STRATCOMMWORLD 2023 AGENDA
The 2023 agenda is growing with new speakers. Please check back frequently.
CONNECTION
12 p.m. REGISTRATION & NETWORKING
Holeman Lounge – 13th Floor, National Press Club, Washington, DC
12:45 p.m. WELCOME
Holeman Lounge – 13th Floor, National Press Club, Washington, DC
- Robert W. Grupp, StratCommWorld Director and President, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
12:55 p.m. SOCIAL TABLES
Connect with colleagues @StratCommWorld
WHAT’S TRENDING?
1 p.m. 10 STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS TRENDS FOR 2023 AND BEYOND
Trends in strategic communication seem to be moving so fast that it can be hard to keep up. What are CCOs facing, thinking, and doing as they navigate through economic uncertainty, return to workplaces, diversity and equity in the workforce, and pressure on resources? It seems at a minimum, authenticity, relevance, and the right channels are key for a successful communication strategy. In this session, a panel of experts will share how they prepare communications and marketing teams to anticipate a rapidly changing reality.
MODERATOR
- Katie McBreen, Vice President, Communications, BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD ASSOCIATION
PANELISTS
- JP Fielder, Head of U.S. Communications, BP
- Erin Streeter, Executive Vice President, Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MANUFACTURERS
STRAIGHT TALK
1:45 p.m. NEW RULES OF ENGAGEMENT FOR A COMPLEX WORLD
A one-of-a-kind commander with a remarkable record of achievement, General Stan McChrystal is widely praised for creating a revolution in warfare that fused intelligence and operations. General McChrystal will share a uniquely inclusive model of leadership that focuses on building teams capable of relentlessly pursuing results. When old systems fail, he believes true leaders must look for ways to innovate and change. Citing lessons learned from his career and observations from engagements globally, he will share his management strategy, concentrating on openness, connection, teamwork, and forward-thinking.
- General Stanley A. McChrystal (Ret), Founder, MCCHRYSTAL GROUP, Former Commander of U.S. JOINT SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND (JSOC), and Former Commander of U.S. AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE FORCES (ISAF)
MODERATOR
- Robert Hastings, Principal, ROBERT T HASTINGS & ASSOCIATES
2:20 p.m. CONNECTION & REFRESHMENT BREAK
Holeman Lounge – National Press Club
Sponsored By:
CRISIS MANAGEMENT
2:45 p.m. HURRICANE IAN: A BRUTAL REMINDER ABOUT COMMUNICATIONS IN CRISIS
Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwest Florida on Sept. 28, 2022, as a Category 4 storm packing 150+ mph winds and an ocean surge 15-feet high. In Lee County Florida alone, 36 people died and more than 5,000 structures were destroyed. Ian now is officially the costliest storm in the state’s history ($109 billion!) and the third-most expensive in the nation’s. Along its path it washed away roads, bridges, cars, boats and homes, knocked out power for millions. Disasters put an overwhelming strain on emergency responders, including public information officers. The need for timely, accurate, useful information from credible PIOs is critical. Learn what it takes to survive and recover—from a PIO who is involved personally and professionally.
MODERATOR
- Zana Carbajal, Senior Manager, AUSTIN, TEXAS; Master’s Degree Student, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
PANELIST
- Captain Anita Iriarte, Public Information Officer, LEE COUNTY (FL) SHERRIFF’S OFFICE
INTERACTIVE LEADERSHIP
3:25 p.m. HOW WOMEN TAKE THE LEAD, AND WHY IT MATTERS
In an era of uncertainty, many problems seem caught in a spiral. In organizations, each team member should be able to find in ‘the others’ something that is familiar and something that challenges one’s thinking. This requires a deeper understanding of not only technologies but also of human nature. Research and experience suggest that if teams receive more equal input from all members, the mix adds innovative points of view to solve commercial and political challenges. In this session, women leaders from both public and private sectors share strategies that move their organizations beyond being “not wrong” to being “smart.”
MODERATOR
- Roela Santos, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, AMENTUM
PANELIST
- Jill Bruning, President, Engineering, Science & Technology, AMENTUM
- Rear Admiral Paula Dunn, Vice Chief of Information, US NAVY
- Shona Sabnis, former Chief Communications Officer, TYSON FOODS
CONNECTIONS
4:10 p.m. CHAIRMAN’S CLOSING REMARKS TO STRATCOMMWORLD DAY 1
DRINKS & HORS d ‘OEUVRES NETWORKING RECEPTION
Holeman Lounge — 13th Floor, National Press Club
Sponsored By:
Included in your StratCommWorld registration, the drinks and hors d’oeuvres reception begins at the close of Day One. This event is a great opportunity to make meaningful connections with fellow attendees, speakers, and VIP guests.
8 A.m. REGISTRATION & COFFEE
Holeman Lounge — 13th Floor, National Press Club, Washington, DC
Sponsored By:
8:45 A.m. INTRODUCTION TO DAY TWO
Holeman Lounge — 13th Floor, National Press Club, Washington, DC
- Robert W. Grupp, StratCommWorld Director and President, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
KEYNOTE
9 A.m. TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES: THE PERILS OF A POST-TRUTH SOCIETY
What is truth, anyway? From an endless stream of political misinformation to lies on social media, are we living in a post-truth world? The significance is that large parts of society seem willing to believe some ideas are true even when all evidence points to the contrary. People embrace gut feeling rather than facts. But ideas have consequences. In this session, Brett Kunkle will explore what truth is (and isn’t) and cause you to confront situations where people buy into emotions, perceptions, or prejudice rather than facts.
- Brett Kunkle, Author, Founder, CEO, MAVEN
MEDIA TRENDS
9:45 A.m. REDEFINING MEDIA: HOW JOURNALISTS (AND THEIR SOURCES) EARN
In this partisan world, issues surrounding Information are acute. Criticisms of news coverage and attacks against the credibility of sources abound. Trust in “the media” is low, and in some cases there may be good reasons. However, if you’re “the media,” don’t let that define you. Correct misassumptions about journalism while building trust in reporting. At StratCommWorld 2023, we will spotlight trends driving change in the media landscape, explore how ethical values are shifting in the profession, and identify how news organizations are responding to cultural change.
MODERATOR
- Tucker Eskew, Partner, Vianovo; former Deputy Assistant to the President 2001-2003, Media Affairs and Global Communications
PANELISTS
- Ben Feller, Partner, MASLANSKY + PARTNERS, former Chief White House Correspondent, ASSOCIATED PRESS
- Eric Schmitt, Senior Correspondent, THE NEW YORK TIMES
- Brig. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, Press Secretary, Pentagon, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
CONNECTION & REFRESHMENT BREAK
10:20 A.m. REFRESHMENT BREAK
Holeman Lounge Foyer – National Press Club
Sponsored By:
CUSTOMER-FIRST STRATEGIES
10:40 A.m. CAN YOU HEAR ME? CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE IN A VIRTUAL WORLD
The traditional methods for connecting with constituents and customers no longer apply. Surveys reveal that a vast majority of buyers, sellers, and citizens say they prefer digital self-serve and remote human engagement over face-to-face interactions. With the prevalence of social media and everything being available online, people are bombarded with requests to engage. Marketers need to cut through this noise to reach target audiences directly. Attend this session and learn strategies to meet constituents or consumers where they are, rise above the chatter, and build strong relationships in a digital-first world.
MODERATOR:
- Suzanne Bouhia, Former Chief Communications Officer for the Americas, EY
PANELISTS:
- Eric Koefoot, President and CEO, PublicRelay
- Patricia Ratulangi, Vice President, Global Communications, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, NIELSEN
- Annie Scranton, Chief Executive Officer, PACE PUBLIC RELATIONS
SUSTAINABILITY
11:20 A.m. EMPOWERING THE FUTURE OF ESG
All organizations need to strike the appropriate balance between good business and social change. Many investors, employees, and consumers say they prefer businesses that are governed with the right environmental and social credentials. Buying trends are increasingly being driven by conscious consumers who prioritize ecological impact and sustainability when choosing who to buy from or do business with. This means every organization needs to communicate plans and take action to reduce negative impacts. This session will provide strategies and insights on the most important issues in sustainable business.
MODERATOR
- Jane Randel, Social Impact Advisor and Co-Founder, KARP RANDEL
PANELISTS
- Becky Lowell Edwards, Chief Communications Officer, ACLU
- Jerilan Greene, Principal and Founder, NEW CAPACITY PARTNERS LLC, and C-Suite Advisor, WEBER SHANDWICK
LUNCH CONNECTION
12 P.m. SPEAKERS & DELEGATES CONNECT…And enjoy LUNCH TOGETHER
Holeman Lounge – National Press Club
Sponsored By:
Strategy
1 P.m. GLOBAL TEAMS THAT WORK
The effects of a global pandemic put pressure on the global healthcare industry. Coping with rising inflation, shifts in workforce and consumer behaviors, and the search for lifesaving solutions adds to the challenges. But every challenge is also an opportunity! To compete in the current business environment, successful companies build teams that offer functional expertise from around the world, combined with deep local knowledge. This produces remarkable innovations, creating value for customers, patients, and shareholders. Communication also plays a major role enhancing quality and company image, meeting expectations of the marketplace, and making human connections around the world to impact and improve overall health for individuals and business.
- Doreen Maciak, Head of Communications, Global Quality, TAKEDA PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANY
LEADERSHIP
1:45 P.m. BUILDING GEOPOLITICAL RESILIENCE AMID A FRAGMENTING GLOBAL ORDER
For decades, ’going global’ meant developing flexible, efficient supply chains. Multinational companies operated on the assumption that security and political tensions wouldn’t obstruct their operations. However, as much as companies want to avoid being pulled into geopolitics, they operate at a scale that makes that impossible. Geopolitical, economic, and cultural goalposts are moving. While there are opportunities, this new landscape is fraught with the potential for miscalculation. What’s needed is collaboration and corporate diplomacy that facilitates connections among companies, stakeholders, and communities globally. Business leaders, communications, and public affairs officers need the skills to navigate a complicated global landscape and live up to their organization’s mission, vision, and values.
MODERATOR
- Matthew Doering, CEO and Founder, GLOBAL GATEWAY ADVISORS
PANELISTS
- Monica He, Head of International Policy and Government Affairs, ORGANON
- Catherine Mellor, Vice President – International Trade, UPS
CONNECTION & REFRESHMENT BREAK
2:30 P.m. REFRESHMENT BREAK
Holeman Lounge – National Press Club
Sponsored By:
THE TALENT CHALLENGE
2:45 P.m. CREATING A CULTURE TO RECRUIT, ENGAGE AND RETAIN THE BEST
The workplace is experiencing an unusual collision between what bosses and workers want. Employees feel empowered after two years of changing their work habits. Employers are under some pressure to cut costs and boost performance as inflation rises. CEOs recognize the need to change their strategy for attracting and retaining talent. Yet, there is a disconnect in many companies. The pressure is on organizations to provide fulfilling work, flexibility and hybrid work, an enticing environment, and a culture that enables individuals to thrive. How should leaders respond?
MODERATOR
- Jessamyn Katz, President, HEYMAN ASSOCIATES
PANELISTS
- Michelle Russo, Chief Communications Officer, U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
- Blake Simpson, Senior Vice President, Chief Communications & Corporate Affairs Officer, ADTALEM GLOBAL EDUCATION
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
3:25 P.m. UNLOCKING THE POWER OF AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world with never-seen-before outcomes for businesses and individuals. In this expanded session at StratCommWorld, you’ll gain practical insights about the latest AI technologies and learn how to use them to create content at scale. Gaining a grasp of the technology’s influence on business, government, and the military is no longer optional. While its impact on society is hotly debated, preparing for how AI affects work and daily life likely is as important as the research and app development itself.
Session Highlights:
- Embracing the Impact of AI: 10 Essential Insights for Strategic Communicators
- Scaling Content Creation with AI: A Step-by-Step Demonstration
- Exploring the Impact of AI: An Interactive Q&A with the Panelists
MODERATOR
- Bob Pearson, Founder and Chair, THE NEXT PRACTICE GROUP
PANELISTS
- John Byron Hanby, IV, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, ITERNAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC
- J.D. Maddox, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, INVENTIVE INSIGHTS, LLC
STRATCOMMWORLD 2023 WRAPUP
4:30 P.m. CONVERTING IDEAS AND STRATEGIES INTO ACTION
This interactive, high-energy closing session succinctly identifies major takeaways from the previous two days at StratCommWorld. This spirited closing session will engage participants in identifying how to move ideas and strategies to action, and emerging trends to keep our eyes on.
MODERATOR:
- Bob Pearson, Founder and Chair, THE NEXT PRACTICE GROUP
4:50 P.m. Chairman’s closing remarks
- Robert W. Grupp, StratCommWorld Director and President, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
5 P.m. STRATCOMMWORLD 2023 ADJOURNS
PLEASE NOTE: The agenda and speakers are subject to change without notice. In the event of a speaker cancellation or agenda topic change, every effort will be made to find a suitable replacement.
Please check the StratCommWorld website for updates: https://stratcomm.world
STRATCOMMWORLD DETAILS
Creating Positive Connections: Communicating a Responsive Worldview
Everyone holds a worldview. It is the “operating instructions” for how we live life and interact with the world around us.
The question is, at a time when different perspectives increasingly are brought to the table, do communications and public affairs officers, businesses, governments, and non-profits have strategies to deal with divergence? We face problems that have the potential to deeply impact our lives, yet society often is fragmented on what to do about them.
Ideas are particularly difficult to navigate today because they come so quickly and from so many directions. Discerning fact and knowing what is true has always been important, and it has never been more so in an age that finds us all drowning in information.
People around us—co-workers, clients, customers, family, neighbors—help shape the way we see and cope with the world. Unless we acknowledge that each perspective is just one way to see the world – it’s difficult to find integrated solutions.
“Creating positive new connections and communicating a responsive worldview” is the theme for StratCommWorld 2023.
Listening actively and deeply helps us understand other perspectives. Then communicating effectively is essential for innovation and for working together to analyze problems and identify solutions.
StratCommWorld 2023 explores ideas and solutions that may challenge your worldview—always so you end up learning something new—that helps make the world and work look less complex.
Please join our conversation on May 1-2, 2023, at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.
The StratCommWorld 2023 program and topics are being designed to provide you with cutting-edge opportunities to refine your leadership skills.
WHY ATTEND STRATCOMMWORLD?
- To strengthen public/community engagement – particularly around divisive issues where you truly want to elicit and engage a wide range of perspectives in an atmosphere of mutual respect and decreased defensiveness to generate more comprehensive approaches and solutions
- Increase awareness of your own worldview and how it impacts your work in strategic communications, public affairs, marketing, business development, customer service, employee and volunteer retention and recruitment
- Increase understanding of a variety of perspectives originating from different experiences and backgrounds
- Have voice—learn positive ways to invite and engage others more fully in teams, organizations, and conversations.
- To satisfy your curiosity about the effectiveness of your own strategies, and the approaches and worldview of those with whom you interact
- Improve communication and connectedness of perspectives to advance issues or organizational objectives
- Improve client and customer service – particularly if you serve a diverse client and customer base
Experience the transformative power of connecting with the peers and speakers who participate in StratCommWorld 2023!
StratCommWorld is designed for corporate, business, public sector and military communications directors and public affairs officers; information operations officers; corporate communications and public relations professionals; and executives from corporations, government agencies, the Department of Defense and military branches, the intelligence community, universities and NGOs with responsibilities in the following areas:
- Corporate Communications
- Digital and Social Media
- Information Operations
- Public Relations
- Public Affairs
- Content Editing
- Media Relations
- Marketing
- Data Analytics
- Public Policy
- Strategic Alliances
- Intelligence and Analysis
- Product and Brand Management
- Community Relations
- Employee Communications
- Government Affairs
The program also is of interest to Consultants Marketing Services Providers Association Managers Executive Recruiters Civic Organizations.
Join us on May 1-2, 2023 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Register and attend StratCommWorld to gain your edge for success.
PLEASE JOIN US
EVENT FEEDBACK
This is the best conference that I’ve attended throughout my life and career.
Awesome! This Summit gets better every year.
Very excellent diverse topics covered in a short amount of time.
Fantastic way to network and connect.
Great opportunity to hear how strategic communications is being used across industry, government and non-profit.
Fantastic information and impressive list of speakers and attendees!
A good experience. Helpful to my career.
Fantastic event full of useful information from very different perspectives and background.
Well-run, right-sized with a robust and thoughtful agenda.
A great lineup of speakers and a wonderful venue for the conference.
A fabulous conference. Truly valuable for attendees and speakers alike.
Hats off to everyone that did such a stellar job on the agenda and event!
I was very impressed by the forum, it was a great event. I’m sorry I couldn’t stay longer.
It was an absolute pleasure to be a part of StratCommWorld. There was a remarkable energy in the room. The information environment has changed so much. You help the community see where we are and where we need to go to better reach our target audiences.
THANK YOU TO OUR
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