Jim Gilmore As co-author of The Experience Economy, Jim Gilmore literally wrote the book that spawned worldwide interest in customer experience management. Jim contends that authenticity is the new quality that businesses must learn to manage as a distinct business discipline. How? Jim will lead a hands-on workshop featuring the latest research from his book, Authenticity: What Consumers Really Want.

Polly LaBarre Polly LaBarre’s book, Mavericks at Work, has been hailed by The Economist as “a pivotal work in the tradition of In Search of Excellence and Good to Great.” Based on research from her eight years as Senior Editor for Fast Company, Polly showcases innovative leaders that are redefining how business gets done.

Joe Wheeler Joe Wheeler is the Executive Director and Founder of The Service Profit Chain Institute and co-author of The Science of Delight. Expect an insightful briefing on the best practices of companies that understand how to design and execute a dynamic customer experience, demonstrating the power of linking employees, customers and profits.

Liz Murray From homeless to Harvard … it is an unlikely turn of events. Liz Murray’s life is a triumph over adversity and a stunning example of the importance of dreaming big. Liz’s true story is exhilarating and her delivery innocently honest, as she takes audiences on a very personal journey where she achieves the improbable.

	Kim Lopdrup — Red Lobster President Kim Lopdrup oversees 680 Red Lobster restaurants, 63,000 employees and $2.6 billion in annual sales. Kim will share his strategy and the leadership lessons learned while revitalizing the Red Lobster brand.
	Bill Guibor — Hallmark Retail, Inc. Chief Operating Officer Bill Guibor has led Hallmark’s corporate stores to consistent positive comp store growth through improved field leadership and a focused effort on driving customer service and the in-store experience. Bill’s previous experience includes senior leadership positions at Williams-Sonoma and The Gap.
	John Wright — Pat & Oscar’s Restaurants Chairman and Chief Executive Officer During his tenure, John Wright restructured and led the turnaround of Pat & Oscar’s Restaurants, which culminated in the recent sale of the company to Pacific Equity Partners. John’s previous experience includes senior leadership positions at Metromedia Restaurant Group, Wendy’s International and PepsiCo, Inc.
	Lee Kennedy — Belk, Inc. Director of Staffing & Productivity Lee Kennedy leads the team dedicated to operational best practices, productivity standards, and employee & customer satisfaction for Belk. During Belk's acquisition of two department store divisions from Saks, Inc., he served on the integration committee which led the transition of these stores. Lee began his career at Belk as an Executive Trainee in 1983.