About the Event

Agenda

Policies

New World Disorder: Thriving Amid Chaos 

As communicators we are accustomed to unpredictability, operating with a radar and compass simultaneously while also driving change. But recent years have tested our limits. Today’s world is one of extremes and chaos: A global realignment toward a multipolar world. Political polarization turbocharged by mis/disinformation and an echo chamber environment. An existential struggle to stave off the intensifying effects of climate change. The potential for AI to bring about a technological golden age and/or a dystopian nightmare.

Amid this backdrop, CCOs emerge as increasingly indispensable leaders in the C-Suite and boardroom. We bring about solutions that demand collaborative approaches and respect for the interests of all stakeholders.

At the Spring Seminar, we will explore these themes and their implications for our profession as we draw strength, inspiration and insights from leading thinkers and one another.

 

Registration Fee

The registration fee breakdown is tiered based on your membership type and how you will be joining us. Register on or before January 13 for the early bird rate.

Italicized numbers indicate the raised rate after January 13.

  • Individual Member: $2,900 | $3,120
  • Non-Profit, Government, Retiree: $1,720 | $1,930
  • Educator: $1,180 | $1,400
  • Guest: $3,220 | $3,220
  • Honoree: Complimentary
  • Spouse: $970
  • Dinner-Only: $530

Networking Breakfast

7:45 - 8:30 a.m.

Page and Page Up New Member Breakfasts

7:45 – 8:30 a.m.

Welcome and Opening Interaction

8:30– 9:10 a.m.

Kelli ParsonsChair, Page, Global CEO, Hill & KnowltonBio
Mara Hedgecoth2025 Spring Seminar Chair, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, APCO

Navigating Diplomacy: A Fireside Chat with HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud

9:10 – 9:55 a.m.

Join us for a fireside chat with HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud, the first Saudi female Ambassador to the U.S, as she shares her unique perspective on the craft of diplomacy amid today’s climate. Interviewed by Margery Kraus, Founder and Executive Chairman of APCO, Ambassador Reema will reflect on her personal journey as a champion for women's advancement and share her perspective on pressing global issues—from the impact of recent elections to the conflict in Gaza. As businesses face increasing pressure to demonstrate stakeholder value while operating in constantly changing markets, Ambassador Reema's diplomatic expertise will offer a fresh perspective on building bridges across divides, equipping public relations executives with strategies for leading through uncertainty.

HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-SaudSaudi Ambassador to the United StatesBio
Margery KrausFounder and Executive Chairman, APCO WorldwideBio

Geopolitics: Business Implications on Major Elections, Security and World Order

9:55 – 10:40 a.m.

In a year marked with increased geopolitical competition, major political changes and ongoing conflicts, 2024 emerged as a year of resilience and transformation. Geopolitical events have a profound impact on businesses worldwide and will shape the global landscape in the years to come. This panel discussion will delve into the critical business implications of major election outcomes, governmental shifts, security concerns and the evolving world order. Our panelists will explore how companies can assess risks, adapt strategies and build resilient business operations to navigate the complexities of the volatile global landscape.

Martha Delgado PeraltaFormer Under Secretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MexicoBio
Fred KempePresident & CEO, The Atlantic CouncilBio
Kristen SilverbergPresident & COO, Business Roundtable Bio
Reena NinanFounder & CEO, Good Trouble ProductionsBio

Table Discussions

10:40 - 11:10 a.m.

This roundtable session will provide an opportunity to build on the wisdom gained from the preceding session. You will engage in insightful interactions with your peers, forge new connections, and emerge with pragmatic information you can use when you return to the office.

Mary BoonePresident, Boone Associates
Eliot MizrachiVP Content & Strategy, PageBio

Morning Break

11:10 - 11:40 a.m.

Confronting the Resource Crisis: Exploring Companies’ Roles in Preserving Our Precious Resources

11:40 a.m. – 12:25 p.m.

Unprecedented global crises – from devastating wildfires and catastrophic floods to widespread famine – are impacting business operations and the availability of essential resources. Our panelists will explore how companies are navigating these escalating threats, forging innovative partnerships and developing groundbreaking solutions to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience by sharing real world examples of how they are addressing these challenges head-on, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Marco MargheriHead of US Relations; Chairman, Eni New Energy Inc., Chairman Eni Petroleum Inc.Bio
Michele QuintaglieDivision Director, Media and Communications, United Nations World Food ProgrammeBio
Andy PharoahVP Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Mars, IncorporatedBio
Kristin StollerEditorial Director, Fortune Bio

Networking Lunch

12:25 – 1:20 p.m.

Peer Topic Conversations

1:25 – 2:55 p.m.

Join these lively conversations around topics vetted by Page and Page Up members as highly relevant and timely for communicators. CCO "convenors" will start the conversations in each breakout room with a provocative question. There will be no slides, no presentations, and no microphones -- just good, purposeful exchanges with peers. Want to join more than one conversation? You're welcome to move about at will to ensure you're in just the right place. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the people who really know the most about the issues you're facing - your peers.   Topics include:   Risky Business: How’s Your Organization Managing Complex Business Risk in an Environment of Extreme Uncertainty? Convenor: Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer, Mubadala Investment Company   Reputation Radar: How Are You Anticipating and Managing Crises, Activism and Polarization? Convenor: Brian Besanceney, SVP & Chief Communicates Officer, The Boeing Company (former)   Tech Pivot: How Are You Adopting AI and Predictive Analytics to Drive Change in Your Business? Convenor: Nick Archer, CCO, Head of Group Communications, Savvy Games Group   Inflection Point: How Are You Navigating the Rapid Shift in the DEI and ESG Landscape? Convenor: Kriston Alford McIntosh, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, American Civil Liberties Union   Power Shifts: How’s Your Organization Balancing Increased Employee Influence and Expectations with Business Demands? Convenor: Linda Rutherford, Chief Administration Officer, Southwest Airlines Read moreBusiness: How’s Your Organization Managing Complex Business Risk in an Environment of Extreme Uncertainty? Convenor: Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer, Mubadala Investment Company   Reputation Radar: How Are You Anticipating and Managing Crises, Activism and Polarization? Convenor: Brian Besanceney, SVP & Chief Communicates Officer, The Boeing Company (former)   Tech Pivot: How Are You Adopting AI and Predictive Analytics to Drive Change in Your Business? Convenor: Nick Archer, CCO, Head of Group Communications, Savvy Games Group   Inflection Point: How Are You Navigating the Rapid Shift in the DEI and ESG Landscape? Convenor: Kriston Alford McIntosh, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, American Civil Liberties Union   Power Shifts: How’s Your Organization Balancing Increased Employee Influence and Expectations with Business Demands? Convenor: Linda Rutherford, Chief Administration Officer, Southwest Airlines

Business Beyond Borders

2:55 – 3:40 p.m.

Gaining acceptance and permission to operate in foreign markets is a defining challenge for global businesses in this era of geopolitical instability. As companies face these rising complexities, CEOs increasingly rely on communicators to help them see ahead while addressing the immediate needs through building trust with governments and communities, navigating trade challenges, and helping to strengthen and build resilient supply chains. Our panel will share insights on how communicators can help bridge divides, foster collaboration, and drive sustainable growth in an unpredictable global environment.

Damon D. JonesChief Communications Officer, The Procter & Gamble CompanyBio
Bevin MaguireChief Communications Officer and VP of Corporate Communications and Brand, Applied MaterialsBio
Mette RefshaugeHead of Corporate Communication and Sustainability, A.P. Moller - MaerskBio
Steve SoltisProfessor, University of Virginia, Darden School of BusinessBio

Afternoon Break

3:40 – 4:10 p.m.

The Art of Possibility

4:10 – 5:55 p.m.

Benjamin Zander’s presentation takes an audience on a journey that offers a startling new perspective on leadership. Through stories, music and concepts, it causes a radical shift in perception. This is not a speech, it is an experience! In this new model of leadership, the conductor sees his job as awakening possibility in others. The orchestra is a group of highly trained individuals poised to coalesce into an effective whole. Passion, creativity and the desire to contribute are basic human instincts to be released. World-famous conductor Benjamin Zander uses the metaphor of the orchestra and a lifetime of experience conducting, coaching and teaching musicians to work his magic to overcome barriers to corporate productivity. This presentation sources fundamental changes in organizations.

Benjamin ZanderConductor, Boston Philharmonic Orchestra Bio

Closing Remarks

5:55 – 6:00 p.m.

Mara Hedgecoth2025 Spring Seminar Chair, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, APCO

Networking Reception

6:45 – 7:30 p.m.

Networking Dinner

7:30 – 8:45 p.m.

Dinner Entertainment

8:45 – 9:30 p.m.

Prepare to be entertained and enlightened as The Capitol Fools bring their unique brand of political satire to our dinner, poking fun at the absurdity of today's world. You’ll laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear.

Evening Close

9:30 – 9:35 p.m.

Networking Breakfast

7:30 - 8:15 a.m.

Opening Remarks and Interaction

8:15 - 8:50 a.m.

Mara Hedgecoth2025 Spring Seminar Chair, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, APCO

8:50 – 9:35 a.m.

Navigating a Dynamically Changing Media Landscape

9:35 – 10:20 a.m.

In a dynamic media landscape with emerging sources and platforms for the public to obtain and share information, companies must consider new ways to break through and ensure their stories transcend traditional channels and break through to important audiences. This session will convene a discussion between two media experts for a candid exploration of the rapidly transforming media environment. They’ll delve into the rise of new platforms, the shifting influence of traditional media, practical ideas for communications to make a pivot, and the escalation of mis/disinformation. Through their insights, communicators will learn how to amplify their narratives and build trust, cementing their role as essential leaders in navigating today’s communication challenges.

Ryan PatelGlobal Media Influencer, Business News CommentatorBio
Dafna LinzerEVP, Editorial Director, US News & World ReportBio

Morning Break

10:20 – 10:50 a.m.

Engaging Your Workforce to Thrive in a Disrupted World

10:50 - 11:30a.m.

In a world where disruption is the new normal, workplace culture is a foundation for resilience and growth. With multiple generations in the workforce—each with different expectations for flexibility, purpose, and career growth—companies must rethink how they engage, develop, and retain talent. This discussion will explore the view from the chief human resources officers and their perspectives on how they partner with their chief communications officers to develop programs that strengthen culture and drive engagement. Through real-world examples, we’ll uncover how companies are engaging an intergenerational workforce, managing changing employee expectations, reskilling their workforces, and building cultures that thrive in this new environment.

Monica MelanconChief Human Resource Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.Bio
Marjorie PowellChief People Officer, AARPBio
Maril MacDonaldFounder and Chief Executive Officer, Gagen MacDonald

Peer Exchange: What Comes Next?

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

You’ve spent two days listening to and asking questions of our panelists, speakers and interviewees. Now we're turning to you - the other experts in the room to mine your reactions, observations and wisdom. Our facilitators will initiate a multi-directional conversation that will be both inspirational and practical.

Closing Keynote: Leading Through Change

12:00 – 12:40 p.m.

As communicators, we understand the importance of leading through uncertainty, but recent years have pushed us to new limits. From Fortune 500 veteran to disruptor CEO, Stacey Tank's career exemplifies the adaptability and resilience required for success in a rapidly changing world. We'll explore how she moved from CCO to CTO to her current role as CEO of Bespoke Beauty Brands. Through these transitions, she's spearheaded growth strategies and revolutionized billion-dollar businesses. As the CEO of a high-growth beauty company, Stacey continues to push boundaries. She will share her experiences navigating incredible volatility and building resilient, adaptable teams. She will also highlight the critical need to invest in "third spaces" to cultivate healthier communities and counter the effects of polarization in society – something that the Page community is uniquely positioned to do.

Stacy TankChief Executive Officer, Bespoke Beauty BrandsBio

Closing Remarks

12:40– 12:45 p.m.

Mara Hedgecoth2025 Spring Seminar Chair, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, APCO

Networking Lunch

12:45 – 1:45 p.m.

Optional Capitol Tour

1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Embark on a journey through the heart of American history with a visit to the U.S. Capitol. This iconic building, with its historic chambers, statutory hall, ornate hallways, and majestic dome, serves as the meeting place for the United States Congress and the very symbol of democracy. The tour will be led by former Members of the U.S. Congress, Ambassador Richard Nelson Swett and Congressman Cliff Stearns. Guests will be treated to first-hand stories of the legislative process and how Washington really works. If accessible, the tour will also include a visit to the House Floor where the President delivers the State of the Union and where Members debate and deliberate legislation. This is a very special event not to be missed.  Capacity is limited to 50 guests accepted on a first come, first served basis.

Cancellation Policy

Our policy is to refund 50% of the conference fee if canceled 31 days in advance of the scheduled start of the event. There will be no refunds, in whole or in part, for cancellations received within 30 days of the event.Registration fees are non-transferable. Cancellation for COVID-related reasons will be eligible for full refunds. All other cancellations will follow our standard cancellation policy.

COVID-19 Policy

Page continues to review and revise this policy based on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and local jurisdiction guidance on COVID-19. Requirements will be updated accordingly.

Based on current guidance, the following rules now apply to participants at in-person Page meetings and conferences (attendees, speakers, staff and vendors):

  • Participants are required to follow all government requirements, including local, state and/or national requirements where the event is held.
  • It is recommended that participants are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, as outlined by the CDC or local jurisdiction, if the event is outside the U.S.

In addition, participants are asked to avoid participation if:

  • They have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not yet completed a CDC-recommended isolation period, or the equivalent as outlined by the local jurisdiction if outside the U.S.; or
  • They have COVID-19 symptoms.

If you have been exposed to COVID-19, please test to ensure you are not infected before your participation.

Guest Policy

To provide the best experience to Page members, Page Up members and 2023-24 Future Leaders Experience participants, our Spring Seminar guest policy limits guests to prospective members of Page and Page Up and spouses/partners of members.

A Page or Page Up member may register one guest provided they are eligible for and interested in becoming a member of Page or Page Up. Please refer to the Page and Page Up member criteria to evaluate eligibility before registering a guest. Guest registration for prospective members is not final until eligibility is confirmed by Page.

Guests may attend only one Spring Seminar prior to becoming members. To attend a future Spring Seminar, the guest must join Page or Page Up.

For questions about this policy or membership criteria, please contact Director of Membership Marianna Frantzis.