Organizational Behavior

Annie Lush’s specialities Annie’s speciality areas cover teamwork under pressure, pressured decisions, risk analysis, performance and leadership. She also runs activity-based seminars and hosts events for awards and VIP hospitality. Annie is a former triple Match Racing World Champion and Olympic competitor. In 2014/15 she competed in the Volvo Ocean Race with Team SCA, becoming part of the first ever female team to win a leg of the race. At university Annie was part of the successful Cambridge University rowing crew who beat Oxford to the finish line of the Boat Race by the smallest recorded margin in the race’s history in 2001. This inspired her to pursue a career in competitive sport and she has been on the water every day since. Annie is currently competing on the World Match Racing Tour with Team Magenta 32, the first female team to be awarded a tour card in the 22 year history of the World Match Racing Tour. The team have also set up The Magenta project which aims to advance women in professional sailing and inspire and support developing female sailors. Annie Lush’s Achievements Leg Winner – Volvo Ocean Race, Team SCA. 2014/15 Olympic Competitor – Elliott 6m Class. London 2012 Match Racing World Champion. 2010, 2006 and 2005 Three times Rolex Women’s Keelboat Champion. Boat Race winner – Cambridge University. 2001 Global Tour – Peace Boat (Japanese NGO). 1999  

About Fiona Passantino Fiona Passantino is a keynote speaker, trainer and coach, helping empower non-technical professionals with AI integration to improve communication, connection and inspiration in the workplace. A passionate content producer and award-winning author of the “Comic Books for Executives” series, host of the podcast “Working Humans”, her latest book is “The AI-Powered Professional”. A lifelong creative storyteller who made a long career in corporate communications and HR, working for some of the largest and most complex organisations in Europe, Fiona is now a rising star in the AI-Human inspirational space, headlining international events for the European Commission and multinationals of all sectors, training incompany and for professional development organisations. Thanks to her training in standup comedy, her keynotes are spiced with sharp humor and always bring a festive, high-energy event.  

Lior Arussy: Championing Transformation – Revolutionizing Customer Experience and Employee Engagement Lior Arussy spent the first part of his career in various executive positions at worldleading firms, such as Hewlett-Packard. It was at this stage that he recognized that the old, traditional methods of change management were flawed, and simple didn’t work for most companies. Lior took it upon himself to create a different methodology – one which recognizes that the key to truly driving a company’s change for success, is in putting its most important resource at the center of its transformational efforts: its employees. The idea being that, in order for customers to choose your product and get the most out of it, you not only have to have an exceptional product, but a great, dedicated, happy team that stands behind that product’s success. Today, Arussy is one of the leading global authorities in the fields of Customer Experience, Employee Engagement, and Strategy Execution. He is a Corporate Culture expert, a ‘success accelerator’, and a proven, passionate change agent. Called “a triple threat of transformation” by William Taylor, co-founder of Fast Company magazine, Arussy has helped many of the world’s top brands achieve unprecedented goals in customer satisfaction, growth, and profitability. Among these are Mercedes-Benz, Johnson & Johnson, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Thomson Reuters, HSBC, E.ON, FedEx, SAP, and the University of Pennsylvania, to name a few. Lior’s methodology enabled Mercedes-Benz to reach the much-coveted #1 position in customer satisfaction. Another client, a European logistics corporation, leaped from 3% annual organic growth to 44% annual organic growth in just two years! In 2003, Arussy founded the Strativity Group, a strategy firm specializing in customer experience consulting, employee engagement programs, journey mapping, and business growth. In addition, Lior has written seven books on business strategy, customer experience optimization, and achieving the ultimate success. He has also written over 300 articles for publications around the world, including the Harvard Business Review, and Chief Executive media, for which he is a regular contributing author. A recipient of numerous awards worldwide, Arussy’s accomplishments, insights, and publications have been cited and recognized by leading media, such as The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, The Times of London, Smart CEO Magazine, ABC, CNBC, Bloomberg TV, and MSNBC. Mr. Arussy currently resides in New Jersey with his wife and five children. He completed his undergraduate degree at Case Western Reserve University, and received his MBA from Weatherhead School of Management. He is a self-professed chocoholic.

Dr. Markus Bernhardt: Global Leader in AI Strategy and Transformation Dr. Markus Bernhardt, a globally recognized leader in AI strategy, transforms complex concepts into actionable strategies that drive innovation and operational excellence. With a doctorate in particle physics, Dr. Bernhardt combines analytical precision with real-world expertise, empowering leaders to embrace AI-driven transformation confidently. Based in San Francisco, he operates at the forefront of global tech innovation, guiding organizations worldwide through the evolving landscape of AI and transformation. Unique Value Proposition As the co-creator of the TTE AI Strategy Framework, Dr. Bernhardt delivers practical and adaptable solutions for senior leaders. His engaging and energetic presentations break down the complexities of AI, providing audiences with clear, actionable insights to turn disruption into strategic advantage. Client Feedback Summary Audiences consistently praise Dr. Bernhardt for his ability to demystify AI and inspire meaningful change. His talks leave leaders equipped with the tools and confidence to lead their organizations into the future, transforming potential challenges into opportunities for growth. Experience and Impact Dr. Bernhardt’s insights have been featured in leading publications like Forbes, The Learning Guild, Association for Talent Development, Training Magazine, Training Journal, and The HR Exchange. Known for his balanced approach to AI, technology, and innovation, he regularly shares his expertise on numerous podcasts, shaping global conversations around responsible AI adoption and transformation. Dynamic and Engaging Delivery Known for his energetic and engaging style, Dr. Bernhardt makes complex topics accessible and actionable. His keynotes resonate with diverse audiences, from senior executives to frontline managers, fostering a culture of innovation and readiness.

Mark Sanborn: World-Renowned Leadership Expert and Bestselling Author Mark Sanborn, CSP, CPAE, is an international bestselling author and award-winning keynote speaker on leadership, customer service, business growth, and organizational performance. Mark has given more than 3,000 presentations in every US state and in 14 countries. He is a New York Times bestselling author of eight books, including The Fred Factor, which has sold over two million copies worldwide. Mark has developed numerous video and audio training programs, which are currently taught by Crestcom International in 90 countries. He is also the Leadership Expert in Residence at High Point The President of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., an idea lab dedicated to developing leaders in business, Mark has been hailed as one of the top leadership experts in the world. Mark holds the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association (NSA) and is a member of the Speaker Hall of Fame. He was honored with the Cavett Award, the highest honor the NSA bestows on its members, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the speaking profession. Mark’s list of clients includes renowned brands such as Costco, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, FedEx, Harley-Davidson, Cisco, KPMG, Morton’s of Chicago, New York Life, RE/MAX, ServiceMaster, ESPN, GM, IBM, Avnet, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Sandvik, and John Deere. Mark is married to Darla, and they have two adult sons, Hunter and Jackson. They also have a perpetual puppy named Tini, whose bark is bigger than her bite.

Roger Steare: Global Authority on Ethics, Leadership, and Responsible AI Roger Steare is The Corporate Philosopher recognised worldwide as a leading expert on moral reasoning, values-based leadership and culture, and the responsible use of AI. He has collaborated with CEOs and their teams across multiple industries to address billion-dollar ethical challenges and opportunities, focusing on reflection, learning, and a commitment to positive change. Notable partnerships include working with Joe Garner at HSBC in 2007, Openreach in 2012, and Nationwide Building Society in 2016, aiming to foster a culture of social purpose and ethics. In 2023, Joe wrote this testimonial of their work together. “Roger is brilliant in his field and thinks very differently from most.” Following the 2010 Gulf of Mexico disaster, BP asked Roger to develop a global Ethical Leadership program for 4,000 leaders. The program was so impactful that it earned recognition from the US Department of Justice in 2016 as part of the US$20.8 billion Consent Agreement with BP. In 2012, after RBS’s massive restructuring, he was sought for a leadership and culture transformation program in collaboration with PwC, earning high praise from CEO Stephen Hester for the shared learning and growth experience. In 2021, he was invited to help a national government to define those moral values that are essential for a fairer society. Drawing on insights from anthropology, psychology, and moral philosophy, he recommended Humanity, Justice, Wisdom, Courage, Temperance, and Resilience as the values that define a fair and prosperous society.

Hollie Castro: Founder, HC Advice Distinguished business leader with over 25 years’ experience enhancing shareholder value through strategic business growth and transformation at global companies. A five-time Chief Human Resources and Sustainability Officer at Fortune 500 to late stage start-up companies, she was responsible for the ROI and governance of talent investments and architecting cultures. These strategies propelled business expansion into new markets and changed the business profile – resulting in significant shareholder returns. Extensive background in global HR strategy and execution, human capital management, talent and organizational leadership, inclusion & diversity, ethics/compliance/governance, and risk management. Trusted advisor to the C- Suite and Board, recognized for leading transformation, bringing people together to solve problems, driving performance outcomes and creating a workplace where employees are empowered and thrive. Former CHRO and Chief Administration Officer at YETI, BMC Software, Talisman Energy, and technology SaaS start- ups, Miro and Kony. Began her career at iconic companies like General Electric and Cisco Systems. Currently advises several CEOs of HR AI start-ups at series A stage. Lived and worked in five countries and speaks Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish and English. Has managed budgets up to $200 million and spanning 90 countries with workforces ranging from 1,500-50,000 employees. With an MBA and executive coach certification, her approach is practical, business outcome-oriented, and grounded in first principles thinking. An expert in succession planning, executive compensation, leadership coaching, building high- performing teams, sustainability, and navigating change. Corporate, non-profit and advisory Board service and engagement: Current Co-Chair for National Association of Corporate Directors – Austin Current Advisory Board Member for Texas A&M Mays School of Business’ Center for Human Resources Former Independent Director for wellness SaaS startup, Good FX Former Board member: Society for the Performing Arts – Houston; Caprock Academy Former Advisory Board Member at Thunderbird University (now part of Arizona State University) Regular participant in Board meetings and former management liaison to the Compensation, Nominating and Governance, and M&A Committees at publicly traded companies: YETI, BMC Software, and Talisman Energy Successful IPO transition from private equity ownership by Cortec Group at YETI Ensured a smooth privatization of BMC Software sale to Bain Capital and Insight Partners Partnered with venture capital investors Accel and ICONIQ Capital at Miro Key transitions include scaling operations, driving growth, and improved profitability at critical inflection points: Global market expansion: YETI, BMC Software, Talisman Energy resulting in double digit y/y revenue growth Transition from private to IPO/publicly traded company: YETI Public to private transition and shareholder activism: BMC Software Global M&A: Performed due diligence and integration for 25+ acquisitions: Miro, BMC Software, Cisco and GE Scaled services through product expansion, alliances, and partnerships: Cisco, BMC Software, YETI Transition from on-prem enterprise software to SaaS: BMC Software Direct sales to multi route sales; web, channel, inside sales: YETI, BMC Software, Miro Certified corporate director by Stanford University and NACD.DC. Holds a B.A. from Marlboro College and an International MBA from Thunderbird. Passionate about mentoring women and next-generation leaders. Enjoys musical theater, gourmet cooking, spending time in the mountains, and traveling with her family.

Eric Termuende: Leadership Expert and Future of Work Specialist Eric Termuende is the Co-Founder of NoW of Work, author of Rethink Work, trusted advisor, and an award-winning speaker on leadership, culture, and the future of work. His profound investigations into the DNA of the world’s most exemplary workplaces have unraveled the inner workings of exceptional leadership and the blueprint for building teams that are not merely resilient and innovative but are forward-looking and primed for the challenges of tomorrow. Eric has galvanized an impressive roster of category leading bands—Amazon, Coca-Cola, Nationwide, IBM, Zoom, Nokia, John Deere, and Toyota, among others— propelling them towards embracing the future with excitement and optimism. His insights and achievements have garnered attention across the globe, featuring in esteemed outlets such as Forbes, Fast Company, Inc., among others, cementing his status as a thought leader whose perspectives are shaping the future of work. Beyond the podium, Eric’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership acumen have flourished in his role as the cofounder of NoW of Work, a boutique firm helping to pioneer change and innovation in the workplace. Recognized as one of the Top 100 Emerging Innovators by American Express, Eric’s influence extends far beyond the stage, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the collective journey towards understanding and navigating the future of work. Eric’s keynote programs transcend the conventional, offering a blend of entertainment, profound insights, and practical, actionable strategies. Attendees consistently laud his presentations as not only enriching and enjoyable but as a catalyst for immediate, tangible change. With Eric Termuende, the audience embarks on more than just a learning journey; they gain a trusted guide, equipped with the tools, perspectives, and enthusiasm to excel in and shape the workplaces of tomorrow.  

Chris Grant OBE is one of the UK’s leading facilitators of organisational change. Chris has been CEO of a successful UK-wide charity (Sported); chaired one of the UK’s biggest ever public-facing behaviour-change programmes (the introduction of Chip & PIN); tutored multiple medal-winning coaches in the Olympic and Paralympic sports, and worked as a consultant on leadership, strategy and change across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Recently appointed Chair of the British Basketball Federation, he also led English Professional Football’s Integrated Coaching Board, and from 2015 to 2021 he chaired the judging of the Sport Industry Awards. Chris has delivered well-received keynotes at events ranging from the World Cities Forum to the NHS Medical Directors’ Conference. His exceptional ability and willingness to take a brief, do background research and to read the room ensure high levels of relevance and engagement. His contributions often include interactive elements, and his goal is always that those listening will feel like active participants in a conversation, rather than a passive audience. Beneficiaries of Chris’s facilitation and group leadership workshops have included senior leaders from financial services, retail, healthcare and sport. The title for this body of work  – MeWe – was borrowed from Muhammad Ali, with whom Chris shared a stage just before the opening ceremony of London 2012. Chris served two terms as an Independent Board Member of Sport England, where he focused on widening participation in sport and activity for all. He remains a driving force in initiatives aiming for national teams and leaders in sport to reflect the broader population. He was a member of the Commission on the Future of Women’s Sport and Deputy Chair of International Inspiration, the ground-breaking London 2012 International Development Programme. Chris has an MSc. in People Development and Organisational Culture, but often says that his first degree in French Studies and other experiences, in roles ranging from Saturday jobs in retail to Sabbatical General Secretary of Manchester University Union, have contributed just as much to his own learning. His book Better Decisions was published by Quarto, and he has been heard and seen on a number of podcasts and news programmes, including BBC Radio’s Today. In the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours, Chris was awarded an OBE for services to sport.

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr.: A Visionary Leader Shaping the Future of Work and Leadership Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, stands at the forefront of a global movement shaping the future of employment, culture, and leadership as the President and Chief Executive Officer of SHRM. In his role, he leads nearly 340,000 members spanning 180 countries, influencing the lives of over 362 million workers and their families worldwide. With a career spanning over two decades, Mr. Taylor has been an influence for good across numerous roles, serving as a lawyer, a human resources executive and CEO in both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors. He has held senior and chief executive roles at IAC/InteractiveCorp, Viacom’s Paramount Pictures, Blockbuster Entertainment Group, the McGuireWoods law firm, and Compass Group USA. He most recently left his mark on the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, where he served as President and CEO. A highly valued thought leader, Mr. Taylor is a regular fixture in the media and in congressional hearings, where he provides insight on critical workforce issues. He also educates a broader audience via his USA Today column, “Ask HR,” where he offers accessible advice and perspectives on the modern workplace. Mr. Taylor cemented his influence in September 2021 with the release of the national bestseller, RESET: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval. Its success secured its position in the top three of The Wall Street Journal’s best-selling hardcover business books, where it was praised for its candid and forward-thinking vision for leaders to reimagine their company cultures in a time of global upheaval, all while presenting data-driven strategies for a foundational reset. All author proceeds benefit the SHRM Foundation, dedicated to empowering HR as a social force for change. Mr. Taylor sits on a number of boards and holds advisory roles. Appointed chairman of the President’s Advisory Board on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and serving as a member of the White House American Workforce Policy Advisory Board during the Trump Administration, he actively shapes policy and advocates for educational and workforce opportunities. In the corporate arena, Mr. Taylor serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of the University of Miami, Independent Director of the Flores & Associates corporate board, and is a member of the corporate boards of Guild Education and XPO Logistics (NYSE: XPO). His multifaceted leadership positions reflect a commitment to driving change, fostering inclusivity, and advancing the conversation on the future of work. In every role and endeavor, Mr. Taylor emerges as a dynamic force, providing a visionary roadmap for leaders and organizations navigating the complexities of the evolving global workforce. Speaking Johnny’s magnetic delivery and research-backed content will help you and your organization elevate your executive leadership, maximize the power of human capital, future proof your business, and more. Don’t settle for just one perspective — bring Johnny to your event to hear from a thought leader representing more than 362 million workers and their families, and shaping the future of work through research, policy, and more. Begin by selecting the message that best addresses your audience’s needs. Each talk can be tailored to your audience profile and additional keynote topics are available. Accolades “DC’s 500 Most Infuential People” by Washingtonian Magazine “300 Most Influential Executives in Corporate America” by Savoy Magazine “2023 Trailblazer in Gender Equity and Diversity” by Women Business Collaborative CEO Update’s “CEO of the Year” “LinkedIn Top Voice” in Company Culture

Meet Tony Martignetti Tony Martignetti is a leadership advisor, best-selling author, podcast host, and speaker. He brings together over 30 years of business and leadership experience and extreme curiosity to elevate leaders and equip them with the tools to navigate through change and unlock their true potential. He has been recognized by Thinkers360 as one of the Top Voices in Leadership and by LeadersHum as one of the Biggest Voices in Leadership. Before becoming the founder and Chief Inspiration Officer of Inspired Purpose Partners, Tony was a finance and strategy executive with experience working with some of the world’s leading life sciences companies. Along his journey, he also managed small businesses and ran a financial consulting company. Tony hosts The Virtual Campfire podcast and is the author of Climbing the Right Mountain: Navigating the Journey to An Inspired Life and Campfire Lessons for Leaders: How Uncovering Our Past Can Propel Us Forward. He has been featured in many publications, including Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, Forbes, Life Science Leader, CEOWORLD, and CEO Today.

Meet Jason T. Collett Jason Collett is a dynamic keynote speaker, HR strategist, and culture architect with a proven track record of driving human capital initiatives for organizations of all sizes. With a unique blend of entrepreneurial savvy and Fortune 500 experience, Jason has built a results-driven career by developing people operations and architecting business value. His pragmatic approach, combined with a deep understanding of behavioral psychology, emotional intelligence, and business strategy, makes him a trusted advisor and motivation maverick to audiences worldwide. Jason’s captivating stories and actionable lessons empower listeners to become their own mountain movers, amplifying human potential for individuals, teams, and organizations alike. Why Should You Talk to Jason about Bringing Strategic HR to Your Business? Comprehensive HR Expertise: Jason possesses a deep understanding of various HR disciplines, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, and employment compliance, ensuring that he can pragmatically and effectively address your company’s unique challenges and opportunities to create a well-rounded customized strategic HR plan that reinforces an intentional and positive culture. Change Management Skills: With his exceptional change management capabilities, Jason is adept at leading organizations through periods of growth, merger/acquisition, restructuring, or cultural transformation, making him the ideal candidate to guide your business as it evolves and adapts to the competitive landscape by focusing on the human factor element and employee engagement to drive people-based ROI. Focus on Long-term Success: Jason is committed to developing and implementing sustainable HR strategies that align with your company’s long-term goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and creating a positive work environment that attracts and retains top talent, ultimately driving business success. In summary, Jason T. Collett is a seasoned HR strategist and culture architect with a diverse background and a passion for driving organizational success through human potential.