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Thursday, May 7th

2026 CEO Summit

Blueprints for Bold Leadership:

Bold leadership is no longer optional; it's the blueprint for long-term success

The 2026 Ohio CEO Summit features dynamic conversations with executives who are taking risks, building innovative collaborations, and rethinking how their organizations grow. Leaders will share breakthrough moments, lessons learned, and the strategies behind their boldest moves.

About the 2026 Summit

The 2026 Ohio CEO Summit will spotlight the partnerships, ideas, and decisions reshaping Ohio’s economic future.

This year’s Summit features dynamic conversations with executives who are taking risks, building innovative collaborations, and rethinking how their organizations grow. Leaders will share breakthrough moments, lessons learned, and the strategies behind their boldest moves.

 

As Ohio continues to lead in innovation and business growth, this Summit will highlight those turning ambition into action—and shaping what comes next.

FOCUS ISSUE:
Blueprints for Bold Leadership

POWER

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WATER

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PEOPLE

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11 AM

DOORS OPEN

FREE TIME

Come in and get ready for the 2023 Summit!

11:30 AM

LUNCH

FREE TIME

Welcome to the 2023 CEO Summit!

11:45 AM

LEADING THE CHARGE: OHIO'S PATH TO ENERGY RESILIENCY

PANEL

Ohio is on the verge of leading in energy resiliency. Industry leaders will discuss
integrating diverse energy sources, advanced storage solutions, and transformative
technologies to enhance grid reliability and flexibility. Attendees will gain insights into the
strategies and leadership needed to position Ohio at the forefront of energy innovation,
ensuring a secure, sustainable, and adaptable energy future.

Brian Tierney, FirstEnergy
Frank Zhu, Illuminate USA
Bryan Stewart, The Superior Group
Curt Morgan, Alpha Generation           
Interviewed by Kim Zavislak, KPMG

12:50 PM

FROM STRONG FOUNDATIONS TO FUTURE INNOVATION

SPEECH

As a global leader, Marathon Petroleum drives economic growth while remaining
committed to Ohio. Learn why the company continues to invest in the state, its deep roots
in the region, and future opportunities for growth, community impact, and long-term
success.

Maryann Mannen, Marathon

1:00 PM

TAPPING OHIO'S POTENTIAL

INTERVIEW

Encino Energy is shaping Ohio’s natural gas future through investment and responsible
development. This interview will explore the company’s impact on job creation, energy
security, and Ohio’s continued leadership in sustainable energy production.

Hardy Murchison, Encino Energy
Interviewed by Guy Coviello, Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber

1:20 PM

ESTABLISHING THE BLUE BELT

PANEL

Ohio is positioning itself as a global leader in the blue economy by leveraging water
technology and innovation. This discussion will focus on how companies are addressing
water and sustainability challenges, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving growth.
Panelists will share insights on the role of technology and sustainable practices in creating
a resilient economy and boosting Ohio's competitive edge in the global marketplace.

Tim Trant, G&J Pepsi-Cola Bottlers, Inc.
Ole Rosgaard, Greif
Brett Burgett, Kokosing
Interviewed by Bill Abolt, Deloitte

1:55 PM

INNOVATING TOGETHER: SOLUTIONS FOR OHIO'S WATER FUTURE

INTERVIEW

Ohio’s prosperity depends on clean, reliable water—and bold collaboration to protect it.
This session explores how research, policy, and statewide initiatives such as H2Ohio are
uniting state leaders, universities, and the private sector to drive innovation and secure
Ohio’s water future.

Rodney Rogers, Bowling Green State University
Brian Baldridge, Ohio Department of Agriculture
Interviewed by Brandon Carrus, McKinsey & Company

2:30 PM

BREAK

FREE TIME

Free time to network and explore

2:50 PM

LEADING WITH PURPOSE: DRIVING SUCCESS WITH PEOPLE AND CULTURE

INTERVIEW

Kirt Walker, CEO of Nationwide, will share insights into the company’s growth, leadership
style, and strategies for attracting and retaining talent. Interviewed by Pat Tiberi, they will
also discuss Nationwide’s innovation with technology, its brand’s impact, and the
company’s role in Ohio’s economic future as it prepares for its centennial in 2026.

Kirt Walker, Nationwide
Interviewed by Pat Tiberi, OBRT

3:15 PM

A BUZZWORTHY CULTURAL EVOLUTION

SPEECH

At Bath & Body Works, we are buzzing with excitement—ready to take on an evolutionary
journey that celebrates our culture and heritage while keeping us united as we move
forward to grow our business. Rooted in who we are and how we show up for the world
and each other, one thing is for sure: culture is the force multiplier that propels brands to
be number one in the market and number one in customers’ hearts. This session explores
how strategy alone cannot drive a company’s success. In fact, we believe culture eats
strategy for breakfast. Discover how evolving a uniting sense of purpose, values and
beliefs could be the winning secret ingredient for a company’s long-term growth and
success.

Gina Boswell, Bath & Body Works
Tom Mazurek, Bath & Body Works

3:40 PM

HOW TO GROW THE HEART OF IT ALL

PANEL

Industry leaders will discuss strategies for attracting, retaining, and retraining talent to
secure Ohio’s economic future, focusing on building a resilient workforce through
upskilling and creating environments that draw and retain top talent.

Kevin King, Donatos
Greg Crawford, Miami University
Nic Barlage, Rock Entertainment Group
Renee Cacchillo, Safelite
Interviewed by Paula O’Reilly, Accenture

4:15 PM

SUMMIT CONCLUDES | RECEPTION BEGINS

NETWORKING

5:30 PM

RECEPTION CONCLUDES

NETWORKING

Association Sponsors

Networking Sponsors

Program Sponsor

Superior

Notebook & Lanyard Sponsors

Sidecar Health

Reception Sponsors

Lunch Sponsors

Executive Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Premier Sponsor

Caresource
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