute’s Board of Advisors, and the University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Science’s Advancement Board. She has previously held Board of Director positions at YWCA of Utah, United Way of Greater Salt Lake, the Berkana Institute, and People Helping People. She is a previous Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah and Women Who Succeed mentor.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Lessons Learning from a Core Banking Conversion
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Host of the Executive Leadership Series
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Thursday at ALL
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Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lamont Young leads Citizens Consumer Digital transformation, which delivers modern, seamless customer experiences across all digital channels. With a laser focus on the customer, his team optimizes the firm’s digital channels and sales to deepen and grow customers in key markets and across the country.\nPrior to joining Citizens in 2012, Young held several top leadership positions at Bank of America in online and mobile banking, digital sales, digital media and content development. Before joining Bank of America, Young was the founder and CEO of a start-up firm that provided critical services to growth-stage companies.\nLamont earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University and his Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University.\nHe is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the American Marketing Association, the advisory boards for Mass Challenge Fintech, Winthrop University College of Business, the National Association of Black MBAs and Year Up Banking and Customer Success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Engaging the Next Generation of Banking Customers
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lindsey Johnson joined the Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) as President and CEO on July 5, 2022. Since that time, Johnson has served as a strong advocate for America’s leading banks in Washington, D.C., helping the industry navigate and chart the future of the consumer retail banking industry, amidst challenges—from increasing regulatory pressures to the rapidly evolving financial services marketplace. More recently, Johnson has worked with leading policymakers across the ideological spectrum to project confidence in the strength of the American financial system following months of market volatility. She was named one of Washingtonian’s Most Influential People in 2023, and frequently appears in media outlets, including the Associated Press, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and POLITICO. Prior to joining CBA, Johnson served as President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers, where she worked with member companies to advance the value of private mortgage insurance to borrowers and taxpayers. Johnson previously held positions at PwC, as well as in the U.S. Senate, where she served as the Republican Staff Director for the Senate Banking Committee’s National Security and International Trade and Finance (NSITF) Subcommittee, as well as a Senior Policy Advisor to Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois). Johnson also was Director for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta for seven years, representing the Bank in D.C. at the highest levels of government during several key legislative reforms that impacted the Bank including the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and Dodd-Frank Act. A native of Texas, Johnson began her career in D.C. working with former House Republican Conference Chair J.C. Watts in the private sector. She received an MBA from Georgetown University. Johnson is a Director on the Board for Habitat for Humanity Northern Virginia, an Advisory Council member for National Housing Conference, and an Advisory Board Member for the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Advisory Committee. Johnson also was the 2018-2019 past-president of Women in Housing and Finance. She resides in Arlington, Virginia, with her husband and three children.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Future of Banking in a Changing Regulatory Environment
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 PM
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Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Sathish Muthukrishnan was named chief information, data and digital officer for Ally Financial Inc. in December 2019. In this role, Muthukrishnan is responsible for advancing Ally’s technical and digital capabilities, including cyber security and infrastructure, and accelerating the company’s growth and evolution as a leader in the digital financial services sector. He is based in Ally’s Charlotte corporate center and reports to Ally CEO Michael Rhodes.\nMuthukrishnan has held a number of senior technology leadership roles with substantial scale and global reach, and previously served as the chief digital and information officer for Honeywell Aerospace, a nearly $14 billion revenue business within Honeywell International. He brings to Ally more than 20 years of technology leadership experience in complex businesses with high availability and reliability requirements on their technology. Ten years were spent in financial services with American Express prior to joining Honeywell.\nMuthukrishnan graduated from University of Madras with a degree in engineering, specializing in computer science. He is a member of the Advisory Board of WIT International and was recipient of the Chairman’s Award for Innovation for several years at American Express. He was named to Board of Directors at BRP Group, Inc in 2023. Muthukrishnan has more than 25 filed patents in the manufacturing, payments and digital technology space.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Deploying Generative AI for Efficiency and Growth
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Todd Purcell is the Head of Digital Strategy, Planning and Partnerships at TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank. In this role, Todd leads a team of digital experts accountable for the development and execution of a unified digital strategy and roadmap for U.S. Digital Banking. His team provides connectivity across Consumer and Small Business products, store and call center channels and technology platforms. His team also keeps a pulse on external trends and leading FinTech providers to ensure TD Bank’s digital experiences exceeds customer expectations.\nTodd has over 25 years of experience as a digital strategy and marketing executive with the demonstrated ability to define and execute a compelling vision to drive digital transformation. He has held senior leadership positions at Webster Bank, MetLife, EY, The Hartford, USAA, Smith Barney, American Express, and JP Morgan Chase acting as a champion for the power of creating a truly connected customer experience across sales, marketing, and servicing.\nTodd has an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Fordham University and a BS in Business Management from Cornell University. He lives with his wife, Staci and their dog, Remi and has two sons, Evan and Alec. Todd enjoys long distance running, any book by Stephen King and is a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Customer-Centric Digital Transformation
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Victor Alexander is Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank, where he is responsible for Key’s Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Deposits and Payments, Business Banking, Wealth Management, and Home Lending lines of business nationally. The Consumer Banking team serves more than 3 million clients with branch offices in 15 states and a national multi-channel distribution.\nVictor has been with Key throughout his entire career, most recently as Head of Home Lending. Previously, Victor served as Key’s Corporate Treasurer and led Key’s Corporate Strategy team, which oversees Key’s corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic investment activity.\nVictor received a B.S. from John Carroll University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.\nHe currently serves on the Board of Directors at John Carroll University, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, the Musical Arts Association (Cleveland Orchestra) and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Punch Above Your Asset Size in a Highly Competitive Marketplace
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Powering 3x Revenue Growth with a AI Rewards Model
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
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Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Danielle Herd Webb serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer for Texas Bank and Trust Company.\nDanielle began her career in the financial services industry in 1998. Prior to joining Texas Bank and Trust in 2014, she held various retail and securities related management positions with JPMorgan Chase & Co in both the East Texas and Central Dallas markets. In her current role, Danielle oversees and manages the bank’s branch network operations, which includes 20 full-service banking locations throughout East Texas and North Texas, serving customers in 16 unique communities, as well as the bank’s contact center. She also leads product development and the bank’s deposit growth strategy, playing a key role in shaping the customer experience at Texas Bank and Trust.\nBeyond her professional responsibilities, Danielle is active in her community. She serves on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Board of East Texas, as well as the strategic committees of Marvin Methodist Church and Grace Community School, and contributes her expertise to additional non-profit organizations.\nDanielle earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from Baylor University. She and her husband, Kent, live in Tyler, Texas. Together, they enjoy spending time with their five children and are actively involved in their faith and fitness communities.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Geotargeting & Segmentation Strategies for Acquisition & Growth
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
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Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Eldred is the Chief Experience Officer for Solarity Credit Union ($850 million, Yakima, WA). With three decades in financial services across a variety of community banks and credit unions, his background includes marketing, product development, customer and digital experience, business intelligence, branch and call center operations. Connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/davideldred/
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Tellerless Branches: Improving CX Through Digital Transformation
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:25 – 3:45 PM
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David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Des Moines native and community advocate Emily Abbas joined Bankers Trust, the largest community bank in Iowa with $7 billion in assets, 10 years ago as the first-ever Chief of Staff and added the role of Chief Marketing Officer six months later. Five years ago, she also took on the leadership role for the bank’s Retail Branches, Private Banking, Residential Mortgage, Cash Vault, Call Center, and Financial Services teams. Prior to joining the banking industry, Emily’s work was primarily in marketing and communications at national and international insurance companies.\nEmily’s values align well with community banking, as she personally volunteers more than 340 hours annually through non-profit board and committee roles with Iowa Bankers Association, United Way of Central Iowa, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, Principal Charity Classic, and more.\nEmily was named a national “Outstanding Women in Banking” by BankBeat Magazine in 2022. She was named the first-ever “Marketing Executive of the Year” in 2019 by the Iowa American Marketing Association Chapter, but is prouder that her team was awarded “Marketing Team of the Year” in 2022. She was featured as one of “14 People to Watch in 2014” by The Des Moines Register and was honored as a “Woman of Influence” by the Des Moines Business Record in 2016 and 2021. Even with these many accolades, the accomplishment she is most proud of is her division’s 225+ team members’ “best in class” level of employee engagement.\n
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Attracting & Retaining Next-Gen Retail Customers
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
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Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jennifer Sobotta, CFMP is the Vice President and Marketing Director at Forward Bank, where she leads with vision and innovation to drive transformative marketing strategies and strengthen community connections. With a distinguished background in financial services marketing, Jennifer consistently delivers forward-thinking solutions that enhance brand visibility and foster lasting customer relationships.\nA recognized leader in shaping the future of Forward Bank, Jennifer is a graduate of the ABA School of Bank Marketing & Management and maintains her Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) designation. She has been fiercely supportive of the financial services industry serving on both the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) section and the Marketing Committee.\nJennifer is one of the inaugural members of Forward Bank’s AI Council, which drives the direction, governance and speed of implementation of AI initiatives across the organization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI Roadmap to Amplify Marketing Efficiency
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:20 PM
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Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Huntinghouse serves as the Vice President of Marketing at TAB Bank, where his innovative leadership has transformed the marketing department, driving record-breaking growth. With over 16 years of experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, John excels in utilizing data analytics, demand generation, and digital marketing to craft strategies that significantly boost revenue and market share. His accomplishments have earned him the title of Utah Business Magazine’s 2022 Marketer of the Year, and under his guidance, TAB Bank’s marketing team was named the 2024 Marketing Team of the Year. A seasoned speaker, John has shared his insights at more than 50 conferences nationwide. Beyond his executive role, he imparts his knowledge as an adjunct professor of marketing at Weber State University, helping shape the next generation of marketers. John also serves as a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Board, contributing to thought leadership in the marketing industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Turbocharging the Business Lending Pipeline
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
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John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing AI to Personalize CX in Digital Channels
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
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Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Rob has 17 years of experience in the banking industry and was previously employed by Trustmark National Bank as Director of Marketing. A native of Memphis, Rob is a graduate of Delta State University and Leadership Mississippi. He graduated with honors from the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and is currently enrolled in the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking. In the community, he serves as Treasurer on the Friends of Children’s Hospital board of directors and also serves as a national alumni board member for Delta State University. Rob and his wife, Tamyne, have three children; Larisa, Patrick and Nikolai.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Profitable Deposit Growth Through Advanced Data Analytics
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
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Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
As Executive Vice President at Berkshire Bank, Sumant leads Berkshire One, and award-winning digital sub-brand, overseeing its strategic direction, P&L management, and growth initiatives. His leadership also spans Strategic Planning, Marketing & Communications, Client Experience, Deposit Products, Strategic Projects, and Data & Analytics—all with a focus on delivering measurable impact.\nSumant’s career has been built on a cornerstone of strategic transformation and innovation, consistently driving results. At Berkshire Bank, he led a 3-year enterprise-level transformation program, focusing on optimizing expenses, driving digitalization, and reigniting growth across key verticals. These initiatives not only enhanced operational efficiency but also unlocked significant shareholder value and strengthened the bank’s competitive position for long-term success.\nIn the digital space, he’s passionate about client-centric innovation. Sumant developed and launched an award-winning digital banking platform, implemented advanced analytics and CRM systems, and built a robust data warehouse—transforming how we engage clients and streamlining operations for scale.\nSumant has successfully navigated a number of complex M&A and divestment transactions, aligning stakeholders and delivering impactful outcomes.\nPrior to Berkshire Bank, as Chief Corporate Credit Officer, he scaled specialized lending verticals with a pristine credit record, executing high-profile transactions in private equity, venture capital, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Competing at the Speed of Digital: How One Regional Stepped Up Its Game
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:20 PM
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Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Started with no ideas about marketing but deeply curious about why people buy/sell products and solutions in the regulated industry called banking. Two plus decades later – Smith Barney/Citigroup, Bank of America, JP Morgan, Neuberger Berman, People’s United Bank and Flagstar – I still love what I do.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Navigating Challenges & Avoiding Pitfalls
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lili Tomovich is the Chief Marketing & Experience Officer for Barclays US Consumer Bank where she oversees customer experience, marketing technology, channel strategy & optimization, brand, creative & sponsorships, product & partner marketing, consumer insights and research. Lili is a transformational marketing executive who has spent her career building leading brands in the financial services, retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries across the US and Canada.\nPrior to joining Barclays Bank in 2021, Lili was Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Collaborative responsible for the e-commerce platform for natural home and personal care products. Previously, Lili was the Chief Experience and Marketing Officer for MGM Resorts International, a $15B global hospitality and entertainment company. Her financial services industry experience includes nearly 10 years at Mastercard, where she served as head of Marketing for Canada and Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing for the US market. She held additional marketing leadership roles with LoyaltyOne, Rogers Communications, and Citi.\nLili is a member of the Board of Directors of Dine Brands Global. She holds an MBA from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brock University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Human Connections
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
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Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
As CMO of Navy Federal Credit Union, largest credit union in the nation with more than 14 million members and over $177B in assets, Pam leads brand and product marketing. She is well versed in brand building and demand generation. She is the conduit between the organization and current and prospective members, keeping a pulse on the needs of both for their mutual benefit and success. Pam is passionate about accurately capturing what the credit union stands for, going beyond building brand awareness to generating loyalty and trust from Active Duty, Veterans and their families. She is a leader motivated by doing what is right not only for the millions of Navy Federal members around the world, but also for the military community at large.\nPrior to becoming CMO, Pam served as the senior vice president of Marketing and Communications overseeing the advancement of Navy Federal’s brand story of unsurpassed member service. She was instrumental in the development and launch of Navy Federal’s brand platform and tagline: Our Members Are the Mission®. Pam also directed all marketing and advertising strategy, including research and both public and industry relations. Never one to pass up a chance to run, Pam has competed in marathons across the nation. She recently checked off a bucket list goal to run a marathon in every state in the U.S.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Three Pillars of Marketing
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sue Hermann serves as Chief Marketing Officer for BOK Financial, a top 25 financial institution that has fueled the growth of consumers, businesses and wealth clients for more than a century. As CMO, Sue has responsibility for telling the story of BOK Financial’s brand, lines of business, people and the impact the company in the communities it serves. She leads a team of professionals in shaping and creating multi-channel campaigns that attract qualified leads, engage existing clients and develop prospects.\nThe work of her team has earned several industry accolades, and Sue has been recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal and a Top Women in Marketing by Ragan Communications. Sue holds a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Wright State University.\nSue lives in Denver and enjoys spending time with her daughters, reading, hiking and cooking (with varying results).
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Aligning Marketing with Business Outcomes
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Sumeet Grover is the Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union, leading enterprise-wide digital, marketing, banking/lending/investment products, payments, analytics, and member experience functions. Alliant is a leading digital financial institution and has recently been recognized as the best in the industry by the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Kiplinger, Bankrate, Nerdwallet, CNET, and more. Before joining Alliant, Sumeet had a nearly two-decade career at Citibank. During this time, he held leadership positions across marketing, digital, client experience, operations, and technology functions. As a visionary leader, advisor, and board member, Sumeet has a proven track record of heading crossfunctional global teams, developing and executing strategic roadmaps, delivering exceptional customer experiences, maximizing business growth, accelerating digital transformation, optimizing performance, and generating long-term value. Sumeet specializes in digital strategies, full-funnel marketing, customer experiences, brand management, organic and paid channels, omnichannel marketing, media, content, communication, personalization, marketing operations, MarTech, data, and digital capabilities. He is a dynamic speaker sharing insights on marketing strategies, digital innovation, customer centricity, and advanced technologies at various events such as industry conferences, webinars, and podcasts. He is regularly featured in American Banker, PYMNTS, and other industry-wide publications. Sumeet has been recognized for his work by his peers with industry accolades, including a Fellowship from The Marketing Academy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, a Master’s in Business Administration, and executive certifications from The Wharton School, Columbia Business School, and the Yale School of Management.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Digital Banking Challenger Mindset
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
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Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
For more than 20 years, Vickie Sherman has been a marketing executive helping companies get their best work into the world to increase value.\nShe’s currently the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank and Pacific Premier Trust (NASDAQ; PPBI). She leads the marketing, branding, and sales enablement efforts for commercial, treasury management, retail, commercial real estate, SBA, community banking, specialty banking, commerce escrow, franchise capital, and Pacific Premier Trust. \nPrior to joining Pacific Premier, Vickie led marketing at three financial institutions: Mechanics Bank, Rabobank, and Golden 1 Credit Union. Her achievements included record-high growth in loans, deposits, new customers, brand health metrics, and social media. \nVickie is in her third and final year at Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. She earned her MBA from the University of California Davis Graduate School of Management and her Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California San Diego. She laughs heartily and often, walks her talk, and loves what she does.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forging Strategic Partnerships
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Chris Cox serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Apiture and oversees all aspects of business operations. Previously, Chris was the General Manager of First Data’s digital banking business. He also led mobile payment product development efforts at First Data. Prior to joining First Data, Chris was a Principal Consultant at Diamond Management & Technology Consultants and a Staff Consultant at CSC Consulting. Chris has more than 20 years of experience in banking, payments, mobile commerce, product innovation, and technology strategy. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Miami University in Ohio, and an MBA from Duke University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unlocking the Power of Data: What’s Your Financial Institution’s Data IQ?
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Advisory vs. Transactional Service: How One FI Leverages Technology to Differentiate their Brand, Service, & Experience
Starvin 3+4 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Maggie Burke is the Director of Sitecore Operations at Americaneagle.com, where she manages complex website development projects from start to finish. Drawing on her deep technical knowledge, she leads large development teams while keeping projects on schedule and within budget. Maggie specializes in financial industry websites and has a proven track record of coordinating multiple workstreams to deliver high-quality results. Her ability to effectively manage all aspects of project execution makes her a key leader on the Americaneagle.com team.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Mary McCleaft is a Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel, where she has driven digital transformation initiatives for the past nine years. Specializing in ecommerce solutions, she leads website redesign and re-platform projects with a focus on navigation, personalization, and mobile-responsive design. Her analytical approach to understanding user behavior has resulted in significant improvements in customer engagement across Citadel’s digital platforms. McCleaft brings a unique blend of technical insight and strategic thinking to her role, consistently delivering solutions that balance innovation with practical implementation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Michael Stojda leads exagens corporate strategy and mission to help community financial institutions cost-effectively grow and win against big-banks by emotionally engaging people through digital channels and catalyzing them to save, spend, borrow and invest wisely. With a passion for customer success and building companies, Mike has run F1000 business units & divisions, and companies – from start-ups to turnarounds to taking a U.S. company public. When not working, he can be often found skiing anything with snow, camping, or enjoying a good bottle of wine with family, friends & colleagues. Mike holds degrees in Mechanical, Aerospace and Industrial Engineering and an MBA.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Technology: Using Behavioral Science to Drive Growth and Loyalty with Emotionally Intelligent Banking
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Morgan Domsohn serves as a Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel, where she specializes in creating and optimizing customer journeys across digital platforms. She brings deep expertise in content management, personalization, and digital marketing automation to drive engagement and business growth. Working closely with cross-functional teams, Domsohn leads initiatives that enhance user experience and strengthen Citadel’s digital presence through data-driven strategies and innovative solutions.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
As one of the Media Managers at Pannos Marketing, Abby manages and executes organic SEO strategies that not only enhance search visibility but also improve user experience by aligning with website functionality and design. Abby collaborates across teams to implement omnichannel approaches that drive ROI and optimize conversion actions. With a background in paid media, Abby brings a holistic perspective to campaigns, ensuring that SEO efforts complement broader marketing strategies for maximum impact. Abby also has extensive experience in the paid side of digital media, assisting the media team in reaching digital results that regularly exceed industry benchmarks, including those of Google.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Alexandra is a Vice President in Client Strategy at Deluxe focusing on business development and retention. With 15 years of experience as a strategic program manager, Alexandra has a proven track record developing and implementing omnichannel marketing campaigns for both B2B and B2C segments. She partners with leading data providers, top commercial printers, shipping partners and digital giants to ensure comprehensive and effective marketing strategies. Her expertise includes strategic campaign design, business case development, competitive landscape analysis, offer optimization, creative development, procurement and postal optimization. Alexandra has successfully designed and executed 4,000 omnichannel campaigns during her tenure at Deluxe.\nAlexandra graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. with Honors in Communication.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Precision Marketing: Connecting with Customers at Life’s Critical Moments
Starvine 8+9 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Since Brian joined PWCampbell as National Accounts Executive, he has become a thought leader in the financial institution sector, bringing together creativity, strategic insight, and a profound comprehension of consumer and employee behavior. With dedication to pushing boundaries and questioning traditional design approaches, he focuses on crafting innovative strategies that engage audiences and drive results. During his tenure at PWCampbell, Brian has collaborated with major financial institutions nationwide to align customer and employee needs in response to ever-evolving branch expectations. Additionally, he is a graduate of ABA Bank Marketing School and serves on the NJBankers Retail Banking Committee.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
With over 15 years of experience in digital experience strategy, Christina Baker is the Director of Strategy at SilverTech, where she partners with clients to define business goals and develop customized, omnichannel strategies that deliver measurable success.\nChristina is known for creating exceptional user experiences, collaborating with designers, engineers, and stakeholders to align strategic objectives across projects. Her expertise spans healthcare, utilities, banking, manufacturing, and eCommerce, with a focus on user experience, content strategy, SEO, digital transformation, data strategy, and personalization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Cory is an experienced financial services executive successfully melding strategy, technology, design, operations and marketing into consistent go-to-market discipline that consistently achieves Y-O-Y growth from high performing teams. Over the last decade he has led global product, sales and marketing teams at BlackRock and BNP Paribas. He began his career as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Carlson is the VP of Sales at MANTL. Prior to MANTL, Carlson worked with community financial institutions for more than 15 years to develop and implement scalable growth strategies. He has presented at numerous conferences on topics such as new customer acquisition strategies, sales and marketing initiatives, revenue growth, strategic planning, and team development.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Gain control of your growth in 2025: strategies to lower cost of funds and improve profitability
Starvine 6+7 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeff Shaw has been the President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union since the beginning of 2020. Before that, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Wasatch Peaks formed in 2011 when several credit unions merged—Alliance, Weber, and SummitOne. Having been a part of the leadership team at Weber Credit Union, Jeff was an integral part of the merger. Jeff’s 25+ years of experience working in credit unions and his holistic understanding of financial institution operations enables him to serve the Wasatch Peaks community with excellence and commitment.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jeremy is an experienced strategist, with over 20+ years experience helping leading companies modernize their martech stack, centered on data, AI and personalization. Over the last 10+ years, Jeremy has interacted with and helped Salesforce’s biggest financial service customers, including Edward Jones, Schwab, JP Morgan Chase, Rocket and State Farm Insurance with their customer engagement initiatives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Since joining PWCampbell in 1998, Kevin has advanced through various roles, acquiring an in-depth understanding of the design-build process. He has been instrumental in the creation and growth of the Branded Environments division, where he managed operations, developed strategies, and set business objectives. In his current position as Chief Strategy Officer, Kevin collaborates closely with fellow senior managers to enhance and evolve the company’s business operations, implement strategic initiatives, and lead planning efforts that contribute to the company’s long-term vision and success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
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Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Lisa Nicholas is SVP Strategy at Vericast working in Austin, Texas. She specializes in marketing and digital transformation for the financial services industry. Nicholas has more than 30 years of experience in banking and high-tech industries. She has worked with companies to transform their marketing, sales, lending, branches and operations functions with a focus on transformation from traditional to omni-channel by leveraging technology and data.\nBefore Vericast, Lisa was at IBM Consulting, Wipfli and DBS where she was president of a CUSO leading digital transformation. Prior to DBS Lisa was Chief Digital Officer for Austin-based Amplify Credit Union where she spearheaded the development of its digital sales program, including a shift in architecture and systems to support sales, marketing and fulfillment teams.\nLisa is a frequent speaker at industry events such as Salesforce Dreamforce and Connections conferences, Salesforce Marketing Cloudcast, CUbroadcast, CUES Technology Council and more.\nNicholas earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in marketing from St. Edwards University
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Driven Personalization– Strategies for Hyper-Local Success
Starvine 3+4 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Matt leads Salesforce Marketing Cloud’s Financial Services Industry strategy, drawing on 27 years of experience across advertising agencies, startups, and technology consulting. His expertise in helping clients develop actionable digital strategies is reinforced by a decade at Salesforce. Matt’s primary focus is analyzing market trends and emerging technological advancements to understand their impact on the customer experience.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Srini is the Head of Product, Technology, and Customer Operations at Blend, where he orchestrates the company’s product vision, technology strategy, and operational excellence to drive innovation and exceptional customer outcomes. With over 23 years of experience, Srini has held leadership roles in product management, engineering, and customer operations, demonstrating a proven track record of scaling SaaS businesses, optimizing operations for enterprise growth, and delivering accelerated value creation for stakeholders. Prior to joining Blend, he served in senior positions at PlanSource and IBM, where he developed and implemented strategies that drove technological advancement and enhanced product and shareholder value.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Revolutionizing Banking with AI: From Cost Savings to Personalization
Starvine 11 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
Young has been providing strategic guidance to businesses for over 25 years. With a focus within financial services, he’s led digital product organizations at Chase and also helped VC backed start-ups in mortgage lending and investing. At CI&T, Young is responsible for developing customer experience strategies for clients who need to navigate heavily regulated industries. His client experience spans a variety of brands including Wells Fargo, BlackRock, Invesco, TIAA, Chase and Charles Schwab. He holds a BBA in Business Analysis and Information Systems from Texas A&M University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The GenAI Disruption: What’s Next for Marketing in Banking
Starvine 10 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
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All Speakers
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Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
As one of the Media Managers at Pannos Marketing, Abby manages and executes organic SEO strategies that not only enhance search visibility but also improve user experience by aligning with website functionality and design. Abby collaborates across teams to implement omnichannel approaches that drive ROI and optimize conversion actions. With a background in paid media, Abby brings a holistic perspective to campaigns, ensuring that SEO efforts complement broader marketing strategies for maximum impact. Abby also has extensive experience in the paid side of digital media, assisting the media team in reaching digital results that regularly exceed industry benchmarks, including those of Google.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseAbby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
Alex Matjanec
CEO of Wysh
As the Founder and CEO of Wysh, Alex Matjanec is a visionary entrepreneur at the forefront of the financial technology revolution. Leading a dynamic team committed to pushing the envelope to make financial protection more accessible and user-friendly, he defines his purpose and that of his company to empower every person to live life to the fullest by providing the confidence of financial protection\nAlex has been pivotal in helping Americans navigate their banking choices with unparalleled insight since 2008. That is when he launched MyBankTracker, a platform known for its comprehensive comparisons of banking products, which serves over 1.5 million visitors monthly and partners with giants like Ally Bank and Chase, establishing itself as a premium financial resource.\nHis work not only reflects a deep understanding of the digital finance ecosystem but also a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. Through his leadership at Wysh, Alex continues to inspire and challenge the status quo, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative financial future.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Interest Rates: Protection is The Next Frontier in Deposit Growth
Copperleaf 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseAlex Matjanec
CEO of Wysh
Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Powering 3x Revenue Growth with a AI Rewards Model
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
CloseAlexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Alexandra is a Vice President in Client Strategy at Deluxe focusing on business development and retention. With 15 years of experience as a strategic program manager, Alexandra has a proven track record developing and implementing omnichannel marketing campaigns for both B2B and B2C segments. She partners with leading data providers, top commercial printers, shipping partners and digital giants to ensure comprehensive and effective marketing strategies. Her expertise includes strategic campaign design, business case development, competitive landscape analysis, offer optimization, creative development, procurement and postal optimization. Alexandra has successfully designed and executed 4,000 omnichannel campaigns during her tenure at Deluxe.\nAlexandra graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. with Honors in Communication.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Precision Marketing: Connecting with Customers at Life’s Critical Moments
Starvine 8+9 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseAlexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ann Handley, Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs, is a digital marketing pioneer and bestselling author frequently published in leading business media including Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. At the Forum 2025, you’ll step into the future of content creation with Ann, as she shares unique, actionable insights on how financial brands can use AI to escape marketing mediocrity and ignite tangible results.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Escaping Mediocrity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
CloseAnn Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
With more than 25 years of financial expertise, Ben Udell is the driving force behind “future proofing” Lake Ridge Bank. As a leader in digital innovation, he enjoys working where technology, marketing, and data analytics intersect with consumer financial needs. He’s a leading banking expert in leveraging practical applications of generative AI and is never afraid to be disruptive went it allows him to find innovative ways to improve the client and associate experience. Recently named one of Bank Beat’s “Rising Starts in Banking”, he’s been helping train and consult with other bankers to help them see how AI can transform their organization. In his free time, he creates content for robotsarepeople.net, an AI and technology focused site, speaks on digital transformation, and writes about the financial industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI in Banking: Practical Applications for ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseBen Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Ben is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research, a research organization that brings Fortune 500 businesses inside the inner-most lives of their customers. Nonfiction’s findings have been featured by ABC News, MSNBC, and FastCompany, and their work has inspired the creation of a new division at Disney, new flavors of Doritos, and national public service campaigns addressing public health issues.\n \nPrior to Nonfiction, Ben was the Head of CPG Research under Scott Galloway at L2 (acquired by Gartner). Ben volunteers as an Admissions Ambassador for his alma mater, Georgetown University, and has served on the boards of the Harvard Business Review, the Archdiocese of New York, several startups, and the Somerset Hills Ball Club, where he is currently the program’s t-ball commissioner. He lives in NJ with his wife and four young boys.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseBen Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Benjamin Conant is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of MANTL, a financial technology firm offering the industry’s first Relationship Banking Platform. MANTL’s unified account origination technology empowers banks and credit unions to seamlessly open loan and deposit accounts on any banking channel in real time. \nBen is a serial entrepreneur and engineering leader. Before founding MANTL, Ben architected and led the development of business-empowering technology systems at several startups and was a math teacher. Ben holds a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy, economics, and computer science from Vassar College.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Titans of Deposits: Best Practices for Unlocking Growth
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseBenjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Since Brian joined PWCampbell as National Accounts Executive, he has become a thought leader in the financial institution sector, bringing together creativity, strategic insight, and a profound comprehension of consumer and employee behavior. With dedication to pushing boundaries and questioning traditional design approaches, he focuses on crafting innovative strategies that engage audiences and drive results. During his tenure at PWCampbell, Brian has collaborated with major financial institutions nationwide to align customer and employee needs in response to ever-evolving branch expectations. Additionally, he is a graduate of ABA Bank Marketing School and serves on the NJBankers Retail Banking Committee.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseBrian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
As Q2’s chief marketing officer (CMO), Carlos leads marketing vision, strategy, and initiatives to elevate brand awareness and drive demand for Q2’s industry-leading digital banking and lending solutions. He’s also responsible for spreading the word about Q2’s people-first culture, unparalleled industry expertise, and the differentiated value and success Q2 delivers to customers.\n \nCarlos brings a wealth of knowledge to Q2, having served as CMO at K2, a low-code automation solution leader, where he evolved the company’s go-to-market approach. At Kony, Carlos led marketing efforts, including the creation and launch of Kony’s next-generation digital banking vision and brand, which led to Kony’s successful acquisition by Temenos.\n \nCarlos has spent over 20 years in transformational digital technology, including web content management and advanced personalization at Vignette, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive recommendations at Baynote, and mobile-first innovation at Kony.\n \nCarlos is passionate about building highly collaborative, high-performing teams committed to excellence and delivering strong results. Off the clock, Carlos enjoys exploring new places with his family, attending concerts across the country with his daughter, and cheering on his favorite teams with his son.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fusing Marketing Strategy with Next-Gen Tech to Personalize Digital-Banking Experiences
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseCarlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
World-renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan shares his “Dogma of The Dog Whisperer” and teaches you what he’s learned about mankind by studying man’s best friend. In this riveting, heartfelt keynote, he shares his unique approach to training and leadership based on principles of trust and loyalty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Cesar Millan: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
CloseCesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
Chelsea Daniel
National Sales Representative at 360 View
Chelsea Daniel has spent nearly 15 years helping bankers understand the power of CRM and navigate the process of CRM adoption at their financial institution. As a former AVP of Client Services, she successfully led the CRM implementation for over 100 banks and credit unions. She is currently a national sales representative and can be found traveling coast to coast proclaiming the benefits of CRM. She resides in Nashville with her family and spends too much money on houseplants that may or may not stay alive.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unearthing Your Data Goldmine: How 360 View Helps Harness Your Wealth of Information
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
CloseChelsea Daniel
National Sales Representative at 360 View
Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Chris Cox serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Apiture and oversees all aspects of business operations. Previously, Chris was the General Manager of First Data’s digital banking business. He also led mobile payment product development efforts at First Data. Prior to joining First Data, Chris was a Principal Consultant at Diamond Management & Technology Consultants and a Staff Consultant at CSC Consulting. Chris has more than 20 years of experience in banking, payments, mobile commerce, product innovation, and technology strategy. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Miami University in Ohio, and an MBA from Duke University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unlocking the Power of Data: What’s Your Financial Institution’s Data IQ?
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseChris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
With over 15 years of experience in digital experience strategy, Christina Baker is the Director of Strategy at SilverTech, where she partners with clients to define business goals and develop customized, omnichannel strategies that deliver measurable success.\nChristina is known for creating exceptional user experiences, collaborating with designers, engineers, and stakeholders to align strategic objectives across projects. Her expertise spans healthcare, utilities, banking, manufacturing, and eCommerce, with a focus on user experience, content strategy, SEO, digital transformation, data strategy, and personalization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseChristina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Colin Walsh is the founder and CEO of Varo Bank, the first all-digital, nationally-chartered U.S. consumer techbank built from the ground up. Varo’s mission is to advance the cause of financial inclusion and opportunity for all. Colin is uniquely positioned to lead the digital bank revolution building on his years of experience in consumer banking at large global financial institutions. He led Europe’s largest credit and charge card business as an Executive Vice President at American Express. Colin also led the UK’s largest mortgage and savings businesses at Lloyds Banking Group, and served as Managing Director for the firm’s retail bancassurance, credit, debit and merchant acquiring businesses.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Varo: Sustainable Growth Through Product Innovation and Digital Marketing
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseColin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Cory is an experienced financial services executive successfully melding strategy, technology, design, operations and marketing into consistent go-to-market discipline that consistently achieves Y-O-Y growth from high performing teams. Over the last decade he has led global product, sales and marketing teams at BlackRock and BNP Paribas. He began his career as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseCory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Started with no ideas about marketing but deeply curious about why people buy/sell products and solutions in the regulated industry called banking. Two plus decades later – Smith Barney/Citigroup, Bank of America, JP Morgan, Neuberger Berman, People’s United Bank and Flagstar – I still love what I do.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Navigating Challenges & Avoiding Pitfalls
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseDaniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Danielle Herd Webb serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer for Texas Bank and Trust Company.\nDanielle began her career in the financial services industry in 1998. Prior to joining Texas Bank and Trust in 2014, she held various retail and securities related management positions with JPMorgan Chase & Co in both the East Texas and Central Dallas markets. In her current role, Danielle oversees and manages the bank’s branch network operations, which includes 20 full-service banking locations throughout East Texas and North Texas, serving customers in 16 unique communities, as well as the bank’s contact center. She also leads product development and the bank’s deposit growth strategy, playing a key role in shaping the customer experience at Texas Bank and Trust.\nBeyond her professional responsibilities, Danielle is active in her community. She serves on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Board of East Texas, as well as the strategic committees of Marvin Methodist Church and Grace Community School, and contributes her expertise to additional non-profit organizations.\nDanielle earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from Baylor University. She and her husband, Kent, live in Tyler, Texas. Together, they enjoy spending time with their five children and are actively involved in their faith and fitness communities.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Geotargeting & Segmentation Strategies for Acquisition & Growth
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
CloseDanielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
Dave DeFazio is EVP of Strategy & Solutions at StrategyCorps. He’s armed with a passion for banking strategy, and always exploring the intersection of data, marketing, and technology. He downloads banking apps for fun.\nDave enjoys helping clients evolve their products for improved productivity, engagement, and growth. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a B.A. in Economics and Mathematics.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Connecting the Dots: Fintech Innovations & the Future of Banking
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
David Acevedo
President of 360 View
David has been with 360 View for 17 years. Prior to joining 360 View, David was Senior Vice President and Director of Sales for Interchange Bank, a $1.8 billion commercial bank headquartered in New Jersey. As President of 360 View, David helps banks and credit unions see the value of implementing CRM to build profitable, long-term client relationships. He specializes in working with financial institutions to help them retain and grow long-term relationships with their clients. Offline, you can find him at the Jersey Shore or on the golf course, which also includes the “19th Hole.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unearthing Your Data Goldmine: How 360 View Helps Harness Your Wealth of Information
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
CloseDavid Acevedo
President of 360 View
David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Carlson is the VP of Sales at MANTL. Prior to MANTL, Carlson worked with community financial institutions for more than 15 years to develop and implement scalable growth strategies. He has presented at numerous conferences on topics such as new customer acquisition strategies, sales and marketing initiatives, revenue growth, strategic planning, and team development.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Gain control of your growth in 2025: strategies to lower cost of funds and improve profitability
Starvine 6+7 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseDavid Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Eldred is the Chief Experience Officer for Solarity Credit Union ($850 million, Yakima, WA). With three decades in financial services across a variety of community banks and credit unions, his background includes marketing, product development, customer and digital experience, business intelligence, branch and call center operations. Connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/davideldred/
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Tellerless Branches: Improving CX Through Digital Transformation
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:25 – 3:45 PM
CloseDavid Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Schultz is the Founder and CEO of Media Logic, a nationally recognized marketing agency that has specialized in financial services for more than 30 years. Media Logic has led strategic marketing initiatives for a broad range of clients from industry leaders like Visa, Chase and U.S. Bank, to regional and community banks and credit unions, including PNC Bank, Zions Bancorp and PenFed. \nDavid is passionate about delivering on the agency’s goal of maximizing CLTV. He and his team have helped hundreds of clients optimize customer onboarding to drive early engagement and long-term profitability. Media Logic is known for creating innovative multi-channel communication programs that leverage data-driven insights to segment customers effectively, reinforce product value and set the stage for cross-selling.\nDavid is also an early-stage investor focused on start-ups that provide beneficial disruption and sustainability. His portfolio currently includes more than a dozen companies that were founded and built by a very diverse group of entrepreneurs. When he invests in a company, David also offers strategic guidance around branding, positioning and demand generation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Onboarding ROI for Checking & Debit Accountholders
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDavid Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
One of the funniest comedians on the planet, David Spade is a celebrated actor from TV classics like Saturday Night Live and Just Shoot Me, famous for his hilarious skits and sarcastic satire. Don’t miss his private stand-up comedy performance exclusively for Forum 2025 attendees.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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David Spade: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
CloseDavid Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Delene Gilbert has served as the Director of Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank since 2021, bringing a diverse background in banking and small business ownership to the role. Her leadership and industry expertise have been instrumental in positioning Prism Bank as a trusted financial partner for Oklahoma’s cannabis industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Growth Opportunities & Challenges in the Cannabis Banking Market
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseDelene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Dominic Venturo is Senior Executive Vice President and the Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bancorp. He has spent the past 25 years with U.S. Bank in positions of increasing responsibility within digital, innovation and product management. As Chief Digital Officer, Dominic is responsible for setting and executing the enterprise-wide digital strategy for U.S. Bank. The Digital team works to empower our customers with excellent digital experiences, so they can bank when, where, and how they want, with smart, personalized tools that help them manage their money. Under Dominic’s leadership, U.S. Bank has been recognized as a leader in digital banking, including the No.1-rated mobile app in the industry, among numerous other accolades for digital mortgage tools, mobile check deposit, user experience and more. Dominic was Chief Innovation Officer at U.S. Bank from 2015 to 2020. Prior to that, he led the innovation team for U.S. Bank’s payments division and held a number of other payments-related positions. Dominic also held various roles primarily focusing on Small Business at Bank of America and its predecessors from 1989 to 1998. An accomplished speaker and industry visionary, Dominic has received numerous awards, including being named to the Top 25 Most Influential Innovators list by Innovation Leader, Elite 8 by Bank Systems and Technology, Innovators to Watch by Bank Innovation and Mobile Banker of the Year by Bank Technology News. He has served on the national board of Girls With Impact (GWI), a nonprofit that focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The program helps women ages 14-24 increase their confidence, college readiness and professional skills – expanding the talent pipeline of women, particularly women of color, across industries. Dominic has also previously served as a corporate board member for enterprise software firm R3 and was a former board member of the Minneapolis College Foundation. Dominic earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Oregon State University and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Building a Resilient Digital Banking Platform
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
E.J. Kritz is the Executive Experience Officer at DBSI, a renowned design-build firm in the financial services industry. He has worked with some of the finest brands in banking, retail, and hospitality as a global customer experience consultant and keynote speaker. E.J. has served in CX and sales strategy leadership roles at both TD Bank and Santander, served on the advisory board of the Interactive Customer Experience Association, and has contributed to work in USA Today, The Washington Post, and more. A resident of Charleston, SC, E.J. is all about shaking up what’s considered “normal” and makes no apologies for telling it how it is.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Digital + Human: Delivery Strategies for the Next-Gen Branch Experience
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseEJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Des Moines native and community advocate Emily Abbas joined Bankers Trust, the largest community bank in Iowa with $7 billion in assets, 10 years ago as the first-ever Chief of Staff and added the role of Chief Marketing Officer six months later. Five years ago, she also took on the leadership role for the bank’s Retail Branches, Private Banking, Residential Mortgage, Cash Vault, Call Center, and Financial Services teams. Prior to joining the banking industry, Emily’s work was primarily in marketing and communications at national and international insurance companies.\nEmily’s values align well with community banking, as she personally volunteers more than 340 hours annually through non-profit board and committee roles with Iowa Bankers Association, United Way of Central Iowa, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, Principal Charity Classic, and more.\nEmily was named a national “Outstanding Women in Banking” by BankBeat Magazine in 2022. She was named the first-ever “Marketing Executive of the Year” in 2019 by the Iowa American Marketing Association Chapter, but is prouder that her team was awarded “Marketing Team of the Year” in 2022. She was featured as one of “14 People to Watch in 2014” by The Des Moines Register and was honored as a “Woman of Influence” by the Des Moines Business Record in 2016 and 2021. Even with these many accolades, the accomplishment she is most proud of is her division’s 225+ team members’ “best in class” level of employee engagement.\n
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Attracting & Retaining Next-Gen Retail Customers
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
CloseEmily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric is the co-founder and CEO of Rival, a leading marketing consultancy for challengers, working with start-ups to help them scale and incumbents like JP Morgan, Reebok, and Unilever to help them innovate. Over the last 20 years Eric has been lucky enough to help build some of the biggest brands in the world in various in-house marketing and advertising agency roles. Before co-founding Rival in 2021 he was the Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer of 11:FS, a challenger fintech consultancy for nearly three years. He was also one of the first 15 employees and MD, EMEA of VaynerMedia reporting directly to Gary Vaynerchuk for seven years.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Next-Gen CMO: Essential Skills & Leadership Strategies from Marketing Visionaries
Juniper 1 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseEric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
With a background in marketing and a flair for branding, creativity, and consumer-centric innovation, this pioneering entrepreneur, visionary leader, and disruptive genius founded ground-breaking consumer wellness brands Method and OLLY. At the Forum 2025, Eric Ryan will reveal his secrets on how to radically revolutionize everyday categories with brands that inspire fans and create passionate advocates.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Brand Evanglism
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
CloseEric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gaurav Bhatia serves as the Chief Marketing Offi cer and Head of Retail Deposits at PenFed Credit Union and joined PenFed in 2019. He is responsible to growing deposits leveraging all customer channels\nPreviously he served as the Chief Digital Offi cer for NewDay USA where he lead business operations, marketing/digital strategy, technology, brand, and customer experience and technology. He has held senior leadership positions at several large Fortune 500 including AARP, Capital One, Sabre Holdings (parent of Travelocity.com) and NIIT Technologies, with customers in the travel and fi nancial services. Gaurav holds a Master’s degree in Information Systems, an MBA in Marketing & Strategy and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also has completed the executive leadership program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Retail Deposit Growth Playbook: Adaptive Strategies for Evolving Customer Expectations
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
As President and CEO of Adrenaline, Gina leads change by inspiring the company’s clients and team members, the market, and the industry by envisioning and creating the future of brand experiences. One of the original founders of Adrenaline, she exemplifies the company’s culture and vision and generates meaningful experiences that drive and deliver business advantage. Known for her analytical prowess, razor-sharp customer insight, design brilliance, and ability to lead transformational change, Gina ignites audiences across the financial industry with thought leadership and storytelling. She is regularly featured in publications and keynotes at leading conferences each year and serves as co-host of the award-winning Believe in Banking Podcast.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branding for Growth: Navigating M&A Success Through Strategic Integration
Juniper 4 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Gunny is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research. Gunny has authored and co-authored Nonfiction studies such as The Secret Financial Lives of Americans, Intimacy in America, America’s Secret Music Playlists, and Saving Americans from the News. Before Nonfiction, Gunny was the Head of Strategy at VICE Media’s digital agency. Gunny is a founding board member of Brooklyn Poets – the literary nonprofit – and an advisory board member of DVRGNT Ventures, a venture capital fund dedicated to underestimated founders from underrepresented geographies. He’s a graduate of Coatesville Area Schools and Columbia University. He splits time between New York City and Nashville, where he lives with his wife and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James Robert Lay is one of the world’s leading digital marketing authors, speakers, and advisors for growth-minded brands. \nAs a digital anthropologist, James Robert has studied the intersection of marketing, sales, technology, and human behavior for over twenty years. He has written two number-one best-selling books including, Banking on Digital Growth and Banking on Change, in addition to hosting the Banking on Digital Growth podcast, which is ranked among the top five percent of all podcasts in the world.\nJames Robert is also the founder and CEO of the Digital Growth Institute, where he is on a mission to help financial brands stop losing loans and deposits. He has been named a top global financial services influencer to follow by The Financial Brand. At the same time, his insights are frequently featured in outlets such as U.S. News & World Report, Entrepreneur Magazine, Quartz, American Banker, and Credit Union Times, among many others.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forum 2025 Growth Strategies: Turning Ideas Into Action
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJames Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James White
General Manager of Banking at Total Expert
James White, General Manager, Banking Industry at Total Expert, has been driving growth for financial institutions for over 25 years. He combines his strategic background working across every department at financial organizations with a dedication to the industry and Southern charm. James has worked with some of the largest banks and credit unions in the world and hundreds of other financial institutions both big and small. He has been a contributor to\nTheFinancialBrand.com, Credit Union Times, and Fortune.com. James believes in the power of an empathetic bank or credit union to create customers and members for life.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Winning Customers for Life: Building Relationships That Thrive in Any Rate Environment
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJames White
General Manager of Banking at Total Expert
Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Innovator, designer, strategist, futurist, transformer of brands for growth, Jean-Pierre Lacroix is President of Shikatani Lacroix Design (SLD). Jean-Pierre Lacroix is strongly committed to design innovation. In addition to pioneering the successful firm, Jean-Pierre is also Past President of The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario, Past President of DIAC (Design Industry Advisory Committee), board member of SEGD (Society of Environmental Graphic Designers), as well as former Director of the Packaging Association of Canada. SLD is a global branding firm specializing in transforming customer experiences for financial institutions and retailers’ brands. A key tenet of the company’s approach is the constant review of trends and market dynamics influencing ideal transformation outcomes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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What Will Save Community Banking
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeff Shaw has been the President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union since the beginning of 2020. Before that, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Wasatch Peaks formed in 2011 when several credit unions merged—Alliance, Weber, and SummitOne. Having been a part of the leadership team at Weber Credit Union, Jeff was an integral part of the merger. Jeff’s 25+ years of experience working in credit unions and his holistic understanding of financial institution operations enables him to serve the Wasatch Peaks community with excellence and commitment.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseJeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeffery Kendall
CEO of Nymbus
Jeffery Kendall, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in technology and financial services, serves as the Executive Chairman and CEO of Nymbus. His career is distinguished by a strategic approach to banking transformation, driving innovation in an industry poised for change. Kendall’s leadership philosophy centers on the belief that financial institutions can thrive by embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative business models, viewing progress as a continuous journey rather than a fixed destination.\nAt the helm of Nymbus, Kendall is pioneering a paradigm shift in how financial institutions collaborate with technology providers. He champions a model of shared accountability, where vendors are invested in the long-term success of their solutions. This forward-thinking approach, combined with Kendall’s proven track record of exponential growth—exemplified by his tenure at Kony DBX where he drove 500% growth in under three years—positions Nymbus as a critical ally for financial institutions seeking to modernize their operations and capture new market opportunities.\nKendall’s vision at Nymbus goes beyond technological upgrades. He emphasizes a comprehensive approach that combines people, processes, products, and market strategies. By challenging industry conventions and exploring new avenues for growth, Kendall has established himself as a thought leader in shaping the future of banking technology. His strategic insights and commitment to transforming financial services continue to influence the trajectory of the industry, making him a respected voice in boardrooms and at industry forums alike.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Banking Verticalization to Accelerate Your FIs Growth Strategy
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 10:30 – 11:15 am
CloseJeffery Kendall
CEO of Nymbus
Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Smith is Zions Bancorporation’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Operations Officer. As a member of the company’s executive committee, she drives transformative technology initiatives, at enterprise scale, for long term customer value. In 2006, Jennifer joined Zions as the Chief Audit Executive after holding various positions at Wells Fargo from 1995-2006. She holds B.A. and M.S. degrees in economics from the University of Utah. Jennifer’s work has been recognized by various industry organizations. Most recently she was awarded YWCA of Utah’s Outstanding Leadership Award in Social and Business Innovation. She was also honored as one of American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024; won the Women Tech Council’s Technology Leadership award in 2018 and the Decade of Impact award in 2024. In 2013, she was globally selected as an International Women’s Forum Leadership Fellow; the following year, she was selected to the first cohort of Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders. Jennifer is committed to serving her community. She serves on The Children’s Center of Utah’s Board of Directors, the Women’s Leadership Institute’s Board of Advisors, and the University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Science’s Advancement Board. She has previously held Board of Director positions at YWCA of Utah, United Way of Greater Salt Lake, the Berkana Institute, and People Helping People. She is a previous Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah and Women Who Succeed mentor.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Lessons Learning from a Core Banking Conversion
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jennifer Sobotta, CFMP is the Vice President and Marketing Director at Forward Bank, where she leads with vision and innovation to drive transformative marketing strategies and strengthen community connections. With a distinguished background in financial services marketing, Jennifer consistently delivers forward-thinking solutions that enhance brand visibility and foster lasting customer relationships.\nA recognized leader in shaping the future of Forward Bank, Jennifer is a graduate of the ABA School of Bank Marketing & Management and maintains her Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) designation. She has been fiercely supportive of the financial services industry serving on both the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) section and the Marketing Committee.\nJennifer is one of the inaugural members of Forward Bank’s AI Council, which drives the direction, governance and speed of implementation of AI initiatives across the organization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI Roadmap to Amplify Marketing Efficiency
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:20 PM
CloseJennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jeremy is an experienced strategist, with over 20+ years experience helping leading companies modernize their martech stack, centered on data, AI and personalization. Over the last 10+ years, Jeremy has interacted with and helped Salesforce’s biggest financial service customers, including Edward Jones, Schwab, JP Morgan Chase, Rocket and State Farm Insurance with their customer engagement initiatives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseJeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Host of the Executive Leadership Series
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Thursday at ALL
CloseJim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
Strategic marketing leader with 20+ years of experience driving brand growth through customer-focused programs that resonate with diverse audiences across Financial Services, Retail, and Education industries. Proven expertise in developing and executing innovative financial education and financial wellness initiatives. Skilled in full-funnel marketing and cross-channel management, creating impactful campaigns that address customer needs and improve business outcomes. Adept at designing thought leadership and educational content to foster trust, engagement, and brand loyalty. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a BS in Economics and a Master’s in Sales and Marketing.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJoanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Huntinghouse serves as the Vice President of Marketing at TAB Bank, where his innovative leadership has transformed the marketing department, driving record-breaking growth. With over 16 years of experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, John excels in utilizing data analytics, demand generation, and digital marketing to craft strategies that significantly boost revenue and market share. His accomplishments have earned him the title of Utah Business Magazine’s 2022 Marketer of the Year, and under his guidance, TAB Bank’s marketing team was named the 2024 Marketing Team of the Year. A seasoned speaker, John has shared his insights at more than 50 conferences nationwide. Beyond his executive role, he imparts his knowledge as an adjunct professor of marketing at Weber State University, helping shape the next generation of marketers. John also serves as a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Board, contributing to thought leadership in the marketing industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Turbocharging the Business Lending Pipeline
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
CloseJohn Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Dr. John Ratzan is an Accenture Senior Managing Director who has more than 25 years of experience in the Banking industry. In his current role, John leads the Financial Services North America Data & AI business as well as leads the Accenture business at a global Bank. He leads client relationships with business and technology leadership and consults on the business strategy and technology vision to deliver technology, process, and operational transformations. His expertise is in data, analytics, banking, payment systems, artificial intelligence, and innovation. Prior to his current role, John has led several transformations for global FS clients leveraging the aforementioned expertise and capability. John’s degrees are: MIS, MS MIS, MBA from University of Arizona and DBA doctoral degree focused on artificial intelligence from Pace University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Scaling Gen AI Responsibly: Steps to Establish Responsible AI
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJohn Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Johnson Cook is the co-founder and president of Atlanta-based Greenlight Financial Technology, the leading family fintech company on a mission to help parents raise financially smart kids. Greenlight offers an award-winning banking app for families that helps parents teach their kids and teens how to earn, save, spend wisely, invest, and more. The company serves more than 6.5 million parents and kids, who have collectively saved and invested more than $700 million towards their financial futures. Greenlight also partners with more than 100 leading banks, brands, credit unions, and employers to bring its family finance solution to more families through the Greenlight for Banks, Greenlight for Credit Unions, and Greenlight for Work programs. Greenlight has raised more than $560 million from investors Andreessen Horowitz, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Truist Bank, Synchrony Bank, Ally Bank, Live Oak Bank, Wellington Management, TTV Capital, Canapi Ventures, Relay Ventures, and others.\nMr. Cook’s entrepreneurial spirit began at Georgia Tech where he met his wife and started his first company. Johnson was a partner in the launch of the Atlanta Tech Village, is a past President of Entrepreneurs Organization Atlanta (EO), and has been recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur Of The Year. He is an angel investor, a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), a Trustee of the Woodruff Arts Center, and an active member of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Johnson is also a licensed pilot and loves to sail catamarans with his wife and three teenagers.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Blueprint for Growth: Winning With Gen Z & Gen Alpha
Juniper 4 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseJohnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
In our AI-driven world, creativity has become the true currency of success. Creative problem-solving and inventive thinking are crucial to overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities — the indisputable competitive advantage. In this energizing and actionable talk, NY Times bestselling author and renowned innovation expert Josh Linkner will teach you a proven system to drive breakthrough creativity, and how to transform ideas into groundbreaking successes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Rethinking Creativity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
CloseJosh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing AI to Personalize CX in Digital Channels
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
CloseJosh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
As a leader for brand experience for Adrenaline, Juliet is laser focused on how to leverage brand for delivering business advantage. A renowned brand expert, she is known for her empathy-led, research-backed approach. Connecting the disciplines of brand design, experience design, and marketing, Juliet forges competitively unique platforms that help brands stand out and connect with the hearts and minds of employees, customers, markets, and all those who influence choice. A journalist turned strategist, Juliet has 20-plus years’ experience in building some of the globe’s most notable brands, including Coca-Cola, Virgin, Samsung, the International Olympic Committee, Visa, and S&P Global. As a brand thought leader, Juliet oversees brand and editorial strategy for Believe in Banking, the mission-oriented multimedia platform for banking leaders, and she’s regularly tapped by industry trade publications for her branding expertise.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branch Renaissance: Driving Acquisition, Cross-Selling & Engagement
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJuliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
Kerry Graham
VP of Marketing at First Service Credit Union
Kerry Graham has over 35 years of experience in marketing and graphic design, with nearly a decade leading marketing initiatives in the credit union industry. As Vice President of Marketing at First Service Credit Union, he leverages data-driven strategies to engage members and deliver impactful results. His creative vision and leadership have played a key role in enhancing member experiences and advancing organizational growth. Outside of work, Kerry enjoys working out, reading, and cooking. He and his wife have been married for 28 years and are the proud parents of two young adults.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How To Outperform Your Competitors In 3 $teps
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseKerry Graham
VP of Marketing at First Service Credit Union
Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kerry-Ann is the dynamic CMO of the JMMB Group, a leading Caribbean-based financial services group headquartered in Jamaica. With over 20 years of experience in financial services marketing, her expertise and insights make her a sought after international speaker, a recognized thought leader and a member of the Forbes Communications Council.\nAs the visionary producer and host of the unique podcast series, The Internal Marketing Podcast, Kerry-Ann is passionate about revolutionizing the way companies build their brands. Her podcast delves into innovative strategies for internal marketing, engaging and empowering employees to become brand ambassadors and drive business growth from within.\nKerry-Ann holds an MBA in Marketing from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Hidden Growth Engine: Internal Marketing to Drive Brand Advocacy & Revenue Growth
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseKerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Known as Mr. Wonderful on the hit TV show Shark Tank, he’s one of the most insightful and influential marketing, branding, and media experts in the world of finance. Hear his candid, unvarnished views on the banking industry in this signature no-holds-barred keynote “Lessons from a Shark.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Kevin O’Leary: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseKevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Since joining PWCampbell in 1998, Kevin has advanced through various roles, acquiring an in-depth understanding of the design-build process. He has been instrumental in the creation and growth of the Branded Environments division, where he managed operations, developed strategies, and set business objectives. In his current position as Chief Strategy Officer, Kevin collaborates closely with fellow senior managers to enhance and evolve the company’s business operations, implement strategic initiatives, and lead planning efforts that contribute to the company’s long-term vision and success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseKevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Advisory vs. Transactional Service: How One FI Leverages Technology to Differentiate their Brand, Service, & Experience
Starvin 3+4 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
-
Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lamont Young leads Citizens Consumer Digital transformation, which delivers modern, seamless customer experiences across all digital channels. With a laser focus on the customer, his team optimizes the firm’s digital channels and sales to deepen and grow customers in key markets and across the country.\nPrior to joining Citizens in 2012, Young held several top leadership positions at Bank of America in online and mobile banking, digital sales, digital media and content development. Before joining Bank of America, Young was the founder and CEO of a start-up firm that provided critical services to growth-stage companies.\nLamont earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University and his Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University.\nHe is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the American Marketing Association, the advisory boards for Mass Challenge Fintech, Winthrop University College of Business, the National Association of Black MBAs and Year Up Banking and Customer Success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Engaging the Next Generation of Banking Customers
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseLamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lili Tomovich is the Chief Marketing & Experience Officer for Barclays US Consumer Bank where she oversees customer experience, marketing technology, channel strategy & optimization, brand, creative & sponsorships, product & partner marketing, consumer insights and research. Lili is a transformational marketing executive who has spent her career building leading brands in the financial services, retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries across the US and Canada.\nPrior to joining Barclays Bank in 2021, Lili was Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Collaborative responsible for the e-commerce platform for natural home and personal care products. Previously, Lili was the Chief Experience and Marketing Officer for MGM Resorts International, a $15B global hospitality and entertainment company. Her financial services industry experience includes nearly 10 years at Mastercard, where she served as head of Marketing for Canada and Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing for the US market. She held additional marketing leadership roles with LoyaltyOne, Rogers Communications, and Citi.\nLili is a member of the Board of Directors of Dine Brands Global. She holds an MBA from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brock University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Human Connections
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseLili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lindsey Johnson joined the Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) as President and CEO on July 5, 2022. Since that time, Johnson has served as a strong advocate for America’s leading banks in Washington, D.C., helping the industry navigate and chart the future of the consumer retail banking industry, amidst challenges—from increasing regulatory pressures to the rapidly evolving financial services marketplace. More recently, Johnson has worked with leading policymakers across the ideological spectrum to project confidence in the strength of the American financial system following months of market volatility. She was named one of Washingtonian’s Most Influential People in 2023, and frequently appears in media outlets, including the Associated Press, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and POLITICO. Prior to joining CBA, Johnson served as President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers, where she worked with member companies to advance the value of private mortgage insurance to borrowers and taxpayers. Johnson previously held positions at PwC, as well as in the U.S. Senate, where she served as the Republican Staff Director for the Senate Banking Committee’s National Security and International Trade and Finance (NSITF) Subcommittee, as well as a Senior Policy Advisor to Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois). Johnson also was Director for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta for seven years, representing the Bank in D.C. at the highest levels of government during several key legislative reforms that impacted the Bank including the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and Dodd-Frank Act. A native of Texas, Johnson began her career in D.C. working with former House Republican Conference Chair J.C. Watts in the private sector. She received an MBA from Georgetown University. Johnson is a Director on the Board for Habitat for Humanity Northern Virginia, an Advisory Council member for National Housing Conference, and an Advisory Board Member for the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Advisory Committee. Johnson also was the 2018-2019 past-president of Women in Housing and Finance. She resides in Arlington, Virginia, with her husband and three children.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Future of Banking in a Changing Regulatory Environment
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 PM
CloseLindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Lisa Nicholas is SVP Strategy at Vericast working in Austin, Texas. She specializes in marketing and digital transformation for the financial services industry. Nicholas has more than 30 years of experience in banking and high-tech industries. She has worked with companies to transform their marketing, sales, lending, branches and operations functions with a focus on transformation from traditional to omni-channel by leveraging technology and data.\nBefore Vericast, Lisa was at IBM Consulting, Wipfli and DBS where she was president of a CUSO leading digital transformation. Prior to DBS Lisa was Chief Digital Officer for Austin-based Amplify Credit Union where she spearheaded the development of its digital sales program, including a shift in architecture and systems to support sales, marketing and fulfillment teams.\nLisa is a frequent speaker at industry events such as Salesforce Dreamforce and Connections conferences, Salesforce Marketing Cloudcast, CUbroadcast, CUES Technology Council and more.\nNicholas earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in marketing from St. Edwards University
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Driven Personalization– Strategies for Hyper-Local Success
Starvine 3+4 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseLisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
How did a university-trained astrophysicist become the No. 1 female poker player in the world? Hear how Liv Boeree mastered the game of high-stakes decision-making, and how you can use principles like bias reduction to power your own success. She’ll show you the secrets of rational thinking — where science and strategy intersect — and how your team can navigate your organization through uncertainty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Champions of Rationality
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
CloseLiv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Maggie Burke is the Director of Sitecore Operations at Americaneagle.com, where she manages complex website development projects from start to finish. Drawing on her deep technical knowledge, she leads large development teams while keeping projects on schedule and within budget. Maggie specializes in financial industry websites and has a proven track record of coordinating multiple workstreams to deliver high-quality results. Her ability to effectively manage all aspects of project execution makes her a key leader on the Americaneagle.com team.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMaggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
With over 6 years experience in the social media space I love helping organizations turn likes, comments, shares and DMs into tangible and impactful results. \nAs the Senior Manager of Enterprise Acquisition at Hootsuite, I leverage my skills in social strategy, social selling, and the Hootsuite solution to create and execute effective gameplans that align with our customer’s mission and vision. \nI lead a team of Account Executives who are responsible for partnering with organizations to ensure they can leverage social media to achieve their business objectives. \nI am passionate about helping organizations improve their social media presence and engagement, and I value innovation, collaboration, and customer connection.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Your People: Driving Business Outcomes Through Employee Advocacy in Social Channels
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseMark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Mary McCleaft is a Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel, where she has driven digital transformation initiatives for the past nine years. Specializing in ecommerce solutions, she leads website redesign and re-platform projects with a focus on navigation, personalization, and mobile-responsive design. Her analytical approach to understanding user behavior has resulted in significant improvements in customer engagement across Citadel’s digital platforms. McCleaft brings a unique blend of technical insight and strategic thinking to her role, consistently delivering solutions that balance innovation with practical implementation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Matt leads Salesforce Marketing Cloud’s Financial Services Industry strategy, drawing on 27 years of experience across advertising agencies, startups, and technology consulting. His expertise in helping clients develop actionable digital strategies is reinforced by a decade at Salesforce. Matt’s primary focus is analyzing market trends and emerging technological advancements to understand their impact on the customer experience.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseMatt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Michael Scicolone
VP of Financial Services at Claritas
Michael Scicolone is a seasoned sales leader with 15+ years of experience driving growth and innovation in the financial services industry. At Claritas, he spearheads the Credit Union & Small Banking vertical focusing on empowering\nbanks and credit unions with cutting-edge data-driven solutions that optimize operations, enhance member experiences, and unlock strategic insights. His commitment to delivering tailored solutions has positioned Claritas as a trusted partner for financial institutions seeking cutting-edge products and services.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How To Outperform Your Competitors In 3 $teps
Copperleaf 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseMichael Scicolone
VP of Financial Services at Claritas
Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Michael Stojda leads exagens corporate strategy and mission to help community financial institutions cost-effectively grow and win against big-banks by emotionally engaging people through digital channels and catalyzing them to save, spend, borrow and invest wisely. With a passion for customer success and building companies, Mike has run F1000 business units & divisions, and companies – from start-ups to turnarounds to taking a U.S. company public. When not working, he can be often found skiing anything with snow, camping, or enjoying a good bottle of wine with family, friends & colleagues. Mike holds degrees in Mechanical, Aerospace and Industrial Engineering and an MBA.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Technology: Using Behavioral Science to Drive Growth and Loyalty with Emotionally Intelligent Banking
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMichael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Morgan Domsohn serves as a Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel, where she specializes in creating and optimizing customer journeys across digital platforms. She brings deep expertise in content management, personalization, and digital marketing automation to drive engagement and business growth. Working closely with cross-functional teams, Domsohn leads initiatives that enhance user experience and strengthen Citadel’s digital presence through data-driven strategies and innovative solutions.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMorgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
As CMO of Navy Federal Credit Union, largest credit union in the nation with more than 14 million members and over $177B in assets, Pam leads brand and product marketing. She is well versed in brand building and demand generation. She is the conduit between the organization and current and prospective members, keeping a pulse on the needs of both for their mutual benefit and success. Pam is passionate about accurately capturing what the credit union stands for, going beyond building brand awareness to generating loyalty and trust from Active Duty, Veterans and their families. She is a leader motivated by doing what is right not only for the millions of Navy Federal members around the world, but also for the military community at large.\nPrior to becoming CMO, Pam served as the senior vice president of Marketing and Communications overseeing the advancement of Navy Federal’s brand story of unsurpassed member service. She was instrumental in the development and launch of Navy Federal’s brand platform and tagline: Our Members Are the Mission®. Pam also directed all marketing and advertising strategy, including research and both public and industry relations. Never one to pass up a chance to run, Pam has competed in marathons across the nation. She recently checked off a bucket list goal to run a marathon in every state in the U.S.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Three Pillars of Marketing
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
ClosePam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Rob has 17 years of experience in the banking industry and was previously employed by Trustmark National Bank as Director of Marketing. A native of Memphis, Rob is a graduate of Delta State University and Leadership Mississippi. He graduated with honors from the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and is currently enrolled in the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking. In the community, he serves as Treasurer on the Friends of Children’s Hospital board of directors and also serves as a national alumni board member for Delta State University. Rob and his wife, Tamyne, have three children; Larisa, Patrick and Nikolai.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Profitable Deposit Growth Through Advanced Data Analytics
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
CloseRob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
According to Ron Tite, the creative force behind brands like Fidelity, Kraft, Intel, and Microsoft, data is dangerous because numbers are boring. In this captivating and hilarious talk, Ron will challenge you to let go of your addiction to metrics and spreadsheets so you can connect with your audience on a human level. You’ll discover that the true power lies not in your data but in the stories you tell with it.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Powered Stories
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
CloseRon Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Rusiru Gunasena is Senior Vice President, RTP® Product and Strategy at The Clearing House, where he leads the product management and strategy team for The Clearing House’s RTP® network. In this role, Rusiru oversees the ongoing growth of the RTP network, a modern platform for real-time payments that connects banks, credit unions, and fintech customers to move money with immediate payment confirmation. Rusiru is a payments and fintech leader with more than 20 years of experience across multiple industries. He is a strong advocate for digital payment innovation and continues to influence the U.S. payments ecosystem by participating in various industry workgroups and committees. Rusiru has experience as an entrepreneur and a diverse leader involved in start-up ventures and Fortune 100 companies worldwide across multiple industries. Prior to joining The Clearing House, Rusiru was the Managing Director of JHA PayCenter with responsibility for leading Jack Henry’s Faster Payments strategy and building a central payment hub for fintechs and financial institutions. He holds an MBA from University of Louisville with an Entrepreneurship concentration and a bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, where he was an honors recipient.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Instant Payments: Riding the Wave Into the Future
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseRusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Sathish Muthukrishnan was named chief information, data and digital officer for Ally Financial Inc. in December 2019. In this role, Muthukrishnan is responsible for advancing Ally’s technical and digital capabilities, including cyber security and infrastructure, and accelerating the company’s growth and evolution as a leader in the digital financial services sector. He is based in Ally’s Charlotte corporate center and reports to Ally CEO Michael Rhodes.\nMuthukrishnan has held a number of senior technology leadership roles with substantial scale and global reach, and previously served as the chief digital and information officer for Honeywell Aerospace, a nearly $14 billion revenue business within Honeywell International. He brings to Ally more than 20 years of technology leadership experience in complex businesses with high availability and reliability requirements on their technology. Ten years were spent in financial services with American Express prior to joining Honeywell.\nMuthukrishnan graduated from University of Madras with a degree in engineering, specializing in computer science. He is a member of the Advisory Board of WIT International and was recipient of the Chairman’s Award for Innovation for several years at American Express. He was named to Board of Directors at BRP Group, Inc in 2023. Muthukrishnan has more than 25 filed patents in the manufacturing, payments and digital technology space.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Deploying Generative AI for Efficiency and Growth
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseSathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Scott is a digital marketing leader with 20+ years’ experience helping lead Fortune 1000 brands to new levels of success through innovation, strategy, and customer-centered initiatives. New Media Advisors partners with financial brands to accelerate growth in owned and earned digital channels with an emphasis in content marketing and SEO. Prior to founding New Media Advisors in 2020, he previously led digital marketing channels at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and Choice Hotels International. While at Bank of America (2010-2019), Scott helped to launch Better Money Habits into an industry-leading financial education platform and developed the SEO and Content Centers of Excellence. Scott is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an active Rotarian in Cary, NC. He’s an aspiring at-home-cook who enjoys golf, pulling for the Tar Heels, family vacations and spending quality time with his wife, sons, and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseScott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sean Payant serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for Haberfeld which is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Sean leads the consulting, account executive, client services and creative teams. Haberfeld specializes in assisting financial institutions with overall marketing, data analytics, execution, and training as it relates to growing retail and business customers, increasing low-cost funding, and improving overall profitability. Sean’s team also oversee Haberfeld’s online coaching platform, Cultivate™ designed to grow banking leaders and their teams, Plus One™ referral platform, eLearning Programs, Special Programs, and Organizational Development practice.\nSean has more than 25 years of experience leading team development and strategic planning sessions for financial institutions, for profit corporations and not for profit organizations. He has spoken at more than 200 industry banking schools, executive meetings and conferences.\nSean holds a Bachelors degree from Midland Lutheran College, and Masters and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Overcoming Strategic Contradictions in The Banking C-Suite
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Sharon Cook joined Vericast in January 2024 overseeing Financial Institution Client Strategy. She brings over 20 years of financial industry experience from working in consumer banking, wholesale lending to financial institutions, and now as a financial services partner for acquisition and growth strategy. Throughout her career, she has held key positions leading marketing and communications teams, including her most recent past role as Chief Marketing Officer. At Vericast, Sharon leads a team of former bank and credit union executives who deliver marketing and data strategy to Vericast clients, to help them achieve their deposit and lending acquisition and growth marketing goals.\nSharon is a frequent speaker on brand loyalty, women in banking, crisis communications, and various other leadership topics impacting financial institutions.\nSharon graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Art’s degree in communications and journalism and has a Master of Business Administration degree in organizational leadership from Brenau University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Your Marketing Budget for Maximum ROI
Juniper 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Srini is the Head of Product, Technology, and Customer Operations at Blend, where he orchestrates the company’s product vision, technology strategy, and operational excellence to drive innovation and exceptional customer outcomes. With over 23 years of experience, Srini has held leadership roles in product management, engineering, and customer operations, demonstrating a proven track record of scaling SaaS businesses, optimizing operations for enterprise growth, and delivering accelerated value creation for stakeholders. Prior to joining Blend, he served in senior positions at PlanSource and IBM, where he developed and implemented strategies that drove technological advancement and enhanced product and shareholder value.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Revolutionizing Banking with AI: From Cost Savings to Personalization
Starvine 11 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseSrini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sue Hermann serves as Chief Marketing Officer for BOK Financial, a top 25 financial institution that has fueled the growth of consumers, businesses and wealth clients for more than a century. As CMO, Sue has responsibility for telling the story of BOK Financial’s brand, lines of business, people and the impact the company in the communities it serves. She leads a team of professionals in shaping and creating multi-channel campaigns that attract qualified leads, engage existing clients and develop prospects.\nThe work of her team has earned several industry accolades, and Sue has been recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal and a Top Women in Marketing by Ragan Communications. Sue holds a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Wright State University.\nSue lives in Denver and enjoys spending time with her daughters, reading, hiking and cooking (with varying results).
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Aligning Marketing with Business Outcomes
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
As Executive Vice President at Berkshire Bank, Sumant leads Berkshire One, and award-winning digital sub-brand, overseeing its strategic direction, P&L management, and growth initiatives. His leadership also spans Strategic Planning, Marketing & Communications, Client Experience, Deposit Products, Strategic Projects, and Data & Analytics—all with a focus on delivering measurable impact.\nSumant’s career has been built on a cornerstone of strategic transformation and innovation, consistently driving results. At Berkshire Bank, he led a 3-year enterprise-level transformation program, focusing on optimizing expenses, driving digitalization, and reigniting growth across key verticals. These initiatives not only enhanced operational efficiency but also unlocked significant shareholder value and strengthened the bank’s competitive position for long-term success.\nIn the digital space, he’s passionate about client-centric innovation. Sumant developed and launched an award-winning digital banking platform, implemented advanced analytics and CRM systems, and built a robust data warehouse—transforming how we engage clients and streamlining operations for scale.\nSumant has successfully navigated a number of complex M&A and divestment transactions, aligning stakeholders and delivering impactful outcomes.\nPrior to Berkshire Bank, as Chief Corporate Credit Officer, he scaled specialized lending verticals with a pristine credit record, executing high-profile transactions in private equity, venture capital, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Competing at the Speed of Digital: How One Regional Stepped Up Its Game
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:20 PM
CloseSumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Sumeet Grover is the Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union, leading enterprise-wide digital, marketing, banking/lending/investment products, payments, analytics, and member experience functions. Alliant is a leading digital financial institution and has recently been recognized as the best in the industry by the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Kiplinger, Bankrate, Nerdwallet, CNET, and more. Before joining Alliant, Sumeet had a nearly two-decade career at Citibank. During this time, he held leadership positions across marketing, digital, client experience, operations, and technology functions. As a visionary leader, advisor, and board member, Sumeet has a proven track record of heading crossfunctional global teams, developing and executing strategic roadmaps, delivering exceptional customer experiences, maximizing business growth, accelerating digital transformation, optimizing performance, and generating long-term value. Sumeet specializes in digital strategies, full-funnel marketing, customer experiences, brand management, organic and paid channels, omnichannel marketing, media, content, communication, personalization, marketing operations, MarTech, data, and digital capabilities. He is a dynamic speaker sharing insights on marketing strategies, digital innovation, customer centricity, and advanced technologies at various events such as industry conferences, webinars, and podcasts. He is regularly featured in American Banker, PYMNTS, and other industry-wide publications. Sumeet has been recognized for his work by his peers with industry accolades, including a Fellowship from The Marketing Academy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, a Master’s in Business Administration, and executive certifications from The Wharton School, Columbia Business School, and the Yale School of Management.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Digital Banking Challenger Mindset
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseSumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Surjit Chana is a seasoned entrepreneurial technology and digital transformation leader. He currently serves as the CEO/President of Tech4Good Consulting. He brings over 35 years of global experience in technology, strategy, marketing, and governance. He has held executive leadership roles in several prestigious organizations, including IBM, where he was a key senior leadership team member for a decade. At Tech4Good Consulting, Surjit is committed to empowering organizations to harness emerging technologies, such as AI, for social good. His company specializes in guiding financial institutions—banks, credit unions, and microfinance entities—on aligning business and technology strategies with their core mission, optimizing technology infrastructure, enhancing client experiences, implementing AI-driven solutions, transforming their operating models, and implementing good governance. Tech4Good also invests in emerging tech companies focused on delivering positive societal impacts. As a Harvard Fellow with the Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI), Surjit exploresthe intersection of technology and leadership, focusing on how organizations can strategically integrate digital transformation to enhance governance, operating models, and long-term impact. In addition to his corporate achievements, Surjit serves on the boards of several esteemed organizations. He is the lead director for strategy and chair of the Technology Committee for Beneficial State Bank and its holding company, Bancorp. He also chairs the Board of Directors at Care for the Homeless, is a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) Technology Committee, and sits on the board of his alma mater, the University of Surrey Foundation. Surjit holds certifications from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD.DC) and Carnegie Mellon University in cybersecurity oversight. Surjit’s career spans key leadership roles such as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, and General Manager, and he is recognized for his expertise in digital transformation, M&A, marketing, P&L management, and corporate governance. He holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Surrey, UK, and has multiple patents from his pioneering work on transaction processing systems and AI at IBM. Having lived and worked in the UK, Europe, Asia, and the USA, Surjit brings a truly global perspective to his work, blending technological acumen with a deep commitment to leveraging innovation for the greater good.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing Emerging Technologies as Catalysts for Growth
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseSurjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
As the former Head of Digital Marketing at companies like Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder, Swan Sit has created iconic campaigns resulting in double-digit growth. In her Forum X talk, Swan will dissect the innovative marketing strategies behind these successes as she unravels the art of storytelling and how financial institutions can craft compelling, authentic and emotional brand narratives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Strategic Narratives
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
CloseSwan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Todd Purcell is the Head of Digital Strategy, Planning and Partnerships at TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank. In this role, Todd leads a team of digital experts accountable for the development and execution of a unified digital strategy and roadmap for U.S. Digital Banking. His team provides connectivity across Consumer and Small Business products, store and call center channels and technology platforms. His team also keeps a pulse on external trends and leading FinTech providers to ensure TD Bank’s digital experiences exceeds customer expectations.\nTodd has over 25 years of experience as a digital strategy and marketing executive with the demonstrated ability to define and execute a compelling vision to drive digital transformation. He has held senior leadership positions at Webster Bank, MetLife, EY, The Hartford, USAA, Smith Barney, American Express, and JP Morgan Chase acting as a champion for the power of creating a truly connected customer experience across sales, marketing, and servicing.\nTodd has an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Fordham University and a BS in Business Management from Cornell University. He lives with his wife, Staci and their dog, Remi and has two sons, Evan and Alec. Todd enjoys long distance running, any book by Stephen King and is a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Customer-Centric Digital Transformation
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseTodd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
For more than 20 years, Vickie Sherman has been a marketing executive helping companies get their best work into the world to increase value.\nShe’s currently the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank and Pacific Premier Trust (NASDAQ; PPBI). She leads the marketing, branding, and sales enablement efforts for commercial, treasury management, retail, commercial real estate, SBA, community banking, specialty banking, commerce escrow, franchise capital, and Pacific Premier Trust. \nPrior to joining Pacific Premier, Vickie led marketing at three financial institutions: Mechanics Bank, Rabobank, and Golden 1 Credit Union. Her achievements included record-high growth in loans, deposits, new customers, brand health metrics, and social media. \nVickie is in her third and final year at Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. She earned her MBA from the University of California Davis Graduate School of Management and her Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California San Diego. She laughs heartily and often, walks her talk, and loves what she does.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forging Strategic Partnerships
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseVickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Victor Alexander is Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank, where he is responsible for Key’s Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Deposits and Payments, Business Banking, Wealth Management, and Home Lending lines of business nationally. The Consumer Banking team serves more than 3 million clients with branch offices in 15 states and a national multi-channel distribution.\nVictor has been with Key throughout his entire career, most recently as Head of Home Lending. Previously, Victor served as Key’s Corporate Treasurer and led Key’s Corporate Strategy team, which oversees Key’s corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic investment activity.\nVictor received a B.S. from John Carroll University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.\nHe currently serves on the Board of Directors at John Carroll University, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, the Musical Arts Association (Cleveland Orchestra) and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Punch Above Your Asset Size in a Highly Competitive Marketplace
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseVictor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Wil Reynolds, Founder and CEO of Seer Interactive, is a globally recognized thought leader in SEO and digital marketing. In 2002, after his then-boss wouldn’t let him volunteer on his lunch break, Wil launched Seer with a vision to combine digital expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. Under Wil’s leadership, Seer has expanded into a top-tier digital marketing agency offering services like SEO, Paid Media, Analytics, and Creative. From mid-sized to Fortune 500, Seer services clients in Banking, Higher Ed, SaaS, high tech, and pharma. As a certified B Corp, the Seer team is dedicated to crushing goals for their clients and uplifting their community – and each other, full stop.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Google: Digital Marketing Strategies for the New Realities of AI-Powered Search
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseWil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
Young has been providing strategic guidance to businesses for over 25 years. With a focus within financial services, he’s led digital product organizations at Chase and also helped VC backed start-ups in mortgage lending and investing. At CI&T, Young is responsible for developing customer experience strategies for clients who need to navigate heavily regulated industries. His client experience spans a variety of brands including Wells Fargo, BlackRock, Invesco, TIAA, Chase and Charles Schwab. He holds a BBA in Business Analysis and Information Systems from Texas A&M University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The GenAI Disruption: What’s Next for Marketing in Banking
Starvine 10 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseYoung Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
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Keynote Speakers
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Ann Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Ann Handley, Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs, is a digital marketing pioneer and bestselling author frequently published in leading business media including Entrepreneur, Inc., and Forbes. At the Forum 2025, you’ll step into the future of content creation with Ann, as she shares unique, actionable insights on how financial brands can use AI to escape marketing mediocrity and ignite tangible results.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Escaping Mediocrity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
CloseAnn Handley
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Pioneer
Cesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
World-renowned dog behaviorist Cesar Millan shares his “Dogma of The Dog Whisperer” and teaches you what he’s learned about mankind by studying man’s best friend. In this riveting, heartfelt keynote, he shares his unique approach to training and leadership based on principles of trust and loyalty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Cesar Millan: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
CloseCesar Millan
Renowned Dog Behaviorist & Leadership Expert at The Dog Whisperer
David Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
One of the funniest comedians on the planet, David Spade is a celebrated actor from TV classics like Saturday Night Live and Just Shoot Me, famous for his hilarious skits and sarcastic satire. Don’t miss his private stand-up comedy performance exclusively for Forum 2025 attendees.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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David Spade: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
CloseDavid Spade
Comedian & Actor & Best-Selling Author
Eric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
With a background in marketing and a flair for branding, creativity, and consumer-centric innovation, this pioneering entrepreneur, visionary leader, and disruptive genius founded ground-breaking consumer wellness brands Method and OLLY. At the Forum 2025, Eric Ryan will reveal his secrets on how to radically revolutionize everyday categories with brands that inspire fans and create passionate advocates.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Brand Evanglism
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
CloseEric Ryan
Co-founder of Method and gummy vitamin and supplement brand Olly
Josh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
In our AI-driven world, creativity has become the true currency of success. Creative problem-solving and inventive thinking are crucial to overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities — the indisputable competitive advantage. In this energizing and actionable talk, NY Times bestselling author and renowned innovation expert Josh Linkner will teach you a proven system to drive breakthrough creativity, and how to transform ideas into groundbreaking successes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Rethinking Creativity
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:00 – 9:25 am
CloseJosh Linkner
New York Times best-selling author
Kevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Known as Mr. Wonderful on the hit TV show Shark Tank, he’s one of the most insightful and influential marketing, branding, and media experts in the world of finance. Hear his candid, unvarnished views on the banking industry in this signature no-holds-barred keynote “Lessons from a Shark.”
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Kevin O’Leary: Live In-Person!
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseKevin O’Leary
Entrepreneur & Investor & Shark Tank Star
Liv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
How did a university-trained astrophysicist become the No. 1 female poker player in the world? Hear how Liv Boeree mastered the game of high-stakes decision-making, and how you can use principles like bias reduction to power your own success. She’ll show you the secrets of rational thinking — where science and strategy intersect — and how your team can navigate your organization through uncertainty.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Champions of Rationality
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
CloseLiv Boeree
Poker Champion & Science Communicator & AI Ethicist
Ron Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
According to Ron Tite, the creative force behind brands like Fidelity, Kraft, Intel, and Microsoft, data is dangerous because numbers are boring. In this captivating and hilarious talk, Ron will challenge you to let go of your addiction to metrics and spreadsheets so you can connect with your audience on a human level. You’ll discover that the true power lies not in your data but in the stories you tell with it.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Powered Stories
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 10:00 – 10:25 am
CloseRon Tite
Branding Expert & Author & Creative Strategist
Swan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
As the former Head of Digital Marketing at companies like Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder, Swan Sit has created iconic campaigns resulting in double-digit growth. In her Forum X talk, Swan will dissect the innovative marketing strategies behind these successes as she unravels the art of storytelling and how financial institutions can craft compelling, authentic and emotional brand narratives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Strategic Narratives
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 9:30 – 9:55 am
CloseSwan Sit
Former Head of Digital Marketing at Nike, Revlon, and Estée Lauder
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Breakout Sessions
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Ben Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
With more than 25 years of financial expertise, Ben Udell is the driving force behind “future proofing” Lake Ridge Bank. As a leader in digital innovation, he enjoys working where technology, marketing, and data analytics intersect with consumer financial needs. He’s a leading banking expert in leveraging practical applications of generative AI and is never afraid to be disruptive went it allows him to find innovative ways to improve the client and associate experience. Recently named one of Bank Beat’s “Rising Starts in Banking”, he’s been helping train and consult with other bankers to help them see how AI can transform their organization. In his free time, he creates content for robotsarepeople.net, an AI and technology focused site, speaks on digital transformation, and writes about the financial industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI in Banking: Practical Applications for ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseBen Udell
SVP Product Marketing & Innovation at Marquis
Ben Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Ben is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research, a research organization that brings Fortune 500 businesses inside the inner-most lives of their customers. Nonfiction’s findings have been featured by ABC News, MSNBC, and FastCompany, and their work has inspired the creation of a new division at Disney, new flavors of Doritos, and national public service campaigns addressing public health issues.\n \nPrior to Nonfiction, Ben was the Head of CPG Research under Scott Galloway at L2 (acquired by Gartner). Ben volunteers as an Admissions Ambassador for his alma mater, Georgetown University, and has served on the boards of the Harvard Business Review, the Archdiocese of New York, several startups, and the Somerset Hills Ball Club, where he is currently the program’s t-ball commissioner. He lives in NJ with his wife and four young boys.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseBen Zeidler
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Benjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Benjamin Conant is the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of MANTL, a financial technology firm offering the industry’s first Relationship Banking Platform. MANTL’s unified account origination technology empowers banks and credit unions to seamlessly open loan and deposit accounts on any banking channel in real time. \nBen is a serial entrepreneur and engineering leader. Before founding MANTL, Ben architected and led the development of business-empowering technology systems at several startups and was a math teacher. Ben holds a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy, economics, and computer science from Vassar College.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Titans of Deposits: Best Practices for Unlocking Growth
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseBenjamin Conant
Co-Founder & CTO of MANTL
Carlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
As Q2’s chief marketing officer (CMO), Carlos leads marketing vision, strategy, and initiatives to elevate brand awareness and drive demand for Q2’s industry-leading digital banking and lending solutions. He’s also responsible for spreading the word about Q2’s people-first culture, unparalleled industry expertise, and the differentiated value and success Q2 delivers to customers.\n \nCarlos brings a wealth of knowledge to Q2, having served as CMO at K2, a low-code automation solution leader, where he evolved the company’s go-to-market approach. At Kony, Carlos led marketing efforts, including the creation and launch of Kony’s next-generation digital banking vision and brand, which led to Kony’s successful acquisition by Temenos.\n \nCarlos has spent over 20 years in transformational digital technology, including web content management and advanced personalization at Vignette, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive recommendations at Baynote, and mobile-first innovation at Kony.\n \nCarlos is passionate about building highly collaborative, high-performing teams committed to excellence and delivering strong results. Off the clock, Carlos enjoys exploring new places with his family, attending concerts across the country with his daughter, and cheering on his favorite teams with his son.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fusing Marketing Strategy with Next-Gen Tech to Personalize Digital-Banking Experiences
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseCarlos Carvajal
CMO of Q2
Dave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
Dave DeFazio is EVP of Strategy & Solutions at StrategyCorps. He’s armed with a passion for banking strategy, and always exploring the intersection of data, marketing, and technology. He downloads banking apps for fun.\nDave enjoys helping clients evolve their products for improved productivity, engagement, and growth. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a B.A. in Economics and Mathematics.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Connecting the Dots: Fintech Innovations & the Future of Banking
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDave DeFazio
Partner at StrategyCorps
David Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
David Schultz is the Founder and CEO of Media Logic, a nationally recognized marketing agency that has specialized in financial services for more than 30 years. Media Logic has led strategic marketing initiatives for a broad range of clients from industry leaders like Visa, Chase and U.S. Bank, to regional and community banks and credit unions, including PNC Bank, Zions Bancorp and PenFed. \nDavid is passionate about delivering on the agency’s goal of maximizing CLTV. He and his team have helped hundreds of clients optimize customer onboarding to drive early engagement and long-term profitability. Media Logic is known for creating innovative multi-channel communication programs that leverage data-driven insights to segment customers effectively, reinforce product value and set the stage for cross-selling.\nDavid is also an early-stage investor focused on start-ups that provide beneficial disruption and sustainability. His portfolio currently includes more than a dozen companies that were founded and built by a very diverse group of entrepreneurs. When he invests in a company, David also offers strategic guidance around branding, positioning and demand generation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Onboarding ROI for Checking & Debit Accountholders
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDavid Schultz
CEO & Founder of MediaLogic
Delene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
Delene Gilbert has served as the Director of Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank since 2021, bringing a diverse background in banking and small business ownership to the role. Her leadership and industry expertise have been instrumental in positioning Prism Bank as a trusted financial partner for Oklahoma’s cannabis industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Growth Opportunities & Challenges in the Cannabis Banking Market
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseDelene Gilbert
VP/Cannabis Banking at Prism Bank
EJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
E.J. Kritz is the Executive Experience Officer at DBSI, a renowned design-build firm in the financial services industry. He has worked with some of the finest brands in banking, retail, and hospitality as a global customer experience consultant and keynote speaker. E.J. has served in CX and sales strategy leadership roles at both TD Bank and Santander, served on the advisory board of the Interactive Customer Experience Association, and has contributed to work in USA Today, The Washington Post, and more. A resident of Charleston, SC, E.J. is all about shaking up what’s considered “normal” and makes no apologies for telling it how it is.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Digital + Human: Delivery Strategies for the Next-Gen Branch Experience
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseEJ Kritz
Executive Experience Officer at DBSI
Eric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Eric is the co-founder and CEO of Rival, a leading marketing consultancy for challengers, working with start-ups to help them scale and incumbents like JP Morgan, Reebok, and Unilever to help them innovate. Over the last 20 years Eric has been lucky enough to help build some of the biggest brands in the world in various in-house marketing and advertising agency roles. Before co-founding Rival in 2021 he was the Chief Marketing & Commercial Officer of 11:FS, a challenger fintech consultancy for nearly three years. He was also one of the first 15 employees and MD, EMEA of VaynerMedia reporting directly to Gary Vaynerchuk for seven years.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Next-Gen CMO: Essential Skills & Leadership Strategies from Marketing Visionaries
Juniper 1 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseEric Fulwiler
Co-Founder & CEO of Rival
Gaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gaurav Bhatia serves as the Chief Marketing Offi cer and Head of Retail Deposits at PenFed Credit Union and joined PenFed in 2019. He is responsible to growing deposits leveraging all customer channels\nPreviously he served as the Chief Digital Offi cer for NewDay USA where he lead business operations, marketing/digital strategy, technology, brand, and customer experience and technology. He has held senior leadership positions at several large Fortune 500 including AARP, Capital One, Sabre Holdings (parent of Travelocity.com) and NIIT Technologies, with customers in the travel and fi nancial services. Gaurav holds a Master’s degree in Information Systems, an MBA in Marketing & Strategy and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also has completed the executive leadership program at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Retail Deposit Growth Playbook: Adaptive Strategies for Evolving Customer Expectations
Juniper 2+3 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGaurav Bhatia
CMO & Head of Retail Deposits of PenFed Credit Union
Gina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
As President and CEO of Adrenaline, Gina leads change by inspiring the company’s clients and team members, the market, and the industry by envisioning and creating the future of brand experiences. One of the original founders of Adrenaline, she exemplifies the company’s culture and vision and generates meaningful experiences that drive and deliver business advantage. Known for her analytical prowess, razor-sharp customer insight, design brilliance, and ability to lead transformational change, Gina ignites audiences across the financial industry with thought leadership and storytelling. She is regularly featured in publications and keynotes at leading conferences each year and serves as co-host of the award-winning Believe in Banking Podcast.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branding for Growth: Navigating M&A Success Through Strategic Integration
Juniper 4 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGina Bleedorn
President & CEO of Adrenaline
Gunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
Gunny is the co-founder of Nonfiction Research. Gunny has authored and co-authored Nonfiction studies such as The Secret Financial Lives of Americans, Intimacy in America, America’s Secret Music Playlists, and Saving Americans from the News. Before Nonfiction, Gunny was the Head of Strategy at VICE Media’s digital agency. Gunny is a founding board member of Brooklyn Poets – the literary nonprofit – and an advisory board member of DVRGNT Ventures, a venture capital fund dedicated to underestimated founders from underrepresented geographies. He’s a graduate of Coatesville Area Schools and Columbia University. He splits time between New York City and Nashville, where he lives with his wife and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Secret Financial Lives of Americans in 2025
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseGunny Scarfo
Co-Founder of Nonfiction
James Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
James Robert Lay is one of the world’s leading digital marketing authors, speakers, and advisors for growth-minded brands. \nAs a digital anthropologist, James Robert has studied the intersection of marketing, sales, technology, and human behavior for over twenty years. He has written two number-one best-selling books including, Banking on Digital Growth and Banking on Change, in addition to hosting the Banking on Digital Growth podcast, which is ranked among the top five percent of all podcasts in the world.\nJames Robert is also the founder and CEO of the Digital Growth Institute, where he is on a mission to help financial brands stop losing loans and deposits. He has been named a top global financial services influencer to follow by The Financial Brand. At the same time, his insights are frequently featured in outlets such as U.S. News & World Report, Entrepreneur Magazine, Quartz, American Banker, and Credit Union Times, among many others.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forum 2025 Growth Strategies: Turning Ideas Into Action
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJames Robert Lay
Founder of Digital Growth Institute
Jean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Innovator, designer, strategist, futurist, transformer of brands for growth, Jean-Pierre Lacroix is President of Shikatani Lacroix Design (SLD). Jean-Pierre Lacroix is strongly committed to design innovation. In addition to pioneering the successful firm, Jean-Pierre is also Past President of The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario, Past President of DIAC (Design Industry Advisory Committee), board member of SEGD (Society of Environmental Graphic Designers), as well as former Director of the Packaging Association of Canada. SLD is a global branding firm specializing in transforming customer experiences for financial institutions and retailers’ brands. A key tenet of the company’s approach is the constant review of trends and market dynamics influencing ideal transformation outcomes.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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What Will Save Community Banking
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJean-Pierre Lacroix
President of SLD
Joanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
Strategic marketing leader with 20+ years of experience driving brand growth through customer-focused programs that resonate with diverse audiences across Financial Services, Retail, and Education industries. Proven expertise in developing and executing innovative financial education and financial wellness initiatives. Skilled in full-funnel marketing and cross-channel management, creating impactful campaigns that address customer needs and improve business outcomes. Adept at designing thought leadership and educational content to foster trust, engagement, and brand loyalty. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a BS in Economics and a Master’s in Sales and Marketing.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJoanne Ojeda
VP & Consumer Thought Leadership and Financial Education at Truist
John Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Dr. John Ratzan is an Accenture Senior Managing Director who has more than 25 years of experience in the Banking industry. In his current role, John leads the Financial Services North America Data & AI business as well as leads the Accenture business at a global Bank. He leads client relationships with business and technology leadership and consults on the business strategy and technology vision to deliver technology, process, and operational transformations. His expertise is in data, analytics, banking, payment systems, artificial intelligence, and innovation. Prior to his current role, John has led several transformations for global FS clients leveraging the aforementioned expertise and capability. John’s degrees are: MIS, MS MIS, MBA from University of Arizona and DBA doctoral degree focused on artificial intelligence from Pace University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Scaling Gen AI Responsibly: Steps to Establish Responsible AI
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseJohn Ratzan
Senior Managing Director of Financial Services & AI Lead at Accenture
Johnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Johnson Cook is the co-founder and president of Atlanta-based Greenlight Financial Technology, the leading family fintech company on a mission to help parents raise financially smart kids. Greenlight offers an award-winning banking app for families that helps parents teach their kids and teens how to earn, save, spend wisely, invest, and more. The company serves more than 6.5 million parents and kids, who have collectively saved and invested more than $700 million towards their financial futures. Greenlight also partners with more than 100 leading banks, brands, credit unions, and employers to bring its family finance solution to more families through the Greenlight for Banks, Greenlight for Credit Unions, and Greenlight for Work programs. Greenlight has raised more than $560 million from investors Andreessen Horowitz, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Truist Bank, Synchrony Bank, Ally Bank, Live Oak Bank, Wellington Management, TTV Capital, Canapi Ventures, Relay Ventures, and others.\nMr. Cook’s entrepreneurial spirit began at Georgia Tech where he met his wife and started his first company. Johnson was a partner in the launch of the Atlanta Tech Village, is a past President of Entrepreneurs Organization Atlanta (EO), and has been recognized by Ernst & Young as an Entrepreneur Of The Year. He is an angel investor, a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), a Trustee of the Woodruff Arts Center, and an active member of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church. Johnson is also a licensed pilot and loves to sail catamarans with his wife and three teenagers.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Blueprint for Growth: Winning With Gen Z & Gen Alpha
Juniper 4 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseJohnson Cook
Co-founder & President of Greenlight
Juliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
As a leader for brand experience for Adrenaline, Juliet is laser focused on how to leverage brand for delivering business advantage. A renowned brand expert, she is known for her empathy-led, research-backed approach. Connecting the disciplines of brand design, experience design, and marketing, Juliet forges competitively unique platforms that help brands stand out and connect with the hearts and minds of employees, customers, markets, and all those who influence choice. A journalist turned strategist, Juliet has 20-plus years’ experience in building some of the globe’s most notable brands, including Coca-Cola, Virgin, Samsung, the International Olympic Committee, Visa, and S&P Global. As a brand thought leader, Juliet oversees brand and editorial strategy for Believe in Banking, the mission-oriented multimedia platform for banking leaders, and she’s regularly tapped by industry trade publications for her branding expertise.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Branch Renaissance: Driving Acquisition, Cross-Selling & Engagement
Juniper 2+3 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJuliet D’Ambrosio
Chief Experience Officer of Adrenaline
Kerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Kerry-Ann is the dynamic CMO of the JMMB Group, a leading Caribbean-based financial services group headquartered in Jamaica. With over 20 years of experience in financial services marketing, her expertise and insights make her a sought after international speaker, a recognized thought leader and a member of the Forbes Communications Council.\nAs the visionary producer and host of the unique podcast series, The Internal Marketing Podcast, Kerry-Ann is passionate about revolutionizing the way companies build their brands. Her podcast delves into innovative strategies for internal marketing, engaging and empowering employees to become brand ambassadors and drive business growth from within.\nKerry-Ann holds an MBA in Marketing from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Hidden Growth Engine: Internal Marketing to Drive Brand Advocacy & Revenue Growth
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseKerry-Ann Stimpson
CMO of JMMB Group
Mark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
With over 6 years experience in the social media space I love helping organizations turn likes, comments, shares and DMs into tangible and impactful results. \nAs the Senior Manager of Enterprise Acquisition at Hootsuite, I leverage my skills in social strategy, social selling, and the Hootsuite solution to create and execute effective gameplans that align with our customer’s mission and vision. \nI lead a team of Account Executives who are responsible for partnering with organizations to ensure they can leverage social media to achieve their business objectives. \nI am passionate about helping organizations improve their social media presence and engagement, and I value innovation, collaboration, and customer connection.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Your People: Driving Business Outcomes Through Employee Advocacy in Social Channels
Juniper 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseMark Mc Donnell
Enterprise Acquisition Leader at Hootsuite
Rusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Rusiru Gunasena is Senior Vice President, RTP® Product and Strategy at The Clearing House, where he leads the product management and strategy team for The Clearing House’s RTP® network. In this role, Rusiru oversees the ongoing growth of the RTP network, a modern platform for real-time payments that connects banks, credit unions, and fintech customers to move money with immediate payment confirmation. Rusiru is a payments and fintech leader with more than 20 years of experience across multiple industries. He is a strong advocate for digital payment innovation and continues to influence the U.S. payments ecosystem by participating in various industry workgroups and committees. Rusiru has experience as an entrepreneur and a diverse leader involved in start-up ventures and Fortune 100 companies worldwide across multiple industries. Prior to joining The Clearing House, Rusiru was the Managing Director of JHA PayCenter with responsibility for leading Jack Henry’s Faster Payments strategy and building a central payment hub for fintechs and financial institutions. He holds an MBA from University of Louisville with an Entrepreneurship concentration and a bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Essex in the United Kingdom, where he was an honors recipient.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Instant Payments: Riding the Wave Into the Future
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseRusiru Gunasena
Senior Vice President of The Clearing House
Scott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Scott is a digital marketing leader with 20+ years’ experience helping lead Fortune 1000 brands to new levels of success through innovation, strategy, and customer-centered initiatives. New Media Advisors partners with financial brands to accelerate growth in owned and earned digital channels with an emphasis in content marketing and SEO. Prior to founding New Media Advisors in 2020, he previously led digital marketing channels at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and Choice Hotels International. While at Bank of America (2010-2019), Scott helped to launch Better Money Habits into an industry-leading financial education platform and developed the SEO and Content Centers of Excellence. Scott is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an active Rotarian in Cary, NC. He’s an aspiring at-home-cook who enjoys golf, pulling for the Tar Heels, family vacations and spending quality time with his wife, sons, and daughter.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Fueling Growth, Engagement and Retention Through Digital Financial Wellness Programs
Juniper 4 | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseScott Gardner
Founder/Partner at New Media Advisors & and former SVP/Digital Marketing at BofA of New Media Advisors
Sean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sean Payant serves as the Chief Strategy Officer for Haberfeld which is based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Sean leads the consulting, account executive, client services and creative teams. Haberfeld specializes in assisting financial institutions with overall marketing, data analytics, execution, and training as it relates to growing retail and business customers, increasing low-cost funding, and improving overall profitability. Sean’s team also oversee Haberfeld’s online coaching platform, Cultivate™ designed to grow banking leaders and their teams, Plus One™ referral platform, eLearning Programs, Special Programs, and Organizational Development practice.\nSean has more than 25 years of experience leading team development and strategic planning sessions for financial institutions, for profit corporations and not for profit organizations. He has spoken at more than 200 industry banking schools, executive meetings and conferences.\nSean holds a Bachelors degree from Midland Lutheran College, and Masters and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Overcoming Strategic Contradictions in The Banking C-Suite
Juniper 2+3 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSean Payant
Chief Strategy Officer/Senior EVP at Haberfeld
Sharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Sharon Cook joined Vericast in January 2024 overseeing Financial Institution Client Strategy. She brings over 20 years of financial industry experience from working in consumer banking, wholesale lending to financial institutions, and now as a financial services partner for acquisition and growth strategy. Throughout her career, she has held key positions leading marketing and communications teams, including her most recent past role as Chief Marketing Officer. At Vericast, Sharon leads a team of former bank and credit union executives who deliver marketing and data strategy to Vericast clients, to help them achieve their deposit and lending acquisition and growth marketing goals.\nSharon is a frequent speaker on brand loyalty, women in banking, crisis communications, and various other leadership topics impacting financial institutions.\nSharon graduated from Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Art’s degree in communications and journalism and has a Master of Business Administration degree in organizational leadership from Brenau University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimizing Your Marketing Budget for Maximum ROI
Juniper 1 | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSharon Cook
Former bank CMO and VP/Client Strategy of Vericast
Surjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Surjit Chana is a seasoned entrepreneurial technology and digital transformation leader. He currently serves as the CEO/President of Tech4Good Consulting. He brings over 35 years of global experience in technology, strategy, marketing, and governance. He has held executive leadership roles in several prestigious organizations, including IBM, where he was a key senior leadership team member for a decade. At Tech4Good Consulting, Surjit is committed to empowering organizations to harness emerging technologies, such as AI, for social good. His company specializes in guiding financial institutions—banks, credit unions, and microfinance entities—on aligning business and technology strategies with their core mission, optimizing technology infrastructure, enhancing client experiences, implementing AI-driven solutions, transforming their operating models, and implementing good governance. Tech4Good also invests in emerging tech companies focused on delivering positive societal impacts. As a Harvard Fellow with the Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI), Surjit exploresthe intersection of technology and leadership, focusing on how organizations can strategically integrate digital transformation to enhance governance, operating models, and long-term impact. In addition to his corporate achievements, Surjit serves on the boards of several esteemed organizations. He is the lead director for strategy and chair of the Technology Committee for Beneficial State Bank and its holding company, Bancorp. He also chairs the Board of Directors at Care for the Homeless, is a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) Technology Committee, and sits on the board of his alma mater, the University of Surrey Foundation. Surjit holds certifications from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD.DC) and Carnegie Mellon University in cybersecurity oversight. Surjit’s career spans key leadership roles such as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, and General Manager, and he is recognized for his expertise in digital transformation, M&A, marketing, P&L management, and corporate governance. He holds a BSc in Physics from the University of Surrey, UK, and has multiple patents from his pioneering work on transaction processing systems and AI at IBM. Having lived and worked in the UK, Europe, Asia, and the USA, Surjit brings a truly global perspective to his work, blending technological acumen with a deep commitment to leveraging innovation for the greater good.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing Emerging Technologies as Catalysts for Growth
Juniper 4 | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseSurjit Chana
Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow & Board Director at Beneficial State Bank
Wil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
Wil Reynolds, Founder and CEO of Seer Interactive, is a globally recognized thought leader in SEO and digital marketing. In 2002, after his then-boss wouldn’t let him volunteer on his lunch break, Wil launched Seer with a vision to combine digital expertise with a deep commitment to community impact. Under Wil’s leadership, Seer has expanded into a top-tier digital marketing agency offering services like SEO, Paid Media, Analytics, and Creative. From mid-sized to Fortune 500, Seer services clients in Banking, Higher Ed, SaaS, high tech, and pharma. As a certified B Corp, the Seer team is dedicated to crushing goals for their clients and uplifting their community – and each other, full stop.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Google: Digital Marketing Strategies for the New Realities of AI-Powered Search
Juniper 1 | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseWil Reynolds
Founder of Seer Interactive
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Executive Leadership Series
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Colin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Colin Walsh is the founder and CEO of Varo Bank, the first all-digital, nationally-chartered U.S. consumer techbank built from the ground up. Varo’s mission is to advance the cause of financial inclusion and opportunity for all. Colin is uniquely positioned to lead the digital bank revolution building on his years of experience in consumer banking at large global financial institutions. He led Europe’s largest credit and charge card business as an Executive Vice President at American Express. Colin also led the UK’s largest mortgage and savings businesses at Lloyds Banking Group, and served as Managing Director for the firm’s retail bancassurance, credit, debit and merchant acquiring businesses.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Varo: Sustainable Growth Through Product Innovation and Digital Marketing
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseColin Walsh
Founder and CEO of Varo
Dominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Dominic Venturo is Senior Executive Vice President and the Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bancorp. He has spent the past 25 years with U.S. Bank in positions of increasing responsibility within digital, innovation and product management. As Chief Digital Officer, Dominic is responsible for setting and executing the enterprise-wide digital strategy for U.S. Bank. The Digital team works to empower our customers with excellent digital experiences, so they can bank when, where, and how they want, with smart, personalized tools that help them manage their money. Under Dominic’s leadership, U.S. Bank has been recognized as a leader in digital banking, including the No.1-rated mobile app in the industry, among numerous other accolades for digital mortgage tools, mobile check deposit, user experience and more. Dominic was Chief Innovation Officer at U.S. Bank from 2015 to 2020. Prior to that, he led the innovation team for U.S. Bank’s payments division and held a number of other payments-related positions. Dominic also held various roles primarily focusing on Small Business at Bank of America and its predecessors from 1989 to 1998. An accomplished speaker and industry visionary, Dominic has received numerous awards, including being named to the Top 25 Most Influential Innovators list by Innovation Leader, Elite 8 by Bank Systems and Technology, Innovators to Watch by Bank Innovation and Mobile Banker of the Year by Bank Technology News. He has served on the national board of Girls With Impact (GWI), a nonprofit that focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The program helps women ages 14-24 increase their confidence, college readiness and professional skills – expanding the talent pipeline of women, particularly women of color, across industries. Dominic has also previously served as a corporate board member for enterprise software firm R3 and was a former board member of the Minneapolis College Foundation. Dominic earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Oregon State University and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School at University of Washington.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Building a Resilient Digital Banking Platform
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseDominic Venturo
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Digital Officer of U.S. Bank
Jennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jennifer Smith is Zions Bancorporation’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology and Operations Officer. As a member of the company’s executive committee, she drives transformative technology initiatives, at enterprise scale, for long term customer value. In 2006, Jennifer joined Zions as the Chief Audit Executive after holding various positions at Wells Fargo from 1995-2006. She holds B.A. and M.S. degrees in economics from the University of Utah. Jennifer’s work has been recognized by various industry organizations. Most recently she was awarded YWCA of Utah’s Outstanding Leadership Award in Social and Business Innovation. She was also honored as one of American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024; won the Women Tech Council’s Technology Leadership award in 2018 and the Decade of Impact award in 2024. In 2013, she was globally selected as an International Women’s Forum Leadership Fellow; the following year, she was selected to the first cohort of Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders. Jennifer is committed to serving her community. She serves on The Children’s Center of Utah’s Board of Directors, the Women’s Leadership Institute’s Board of Advisors, and the University of Utah’s College of Social and Behavioral Science’s Advancement Board. She has previously held Board of Director positions at YWCA of Utah, United Way of Greater Salt Lake, the Berkana Institute, and People Helping People. She is a previous Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah and Women Who Succeed mentor.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Lessons Learning from a Core Banking Conversion
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseJennifer Smith
CIO at Zions Bank
Jim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Host of the Executive Leadership Series
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Thursday at ALL
CloseJim Marous
Co-Publisher at The Financial Brand
Lamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lamont Young leads Citizens Consumer Digital transformation, which delivers modern, seamless customer experiences across all digital channels. With a laser focus on the customer, his team optimizes the firm’s digital channels and sales to deepen and grow customers in key markets and across the country.\nPrior to joining Citizens in 2012, Young held several top leadership positions at Bank of America in online and mobile banking, digital sales, digital media and content development. Before joining Bank of America, Young was the founder and CEO of a start-up firm that provided critical services to growth-stage companies.\nLamont earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Pennsylvania State University and his Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University.\nHe is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the American Marketing Association, the advisory boards for Mass Challenge Fintech, Winthrop University College of Business, the National Association of Black MBAs and Year Up Banking and Customer Success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Engaging the Next Generation of Banking Customers
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseLamont Young
EVP of National Banking & Digital Channels at Citizens Bank
Lindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Lindsey Johnson joined the Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) as President and CEO on July 5, 2022. Since that time, Johnson has served as a strong advocate for America’s leading banks in Washington, D.C., helping the industry navigate and chart the future of the consumer retail banking industry, amidst challenges—from increasing regulatory pressures to the rapidly evolving financial services marketplace. More recently, Johnson has worked with leading policymakers across the ideological spectrum to project confidence in the strength of the American financial system following months of market volatility. She was named one of Washingtonian’s Most Influential People in 2023, and frequently appears in media outlets, including the Associated Press, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and POLITICO. Prior to joining CBA, Johnson served as President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers, where she worked with member companies to advance the value of private mortgage insurance to borrowers and taxpayers. Johnson previously held positions at PwC, as well as in the U.S. Senate, where she served as the Republican Staff Director for the Senate Banking Committee’s National Security and International Trade and Finance (NSITF) Subcommittee, as well as a Senior Policy Advisor to Senator Mark Kirk (R-Illinois). Johnson also was Director for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta for seven years, representing the Bank in D.C. at the highest levels of government during several key legislative reforms that impacted the Bank including the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 and Dodd-Frank Act. A native of Texas, Johnson began her career in D.C. working with former House Republican Conference Chair J.C. Watts in the private sector. She received an MBA from Georgetown University. Johnson is a Director on the Board for Habitat for Humanity Northern Virginia, an Advisory Council member for National Housing Conference, and an Advisory Board Member for the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Advisory Committee. Johnson also was the 2018-2019 past-president of Women in Housing and Finance. She resides in Arlington, Virginia, with her husband and three children.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Future of Banking in a Changing Regulatory Environment
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 3:00 – 3:45 PM
CloseLindsey Johnson
CEO/President of Consumer Bankers Association
Sathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Sathish Muthukrishnan was named chief information, data and digital officer for Ally Financial Inc. in December 2019. In this role, Muthukrishnan is responsible for advancing Ally’s technical and digital capabilities, including cyber security and infrastructure, and accelerating the company’s growth and evolution as a leader in the digital financial services sector. He is based in Ally’s Charlotte corporate center and reports to Ally CEO Michael Rhodes.\nMuthukrishnan has held a number of senior technology leadership roles with substantial scale and global reach, and previously served as the chief digital and information officer for Honeywell Aerospace, a nearly $14 billion revenue business within Honeywell International. He brings to Ally more than 20 years of technology leadership experience in complex businesses with high availability and reliability requirements on their technology. Ten years were spent in financial services with American Express prior to joining Honeywell.\nMuthukrishnan graduated from University of Madras with a degree in engineering, specializing in computer science. He is a member of the Advisory Board of WIT International and was recipient of the Chairman’s Award for Innovation for several years at American Express. He was named to Board of Directors at BRP Group, Inc in 2023. Muthukrishnan has more than 25 filed patents in the manufacturing, payments and digital technology space.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Deploying Generative AI for Efficiency and Growth
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Monday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseSathish Muthukrishnan
Chief Information & Data & Digital Officer at Ally Bank
Todd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Todd Purcell is the Head of Digital Strategy, Planning and Partnerships at TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank. In this role, Todd leads a team of digital experts accountable for the development and execution of a unified digital strategy and roadmap for U.S. Digital Banking. His team provides connectivity across Consumer and Small Business products, store and call center channels and technology platforms. His team also keeps a pulse on external trends and leading FinTech providers to ensure TD Bank’s digital experiences exceeds customer expectations.\nTodd has over 25 years of experience as a digital strategy and marketing executive with the demonstrated ability to define and execute a compelling vision to drive digital transformation. He has held senior leadership positions at Webster Bank, MetLife, EY, The Hartford, USAA, Smith Barney, American Express, and JP Morgan Chase acting as a champion for the power of creating a truly connected customer experience across sales, marketing, and servicing.\nTodd has an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Fordham University and a BS in Business Management from Cornell University. He lives with his wife, Staci and their dog, Remi and has two sons, Evan and Alec. Todd enjoys long distance running, any book by Stephen King and is a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Customer-Centric Digital Transformation
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseTodd Purcell
SVP/Head of Digital Strategy & Planning & Partnerships at TD Bank
Victor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
Victor Alexander is Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank, where he is responsible for Key’s Retail Banking, Consumer Lending, Deposits and Payments, Business Banking, Wealth Management, and Home Lending lines of business nationally. The Consumer Banking team serves more than 3 million clients with branch offices in 15 states and a national multi-channel distribution.\nVictor has been with Key throughout his entire career, most recently as Head of Home Lending. Previously, Victor served as Key’s Corporate Treasurer and led Key’s Corporate Strategy team, which oversees Key’s corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic investment activity.\nVictor received a B.S. from John Carroll University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.\nHe currently serves on the Board of Directors at John Carroll University, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, the Musical Arts Association (Cleveland Orchestra) and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Punch Above Your Asset Size in a Highly Competitive Marketplace
Ironwood Ballroom Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseVictor Alexander
Head of Consumer Banking at KeyBank
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Growth Strategies Labs
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Alexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Powering 3x Revenue Growth with a AI Rewards Model
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
CloseAlexander Guerra
Chief Revenue Officer at Banco Azteca
Danielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
Danielle Herd Webb serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer for Texas Bank and Trust Company.\nDanielle began her career in the financial services industry in 1998. Prior to joining Texas Bank and Trust in 2014, she held various retail and securities related management positions with JPMorgan Chase & Co in both the East Texas and Central Dallas markets. In her current role, Danielle oversees and manages the bank’s branch network operations, which includes 20 full-service banking locations throughout East Texas and North Texas, serving customers in 16 unique communities, as well as the bank’s contact center. She also leads product development and the bank’s deposit growth strategy, playing a key role in shaping the customer experience at Texas Bank and Trust.\nBeyond her professional responsibilities, Danielle is active in her community. She serves on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Board of East Texas, as well as the strategic committees of Marvin Methodist Church and Grace Community School, and contributes her expertise to additional non-profit organizations.\nDanielle earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from Baylor University. She and her husband, Kent, live in Tyler, Texas. Together, they enjoy spending time with their five children and are actively involved in their faith and fitness communities.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Geotargeting & Segmentation Strategies for Acquisition & Growth
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
CloseDanielle Herd Webb
EVP/Chief Retail Officer at Texas Bank & Trust
David Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
David Eldred is the Chief Experience Officer for Solarity Credit Union ($850 million, Yakima, WA). With three decades in financial services across a variety of community banks and credit unions, his background includes marketing, product development, customer and digital experience, business intelligence, branch and call center operations. Connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/davideldred/
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Tellerless Branches: Improving CX Through Digital Transformation
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:25 – 3:45 PM
CloseDavid Eldred
Chief Experience Officer of Solarity Credit Union
Emily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Des Moines native and community advocate Emily Abbas joined Bankers Trust, the largest community bank in Iowa with $7 billion in assets, 10 years ago as the first-ever Chief of Staff and added the role of Chief Marketing Officer six months later. Five years ago, she also took on the leadership role for the bank’s Retail Branches, Private Banking, Residential Mortgage, Cash Vault, Call Center, and Financial Services teams. Prior to joining the banking industry, Emily’s work was primarily in marketing and communications at national and international insurance companies.\nEmily’s values align well with community banking, as she personally volunteers more than 340 hours annually through non-profit board and committee roles with Iowa Bankers Association, United Way of Central Iowa, Bravo Greater Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Drake University, Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, Principal Charity Classic, and more.\nEmily was named a national “Outstanding Women in Banking” by BankBeat Magazine in 2022. She was named the first-ever “Marketing Executive of the Year” in 2019 by the Iowa American Marketing Association Chapter, but is prouder that her team was awarded “Marketing Team of the Year” in 2022. She was featured as one of “14 People to Watch in 2014” by The Des Moines Register and was honored as a “Woman of Influence” by the Des Moines Business Record in 2016 and 2021. Even with these many accolades, the accomplishment she is most proud of is her division’s 225+ team members’ “best in class” level of employee engagement.\n
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Attracting & Retaining Next-Gen Retail Customers
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 1:25 – 1:45 PM
CloseEmily Abbas
EVP/Chief Consumer Banking and Marketing Officer at Bankers Trust
Jennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
Jennifer Sobotta, CFMP is the Vice President and Marketing Director at Forward Bank, where she leads with vision and innovation to drive transformative marketing strategies and strengthen community connections. With a distinguished background in financial services marketing, Jennifer consistently delivers forward-thinking solutions that enhance brand visibility and foster lasting customer relationships.\nA recognized leader in shaping the future of Forward Bank, Jennifer is a graduate of the ABA School of Bank Marketing & Management and maintains her Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) designation. She has been fiercely supportive of the financial services industry serving on both the Wisconsin Bankers Association’s BOLT (Building Our Leaders of Tomorrow) section and the Marketing Committee.\nJennifer is one of the inaugural members of Forward Bank’s AI Council, which drives the direction, governance and speed of implementation of AI initiatives across the organization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Generative AI Roadmap to Amplify Marketing Efficiency
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:20 PM
CloseJennifer Sobotta
Marketing Director at Forward Bank
John Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
John Huntinghouse serves as the Vice President of Marketing at TAB Bank, where his innovative leadership has transformed the marketing department, driving record-breaking growth. With over 16 years of experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, John excels in utilizing data analytics, demand generation, and digital marketing to craft strategies that significantly boost revenue and market share. His accomplishments have earned him the title of Utah Business Magazine’s 2022 Marketer of the Year, and under his guidance, TAB Bank’s marketing team was named the 2024 Marketing Team of the Year. A seasoned speaker, John has shared his insights at more than 50 conferences nationwide. Beyond his executive role, he imparts his knowledge as an adjunct professor of marketing at Weber State University, helping shape the next generation of marketers. John also serves as a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Board, contributing to thought leadership in the marketing industry.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Turbocharging the Business Lending Pipeline
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
CloseJohn Huntinghouse
VP/Marketing at TAB Bank
Josh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Harnessing AI to Personalize CX in Digital Channels
Bristlecone Stage | Wednesday at 2:25 – 2:45 PM
CloseJosh Redel
VP & Director of Marketing at Central Bank
Rob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Rob has 17 years of experience in the banking industry and was previously employed by Trustmark National Bank as Director of Marketing. A native of Memphis, Rob is a graduate of Delta State University and Leadership Mississippi. He graduated with honors from the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and is currently enrolled in the Louisiana State University Graduate School of Banking. In the community, he serves as Treasurer on the Friends of Children’s Hospital board of directors and also serves as a national alumni board member for Delta State University. Rob and his wife, Tamyne, have three children; Larisa, Patrick and Nikolai.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Accelerating Profitable Deposit Growth Through Advanced Data Analytics
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:20 PM
CloseRob Armour
EVP/Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer at BankPlus
Sumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
As Executive Vice President at Berkshire Bank, Sumant leads Berkshire One, and award-winning digital sub-brand, overseeing its strategic direction, P&L management, and growth initiatives. His leadership also spans Strategic Planning, Marketing & Communications, Client Experience, Deposit Products, Strategic Projects, and Data & Analytics—all with a focus on delivering measurable impact.\nSumant’s career has been built on a cornerstone of strategic transformation and innovation, consistently driving results. At Berkshire Bank, he led a 3-year enterprise-level transformation program, focusing on optimizing expenses, driving digitalization, and reigniting growth across key verticals. These initiatives not only enhanced operational efficiency but also unlocked significant shareholder value and strengthened the bank’s competitive position for long-term success.\nIn the digital space, he’s passionate about client-centric innovation. Sumant developed and launched an award-winning digital banking platform, implemented advanced analytics and CRM systems, and built a robust data warehouse—transforming how we engage clients and streamlining operations for scale.\nSumant has successfully navigated a number of complex M&A and divestment transactions, aligning stakeholders and delivering impactful outcomes.\nPrior to Berkshire Bank, as Chief Corporate Credit Officer, he scaled specialized lending verticals with a pristine credit record, executing high-profile transactions in private equity, venture capital, and large-scale infrastructure projects.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Competing at the Speed of Digital: How One Regional Stepped Up Its Game
Bristlecone Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:20 PM
CloseSumant Pustake
EVP & Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at Berkshire Bank
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CMO Masterminds Series
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Daniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Started with no ideas about marketing but deeply curious about why people buy/sell products and solutions in the regulated industry called banking. Two plus decades later – Smith Barney/Citigroup, Bank of America, JP Morgan, Neuberger Berman, People’s United Bank and Flagstar – I still love what I do.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Navigating Challenges & Avoiding Pitfalls
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseDaniel Darst
Deputy CMO & Chief Brand Officer of Flagstar
Lili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Lili Tomovich is the Chief Marketing & Experience Officer for Barclays US Consumer Bank where she oversees customer experience, marketing technology, channel strategy & optimization, brand, creative & sponsorships, product & partner marketing, consumer insights and research. Lili is a transformational marketing executive who has spent her career building leading brands in the financial services, retail, entertainment, and hospitality industries across the US and Canada.\nPrior to joining Barclays Bank in 2021, Lili was Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Collaborative responsible for the e-commerce platform for natural home and personal care products. Previously, Lili was the Chief Experience and Marketing Officer for MGM Resorts International, a $15B global hospitality and entertainment company. Her financial services industry experience includes nearly 10 years at Mastercard, where she served as head of Marketing for Canada and Senior Vice President of Consumer Marketing for the US market. She held additional marketing leadership roles with LoyaltyOne, Rogers Communications, and Citi.\nLili is a member of the Board of Directors of Dine Brands Global. She holds an MBA from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brock University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Power of Human Connections
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 2:00 – 2:45 pm
CloseLili Tomovich
Chief Marketing & Experience Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank
Pam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
As CMO of Navy Federal Credit Union, largest credit union in the nation with more than 14 million members and over $177B in assets, Pam leads brand and product marketing. She is well versed in brand building and demand generation. She is the conduit between the organization and current and prospective members, keeping a pulse on the needs of both for their mutual benefit and success. Pam is passionate about accurately capturing what the credit union stands for, going beyond building brand awareness to generating loyalty and trust from Active Duty, Veterans and their families. She is a leader motivated by doing what is right not only for the millions of Navy Federal members around the world, but also for the military community at large.\nPrior to becoming CMO, Pam served as the senior vice president of Marketing and Communications overseeing the advancement of Navy Federal’s brand story of unsurpassed member service. She was instrumental in the development and launch of Navy Federal’s brand platform and tagline: Our Members Are the Mission®. Pam also directed all marketing and advertising strategy, including research and both public and industry relations. Never one to pass up a chance to run, Pam has competed in marathons across the nation. She recently checked off a bucket list goal to run a marathon in every state in the U.S.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Three Pillars of Marketing
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
ClosePam Piligian
Chief Marketing Officer at Navy Federal Credit Union
Sue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sue Hermann serves as Chief Marketing Officer for BOK Financial, a top 25 financial institution that has fueled the growth of consumers, businesses and wealth clients for more than a century. As CMO, Sue has responsibility for telling the story of BOK Financial’s brand, lines of business, people and the impact the company in the communities it serves. She leads a team of professionals in shaping and creating multi-channel campaigns that attract qualified leads, engage existing clients and develop prospects.\nThe work of her team has earned several industry accolades, and Sue has been recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal and a Top Women in Marketing by Ragan Communications. Sue holds a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism from the University of Missouri – Columbia and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Wright State University.\nSue lives in Denver and enjoys spending time with her daughters, reading, hiking and cooking (with varying results).
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Aligning Marketing with Business Outcomes
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseSue Hermann
Chief Marketing Officer at BOK Financial
Sumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Sumeet Grover is the Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union, leading enterprise-wide digital, marketing, banking/lending/investment products, payments, analytics, and member experience functions. Alliant is a leading digital financial institution and has recently been recognized as the best in the industry by the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Kiplinger, Bankrate, Nerdwallet, CNET, and more. Before joining Alliant, Sumeet had a nearly two-decade career at Citibank. During this time, he held leadership positions across marketing, digital, client experience, operations, and technology functions. As a visionary leader, advisor, and board member, Sumeet has a proven track record of heading crossfunctional global teams, developing and executing strategic roadmaps, delivering exceptional customer experiences, maximizing business growth, accelerating digital transformation, optimizing performance, and generating long-term value. Sumeet specializes in digital strategies, full-funnel marketing, customer experiences, brand management, organic and paid channels, omnichannel marketing, media, content, communication, personalization, marketing operations, MarTech, data, and digital capabilities. He is a dynamic speaker sharing insights on marketing strategies, digital innovation, customer centricity, and advanced technologies at various events such as industry conferences, webinars, and podcasts. He is regularly featured in American Banker, PYMNTS, and other industry-wide publications. Sumeet has been recognized for his work by his peers with industry accolades, including a Fellowship from The Marketing Academy. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, a Master’s in Business Administration, and executive certifications from The Wharton School, Columbia Business School, and the Yale School of Management.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The Digital Banking Challenger Mindset
Pinyon Stage | Wednesday at 1:00 – 1:45 pm
CloseSumeet Grover
Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at Alliant Credit Union
Vickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
For more than 20 years, Vickie Sherman has been a marketing executive helping companies get their best work into the world to increase value.\nShe’s currently the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank and Pacific Premier Trust (NASDAQ; PPBI). She leads the marketing, branding, and sales enablement efforts for commercial, treasury management, retail, commercial real estate, SBA, community banking, specialty banking, commerce escrow, franchise capital, and Pacific Premier Trust. \nPrior to joining Pacific Premier, Vickie led marketing at three financial institutions: Mechanics Bank, Rabobank, and Golden 1 Credit Union. Her achievements included record-high growth in loans, deposits, new customers, brand health metrics, and social media. \nVickie is in her third and final year at Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. She earned her MBA from the University of California Davis Graduate School of Management and her Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California San Diego. She laughs heartily and often, walks her talk, and loves what she does.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Forging Strategic Partnerships
Pinyon Stage | Tuesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseVickie Sherman
Chief Marketing Officer at Pacific Premier Bank
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Power Breakfasts
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Chris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Chris Cox serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Apiture and oversees all aspects of business operations. Previously, Chris was the General Manager of First Data’s digital banking business. He also led mobile payment product development efforts at First Data. Prior to joining First Data, Chris was a Principal Consultant at Diamond Management & Technology Consultants and a Staff Consultant at CSC Consulting. Chris has more than 20 years of experience in banking, payments, mobile commerce, product innovation, and technology strategy. Chris holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Miami University in Ohio, and an MBA from Duke University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Unlocking the Power of Data: What’s Your Financial Institution’s Data IQ?
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseChris Cox
Chief Operating Officer at Apiture
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Advisory vs. Transactional Service: How One FI Leverages Technology to Differentiate their Brand, Service, & Experience
Starvin 3+4 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Maggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Maggie Burke is the Director of Sitecore Operations at Americaneagle.com, where she manages complex website development projects from start to finish. Drawing on her deep technical knowledge, she leads large development teams while keeping projects on schedule and within budget. Maggie specializes in financial industry websites and has a proven track record of coordinating multiple workstreams to deliver high-quality results. Her ability to effectively manage all aspects of project execution makes her a key leader on the Americaneagle.com team.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMaggie Burke
Director of Sitecore Operations at americaneagle.com
Mary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Mary McCleaft is a Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel, where she has driven digital transformation initiatives for the past nine years. Specializing in ecommerce solutions, she leads website redesign and re-platform projects with a focus on navigation, personalization, and mobile-responsive design. Her analytical approach to understanding user behavior has resulted in significant improvements in customer engagement across Citadel’s digital platforms. McCleaft brings a unique blend of technical insight and strategic thinking to her role, consistently delivering solutions that balance innovation with practical implementation.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMary McCleaft
Digital Solutions Analyst at Citadel Credit Union
Michael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Michael Stojda leads exagens corporate strategy and mission to help community financial institutions cost-effectively grow and win against big-banks by emotionally engaging people through digital channels and catalyzing them to save, spend, borrow and invest wisely. With a passion for customer success and building companies, Mike has run F1000 business units & divisions, and companies – from start-ups to turnarounds to taking a U.S. company public. When not working, he can be often found skiing anything with snow, camping, or enjoying a good bottle of wine with family, friends & colleagues. Mike holds degrees in Mechanical, Aerospace and Industrial Engineering and an MBA.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Beyond Technology: Using Behavioral Science to Drive Growth and Loyalty with Emotionally Intelligent Banking
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMichael Stojda
CEO of Exagens
Morgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
Morgan Domsohn serves as a Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel, where she specializes in creating and optimizing customer journeys across digital platforms. She brings deep expertise in content management, personalization, and digital marketing automation to drive engagement and business growth. Working closely with cross-functional teams, Domsohn leads initiatives that enhance user experience and strengthen Citadel’s digital presence through data-driven strategies and innovative solutions.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Optimize Your Financial Footprint: Successful Strategies to Maximize Digital Engagement
Starvine 3+4 | Tuesday at 8:00 – 8:45 am
CloseMorgan Domsohn
Sitecore Xperience Manager at Citadel Credit Union
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Lunch & Learns
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Abby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
As one of the Media Managers at Pannos Marketing, Abby manages and executes organic SEO strategies that not only enhance search visibility but also improve user experience by aligning with website functionality and design. Abby collaborates across teams to implement omnichannel approaches that drive ROI and optimize conversion actions. With a background in paid media, Abby brings a holistic perspective to campaigns, ensuring that SEO efforts complement broader marketing strategies for maximum impact. Abby also has extensive experience in the paid side of digital media, assisting the media team in reaching digital results that regularly exceed industry benchmarks, including those of Google.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseAbby Fitzgerald
Media Manager at Pannos Marketing
Alexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Alexandra is a Vice President in Client Strategy at Deluxe focusing on business development and retention. With 15 years of experience as a strategic program manager, Alexandra has a proven track record developing and implementing omnichannel marketing campaigns for both B2B and B2C segments. She partners with leading data providers, top commercial printers, shipping partners and digital giants to ensure comprehensive and effective marketing strategies. Her expertise includes strategic campaign design, business case development, competitive landscape analysis, offer optimization, creative development, procurement and postal optimization. Alexandra has successfully designed and executed 4,000 omnichannel campaigns during her tenure at Deluxe.\nAlexandra graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. with Honors in Communication.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Precision Marketing: Connecting with Customers at Life’s Critical Moments
Starvine 8+9 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseAlexandra Moss
Vice President & Deluxe Data-Driven Marketing of Deluxe
Brian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Since Brian joined PWCampbell as National Accounts Executive, he has become a thought leader in the financial institution sector, bringing together creativity, strategic insight, and a profound comprehension of consumer and employee behavior. With dedication to pushing boundaries and questioning traditional design approaches, he focuses on crafting innovative strategies that engage audiences and drive results. During his tenure at PWCampbell, Brian has collaborated with major financial institutions nationwide to align customer and employee needs in response to ever-evolving branch expectations. Additionally, he is a graduate of ABA Bank Marketing School and serves on the NJBankers Retail Banking Committee.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseBrian Laurinaitis
National Accounts Executive at PWCampbell
Christina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
With over 15 years of experience in digital experience strategy, Christina Baker is the Director of Strategy at SilverTech, where she partners with clients to define business goals and develop customized, omnichannel strategies that deliver measurable success.\nChristina is known for creating exceptional user experiences, collaborating with designers, engineers, and stakeholders to align strategic objectives across projects. Her expertise spans healthcare, utilities, banking, manufacturing, and eCommerce, with a focus on user experience, content strategy, SEO, digital transformation, data strategy, and personalization.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Catch ’em and Keep ’em. How data-driven, end-to-end digital marketing attracts, converts, and builds customer bases.
Starvine 1+2 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseChristina Baker
Director of Strategy at SilverTech
Cory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
Cory is an experienced financial services executive successfully melding strategy, technology, design, operations and marketing into consistent go-to-market discipline that consistently achieves Y-O-Y growth from high performing teams. Over the last decade he has led global product, sales and marketing teams at BlackRock and BNP Paribas. He began his career as a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseCory Haynes
Sr. Director Financial Services & GTM at Salesforce
David Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
David Carlson is the VP of Sales at MANTL. Prior to MANTL, Carlson worked with community financial institutions for more than 15 years to develop and implement scalable growth strategies. He has presented at numerous conferences on topics such as new customer acquisition strategies, sales and marketing initiatives, revenue growth, strategic planning, and team development.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Gain control of your growth in 2025: strategies to lower cost of funds and improve profitability
Starvine 6+7 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseDavid Carlson
VP of Sales at MANTL
Jeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeff Shaw has been the President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union since the beginning of 2020. Before that, he served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Wasatch Peaks formed in 2011 when several credit unions merged—Alliance, Weber, and SummitOne. Having been a part of the leadership team at Weber Credit Union, Jeff was an integral part of the merger. Jeff’s 25+ years of experience working in credit unions and his holistic understanding of financial institution operations enables him to serve the Wasatch Peaks community with excellence and commitment.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseJeff Shaw
President and CEO of Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Jeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Jeremy is an experienced strategist, with over 20+ years experience helping leading companies modernize their martech stack, centered on data, AI and personalization. Over the last 10+ years, Jeremy has interacted with and helped Salesforce’s biggest financial service customers, including Edward Jones, Schwab, JP Morgan Chase, Rocket and State Farm Insurance with their customer engagement initiatives.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseJeremy Lamothe
Distinguished & Strategic Solutions Engineer at Salesforce
Kevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Since joining PWCampbell in 1998, Kevin has advanced through various roles, acquiring an in-depth understanding of the design-build process. He has been instrumental in the creation and growth of the Branded Environments division, where he managed operations, developed strategies, and set business objectives. In his current position as Chief Strategy Officer, Kevin collaborates closely with fellow senior managers to enhance and evolve the company’s business operations, implement strategic initiatives, and lead planning efforts that contribute to the company’s long-term vision and success.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Your branch is a canvas: craft a customer experience masterpiece that drives marketing initiatives and deepens relationships
Starvin3 3+4 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseKevin Poirot
Chief Strategy Officer at PWCampbell
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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How to Compete and Win Market Share in a Competitive Environment
Starvine 1+2 | Tuesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Kurt Klassen is the Executive Vice President of LEVEL5, a national design-build firm headquartered in Atlanta. Kurt’s experience and expertise has been developed over the past 23 years in sales, marketing, and consulting roles with Glory, Equifax, and R.R. Donnelly. Kurt’s significant and proven leadership in organizations that serve financial institutions gives him the insight to anticipate the questions and concerns facing banking executives and develop custom solutions that deliver predictable, long-term growth. His understanding of growth strategy, operations, and technology—as well as his experience in marketing and design—make him a valued partner for financial institution executives across the country.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Extracting Actionable Insights from Endless Data to Drive Predictable Growth
Starvine 1+2 | Wednesday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
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How to Leverage the Technology to Build Your Brand, Increases Density, and Delivers Convenience
Copperleaf 1 | Wednesday at 3:00 – 3:45 pm
CloseKurt Klassen
Executive Vice President of LEVEL5
Lisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Lisa Nicholas is SVP Strategy at Vericast working in Austin, Texas. She specializes in marketing and digital transformation for the financial services industry. Nicholas has more than 30 years of experience in banking and high-tech industries. She has worked with companies to transform their marketing, sales, lending, branches and operations functions with a focus on transformation from traditional to omni-channel by leveraging technology and data.\nBefore Vericast, Lisa was at IBM Consulting, Wipfli and DBS where she was president of a CUSO leading digital transformation. Prior to DBS Lisa was Chief Digital Officer for Austin-based Amplify Credit Union where she spearheaded the development of its digital sales program, including a shift in architecture and systems to support sales, marketing and fulfillment teams.\nLisa is a frequent speaker at industry events such as Salesforce Dreamforce and Connections conferences, Salesforce Marketing Cloudcast, CUbroadcast, CUES Technology Council and more.\nNicholas earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University and a master’s degree in marketing from St. Edwards University
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Data-Driven Personalization– Strategies for Hyper-Local Success
Starvine 3+4 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseLisa Nicholas
SVP Strategy at Vericast
Matt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Matt leads Salesforce Marketing Cloud’s Financial Services Industry strategy, drawing on 27 years of experience across advertising agencies, startups, and technology consulting. His expertise in helping clients develop actionable digital strategies is reinforced by a decade at Salesforce. Matt’s primary focus is analyzing market trends and emerging technological advancements to understand their impact on the customer experience.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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7 Steps to Personalization at Scale with Agentforce [powered by Marketing and Financial Services Cloud]
Starvine 12+13 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseMatt Clement
Industry Strategist for Financial Services at Salesforce
Srini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Srini is the Head of Product, Technology, and Customer Operations at Blend, where he orchestrates the company’s product vision, technology strategy, and operational excellence to drive innovation and exceptional customer outcomes. With over 23 years of experience, Srini has held leadership roles in product management, engineering, and customer operations, demonstrating a proven track record of scaling SaaS businesses, optimizing operations for enterprise growth, and delivering accelerated value creation for stakeholders. Prior to joining Blend, he served in senior positions at PlanSource and IBM, where he developed and implemented strategies that drove technological advancement and enhanced product and shareholder value.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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Revolutionizing Banking with AI: From Cost Savings to Personalization
Starvine 11 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseSrini Venkatramani
Head of Product & Technology and Client Operations at Blend
Young Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
Young has been providing strategic guidance to businesses for over 25 years. With a focus within financial services, he’s led digital product organizations at Chase and also helped VC backed start-ups in mortgage lending and investing. At CI&T, Young is responsible for developing customer experience strategies for clients who need to navigate heavily regulated industries. His client experience spans a variety of brands including Wells Fargo, BlackRock, Invesco, TIAA, Chase and Charles Schwab. He holds a BBA in Business Analysis and Information Systems from Texas A&M University.
Forum 2025 Appearances:
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The GenAI Disruption: What’s Next for Marketing in Banking
Starvine 10 | Monday at 11:45 am – 12:45 pm
CloseYoung Pham
Chief Strategy Officer at CI&T
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