Convention Sessions & Speakers

IBA Annual Convention

 

 

 

Keynotes

 

Monday

Strategic Leadership in a Shifting Landscape
Gene Marks

As the political, economic, and regulatory landscape continues to shift, today’s banking leaders face a growing list of challenges—rising costs, labor shortages, AI disruption, and a rapidly aging workforce. This engaging session explores the practical strategies successful leaders are using to drive growth, attract talent, adapt to new regulations, and prepare for the future. Learn how forward-thinking organizations are navigating inflation, interest rates, and evolving workplace demands to build sustainable success beyond 2025.

Tuesday

Lead Like a Human: The Strategic Advantage of Authentic Leadership
Adam Weber

Today’s employees expect more than just a paycheck—they’re looking for purpose, authenticity, and meaningful connection. This engaging keynote explores what it truly means to lead with humanity in a world of evolving workplace expectations. Learn why clarity around culture and values drives stronger retention and performance, how human-centered leadership creates a competitive edge, and what practical steps leaders can take to build trust, improve communication, and grow personally while leading effectively. This session offers both inspiration and strategy for thriving in today’s people-first business environment.

Industry Leader Sessions

Kenneth Kelly, Chair-elect, American Bankers Association
Chairman and CEO of First Independence Corp and First Independence Bank, Detroit, MI

Jack E. Hopkins, Chairman, Independent Community Bankers of America
President and CEO of CorTrust Bank, Sioux Falls, SD

General Sessions

Staying Rooted: Strategies for Independent Bank Success
Philip Smith, Gerrish Smith Tuck

In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, community banks must be intentional about preserving their independence. This session will explore practical strategies that help institutions remain grounded and thrive. Topics will include strengthening director engagement, enhancing organizational relevancy, implementing effective succession planning, and creating shareholder liquidity. Attendees will gain insights on how to grow from a strong foundation, ensuring their bank remains resilient, purpose-driven, and well-positioned for the future.

Three Important Ingredients When Developing Future Leaders
Tom & Kyle Hershberger, Cross Financial

Bridge the generational gap in your workforce with a culture that actively develops future leaders. This engaging session focuses on talent retention, development, and attraction practices that support long-term success. Learn how to create a work environment that resonates with younger employees while leveraging the expertise of seasoned managers. Discover innovative solutions to foster collaboration and build a leadership pipeline for your bank. This session, presented by a Baby Boomer and a Millennial, will examine challenges and opportunities created by generational differences in your workforce.

Growth Strategies: Does Your Sales Team Have What It Takes
Mark Trinkle, Anthony Cole Training

Traditional sales tactics no longer cut it in today’s fast-paced, knowledge-driven banking environment. This session explores the 21 skills elite relationship managers must possess to grow relationships and drive results. Learn how to evaluate your current sales team, identify key traits in future hires, and use proven tools to benchmark sales performance against industry standards—all with a focus on helping your bank stand out and grow in a competitive marketplace.

Economic Outlook 2025: Navigating Headwinds and Hidden Opportunities
Chris Keuhl, Armada Intelligence

This fast-paced, insightful session offers a clear look at the economic forces shaping the year ahead. Delivered with clarity and a touch of humor, it breaks down complex global and domestic trends—from inflation and interest rates to labor markets, supply chain shifts, and consumer behavior—into actionable intelligence for community bankers. Attendees will gain a data-driven forecast that highlights emerging risks and potential areas of opportunity as banks and their customers adapt to evolving economic conditions.