Mega Tracks & Sessions

Mega 2024

 

 

 

     

    Tuesday, May 7

    Wednesday, May 8


    Young & Associates
    Track Sponsor

     

    Directors

    Ten Things Every Community Bank and Its Directors Need To Know Now
    Philip Smith, Gerrish Smith Tuck

    Explore the dynamic and evolving landscape of community banking and its directors in this engaging presentation. Delve into the rewarding yet challenging role and tackle emerging issues, including legal and fiduciary duties, effective interaction with regulators and the fundamental obligation to enhance stakeholder value. Gain insights into how the current environment shapes the success criteria for financial institutions, analyze specific functions crucial for driving organizational value, and be challenged to rethink priorities and develop new skills to ensure organizational relevance. Join us for an upbeat session that equips attendees with the knowledge to navigate the changing terrain of community banking and foster lasting success.

    Banking Resilience: Navigating Success in Any Economic Climate
    Heather Archer Eastep, Hunton Andrews Kurth

    People, rules and tools – these are three key areas critical to every bank’s success; however, they become even more important if the economy takes a dip. In a conversation-style session, this presentation will reflect on the capital, liquidity, accounting, credit, innovation, technology, people and examination considerations that every bank must keep top-of-mind regardless of whether economic headwinds occur in the short- or long-term.

    Fraud Trends: How Fraud Became a Business Influencer
    Jim Rechel, The Rechel Group

    While banks historically served as "influencers" within communities, the rise of sophisticated fraud rings has transformed the landscape. Now, with the advent of artificial intelligence, these adversaries operate with unprecedented efficiency and agility, posing a formidable challenge to financial institutions of all sizes. This session will delve into the latest trends and tactics employed by fraud rings, shedding light on their real-time communication and adaptive strategies. Gain invaluable insights into safeguarding your institution against emerging threats and ensuring the security of your customers' funds. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and protect your community bank from the ever-evolving fraud landscape.

    Perspectives on the Economy
    Jim Bullard, Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. School of Business at Purdue University

    Join us for an illuminating discussion on the economy as IBA leaders chat with former Federal Reserve President Jim Bullard. This session will share insights, expertise and perspectives on the current economic landscape in an informal and interactive setting. Bring your questions to this insightful session that promises to enhance your understanding of the economy and its implications.


    Virtual Innovation Inc.
    Track Sponsor

     

    Operations & Technology

    Leveraging AI for Banking Success
    Kendra Ramirez, KR Digital

    AI’s transformative impact has been profound since its advent, changing how businesses, including those in the banking and finance sector, operate and deliver services to customers. This session will provide an overview of AI, its impact on business and the various use cases and pitfalls. We will cover different applications of AI in a business setting, and how these can help your financial institution drive innovation, increase efficiency and drive growth. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and gain insights on how to incorporate AI into your business strategy.

    Guardians Unveiled: Defending Against Ransomware Threats Targeting Community Banks
    Milton Bartley, ImageQuest

    Recognizing community banks as high-value targets, this session will shed light on the sophisticated tactics employed by criminal syndicates and rogue nations seeking financial gain through ransomware attacks. Key learning objectives encompass understanding ransomware gang operations, the significance of year-round employee security training, the implications of paying ransoms, concerns related to AI vulnerabilities and actionable steps for banks to mitigate the evolving cyber risk landscape. Don't miss this captivating presentation that unravels the intricate workings of cyber threats and equips bankers with the knowledge to fortify their defenses against ransomware.

    Implications of GPT and Other Large Language Models for Banks
    Connor Heaton, Strategic Resource Management, Inc.

    Join this insightful session to gain a comprehensive understanding of the strategic applications of large language models (LLMs) within the banking industry. Explore the nuanced ways LLMs can enhance various facets of community banks, from revolutionizing fraud detection mechanisms to streamlining content management processes. While navigating the possibilities, participants will confront inherent risks and challenges associated with LLM implementation, addressing biases, data security and compliance considerations. The discussion will also delve into strategies for developing robust AI policies, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines to govern the responsible use of LLMs and safeguard sensitive data within the bank.


    K4 Architecture + design
    Track Sponsor

     

    Retail & Customer Experience

    Fighting Fraud: Trends and Solutions for Retail Bank Employees
    Moderator, Jim Rechel, The Rechel Group
    Panelists TBD

    In this engaging session, our expert panelists will unravel the evolving landscape of fraud, sharing insights into current trends and innovative solutions tailored for retail banking. Discover proactive measures and best practices to enhance security, educate customers and protect the institution. Don't miss this opportunity to fortify your knowledge and contribute to a secure banking environment.

    Mining for Gold: Driving Results with Your Data
    Robb Rempel, Haberfeld

    Unlock the potential of internal data for enhanced decision-making in financial institutions during this session. Despite having valuable insights into the locations and operations of current customers, many organizations underutilize this information. Explore strategies to leverage a financial institution's retail and business customer data effectively to grow core customers. Delve into the deployment of big data to target prospective customers and identify internal opportunities for increasing core deposits, fee income and product utilization. Gain a comprehensive understanding of how to harness existing data for improved results and strategic growth.

    Digital Account Opening Mastery: Strategies for Bank Growth
    Eric Cook, WSI Digital

    How good is your bank’s online account opening process? Many banks don’t know where to begin looking for the answer to that question and struggle to make impactful investments to improve their digital growth. This session will dive into practical strategies and proven techniques designed to fuel growth and enhance the efficiency of your digital onboarding process. We will explore innovative technologies, customer-centric approaches, and successful case studies that will empower your bank to attract and retain customers seamlessly in the digital era.

    AI and the Future of Payments
    Pat Dix, SHAZAM

    Artificial Intelligence is a topic almost every industry is trying to grapple with. The potential benefits and the uncomfortable challenges AI present make it hard to think strategically about. In this session we’ll give you a framework to think about new technologies and innovations like AI and how you might use them in your bank. We’ll talk about the ways AI is already in the marketplace, enhancing payments, authentication and the customer experience. We’ll also look down the road at the potential risks AI and it’s uses pose for banking in the future.


    Ncontracts
    Track Sponsor

     

     

    Risk Management

    Third-Party Vendor Management for Banks: Inside the New Guidance
    Monica Bolin, Ncontracts

    Explore the latest updates in third-party vendor management guidance for banks with insights from the OCC, FDIC, and Federal Reserve. Ensure your vendor management program aligns with expectations as we delve into the comprehensive overview of the new guidance. Uncover the most significant changes and gain a clear understanding of their implications for your vendor management program. This session is a crucial resource for staying abreast of regulatory expectations and enhancing your approach to third-party vendor management. Join us to navigate the evolving landscape and strengthen your compliance measures.

    Best Practices for Interest Rate and Liquidity Risk
    Luke Mikles, The Baker Group

    In an environment where the Federal Reserve's actions and market expectations create a delicate balance for community banks, managing interest rate risk (IRR), liquidity and performance simultaneously is crucial. This session navigates the intricate relationship between these elements, offering practical insights on tackling the challenge. Explore IRR issues, anticipate exam expectations and safeguard earnings in diverse rate environments. Gain valuable bank-specific data and analysis, including peer group comparisons, non-maturity deposit analysis, surge balance studies and liquidity stress tests. Equip yourself to address these interconnected concerns effectively and ensure the resilience of your community bank.

    Impact of Rising Interest Rates on Credit Risk and Lending
    Giulio Camerini, Crowe LLP

    This session will provide insights into the dynamic relationship between interest rates and loan products, shedding light on effective underwriting and monitoring strategies tailored for such conditions. Additionally, participants will explore proactive strategies to manage liquidity and capital in the face of changing interest rate scenarios.

    Rightsizing Enterprise Risk Management
    Rebecca Towne, Quadrant Risk Advisory LLC

    While information on ERM programs at mega banks is abundant, translating those insights into a tailored approach for your institution can be challenging. Join this interactive discussion to receive practical tips and insights into ERM program components that make sense for successful implementation within the community banking landscape. Gain customized strategies to leverage your resources and enhance risk management practices in your institution. Join us for an insightful session tailored to meet the unique needs of your banking environment.


    Track Sponsor

     

    Sales & Customer Service

    Customer-Centric Banking: Navigating Success through Journey Mapping
    Robert Zondag, Wipfli LLP

    Put your customers at the heart of banking decisions. Explore the often-overlooked power of journey mapping to understand and enhance the customer experience. This session guides bank leaders in refocusing teams on customer-centric strategies, covering the fundamentals of journey mapping, its application in attracting and retaining talent, and its role as a valuable tool for infrastructure and technology investment decisions.

    Stop Selling and Start Connecting
    Pat Dix, SHAZAM

    It’s not enough to be your community’s “hometown bank.” It’s more than telling a potential customer it’s “your people” that make the difference. They really don’t care how many years you’ve been in business. It’s time to focus on your story. Information is being delivered faster than ever and the volume can turn to noise if you don’t stop and pay attention. Explore the ways digital media is changing the way we market to consumers, the new ways customers are digesting information and how you can differentiate your message by connecting with customers through storytelling instead of trying to sell to them.

    Navigating Today's Banking Challenges: A Workshop on Prospecting and Value Differentiation
    Jack Kasel, Anthony Cole Training Group

    It is more difficult than ever to differentiate and grow your bank today. Relationship managers and lenders are struggling to connect with prospects, they are getting more resistance and fewer meetings. And according to a recent McKinsey research study, more than three-quarters of buyers say they now prefer digital self-serve and remote human engagement over face-to-face interactions. Key learning objectives include mastering conversations of value, acquiring the essential skills for success in the current market, and utilizing a "prospect scorecard" tool to enhance sales conversations and foster deeper relationships. Join us for this transformative session to equip yourself with the strategies needed to thrive in today's evolving banking landscape.

    Negotiating a Win-Win
    Joe Micallef, Grow UP Sales

    Do you know how to win more business at the price you want? In a rising interest rate environment, many bankers have struggled to win new business at favorable prices. It’s important to remember that you are a valuable finance professional and not a quoting machine. During this insightful presentation you will learn how to keep control of the negotiation process and maintain deal momentum. Get the outcomes you and your client desire and build a mutually rewarding relationship.


    Track Sponsor

    Wealth Management

    Navigating the Claims Process
    Rodney S. Retzner, William J. Barkimer & Micah J. Nichols, Krieg DeVault LLP

    Embark on a thorough exploration of the claims process, from initiation to resolution, in our informative session. Covering aspects such as filing claims in estates, timelines for both claimants and estates, and addressing claims against nonprobate assets, this session aims to equip banks with a holistic understanding of the complexities involved. Dive into statutes, accompanied by real-life war stories and valuable lessons learned to enhance participants' comprehension. Walk away with practical takeaways, including claims forms, checklists and timelines, designed to empower banks in both claimant and defendant roles. Don't miss this opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into the intricacies of the claims landscape.

    Effective Uses for Non-Judicial Settlement Agreements
    Ellen M. Deeter, Dale & Eke, PC

    Explore the realm of Non-judicial Settlement Agreements (NJSAs) in our session, a potent tool for resolving trust matters outside the courtroom, introduced in Indiana in July 2019. Delve into the intricacies of the Indiana statute governing NJSAs, their applications in trust administration, and the spectrum of issues they can address. Unpack the requirements for creating a valid agreement, including the involvement of beneficiaries and addressing minor or unborn beneficiaries. Learn to identify scenarios where an Adjudicated Compromise might be preferable over an NJSA. By the end, you'll adeptly navigate the terrain of NJSAs, understanding their nuances and when to consider alternative dispute resolution methods.

    Optimizing Team Performance: Metrics for Managing Trust and Wealth Workloads
    Michael Dixon, Pohl Consulting

    Ensure your team's success in sales, service, efficiency and risk management by aligning workload with the right quantity and quality of Trust/Wealth. This session guides you in assessing if your team is adequately staffed and explores the balance needed for them to excel in their objectives. Address critical questions such as cultivating new business, determining the right time to add new team members and optimizing operating profit. Delve into effective metrics for measuring workload, considering factors like assets, accounts and specific workload dynamics for various staff roles, including personal trust, investments, employee benefits and operations.

    The Strategic Advantage of Designating a Trust as Your Qualified Retirement Account Beneficiary
    Keith P. Huffman & Kristin L. Steckbeck, Dale, Huffman & Babcock

    Delve into the intricate landscape of Qualified Retirement Accounts and Trusts in this enlightening session. Unravel the timeline of SECURE, 2022 proposed regs and SECURE 2.0. Explore the current and proposed beneficiary designation rules, including the basic 10-year rule and the intriguing concept of the "ghost life expectancy." Gain insights into why trusts emerge as excellent beneficiaries, distinguishing between conduit and accumulation trusts. Discover when it's prudent to abandon conduit trusts, understanding their limitations and potential pitfalls. Explore the requirements for accumulation trusts, with a focus on maximizing income tax savings. Learn practical takeaways through case studies on optimizing estate plans, identifying red flags and examining financial examples.


    Business Lending

    Strategic Loan Growth in a Dynamic Rate Environment
    Tim Keith, Infusion Marketing Group

    Rates rose at a historic pace in 2022/2023 and are now poised to possibly go down. This has created material challenges in developing and maintaining strategies for asset growth. Now more than ever, a commitment to data analytics that drive proven growth strategies is needed. How do we continue to grow loans in dynamic pricing environments with elevated concerns about credit quality? This presentation will answer that question with real, actionable data.

    What’s Wrong with My Lending Culture? Adapting to CFPB 1071 Reporting Requirements
    Rob Newberry, Abrigo

    Join us for a discussion on what exactly CFPB section 1071 Small Business Reporting is and the implications on your lending culture. Finding competitive advantages, product differentiation and effective loan pricing strategies have always been keys to successful sustained growth. How will your ag and commercial loan practices have to change with the adoption of Small Business Reporting and what are some of the major obstacles that community banks face as they start planning how to implement CFPB’s section 1071 standards.

    Betting the Bank on Borrower’s Sales Projection: Hedging Your Bet
    Dev Strischek, Devon Risk Advisory Group

    Explore revenue dynamics in this session, evaluating the growth of sales during periods of high inflation and understanding the relationship between nominal and real sales. Delve into the concept of breakeven revenue as the minimum for staying in business and examine the factors that create a ceiling on sales. Assess the impact of profitability, productivity and leverage on sales growth. Uncover the significance of operating leverage and its influence on profit with each dollar of revenue. This session demonstrates how breakeven and Sustainable Growth Rate can construct a revenue band, providing a framework to assess the reasonableness of a client's revenue projection and its impact on profitability.

    Enhancing Portfolio Monitoring: A Proactive Approach in Uncertain Economic Times
    Mike Horrocks, Baker Hill

    Amid potential recession risks in 2024, this session delves into leveraging data to anticipate emerging credit risks and identify opportunities early on. Explore strategies to automate and structure borrower information, align tools for effective portfolio monitoring and streamline loan structuring processes. Discover the benefits of scalable lending architecture in lowering costs-to-serve and better meeting client needs in a rapidly changing economic landscape. Join us to equip yourself with a proactive approach that improves profitability in today's unprecedented rate environment.


    Compliance

    Prepare for 1071: Grasp Implications, Navigate Rules & Plan Implementation
    Michelle Strickland, TCA Compliance

    Explore the transformative impact of the 1071-Small Business LAR changes in our comprehensive session. Uncover the latest updates to the rule, delineate your responsibilities, and scrutinize the proposed data for collection and reporting. Gain insights into the potential impacts on your commercial business line and receive practical implementation strategies for seamlessly integrating new requirements into your workflow. By the session's end, you'll possess a deep understanding of the proposed data fields, insights into 1071's effects on your business line, considerations for workflow implications and adept project plan best practices for effective adaptation. Elevate your readiness for the 1071-Small Business LAR changes with our insightful session.

    Impact and Responsiveness under the New CRA: How Can Your Institution Be Impactful and Responsive?
    Jason Keller, Wolters Kluwer

    This session will dive into Section 15 of the New CRA Rule – Impact and Responsiveness of Community Development Loans, Investments and Services. An overview of the 12 new impact factors will be provided along with practical solutions and strategies to ensure readiness for Indiana Bankers in preparation for the January 1, 2026, compliance date. Attendees will benefit from attending this session by learning how regulators may view the impact factors during examinations and how their organizations can best prepare for this monumental change.

    The Full Circle: Redlining Examples and Risk Mitigation Strategies
    Adam Witmer, Compliance Cohort

    Join our session for a deep dive into redlining, a hot topic in fair lending. We'll start by looking at how redlining began, then review cases from the past two decades to see what regulators focus on. Adam will share a simple framework for analyzing redlining and suggest practical ways to reduce risks in your financial institution. This session is designed to help you stay on top of changing regulations and improve your fair lending practices. Get the knowledge and tools you need to navigate redlining with confidence.

    Reg E Disputes: What Everyone is Talking About
    Amy Koshiol & Karen Leiter, CLA

    This session will cover risk management within disputes, focusing on areas related to Reg E. Explore the intricacies of resolving disputes under Reg E, gaining valuable insights on navigating regulations for optimal outcomes. Learn to identify and handle common issues like unauthorized transactions and fraud, ensuring effective reporting. Delve into the automation of Reg E compliance, discussing both its benefits and potential drawbacks. This session offers a comprehensive understanding of risk management nuances, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of Reg E and enhance your dispute resolution capabilities.


    CLA
    Track Sponsor

     

    Financial Management

    Stacking the Deck in Your Favor: Secrets of High-Performing Banks
    Robb Rempel, Haberfeld

    What do high-performing banks do differently? Where do they put their focus? Do they perform better in every category…or do they actually underperform in certain categories in order to dramatically outperform in others? We define high-performing banks as those who have achieved the top 5% on ROE for five consecutive years. During our session, we will evaluate the data from banks that made the cut. How do they derive this extraordinarily high level of performance? It might surprise you. We will analyze how high-performing banks compare to the industry overall, the key contributors to their amazing performance and several strategies available to all community banks to drive improved results.

    Navigating the Financial Horizon: Bank Tax Update
    Mike Summers & Bryan Clevenger, FORVIS

    Stay ahead in the financial landscape with our comprehensive tax update session. Explore the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act tax credits, upcoming changes to tax rates and the potential elimination of 199A. Gain insights into the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and navigate the considerations between S or C corporations. In this session, financial professionals will delve into the latest tax developments, providing a strategic understanding of key updates that can impact your bank's financial planning and taxation strategies. Don't miss this opportunity to ensure your institution is well-informed and prepared for the evolving tax landscape.

    Profitability Under Attack: Safeguarding Financial Success through Effective Deposit and Loan Strategies
    Rob Newberry, Abrigo

    Net interest margin continues to get compressed as financial institutions fight for core deposits in a significantly higher rate environment. The increasing funding costs and working with inverted yield curves have made pricing decisions difficult for many financial institutions. In this session we will discuss strategies on how to price both deposits and loans to help reach different strategic goals your institution may have while protecting net interest margin.

    The Economy, White House, Congress, and the Fed: What's Right and What' s Wrong?
    Stephen Happel, Arizona State Univ., W.P. Carey School of Business

    Discover the latest economic forecasts and trends shaping the financial landscape in this insightful presentation. Beginning with an overview of Blue Chip Forecasts for 2024 and 2025, followed by an analysis of the Indiana economy and key U.S. demographic trends, attendees will gain valuable insights into the factors driving economic growth. Delve into the outlook for the U.S. economy, considering presidential proposals, Congressional action, Federal Reserve policies, and global influences such as China and Europe. Concluding with an interactive question-and-answer session, this presentation offers a comprehensive understanding of the economic landscape and its implications.


    Executive Benefits Network
    Track Sponsor

    Human Resources

    Where Did All the Workers Go?
    Marilyn Faulkenburg, MJ Training & Consulting

    This session will delve into the reasons contributing to the scarcity of skilled workers and gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by banks of all sizes and locations. Join us to discover proactive steps and effective strategies that organizations can implement to counteract the labor shortage. From talent acquisition and retention to fostering a positive work culture, this session provides actionable insights to help navigate the complexities of the current labor market and build a resilient and sustainable workforce for the future.

    Creating a Culture of Belonging
    MeChelle Callen, Equitable HR Consulting

    In our ever-changing business environment, success extends well beyond traditional metrics and programs. Join us for an engaging session that delves into the vital need for a culture of belonging. This interactive program will spotlight the benefits of fostering inclusive cultures, from heightened productivity and increased profitability to elevated customer satisfaction, and enhanced employee pride. Walk away equipped with practical strategies to champion a culture of belonging, driving positive outcomes for your team and your institution.

    Unpacking Compensation in a Changing Workforce: Strategies for Success
    Megan Nail, NFP

    Dramatic changes in the labor market and the competitive landscape for talent are causing an upheaval in compensation expectations for employees and organizations of all types. With a focus on pay transparency, pay compression, pay equity, the effects of inflation and the real wage gap, we will navigate the nuanced challenges of staying competitive in today's external market for pay. As organizations strive to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the workforce, this session offers practical insights and strategies to ensure your compensation approach aligns with the demands of the contemporary employment landscape.

    Does AI Know Why the Chicken Crossed the Road? Managing Risk for Employers in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
    Shelley M. Jackson & Chloe N. Craft, Krieg DeVault LLP

    Join us for an insightful session delving into the latest advancements in compliance and risk management concerning the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic decision-making tools in the realm of employment. This session will examine recent guidance and enforcement trends from prominent authorities such as the ECOC, CFPB and NLRB. Key learning objectives include exploring current trends in the application of AI and algorithms in employment-related decisions, analyzing the latest guidance provided by key administrative bodies and evaluating compliance-oriented best practices. Participants will gain valuable insights into strategies aimed at mitigating risks while harnessing the transformative power of cutting-edge technological developments in the employment landscape.


    GSB Madison
    Track Sponsor

     

    Leadership

    Empowering Mid-Level Leadership: Building a Positive and Productive Work Culture
    Amber Fields, trueU

    Mid-level managers are the backbone of any successful business and play a key role in the success of your bank. Uncover the art of transforming managers into inspirational leaders who not only set an example but also foster a sense of value and engagement among employees. Join us in this session to delve into the impact of developing effective mid-level leaders, unraveling the key to creating a positive and productive work environment. Discover how investing in leadership at this level can yield better overall results and elevate the success of your organization.

    Stop Looking Like a Novice on LinkedIn: Five Steps to Building a Profile You Can Be Proud of Online
    Eric Cook, WSI Digital

    All too often when you look at a banker’s profile on LinkedIn the impression you get is someone invited them to join several years ago, they created a profile and never came back. Is that the impression you really want to be sending the “digital world” about yourself, especially in today’s digital age? The world’s placing more importance on your online presence now that ever, and even if you’re the best banker in town, the next generation consumer may judge you on what they find out about you online. Take matters into your own hands and ensure you’ve got a profile that you (and your bank) can both be proud of!

    Quiet Quitting: What You Can Do About It
    Theresa Valade, Success Trek, Inc.

    Explore the concept of "quiet quitting" in this interactive session designed to help you and your team overcome disengagement and frustration at work. Delve into the causes, identify solutions and gain tips for developing an action plan for increased fulfillment. Gain access to valuable research, learn from shared experiences, and receive a practical workbook to document insights and actionable plans for implementation when you return to the office. Join us for a transformative workshop to combat workplace disengagement effectively.

    Diving for Deeper Meaning
    Joshua Evans, Enthusiastic You! LLC

    As a follow-up to the lunch keynote, this session delves into the essential skill of cultivating resilience within each employee, crucial for navigating transitions. Leaders will discover strategies to minimize the negative impact of change, transform it into a positive catalyst and overcome common workplace pitfalls. Learn to avoid toxicity within teams and guide your members towards a deeper sense of purpose, moving beyond daily tasks. Equip your leadership with the tools to foster resilience and elevate your team's engagement in an evolving workplace.


    Marketing

    A Guide to Successful Email Marketing for Banks: The Ultimate Do’s and Don’ts
    Allyson Twiggs, The Twiggs Group

    Elevate your bank's outreach with our comprehensive guide to successful email marketing. Uncover the ultimate do’s and don’ts, empowering you to navigate the intricacies of effective communication. Maximize engagement, build trust, and achieve marketing success with strategic insights tailored for the banking industry.

    Practical Applications for Generative AI in Your Bank
    Derek Baker & Ryan Pleggenkuhle, Mills Marketing

    Discover the transformative power of generative AI, exemplified by technologies like ChatGPT, in revolutionizing content creation and business decisions. This session delves into practical applications, addressing concerns and advocating for banks to leverage generative AI as a competitive advantage. Take away a clear understanding of the distinctions between AI and Generative AI, explore three practical advantages for implementation and gain insights into addressing three key concerns surrounding the use of generative AI. Elevate your knowledge and embrace the potential of generative AI in shaping the future of banking and decision-making.

    Transform Your Messaging from Mundane to Memorable
    John Crilly, BIG

    So, your company is all about quality, great service and on-time delivery. Congratulations, you share the same attributes with the majority of your competitors. How can you win the war against parity? In the vast sea of brand messages, sounding distinctive is paramount. This session delves into the art of crafting unique messaging to combat the plague of parity in today's saturated market. Join us to elevate your verbal branding acumen, and learn tools and techniques to transform ordinary descriptions into extraordinary narratives. Attendees will learn to dissect and sidestep clichés and embrace authentic storytelling. We will also discuss the significance of taglines in encapsulating a brand's mission, vision and values in just a few words. Attendees will explore how a memorable tagline can enhance brand recall, differentiate in crowded markets and emotionally connect with audiences. Discover the power of language to set your brand apart. Join us to transform your messaging from mundane to memorable.

    Measuring the ROI of Your Bank’s Digital Marketing Strategy
    Eric Cook, WSI Digital

    When it comes to attracting, retaining and converting visitors, fans and followers of your bank into customers, many community bankers struggle with how to interpret all the data points available to measure success. Gone are the days of statements like "half of my advertising is wasted, I just don't know which half," as digital campaigns are able to track activity for optimization and enhancement. In this session, a 15-year community banker and turned digital strategist will share some of the common metrics you'll want to know that will help you benchmark your bank’s digital efforts and optimize for success.