Just outside Orlando in Winter Park, Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College, is a graduate school distinguished by its renowned faculty, intimate class size and applied approach to learning. We hold top MBA rankings from Bloomberg Businessweek and Forbes magazines and is among a select group of business schools carrying AASCB International graduate-level accreditation, including Florida’s first AACSB accredited Executive Doctoral in Business Administration program in the state.

AppleOne Employment Services is a full-service employment company. Founded in 1964, the company is now celebrating over five decades of the AppleOne Experience. AppleOne Employment Services is unique in that we view the career seeker as a client. Other employment agencies see you as a commodity to be sold, and it shows in the way they treat you. Our services are always free to our associates, and we encourage you to take full advantage of them. For over 50 years, we have been committed to supporting “Client for Life” relationships with a full range of staffing services that help companies achieve long-term goals.

Formed in early 2016, the CEO Leadership Forums is a Florida-based organization that promotes ongoing leadership development and growth of second stage, lower middle-market companies by providing guidance and by engaging advisor partners who can provide resource solutions. Within this unique environment, C-level executives are able to connect with their peers from a diverse range of noncompetitive businesses and backgrounds. Members benefit from individual insight, coaching, strategies, and leadership skills to help them excel in business and improve outcomes. We also provide student financial support and potential part time and full-time jobs to outstanding students through our Distinguished Internship program at Valencia College. These programs are instrumental in helping insure a steady supply of bright young business talent for the Central Florida region.

G&A Partners offers comprehensive HR outsourcing solutions, including payroll administration, employee benefits, and HR management. They provide support with compliance, risk management, and employee relations, giving businesses access to Fortune 500-level benefits and HR technology. Their services help reduce administrative burdens, allowing businesses to focus on core operations and growth. Additional offerings include recruitment outsourcing, workers’ compensation, and performance management, all tailored for small and mid-sized companies to enhance efficiency, retain top talent, and scale effectively.

GrowFL is Florida’s only organization exclusively dedicated to support and accelerate the growth of second-stage companies, by providing their leaders with focused, efficient, and timely access to resources they deem important. Our programs provide connections with other second-stage company leaders, resources, and organizations whose expertise, experience, and products lead to the second-stage company’s continued growth and prosperity. Second-stage growth companies have at least 6 employees and $750 thousand in revenue and possess the intent and desire to grow beyond second-stage. They are a small, but mighty group of entrepreneurial leaders in Florida, accounting for just 10% of the companies but generating more than 30% of the jobs.

As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing and investment solutions, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world’s most successful individuals, families and institutions by remaining true to our enduring principles of service, expertise and integrity. A globally recognized Fortune 500 Company in continuous operation since 1889, we’ve built a legacy of empowering clients to reach their goals with confidence. Since our roots as a trust bank, we’ve grown to a global presence with more than 24,000 employees in more than 20 countries and across five core business units: Wealth Management, Asset Management, Asset Servicing, Technology and Corporate Functions.

Nperspective CFO & Strategic Services offers a full range of financial management services to support the needs of your business. Our primary focus is to deliver measurable results for clients. When your business requires expert, functional disciplines, time is of the essence. Nperspective’s hands-on approach addresses strategic, financial, technology, and leadership issues. Our experienced team of CFOs have worked with businesses both large and small to help them achieve their financial business goals via a variety of services. Get the support you need to build the business you want.

eXpress badging is a software business that provides photo ID issuance services, systems, and supplies to healthcare, business, and education facilities. Using their secure Veonics(r) Portal software, they provide a trusted outsourced photo ID badge printing service for organizations across North America. Annually, hundreds of thousands of high-tech badges are printed and shipped using a large fleet of badge printers and their securely hosted software. The eXpress badging team integrates reliable ID badge technology with an organization’s time and attendance systems, security door access, point of sale, tracking, and single sign-on systems through standard ID badges, ID cards, and mobile devices. eXpress badging offers turn-key on-premise photo ID badge printing systems, including sales, installation, support, user training, and a host of professional services. Supporting hundreds of on-premises badging systems nationwide, eXpress badging is your badging partner.

Since 1990, Orange County has operated as a “strong mayor” form of charter government—a reflection of the County’s urban character and driving economy. Under this structure, the Orange County Mayor serves as Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. Members of the Orange County Board of Commissioners are independently elected from six districts and serve in a legislative capacity. Our mission is to serve the citizens of Orange County and our guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. We are committed to engaging our citizens in the decision-making process in order to earn their trust and improve our quality of life.

We’re Banking Forward – At SouthState, our focus is on our customers first. Whatever success looks like to you, we’ll make sure you have what you need to continue to grow, drive more efficiency and effectively manage risk. As your trusted financial partner, we’re committed to providing enhanced capabilities, specialized solutions and innovative digital banking technology to help move your business forward. This is banking at its best. This is Banking Forward. Award-Winning Bank – With more than 5,000 dedicated team members, SouthState is one of the leading regional banks in the Southeast – serving more than one million customers. We offer robust banking solutions, including consumer banking, mortgage, small business banking, commercial banking and wealth management. We’re committed to creating a better banking experience and are proud to be recognized for the positive impact we’re making on the lives of our customers and team members.

Lauren Hodges
CEO and Owner, Performance on Purpose, LLC

lauren@performance-on-purpose.com

Lauren Hodges, Ed.D. is an expert in human performance sciences, an award winning learning designer, author, and owner of Performance on Purpose, a global training and coaching company focused on the intersections of leadership and human performance. She lives in Satellite Beach, FL with her husband and two teenage boys.

What does it take to truly thrive in high demand, high pressure environments? In this interactive session, we’ll unpack four decades of human performance sciences, learn three key skills necessary to thrive and remain mission-driven at work and at home, and identify actionable strategies to use right away.

Steve Swavely
CEO and Founder, Evolution Leadership Coaching

sswavely@gmail.com

Steve Swavely, PhD, is the CEO of Evolution Leadership Coaching. He also served as Director of Consulting at Truist Leadership Institute. Dr. Swavely earned his PhD in neuropsychology from Georgia State University and has dedicated the past several decades applying it to leadership development and team optimization.

There can be no growth in your organization without navigating the change that goes with it. Creating a change agile organization has emerged as one of the most important skills for leaders to develop. This session provides tools from neuropsychology to accelerate your company’s growth by maximizing change traction.

Mark Brewer, CAP
President/CEO, Central Florida Foundation

mbrewer@cffound.org

Mark has extensive leadership experience in all three sectors, including the private, public, and independent sectors. He has a background in mergers and acquisitions and in building teams and companies from the ground up. His experience in studying and working with all the generational cohorts will fuel this discussion.

This is a discussion about recruiting, retaining, and creating a culture that works for the current three prime generational cohorts. Whether early stage, second stage, or beyond, this is a discussion going on in almost every company as we try to build out teams that can take us to the next stage.

Joel Garris
CEO & President, Nelson Financial Planning

Joel@NelsonFinancialPlanning.com

Joel Garris is President & CEO of Nelson Financial Planning and author of Next Gen Dollars and Sense, a book that provides strategies to achieve financial success. A former attorney, Joel hosts “Dollars & Sense,” a long running radio show & podcast, and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER & Certified Financial Fiduciary.

As the 2nd generation of a 40 year old financial planning business, Joel is uniquely qualified both personally and professionally to share insights on transferring a business and personal wealth to the next generation. Learn the 4 considerations for transferring a business along with the 4 pitfalls for wealth transfers.

Phillip Meade
COO & Co-owner, Gallaher Edge

phillip@gallaheredge.com

Dr. Phillip T. Meade, COO at Gallaher Edge, is a leadership expert and best-selling author who applies the science of human behavior to drive strategy and improve company culture. With 30+ years of experience, he led the cultural change at NASA following the Columbia disaster.

In today’s leadership, emotional intelligence is key. Vulnerability and inclusivity—rather than technical skills—are boosting leadership in high-stakes environments. Using NASA’s Space Shuttle Columbia accident, we’ll explore how self-awareness, self-acceptance, and consistency foster performance even during crises.

Jordan George
Chief Experience Officer, Curium Solutions

jordangeorge@curiumsolutions.com

Jordan George is an award-winning culture transformation leader on a mission to change work for the better. With 20+ years of experience spanning HR, training, and project management, Jordan is adept at helping businesses shape their organizational culture, lead through change, and foster a dynamic, high-impact workforce.

Scaling your business presents a unique chance to build a strong, innovative team, but can be hindered by increased bureaucracy and shifting talent acquisition priorities. Join us as we explore strategies for remaining agile while balancing key leadership changes and driving a culture of innovation across your organization.

Nicole McMurray
Divisional Vice President, AppleOne Employment Services

nmcmurrary@appleone.com

Nicole McMurray has over 20 years of experience delivering holistic staffing solutions. As a Vice President she oversees the Florida and Georgia markets, excelling in conflict resolution and team building. She serves on several boards and leads workshops for various organizations.

Scaling your business presents a unique chance to build a strong, innovative team, but can be hindered by increased bureaucracy and shifting talent acquisition priorities. Join us as we explore strategies for remaining agile while balancing key leadership changes and driving a culture of innovation across your organization.

Misty Loughry
Alan and Sandra Gerry Chair in Business Excellence and Professor of Managment, Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College

mbrewer@cffound.org

Misty L. Loughry is the Alan and Sandra Gerry Chair in Business Excellence and Professor of Management at Crummer Graduate School of Business. She earned her Ph.D. in Management from University of Florida. She is a co-developer of CATME tools to support teamwork in higher education and studies teams and peer influences.

This table discussion will consider several perspectives on what job engagement is and look at conditions that are associated with higher levels of engagement. We will also look at different outcomes of job engagement and discuss how leaders might try to increase levels of engagement in their teams and organizations.

Ralph Betancourt
President & CEO, First Colony Bank of Florida

rbetancourt@firstcolonybank.net

With 35 years of commercial banking experience, Ralph Betancourt is a banking veteran in the Central Florida area. Ralph is President & CEO of First Colony Bank which opened its doors in Maitland in 2008. With $300 million in assets, First Colony Bank specializes in working with small businesses owners in Central Florida.

Your relationship with your banker is key to the success of your business. Let’s discuss how to foster that relationship and how your bank can help grow your business by providing thoughtful solutions that are right for you including working capital lines of credit, equipment term loans, mortgages and acquisition financing.

Tim Templeton
Advisor, Business Development, Trivest Partners

tim.templeton@trivest.com

Tim has been introducing founders to Trivest for 23 years through his personal and professional network, with the simple goal to see if Trivest’s unique approach to private equity aligns with a founder’s goals and objectives. As the oldest PE firm in the southeast, Trivest has partnered with 600+ business owners since 1981

Capital is often the most critical tool needed by business owners for growth. Knowing your goals will help you determine if debt is the right instrument or a partnership with a PE firm allowing you to take some chips off the table while reducing your risk is an appropriate approach.

Russell Slappey
CEO, Nperspective CFO & Strategic Services

rslappey@nperspective.com

Russell is the founder/CEO and Managing Partner of Nperspective, and is responsible for overseeing the firm and all of the companies divisions. He combines over 20 years of experience in Accounting, Information Systems and Taxation. He takes a hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach in working with business owners.

In this presentation we will discuss the job duties and differences between the CFO, controller & CPA in running the daily business. We will also explore what needs to be prepared to get ready for a transition of the business. Further, we will discuss understanding the role of a CFO in a transition related to forecasting.

Debbie Goode
Partner, Carr, Riggs & Ingram

dgoode@cricpa.com

CPA in public accounting for 39 years. Partner in charge of CRI’s Melbourne office and perform employee benefit plan, construction company, nonprofit, high-tech, government and forensic audits. I ensure my clients have strong internal controls in place to prevent theft and fraud and get them ready for due diligence.

Join us to discuss the importance of getting your company’s financial house in order. We will discuss how you determine the value of your company, and the tax implications associated with a stock vs. asset sale. Get prepared now so there are no regrets later.

Thomas Lind
Partner, Carr, Riggs & Ingram

tlind@cricpa.com

Thomas has over 13 years of experience working with individuals and small to medium-sized closely-held businesses. Thomas supports his clients in all aspects of tax compliance, tax planning, and transition planning. Thomas also holds credentials in business valuation and forensics.

Join us to discuss the importance of getting your company’s financial house in order. We will discuss how you determine the value of your company, and the tax implications associated with a stock vs. asset sale.

John Manning
CEO & President, Kraus-Manning, Inc dba KMI International

johnmanning@kmiintl.com

John Manning has provided project management services on multiple multi-million-dollar projects in the United States and Internationally. Experience includes on a variety of projects, including themed entertainment, hotels/resorts, aviation and marine. Services encompass concept to completion include resolutions of issues.

Presentation will be about KMI International was founded after years of witnessing projects fail. We decided there was a better way. Leading projects from the beginning, with quality people, proven process and credential professionals. KMI International also helps rescue projects that are in trouble.

John Ward
Certified EOS Implementer

john.ward@eosworldwide.com

After 10 years in a leadership role in a fortune 100 company, 15 years helping to grow a family-owned business and 10 years as an entrepreneur himself, John has leveraged a lifetime of business experience helping over 60 companies get results through the Entrepreneurial Operating System.

An ineffective Visionary Integrator relationship can stifle growth, while the right relationship, properly managed, is Rocket Fuel for your business. This breakout will give you practical tools and techniques to leverage this vital relationship, reduce stress and conflict and propel your business forward.

John King
Certified EOS Implementer

john.king@eosworldwide.com

John helps entrepreneurs and their leadership teams reach their full potential with EOS. He brings 20 years of leadership experience to his clients, and as a Certified EOS Implementer he has delivered almost 500 full day coaching sessions to companies across central Florida.

Often the most confusing of the EOS tools, Scorecards are critical to your business’s success. In this breakout, you will walk away with practical tips that will help clarify what to measure, how to measure, and ways to drive actual accountability so that you improve sales, operational efficiency, and cash flow.

Dave Riley
Certified EOS Implementer

Dave.Riley@EOSworldwide.com

John helps entrepreneurs and their leadership teams reach their full potential with EOS. He brings 20 years of leadership experience to his clients, and as a Certified EOS Implementer he has delivered almost 500 full day coaching sessions to companies across central Florida.

Often the most confusing of the EOS tools, Scorecards are critical to your business’s success. In this breakout, you will walk away with practical tips that will help clarify what to measure, how to measure, and ways to drive actual accountability so that you improve sales, operational efficiency, and cash flow.

Casey Fernandez
Client Executive, HYLANT

casey.fernandez@hylant.com

Business advisor to middle market companies in Florida and around the world for over 20 years. Casey delivers customized and Captive risk solutions for those who want to control their risk and costs, not accept what the market offers.

Casey provides guidance to owners interested in lowering their total cost of risk.

This presentation is for Business owners who are:
Frustrated, Uncertain, Busy, Anxious and Resolved (FUBAR) to change and improve the way they are creating a Risk and Insurance program to protect their interests. With a short introduction and a couple of stories the balance of our time will be Q&A for your specific issues.

Loren Horsager
CEO and Founder, Model Mind AI

loren.horsager@modelmind.ai

Loren is a tech entrepreneur and the dynamic force behind Model Mind AI. Drawing upon 30 years of extensive experience leading software development firms, Loren envisioned a world where AI could be harnessed to propel growth-oriented organizations forward. This led to the creation of Model Mind AI.

With AI transforming industries, effective policies and governance are essential. This session will explore AI’s potential, focusing on data security, protecting your organization, and building a strong AI policy. Learn how to implement AI responsibly to unlock business growth.

Kai Isaac
CEO and Producer, FILMSCAPE PRODUCTIONS

kai.isaac@filmscapepro.com

Kai Isaac is a Producer and Content Strategist with a passion for storytelling. As the founder of Filmscape, a leading video production company, he helps businesses create compelling videos that set them apart from the competition and drive engagement with their audience.

John Ohlwiler
CEO & Founder, Sentry Technology Solutions

john.ohlwiler@sentryitsolutions.com

John Ohlwiler is the Founder and CEO of Sentry Technology Solutions. Sentry serves businesses locally, regionally and across the country by creating custom technology solutions. John is a current member of the Forbes Technology Council and led Sentry to being featured as one of CRN’s Top 250 Next Generation Companies.

When it comes to Cyber Security and AI, diagnosing reality can be a challenge. In this breakout, Founder and CEO of Sentry Technology Solutions, John Ohlwiler, will help you define what you really need to know, understand the impact on your business, and make a plan for what’s next.

John Berardi
President, TruPoint Technology Solutions

jberardi@trupointcs.com

John Ohlwiler is the Founder and CEO of Sentry Technology Solutions. Sentry serves businesses locally, regionally and across the country by creating custom technology solutions. John is a current member of the Forbes Technology Council and led Sentry to being featured as one of CRN’s Top 250 Next Generation Companies.

When it comes to Cyber Security and AI, diagnosing reality can be a challenge. In this breakout, Founder and CEO of Sentry Technology Solutions, John Ohlwiler, will help you define what you really need to know, understand the impact on your business, and make a plan for what’s next.

James Holmberg
Sr. AI Trainer, Model Mind AI

james.holmberg@modelmind.ai

James is a seasoned creative professional with 30+ years in software development, design, arts, fashion, and advertising. Co-founder of a successful software company, he specializes in digital solutions. James is passionate about fostering creativity, mastering technical skills, and influencing art, design, and tech.

Discover how AI can transform your business by automating tasks and processes. This session explores custom ChatGPTs, AI-driven actions, and workflow automation to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Learn to implement AI solutions that save time and drive growth.

Joe Raymond
Managing Partner, RVR Consulting Group

jraymond@rvrteam.com

Joe is the Managing Partner of RVR Consulting Group Holdings, helping small to mid-market companies maximize potential throughout their lifecycle. A proven leader in launching, growing, and exiting businesses, he also co-founded CECO.org and serves on multiple community boards supporting motor disabilities.

Discover how to design a compensation strategy that drives performance, engagement, and retention. Learn to align compensation with strategic business goals, leverage incentive compensation, and create data-driven plans that meet the needs of today’s evolving multigeneration workforce.

Jean Seawright
President, Seawright & Associates

jseawright@seawright.com

For over 30 years, Jean Seawright has proactively resolved thousands of HR issues in a multitude of industries nationwide. Jean takes complex HR challenges and turns them into practical, positive, bottom-line solutions that mitigate risk and save countless dollars, time, and unnecessary HR headaches.

From changes in the salary level for exempt employees to new regulations for workplace harassment, accommodating pregnant employees, and classifying workers as independent contractors, HR risks abound. Join Jean Seawright for valuable compliance tips and strategies to help you prepare for 2025 HR realities.

Robert Newland
CEO, Newland Associates

robert@newland-associates.com

Robert Newland is a seasoned HR executive and entrepreneur with a deep understanding of the unique needs of second-stage businesses. He brings over 20 years of experience in executive recruiting, HR consulting, and leadership development. He is a Predictive Index Certified partner.

The Predictive Index (PI) is business intelligence platform where leaders can get critical people analytics so individuals and teams can achieve their business goals. Join Robert Newland, Predictive Index Certified Consultant to understand how to make the most of PI.

Paul DePalma
CEO, ADEPT Leadership

pdepalma@adeptleadership.com

Paul is known for his ability to bring teams together, clarify direction and execute against goals. He has increased the performance of hundreds of teams, from Global Fortune 500 companies to small local firms and non-profits. Paul is the author of Becoming ADEPT- Applying Leadership Strategies for Lasting Change.

We’ll discuss proven practices for improving your effectiveness as a visionary, key activities to reinforce the application of your accountability chart, and tactics to gain commitment and buy-in to your company’s goals, all in alignment with the EOS process.

Tara Griffin
Director, Shared Advocacy, G&A Partners

tgriffin@gnapartners.com

Tara got her start in the HR Outsourcing and PEO industry back in 1998. She spent time working in many different positions, learning the various aspects of a PEO including Payroll, Tax, HR Advisory, Compliance, Risk, Benefits and 401k, to ultimately running a PEO and starting one that she then sold to G&A Partners in 2018.

Remote, hybrid, office – the challenges are more same than different. High performing teams, in any scenario, require great leaders to define a structure & effectively communicate to motivate behaviors leading to desired outcomes. Alignment of purpose/goals, values (not what you think), score cards & resources required.

Doug Foreman
CEO, Fringe Benefit Plans, Inc

doug@fbplans.com

Doug is the CEO of Fringe Benefit Plans where he has worked since 1990. Fringe Benefit Plans provides comprehensive employee benefit programs to organizations looking to recruit, retain and reward talented team members. Doug was born and raised Orlando Area and attended The University of Florida.

I will provide an update on trends that are occurring in the Employee Benefit space, discuss some types of programs to explore that could save the employer money as well as get more for your team. Also provide an update on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and how that might effect employers.

Clayton Patterson
CEO/Founder, Digital Space Marketing

clay@digitalspacemarketing.com

Clayton is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, & speaker based out of Orlando, Florida (ClaytonPatterson.com). He has 15+ years of experience launching, operating, & growing businesses across various industries. He is the Founder/ CEO of Digital Space Marketing, a full-service marketing agency working in various sectors.

There are only a few things that CEO’s and executives really NEED to know when it comes to Digital Marketing and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). All of their knowledge should be directed towards holding others accountable. Here, Clayton Patterson, author of Blast Off! will show you specifically how to do that.

Mindi Hertzog
Senior International Trade Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service

mindi.hertzog@trade.gov

Mindi Hertzog is a Senior International Trade Specialist at the U.S. Commercial Service. She spent 2015-2018 in Brazil serving as a Diplomat and has an extensive career in both government and the private sector. She has an Executive MBA from UCLA, and a BS in Biology from Cedar Crest College.

Discover which international markets offer the best opportunities for your products and services. Learn effective strategies for marketing your offerings globally, and understand how your organization can export without having to leave Florida. Gain insights into export compliance, financing, and more.

Will Wellons
President, Wellons Communications

will@wellonscommunications.com

Will is a skilled strategic public relations professional who has worked with a broad spectrum of clients, including those in design, hospitality, attractions, real estate and finance. He has vast experience in all facets of public relations; including media relations, investor relations, and crisis management.

Social media continues to change by the day. Companies have to be consistent and up to date on the best practices for social media or their sales and reputation will suffer. We will have a discussion on how to stay ahead of the social media trends.

Shannon Muniz
Founder & President, Strategic Sales Management

smuniz@salesxceleration.com

Shannon Muniz is the President and Founder of Strategic Sales Management, LLC, which provides Fractional Sales Leadership to small and medium-sized companies. Since founding Strategic Sales Management in 2020, she has helped more than 50 companies develop and implement scalable sales infrastructures to grow revenue.

The 2024 State of Sales will present data collected from more than 4K medium sized businesses across the US. Each of the 4 key areas of sales; Organization, Strategy, Methodology and Analysis, will be reviewed and takeaways to immediately impact your sales organization will be presented.

Stephanie Kempton
CEO & President, Kempton Research

skempton@kemptonresearch.com

Stephanie has more than 30 years of marketing and communications experience. Her research and planning expertise has directly contributed to enhanced business performance for a wide range of brands and businesses. She has obtained her Principal Certification from the Insights Association.

I will be speaking to a one page document that will outline types of market research to find new customers, what these market research sources are, how to use them to find new customers and and how to obtain them from research providers in the market.

Erich Hanson
Founder & CEO, August Ash

ehanson@augustash.com

Erich Hanson is the Founder and CEO of August Ash, a web dev and digital marketing firm with 25 years of experience in creating innovative digital solutions for businesses. Since 2012, Erich has leveraged EOS to drive the company’s growth. He’s an active member of CEO Nexus and splits his time between Minnesota and Florida.

Uncover the secrets to creating a technology-driven marketing flywheel that powers sustainable business growth. This session discusses an engineered approach to marketing, integrating the principles of EOS/Traction, in order to achieve lasting success by focusing on modern marketing fundamentals.

Regina Rabitaille
Partner, Nelson Mullins

regina.rabitaille@nelsonmullins.com

I lead the trusts and estates practice for Nelson Mullins. My practice focuses exclusively in the area of estate planning, business succession planning and tax planning. I work closely with clients and advisors to ensure their personal and business assets are structured in the most protected and tax efficient manner.

Our presentation will focus on the benefits of estate planning as it relates to a business exist and ensuring that all assets are structured in the most tax efficient and protected manner for the benefit of the business owners and their designated beneficiaries.

Bill Lowman
Founder & Managing Partner, Shuffield Lowman

wlowman@shuffieldlowman.com

Bill Lowman is a founder & president of ShuffieldLowman, and a seasoned attorney in the areas of corporate, mergers & acquisitions, business taxation, securities, intellectual property, estate planning, planning for high net-worth families, foundations, family businesses, executive compensation planning & tax law.

Our presentation is a comprehensive webinar that delves into the intricate stages of a merger & acquisition transaction. We will beigin with letter of intent, continue through data rooms and the due diligence process, and finish with transaction documentation and the closing.

Julia Dennis
Attorney, Partner, Shuffield Lowman

jdennis@shuffieldlowman.com

Julia Dennis joined ShuffieldLowman in 2009 and specializes in mergers & acquisitions, securities law, corporate law, and intellectual property. She has specific experience representing emerging and established companies, private equity firms, and portfolio companies within the manufacturing, technology, restaurant, distribution, and professional service sectors. Her transactional work includes counseling clients on corporate formation and asset protection planning, growth-centric transactions including private offering capital raises, employee incentive planning, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and exit strategies leading up to and including the ultimate sale of the business.

Jon Molayem
President, Acquivest Financial Group

jon@acquivest.net

Jon established Acquivest, an M&A Advisory firm, in 2004. Jon has since built a reputation as a top deal maker within Florida as well as around the DC Metropolitan area. To date, Jon and his team have led and transacted over $1 billion in total deal volume.

One of the biggest money- and time-wasters is seeing a business transaction fall through. Learning what needs to go into LOIs (and why) will save you a lot of time, money and stress! Jon Molayem and Garren Work at Acquivest will walk you through a number of common mistakes made during the Letter of Intent process.

Chris Bordner
CEO, Synergy Wealth Alliance

Chris@synergywealthalliance.com

Chris Bordner leads with a client-first approach, focusing on providing trusted financial advice and holistic wealth management. Under his leadership, the firm empowers individuals, families, and business owners to achieve financial clarity and become stewards of their time, talents, and treasure.

Learn how to secure your financial future with practical retirement strategies tailored for business owners. This session covers maximizing business value, tax-efficient savings, and succession planning. Gain actionable insights to diversify your investments and build lasting financial security for retirement.

Ryan Tansom
Speaker and Coach, Independence by Design™

Ryan@ryantansom.com

Ryan Tansom turned around his family’s $21M business, leading to its 8-figure sale. He created the Independence by Design™ Ownership Framework, helping over 1,500 owners gain clarity, optimize cash flow, and grow equity. A speaker and podcaster with 400+ episodes, Ryan features top guests like Gino Wickman and Jack Stack.

Mastering the Art of Business Valuations will walk you through the critical components of valuing your business, focusing on the drivers that increase cash flow, enhance multiples, and create long-term equity. Gain practical insights and strategies to maximize your company’s value and financial freedom.

Cherie Wells
CEO/Managing Director, QualityHub, Inc.

cwells@qualityhub.com

For the past 20 years Cherie has served as a Senior Consultant/Business Owner/CEO and Managing Director at QualityHub Inc., a Medical Device and Pharma consulting company in Orlando, FL. QualityHub serves clients worldwide. QualityHub, Inc. became a Grow FL winner in 2015.

Will Stewart
Managing Director, PCE Investment Bankers

wstewart@pcecompanies.com

Will Stewart, a partner at PCE and head of the firm’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) practice, is regarded as an expert in the ESOP community. He is a frequent speaker, panelist, and presenter at ESOP-focused conferences and events and has closed more than $3 billion of ESOP transactions.

What is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and does it fit for me and my Company? The presenters include an ESOP advisor with experience leading companies through transactions and a business owner who has recently been through an ESOP transaction.

Mike Byrne
Senior Wealth Advisor, Northern Trust

mjb24@ntrs.com

Mike advises business owners, high-net-worth families, and executives in the areas of estate planning, risk management, and retirement planning. Mike is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®).

Business owners will need to decide whether to pass the business on to the next generation or to sell the business. A flux of Boomers attempting to sell their businesses simultaneously could potentially impact multiples. Those who plan early and strategically will be best positioned to maximize the value of the business.