2025 Emerging Leaders Conference : Massachusetts Bankers Association

Dates

Thursday, October 16, 2025 - Friday, October 17, 2025

Time

9:00 AM - 3:30 PM EST

Location

2025 Emerging Leaders Conference Event Image

Join us for our inaugural Emerging Leaders Conference, created specifically for rising professionals in the banking industry who are ready to take their careers to the next level.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Newport, Rhode Island, this event features thought-provoking speakers, hands-on breakout sessions, and meaningful opportunities to connect with peers and leaders in banking. This conference is a direct response to bank CEOs across the region, who asked for more opportunities to support and develop their next generation of leaders. They believe in your potential—and so do we. By attending, you'll be part of a powerful initiative to shape the future of our industry.

What to Expect?

How to Network with Confidence - Learn how to build authentic, strategic relationships that advance your career.
From the Ground Up: How I Became a CEO - Gain insights from a panel of CEOs who share the real story behind their rise to leadership.
Leadership at Every Level - Discover how to lead with purpose—whether you're managing people or projects.
Dive deeper into skill-building topics like personal branding, executive communication, and decision-making.
Make connections with peers, mentors, and industry leaders in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Say cheese! Get a fresh new headshot while you’re here.
And more!!!!

Keynote Lunch Speaker

Scott Pioli, former Super Bowl–winning NFL executive, will serve as our keynote lunch speaker. Scott’s career includes leadership roles with the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons, and he’ll share valuable lessons from his experiences—highlighting both successes and setbacks along the way!

Dates

October 16–17, 2025

Location

Newport Harbor Island Resort | Newport, RI

Accommodations

The Newport Harbor Island Resort is the host hotel for this conference. The room rate will be $299/per room, per night for single or double occupancy. Attendees are responsible for booking their own accommodations and travel. Please click here to make your reservation. Room Deadline has been extended to September 24.

Who Should Attend?

Emerging leaders in banking—whether you're early in your career or stepping into a new leadership role. If you're eager to grow, this is where you need to be.

Price

Single Member Registration - $375.00

Additional Registration from Same Bank - $325.00

Single Nonmember Registration - $750.00

Additional Nonmember Registration - $650.00

THANK YOU to the MBA Leadership Elevation And Development (LEAD) Committee for developing this exciting program:

Chair: Benjamin Lord, EVP, Chief Operating Officer, Bluestone Bank

Leonardo Atkinson, Assistant Vice President, Banking Center Manager, Cape Cod Five

Emma Bargende, Commercial Credit Analyst, Coastal Heritage Bank

Shanna Cahalane, SVP, Director of Marketing and Community Development, Reading Cooperative Bank

Pia Cordes, AVP, Project and Core Banking Manager, MutualOne Bank

Ashleigh Cummins, VP Strategic Initiatives and Implementation, Bluestone Bank

Chelsea Depault, VP, Commercial & Municipal Lender, Greenfield Co-operative Bank

Steve Hebner, VP, Finance, Centreville Bank

Laura Hickson, Director of Financial Crimes Compliance/BSA Officer, Charlesbridge Group

Kyle Martin, VP Director of Compliance, BankNewport

Jill Tremblay, VP, Commercial Banking Development Program Director, Bristol County Savings Bank

MBA Staff: Meghan McCarthy

Registration Fees

Additional Registration from Same Bank

Early Standard Late

$325.00

Breakfast Sponsor

Early Standard Late

$1500.00

Headshots Sponsorship

Early Standard Late

$2000.00

Mobile App Sponsorship

Early Standard Late

$2000.00

Notepad Sponsorship

Early Standard Late

$2000.00

Power Break Sponsorship

Early Standard Late

$1500.00

Single Member Registration

Early Standard Late

$375.00

Single Nonmember Registration

Early Standard Late

$750.00

Agenda



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Thursday - October 16
5:30 pm
	Welcome Reception & Onsite Registration Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Kick off the conference with drinks, light fare, and networking as you meet fellow emerging leaders from across the region.
7:00 pm
	Dinner on Your Own Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Explore Newport’s vibrant dining scene with new connections or on your own.
Friday - October 17
9:00 am
	Welcome Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Martin Connors, Jr. Chairman, Rollstone Bank and Board Chair, Mass Bankers Assoc
9:15 am
	Networking for Career Success Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Strong relationships are the foundation of a successful banking career. In an industry built on trust, collaboration, and community connection, your network can open doors to new opportunities, mentors, and business growth. This interactive session will explore how networking is not just a soft skill—but a strategic advantage. Emerging leaders will learn how to build authentic professional relationships, navigate networking events with confidence, and leverage connections to support their career trajectory. Whether you're just starting to build your network or looking to strengthen it, this session will provide tools and insights to help you network with purpose and lasting impact. Diane Darling <p data-start="74" data-end="425">Diane Darling is a seasoned consultant, keynote speaker, instructor, and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience specializing in professional networking strategies. Her work is rooted in deep research and a passion for helping individuals and organizations harness the power of relationships to drive both career growth and business success.</p><p data-start="427" data-end="797">Diane offers a range of services, including virtual and in-person speaking engagements, one-on-one leadership coaching, and strategic consulting. She tailors each engagement to meet clients where they are, bringing practical, personalized insight to every interaction. Her diverse client base spans industries such as accounting, architecture, law, and higher education.</p><p data-start="799" data-end="911" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Approachable an d insightful, Diane is committed to helping people connect with purpose—and thrive because of it.</p> <p data-start="74" data-end="425">Diane Darling is a seasoned consultant, keynote speaker, instructor, and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience specializing in professional networking strategies. Her work is rooted in deep research and a passion for helping individuals and organizations harness the power of relationships to drive both career growth and business success.</p><p data-start="427" data-end="797">Diane offers a range of services, including virtual and in-person speaking engagements, one-on-one leadership coaching, and strategic consulting. She tailors each engagement to meet clients where they are, bringing practical, personalized insight to every interaction. Her diverse client base spans industries such as accounting, architecture, law, and higher education.</p><p data-start="799" data-end="911" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Approachable an d insightful, Diane is committed to helping people connect with purpose—and thrive because of it.</p>
10:15 am
	Pathways to Leadership: How Today’s CEOs Got There Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Join us for a candid and inspiring conversation with four of the industry’s top leaders as they reflect on their unique journeys to the C-suite. This panel will explore the pivotal experiences, career decisions, and leadership lessons that helped shape their paths to becoming CEOs. Panelists include: John A. Battaglia, President & CEO, The Cooperative Bank Matt Burke, Chairman and CEO, Cape Cod Five Kristin Carvahlo, President & CEO, MutualOne Bank Moderated by Kathleen M. Murphy, President & CEO Matt Burke Cape Cod 5 Kristin Carvalho MutualOne Bank John Battaglia The Cooperative Bank
11:15 am
	Refreshment Break Sold Out! 0 Slots Left
11:30 am
	Future of Banking Sold Out! 0 Slots Left The banking industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace—driven by technology, shifting customer expectations, and a changing regulatory landscape. In this forward-looking session, industry leaders and innovators will explore the key trends shaping the future of banking, from digital transformation and fintech partnerships to AI, data privacy, and ESG initiatives. Emerging leaders will gain valuable insights into the skills and mindset needed to thrive in this dynamic environment and play an active role in shaping what’s next for the industry. Michael Burke Jr., President of ChoiceOne Bank Michael Burke Independent Community Bankers of America <p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><strong style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:bolder;">Michael Burke Jr.</strong> is vice chairman of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), the only national organization that exclusively represents community banks.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Ligh t, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke, a lifelong banker, is president of ChoiceOne Bank in Lapeer, Mich.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transf orm:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke holds many leadership roles at ICBA. He serves on the ICBA Executive Committee and board of directors and is a member of ICBA’s Federal Delegate Board and its Policy Development Committee. Additionally, Burke is the Executive Committee liaison for the Large Community Bank Council and the Digital Assets Subcommittee.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Active at the local level, Burk e is a board member for McLaren Lapeer Region and serves as chairman of the Lapeer County Community Foundation. He is also vice chairman of the Lapeer Development Corp. and a past chairman and current board member of the Community Bankers of Michigan. Burke has a bachelor’s in Business Finance from the University of Michigan-Flint.</p> <p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><strong style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:bolder;">Michael Burke Jr.</strong> is vice chairman of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), the only national organization that exclusively represents community banks.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Ligh t, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke, a lifelong banker, is president of ChoiceOne Bank in Lapeer, Mich.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transf orm:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke holds many leadership roles at ICBA. He serves on the ICBA Executive Committee and board of directors and is a member of ICBA’s Federal Delegate Board and its Policy Development Committee. Additionally, Burke is the Executive Committee liaison for the Large Community Bank Council and the Digital Assets Subcommittee.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Active at the local level, Burk e is a board member for McLaren Lapeer Region and serves as chairman of the Lapeer County Community Foundation. He is also vice chairman of the Lapeer Development Corp. and a past chairman and current board member of the Community Bankers of Michigan. Burke has a bachelor’s in Business Finance from the University of Michigan-Flint.</p>
12:30 pm
	Lunch Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Lunch Keynote – Scott Pioli, Former NFL Executive A Super Bowl–winning executive with the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons, Scott will share insights from his long career in professional football—offering lessons learned from both achievements and challenges. Scott Pioli Speaker <p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Scott Pioli has held multiple executive positions, including General Manager, Assistant General Manager, and Vice President of Personnel in various organizations, including the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons. He also spent 6 years working as an analyst for NFL Network and CBS. Currently, Pioli works as a consultant for various companies and also continues to consult for the NFL and several college athletic departments. <span style="caret-color:rgb(4, 51, 255);">He has been a featured speaker and panelist for private companies and at numerous conferences.</span></span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">His NFL career spans over 27 years, including five trips to the Super Bowl, three Super Bowl championships, four AFC championships, six AFC East titles, and an NFC Championship. Pioli has been named NFL Executive of the year five times, and he remains the youngest person to ever win the award. ESPN named Pioli the Personnel Executive of the Decade, and he was named the NFL Executive of the Decade by Sporting News and Sports Illustrated in the 2000s. Pioli has a long proven record of initiating, driving, and leading change within organizations. Throughout his career, he has been one of the NFL's best at identifying and mentoring talent. Not only athletes who went on to play at the highest level, but he has also developed and guided entry-level employees who have gone on to become top executives and head coaches. </span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Pioli is passionate and committed to advocating and advancing diversity and equality. The NCAA honored him as the 2019 Champion of Diversity & Inclusion for his efforts as an advocate for equality in sports. He is on the board of the Women’s Sports Foundation, Women Leaders in Sports and the Black College Football HOF. He and his wife are investors/minority owners in the new NWSL franchise coming to Boston in 2026 — Boston Legacy FC.</span></p><p> </p> <p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Scott Pioli has held multiple executive positions, including General Manager, Assistant General Manager, and Vice President of Personnel in various organizations, including the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons. He also spent 6 years working as an analyst for NFL Network and CBS. Currently, Pioli works as a consultant for various companies and also continues to consult for the NFL and several college athletic departments. <span style="caret-color:rgb(4, 51, 255);">He has been a featured speaker and panelist for private companies and at numerous conferences.</span></span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">His NFL career spans over 27 years, including five trips to the Super Bowl, three Super Bowl championships, four AFC championships, six AFC East titles, and an NFC Championship. Pioli has been named NFL Executive of the year five times, and he remains the youngest person to ever win the award. ESPN named Pioli the Personnel Executive of the Decade, and he was named the NFL Executive of the Decade by Sporting News and Sports Illustrated in the 2000s. Pioli has a long proven record of initiating, driving, and leading change within organizations. Throughout his career, he has been one of the NFL's best at identifying and mentoring talent. Not only athletes who went on to play at the highest level, but he has also developed and guided entry-level employees who have gone on to become top executives and head coaches. </span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Pioli is passionate and committed to advocating and advancing diversity and equality. The NCAA honored him as the 2019 Champion of Diversity & Inclusion for his efforts as an advocate for equality in sports. He is on the board of the Women’s Sports Foundation, Women Leaders in Sports and the Black College Football HOF. He and his wife are investors/minority owners in the new NWSL franchise coming to Boston in 2026 — Boston Legacy FC.</span></p><p> </p>
1:30 pm
	Breakouts Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Choose from a variety of focused sessions designed to help you sharpen your skills and expand your leadership potential.
2:30 pm
	From Manager to Mentor: Building Strong Teams Through Development Sold Out! 0 Slots Left Great teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built through intentional coaching and development. In this session, you'll learn how to evaluate your team’s strengths, lead more effective 1:1s, and create meaningful development plans that drive both individual growth and team performance. Walk away with practical tools to shift from managing tasks to mentoring people—while still delivering results. Wendy Bryan, MBA, CEC, Founder/Principal, Forward Focused Business Advisors Wendy Bryan, MBA, CEC, CODC Forward Focused Business Advisors <p><span style="font-size:11.0pt;"><strong>Wendy </strong>is the founder of Forward Focused Business Advisors, where she leverages over 30 years of executive experience to help leaders and managers thrive. A Certified Executive Coach, Organizational Development Coach, and Talent Optimization Consultant, Wendy partners with businesses to enhance leadership capability, build strong workplace cultures, and drive performance. She previously owned two successful franchise studios and held senior marketing roles across multiple industries. Known for her practical, no-fluff approach, Wendy brings real-world insight, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead effectively in today’s fast-paced business environment.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:11.0pt;"><strong>Wendy </strong>is the founder of Forward Focused Business Advisors, where she leverages over 30 years of executive experience to help leaders and managers thrive. A Certified Executive Coach, Organizational Development Coach, and Talent Optimization Consultant, Wendy partners with businesses to enhance leadership capability, build strong workplace cultures, and drive performance. She previously owned two successful franchise studios and held senior marketing roles across multiple industries. Known for her practical, no-fluff approach, Wendy brings real-world insight, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead effectively in today’s fast-paced business environment.</span></p>
3:30 pm
	Adjourn Sold Out! 0 Slots Left

Speakers

Name	Organization	Speaking At
Diane Darling <p data-start="74" data-end="425">Diane Darling is a seasoned consultant, keynote speaker, instructor, and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience specializing in professional networking strategies. Her work is rooted in deep research and a passion for helping individuals and organizations harness the power of relationships to drive both career growth and business success.</p><p data-start="427" data-end="797">Diane offers a range of services, including virtual and in-person speaking engagements, one-on-one leadership coaching, and strategic consulting. She tailors each engagement to meet clients where they are, bringing practical, personalized insight to every interaction. Her diverse client base spans industries such as accounting, architecture, law, and higher education.</p><p data-start="799" data-end="911" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Approachable and insightful, Diane is committed to helping people connect with purpose—and thrive because of it.</p>		Networking for Career Success
John Battaglia	The Cooperative Bank	Pathways to Leadership: How Today’s CEOs Got There
Kristin Carvalho	MutualOne Bank	Pathways to Leadership: How Today’s CEOs Got There
Matt Burke	Cape Cod 5	Pathways to Leadership: How Today’s CEOs Got There
Michael Burke <p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;"><strong style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:bolder;">Michael Burke Jr.</strong> is vice chairman of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), the only national organization that exclusively represents community banks.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke, a lifelong banker, is president of ChoiceOne Bank in Lapeer, Mich.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Burke holds many leadership roles at ICBA. He serves on the ICBA Executive Committee and board of directors and is a member of ICBA’s Federal Delegate Board and its Policy Development Committee. Additionally, Burke is the Executive Committee liaison for the Large Community Bank Council and the Digital Assets Subcommittee.</p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(60, 58, 58);font-family:BeausiteClassicWeb-Light, sans-serif;font-size:19.9221px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;line-height:1.4;margin-bottom:1.2rem;margin-top:0px;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Active at the local level, Burke is a board member for McLaren Lapeer Region and serves as chairman of the Lapeer County Community Foundation. He is also vice chairman of the Lapeer Development Corp. and a past chairman and current board member of the Community Bankers of Michigan. Burke has a bachelor’s in Business Finance from the University of Michigan-Flint.</p>	Independent Community Bankers of America	Future of Banking
Scott Pioli <p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Scott Pioli has held multiple executive positions, including General Manager, Assistant General Manager, and Vice President of Personnel in various organizations, including the New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons. He also spent 6 years working as an analyst for NFL Network and CBS. Currently, Pioli works as a consultant for various companies and also continues to consult for the NFL and several college athletic departments. <span style="caret-color:rgb(4, 51, 255);">He has been a featured speaker and panelist for private companies and at numerous conferences.</span></span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">His NFL career spans over 27 years, including five trips to the Super Bowl, three Super Bowl championships, four AFC championships, six AFC East titles, and an NFC Championship. Pioli has been named NFL Executive of the year five times, and he remains the youngest person to ever win the award. ESPN named Pioli the Personnel Executive of the Decade, and he was named the NFL Executive of the Decade by Sporting News and Sports Illustrated in the 2000s. Pioli has a long proven record of initiating, driving, and leading change within organizations. Throughout his career, he has been one of the NFL's best at identifying and mentoring talent. Not only athletes who went on to play at the highest level, but he has also developed and guided entry-level employees who have gone on to become top executives and head coaches. </span></p><p><span style="color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);font-size:10.5pt;">Pioli is passionate and committed to advocating and advancing diversity and equality. The NCAA honored him as the 2019 Champion of Diversity & Inclusion for his efforts as an advocate for equality in sports. He is on the board of the Women’s Sports Foundation, Women Leaders in Sports and the Black College Football HOF. He and his wife are investors/minority owners in the new NWSL franchise coming to Boston in 2026 — Boston Legacy FC.</span></p><p> </p>	Speaker	Lunch
Wendy Bryan, MBA, CEC, CODC <p><span style="font-size:11.0pt;"><strong>Wendy </strong>is the founder of Forward Focused Business Advisors, where she leverages over 30 years of executive experience to help leaders and managers thrive. A Certified Executive Coach, Organizational Development Coach, and Talent Optimization Consultant, Wendy partners with businesses to enhance leadership capability, build strong workplace cultures, and drive performance. She previously owned two successful franchise studios and held senior marketing roles across multiple industries. Known for her practical, no-fluff approach, Wendy brings real-world insight, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead effectively in today’s fast-paced business environment.</span></p>	Forward Focused Business Advisors	From Manager to Mentor: Building Strong Teams Through Development

Continuing Education

Hotel

The Newport Harbor Island Resort is the host hotel for this conference. The room rate will be $299/per room, per night for single or double occupancy.

Click HERE to book your room by September 19.

Attendees are responsible for booking their own accommodations and travel.