Overview
The financial industry’s premier event for bank executives and members of the board, Bank Director’s Acquire or Be Acquired Conference, offers unparalleled networking opportunities for senior leadership teams eager to explore financial growth, strategic initiatives and business partnerships. Celebrated as the industry’s foremost conference for CEOs, board members and executive teams, this annual gathering is your gateway to discovering new avenues for growth.

Engage in Topical Discussions and Gain Practical Insights
Over three days, bank officers and directors delve into the current economic climate, explore ways to enhance shareholder value and gain insights into the evolving competitive landscape.

Explore Technology Strategies and Partnerships
Join our exclusive FinXTech sessions crafted for executives driving digital strategies and technology partnerships – and members of the board who want a deeper understanding in technology. Engage with industry experts to uncover key insights into the rapidly changing technology landscape, digital growth strategies, core contracts and the essentials of being a strategic partner while enhancing customer experiences.

Network with Influential Industry Professionals
Acquire or Be Acquired connects senior leaders with influential peers eager to explore growth avenues, strategic initiatives and valuable partnerships. The distinguished audience includes officers and directors from public and private financial institutions, fintech experts, law firm partners, investment bankers, accounting partners, management consultants and investors, all gathering annually in Arizona.

For more information, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

The rate includes all conference activities, materials, meals and beverages at the event site. The price does not include travel or hotel accommodations.

Conference Rates
Standard Individual Rate: $2,795
Standard Group Rate: $2,595 (For groups of 3 or more from the same financial institution.)

Membership Program Conference Rates
If your bank is a participating program member, please contact 877-397-7595 to find out about special conference rates and/or event passes that may be available to you and your board. For questions or to learn more about Bank Director’s membership program, please email bankservices@bankdirector.com.

Guest Registration
The guest rate of $595 covers entrance to the Sunday lunch and all evening receptions. Guests interested in playing with attendees in the golf tournament can sign up based on space availability for an additional fee of $205. Guests interested in playing with attendees in the pickleball tournament can sign up based on space availability for an additional fee of $50. (If a guest would like to attend the sessions, please register them as an attendee. A guest is a spouse, significant other or friend who is not in a financial services occupation. A co-worker (even a spouse co-worker) or an associate within the financial services industry is not considered a guest and should register as an attendee.)

Non-Banker Rate: $4,495
This registration fee applies to attendees who are board advisors/observers, investment bankers, attorneys, accounting firms, and other vendors and service providers. This rate also applies to managing directors of a bank’s investment banking practice. Bank Director reserves the right to verify your company profile and adjust your registration rate if necessary.

Discounted Hotel Rate
The room block at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge is currently sold out. However, rooms may become available closer to the time of the event. If you are a registered attendee and want to be added to the hotel waitlist, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

Bank Director has a room block at the below properties for attendees of the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference until January 9, 2026. The room blocks at the Hyatt Place and Hyatt House are currently sold out. However, rooms may become available closer to the time of the event. Please continue to check the links below for room openings:

Hyatt Place North Scottsdale (group code G-BNKD)
Hyatt House North Scottsdale (group code G-BNKH)

A minimum stay of three (3) nights is required to book a room within the event block (check-in: January 31, 2026, and check-out: February 3, 2026). The last day to cancel with a refund is January 9, 2026. After this date, the three (3) night stay is non-refundable, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

The Hyatt Place North Scottsdale and Hyatt House North Scottsdale are at the same address and are located 10 minutes (4.5 miles) away from the host venue, and the cost is $313/night for a standard room.

To view alternative hotel options click here.

Shuttle Service
Bank Director is providing a complimentary shuttle running between the JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Hyatt Place/House North Scottsdale and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (we do not have a room block at this property) every 15 minutes, morning and evening, during peak event times starting Saturday 1/31 evening through Tuesday 2/3 afternoon.

Payments & Cancellation
Conference registration includes admittance to all conference activities and the conference materials. Payment will be accepted by check, American Express, Visa, MasterCard or Discover. If paying by check, please make payable to DirectorCorps, Inc. and include the attendee’s name(s) and/or a copy of the registration form and mail to:

Conferences
Bank Director
201 Summit View Drive, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027

Due to commitments and expenses, all cancellations after December 5, 2025, will be subject to a $500 processing fee. We regret that no refunds will be given after January 9, 2026; however, substitute participants are welcome. DirectorCorps, Inc. assumes no liability for any nonrefundable travel, hotel or related expenses incurred by registrants.

For more information, please contact our events department at 877-397-7595.

• Saturday | January 31

  5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
  Women in Leadership Reception
  Sponsored by: Abrigo
  With so many top executives and board members traveling to this conference on Saturday, this reception allows female executives to meet their contemporaries from across the United States. Please note: a separate registration is not needed to attend this reception as it is included in the conference registration.

  5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
  First-Time Attendee Reception
  Sponsored by: Cantor Fitzgerald
  Concurrent with our Women in Leadership Reception, we welcome first-time attendees to our Acquire or Be Acquired Conference.  Meet members of the Bank Director leadership team and others attending the conference for the first time. Please note: a separate registration is not needed to attend this reception as it is included in the conference registration.

  5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
  Welcoming Reception & Registration
  Sponsored by: BMO Capital Markets Corp., COCC, KlariVis and Moody’s
  While winter grips much of the country, we’ve found early evening in Arizona to be a welcome change for many joining us.  Kick off the conference by catching up with old friends and making new connections.

• Day One | Sunday | February 1

  7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
  Registration & Breakfast
  Sponsored by:  Fiserv
  

  8:00 AM – 8:15 AM
  Welcome: Exploring Your Growth Options
  Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director
  While Acquire or Be Acquired began 32 years ago as an M&A conference, AOBA, as it has become known, is about exploring ALL of your bank’s growth options. As we welcome participants to Phoenix to kick off this year’s event, Michelle and Laura share new ideas to build your bank’s short and long-term strategies.

  8:15 AM – 9:05 AM
  The State of Banking 2026
  Thomas Michaud, President & CEO, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company
  A highlight of this annual event, this session focuses on the industry’s fundamentals, bank and non-bank competition, what macro and regulatory forces are at work and where the industry stands on its 40-year consolidation path.

  9:05 AM – 9:45 AM
  An Outlook on the Banking Landscape
  Mark Kanaly, Partner, Alston & Bird LLP
  Brian Leibfried, Head of Client Insights, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  Mandi Simpson, Partner, Crowe LLP
  Moderated by: Nathan Stovall, Director of Financial Institutions Research, S&P Global Market Intelligence
  As the banking industry evolves in response to economic and regulatory changes, how can banks prepare for the future? In this panel discussion, industry experts share insights on what to expect from Washington and the government’s influence on businesses – highlighting key impacts on the banking industry.

  9:20 AM – 9:55 AM
  FinXTech Session: Let’s Be Practical: Envisioning Your Bank’s Future
  Mark Chorazak, Partner, Co-head Financial Institutions Regulatory Group, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
  Joshua Jordan, Director of Fintech Alliances, Jack Henry
  Laurence Stock, Senior Director of Product Strategy, Moody’s
  Moderated by: Emily McCormick, Vice President of Editorial & Research, Bank Director
  For most banks, technology is not a core part of their identity but a means to achieve efficiencies and better serve their customers. As banks increasingly rely on data analytics to improve back-office productivity and manage regulatory compliance duties, there are still gaps in bank strategies around data, artificial intelligence and technology. How can technology best position your bank for future growth? As we begin these AOBA tech-specific sessions, this panel provides thoughts and ideas to consider for you and your bank.

  9:45 AM – 10:25 AM
  Strong Board. Strong Bank.
  Ashley Ensley, Partner & National Sector Leader, Financial Services, Forvis Mazars
  Meg Tahyar, Head of Financial Institutions Group & Partner, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
  Matt Veneri, Head of Investment Banking and Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
  Moderated by: Jim McAlpin, Board Member, Bank Director
  Bank Director is focused on strong boards and strong banks, so what can you do to strengthen your bank both financially and operationally? Learn from three leaders in the industry as they share best practices and lessons learned.

  10:05 AM – 10:40 AM
  FinXTech Session: Demystifying AI
  Tim Dively, National Digital Director, CLA
  Ravi Nemalikanti, Chief Product and Technology Officer, Abrigo, Inc.
  Larry Pruss, Managing Director, SRM
  Moderated by: Naomi Snyder, Editor-in-Chief, Bank Director
  AI can be a fantastic tool that makes work more efficient, but where is it best used?  And how are banks currently using artificial intelligence, given the risks and challenges that come with it? Hear use cases in this practical and tactical session.

  10:25 AM – 10:45 AM
  Refreshment Break
  Sponsored by:  Bank Compensation Consulting
  

  10:45 AM – 11:25 AM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Participants have the opportunity to select one of seven breakout sessions to attend.

  Breakout 1: Ownership Options and Tax Matters for the Closely Held Bank
  Peter Weinstock, Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
  Closely held banks experience challenges with raising capital, shareholder liquidity and board and ownership succession. These challenges are impacted by tax laws, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. This presentation discusses alternative strategies for such banks to maximize shareholder value, definitively decide S versus C as well as to create paths for ownership continuity.

  Breakout 2: What the Board Needs to Know in 2026
  Robert Fleetwood, Partner & Co-Chair of Financial Institutions Group, Barack Ferrazzano
  Al Laufenberg, Managing Director, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company
  This breakout session continues the “Need to Know” series that has consistently been a popular highlight at this conference for many years.  Gain practical insight into what CEOs and directors need to know in 2026 and beyond.

  Breakout 3:  Banking On Uncertainty
  Jeffrey Berg, Associate Managing Director, Moody’s Ratings
  Megan Fox, Associate Managing Director, Moody’s Ratings
  Banks are facing uncertainty on several fronts: macroeconomy, geopolitics, regulation and the competitive landscape. Moody’s Ratings offers its outlook on U.S. banks and discusses the latest trends affecting the industry.

  Breakout 4:  Community and Regional Banks: Buy, Sell or Reinvent
  Paul Heller, Advisor in Residence, EY
  Lindsay Lawrence, Group Head Deposit Services, Everbank
  Matthew Matzen, Director of Corporate Development, UMB Bank
  Moderated by: Rahul Chandarana, EY-Parthenon Americas Banking & Capital Markets Sector Leader – Partner, EY
  This session examines survival strategies for community and regional players, focusing on niche dominance, M&A-driven scale and technology-based reinvention in a competitive market.

  Breakout 5:  Strategic Capital Allocation in an Era of Consolidation
  Matt Forgotson, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  Since 1990, 65% of FDIC-insured banks have disappeared. Attendees of this session will learn the cause and potential solution: a disciplined decision-making process that sets all marginal capital allocation options, ranging from organic loan growth to opportunistic M&A, on a level playing field. Those willing to embrace a more complete analytical view can help protect and potentially even accelerate their missions.

  Breakout 6: The Reemergence of Mergers-of-Equals in the Banking Space
  Michael Barry, Senior Managing Director, Head of Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Regions, Hovde Group LLC
  Carl Carlson, Chief Financial & Strategy Officer, Beacon Financial Corporation
  This session discusses recent MOE activity in the banking space and key characteristics of bank MOEs, including strategic rationale, corporate governance and other gating issues, advantages/challenges. We also discuss what makes for a well-received MOE transaction while referring to a real-life bank MOE that closed in the second half of last year.

  Breakout 7: Session to be Announced
  Speaker to be Announced, Cantor Fitzgerald
  

  10:50 AM – 11:25 AM
  FinXTech Session: Growing Through Customer Retention & User Experiences
  Stephen Bohanon, Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, Alkami Technology, Inc.
  Jill Flaherty, First Vice President, Business Development, COCC
  Nathaniel Harley, Co-founder and President, MANTL
  Moderated by: Lexie Garcia, Vice President of Business Development, Bank Director
  Banks can significantly boost growth by focusing on customer retention and user experience. Loyal clients cost less to maintain and can bring higher revenue through increased transaction volume and cross-selling opportunities. Prioritizing and providing personalized services enhances customer satisfaction and fosters long-term relationships. Dive into new strategies to consider as this panel focuses on not only retaining customers but also growing their current relationships with your institution.

  11:35 AM – 12:10 PM
  FinXTech Session: Gaining Efficiencies in Managing & Servicing Your Loan Portfolio
  Joe Ehrhardt, CEO & Founder, Teslar Software
  Tyler Held, Lead Functional Consultant, nCino
  Josh Morozowski, Senior Director, Strategic Client Solutions, IBISWorld
  Moderated by: Bill Herrell, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
  Optimize your loan portfolio with streamlined strategies. During this session, hear from industry leaders on how to implement advanced analytics to inform decision-making and automate routine processes for time efficiency. The panelists share how to best monitor performance metrics regularly to identify and address issues swiftly, achieve cost reduction and enhanced financial security through proactive management practices and learn how to transform challenges into growth opportunities.

  11:40 AM – 12:20 PM
  Scaling with Stability
  Al Dominick, Partner, Cornerstone Advisors
  Nikhil Lele, EY Americas Consulting Banking and Capital Markets Leader, EY
  Christopher Olsen, Managing Partner, Olsen Palmer LLC
  Moderated by: Sal Inserra, Senior Advisor, Bank Director
  How do you successfully scale your bank?  You must consider capital raising, deposit growth, talent development, succession planning and more!

  12:10 PM – 1:30 PM
  Networking Peer & Guest Lunch
  Sponsored by: Cantor Fitzgerald
  

  12:40 PM – 1:20 PM
  Lunch & Learn Sessions (select one)
  Lunch & Learn sessions allow participants to learn about a shared topic of interest over lunch.  Six sessions run concurrently – attendees may select one to attend.

  Lunch & Learn Session 1: Charting the Future: A Blueprint for CEO Succession Success
  Julie Bell, Leadership Advisory, Chartwell Partners
  Scott Petty, Managing Partner, Chartwell Partners
  Succession planning isn’t just about replacing leaders—it’s about securing your organization’s future, especially in times of transformation. In this strategic session, we explore ways to build a strong CEO succession plan, with a particular focus on periods of transition, including mergers and acquisitions. Learn how to proactively manage executive succession to minimize disruption, maintain continuity and preserve organizational value during deal-making.

  Lunch & Learn Session 2: Implementing a Profitable Growth Strategy for Today and Tomorrow
  Robb Blume, President & CEO, Community First Bank of Indiana
  John Denkler, President & CEO, First State Bancshares
  Jim Edwards, CEO, United Bank
  Moderated by: Brett Rawls, Head of Client Engagement, Profit Resources, Inc.
  Growth shouldn’t be just about getting bigger.  As your institution expands, consider these questions: Are you improving results and building lasting value?  Are you increasing low-cost deposits, diversifying loans and leveraging technology for efficient growth?  Can you adapt to economic changes?  This session explores strategies to align bank profitability with asset growth.

  Lunch & Learn Session 3: Stop Leaving Money on the Table: Tools and Strategies for Relationship Banking
  Scott Earwood, Head of Community Bank Division, White Clay
  Relationships are key to community banking. How do you build relationships that ensure value for both the client and the shareholder? The session provides key insights on building relationship-level profitability, optimally using relationship pricing tools in the sales process and sharing banker stories of how this is being executed.

  Lunch & Learn Session 4:  Your Finance Team: The Critical Link Between Strategic Planning and Execution
  Bryan Ridgway, Director of Performance Management Solutions, Empyrean Solutions, LLC
  Ed Young, Managing Director, Empyrean Solutions, LLC
  In today’s volatile banking landscape, having a strategic plan isn’t enough. The gap between strategy and execution is where most financial institutions struggle. Your finance organization isn’t just about numbers – it’s the strategic nerve center that when properly positioned, becomes the critical link between visionary planning, risk assessment and measurable results.

  Lunch & Learn Session 5: New Ways Banks Can Drive Growth in 2026 Through Cannabis Banking
  Kevin Hart, Founder & CEO, Green Check
  Stacy Litke, VP, Banking Programs, Green Check
  The legal cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing markets in the U.S., and financial institutions are becoming more sophisticated when it comes to serving these customers efficiently and profitably. In this session we share how financial institutions are turning risk into growth with time-tested strategies, the latest technologies and innovative partnerships.

  Lunch & Learn Session 6:  Today’s Pre-Planning Considerations to Align the Interests of Executives & Shareholders Within Tomorrow’s M&A Event
  Anthony Eppert, Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
  Brian Marek, Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
  With a few exceptions, compensation within an M&A event is mostly compliance oriented and ministerial at the time of the M&A event.  If a “win” is to occur, it comes with forethought and planning a year to 5 years prior to the M&A event.  The purpose of this session is to focus on certain pre-planning compensatory designs that align the interests of the executives and the bank’s shareholders, so that both “win” at the time of an M&A event. To that end, this session covers terms and key provisions within executive contracts, severance agreements, change-in-control bonus programs, equity award change in control provisions, 280G and finding sometimes hidden sources of political capital that is typically present within an M&A event.

  1:30 PM – 2:10 PM
  What Is Your Bank Worth?
  Curtis Carpenter, Senior Managing Director, Hovde Group, LLC
  When it is time to sell, you want the highest value for your bank possible.  But what is the current value of your bank – and are there ways to increase its value?  Learn about bank valuation in today’s market during this featured conference session.

  1:30 PM – 2:05 PM
  FinXTech Session: Harnessing Fintech Partnerships to Drive Growth and Efficiency
  Andrea Smiddy-Schlagel, EVP, Treasury Management Line of Business Manager, First Financial Bank
  Maggie Tuschinski, EVP, Chief Digital Officer, First Financial Bank
  Moderated by: Tony Hall, Field Chief Technology Officer, Q2
  This session explores how fintech collaboration is increasingly critical to success. Hear from peers who are rapidly integrating top fintech solutions across diverse categories, such as payments, customer onboarding, small business accounting and virtual chat. Learn practical strategies for effective partnerships that benefit both customers and organizations – and achieve remarkable results.

  2:10 PM – 2:30 PM
  General Session: 2026 Technology Update
  Gregory Adelson, President & CEO, Jack Henry
  Emily McCormick, Vice President of Editorial & Research, Bank Director
  Learn how smart financial institutions invest in technology, leverage data and explore use cases for artificial intelligence by discovering key insights from Bank Director’s 2025 Technology Survey.

  2:15 PM – 2:50 PM
  FinXTech Session: Leveraging Data for Growth
  David Benskin, Founder & CEO, Wealth Access Inc.
  Mike Horrocks, SVP, Corporate Strategy & Product Marketing, Baker Hill Solutions, LLC
  Tim Keith, CEO, Infusion Marketing Group
  Moderated by: Bill Herrell, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
  Harnessing the power of data is a game-changer for businesses. It drives informed decisions, uncovers market trends and optimizes operations. By analyzing customer behaviors, financial institutions gain insights to enhance their strategies. Embrace data analytics to fuel innovation and growth, transforming your business into a data-driven powerhouse for sustainable success.

  2:45 PM – 3:25 PM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Participants may select one of seven concurrent breakout sessions to attend.

  Breakout 1:  Inside the Deal: M&A Insights for Closely Held Financial Institutions
  Blake Crow, Partner, Eide Bailly LLP
  Michael Holdren, Partner, Eide Bailly LLP
  This session provides a strategic overview of the M&A process, designed explicitly for family-owned and privately-held financial institutions. Attendees gain insights from both buy and sell-side perspectives. Key topics include identifying and evaluating potential partners, marketing a bank for sale, assessing value and pricing, navigating legal and tax structuring, preparing regulatory applications, understanding acquisition accounting and managing post-deal capital impact.

  Breakout 2:  Strategic Insights for Boards, CFOs & Executive Leadership: Accounting, Auditing & Regulatory Oversight
  Lyle Alexandar, Partner, Forvis Mazars
  Mike Ososki, Partner, Forvis Mazars
  This presentation delves into the top focus areas that are essential for effective governance and financial leadership. Attendees receive updates on top accounting and auditing matters specific to the banking industry, including regulatory oversight, financial and accounting developments, audit focus areas and more. Join us to gain valuable insights and practical strategies that empower boards and CFOs to lead their organizations with confidence and foresight.

  Breakout 3:  Leverage the Moment: Core System Strategy that Drives M&A Success
  Danelle Hawig, Senior Vice President, ICI Consulting
  Core processing platforms are foundational to the success of any M&A project in the financial sector.  A thorough evaluation and strategic negotiation of core and ancillary systems can significantly impact integration timelines, long-term operating costs, risk mitigation and customer experience.  Leveraging the right technology partner ensures smoother transitions and maximizes the strategic value of the merger or acquisition.

  Breakout 4: How Bank Boards Should Make the Decision to Buy or Sell
  Josh McNulty, Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
  Beth Whitaker, Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
  Decisions made even before bankers engage with the other side foretell the likelihood of success.  This session discusses various considerations the boards of both sellers and buyers should make in order to play the negotiating game in the most effective manner.

  Breakout 5:  Transform Operations, Elevate Experiences: A Strategic Approach to Banking Excellence
  Michael Ball, EVP of Marketing, Kinective
  In today’s competitive and rapidly evolving landscape, the path to banking excellence requires more than gradual enhancements – it demands operational transformation that directly elevates customer experiences. This session reveals a proven strategic approach that enables institutions to achieve both goals simultaneously. Attendees discover three pillars to transformation based upon advanced technology that will eliminate manual processes, break down operational silos and deliver seamless experiences across every customer touchpoint. Leave equipped with a clear roadmap to modernize your operations, dramatically reduce costs and achieve the banking service excellence that drives sustainable competitive advantage.

  Breakout 6: Securing Finance in the Age of AI, Identity Threats and Emerging Fraud
  Seckin Yilgoren, Senior Vice President, Security Solutions, North America, Mastercard
  Generative AI, identity fraud, and first-party scams are reshaping the threat landscape for financial institutions. This session maps the expanding attack surface for financial institutions and outlines defensive measures from human identity verification to enterprise-wide cyber intelligence – plus pragmatic steps you can take now.

  Breakout 7: Navigating M&A Through An Evolving Landscape
  Neal Arnold, President & CEO, Sunflower Bank, N.A.
  Rory Ritrievi, Chair, President & CEO, Mid Penn Bancorp, Inc. and Mid Penn Bank
  Frank Sorrentino, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Group, Stephens, Inc.
  The last few years have been nothing but unpredictable and volatile from a macro-economic perspective and bank operating environment. In this session, we talk with two highly experienced acquirors and how they have successfully navigated challenges in M&A and specifically on how they have de-risked transactions, raised opportunistic capital and set the combined company up for success immediately post-closing.

  3:00 PM – 3:35 PM
  FinXTech Session: Creating a Treasury Management Strategy
  Jill Feiler, CEO, ZSuite Technologies, Inc.
  Alastair Wood, CEO, Raisin
  Jeff Zuendt, EVP, Chief Deposit and Client Officer, R&T Deposit Solutions
  Moderated by: Greg Neumann, Banking & Fintech Editor, Bank Director
  Implementing a treasury management strategy is crucial for business stability and growth. It involves optimizing cash flow, managing risk, securing funding and ensuring regulatory compliance. During this session, hear from industry experts to see if this is the right approach for your bank.

  3:45 PM – 4:20 PM
  FinXTech Session: Operational Efficiencies: Outsourcing or Offshoring?
  Nishant Khatri, Head of Banking Strategic Relationships, Acuity Knowledge Partners Inc.
  Aaron Donaldson, Financial Institutions Consulting Co-Leader, Principal, RSM US LLP
  Moderated by: Jim McAlpin, Board Member, Bank Director
  Should your bank outsource or offshore?  This question is at the forefront of enhancing operational efficiency. Outsourcing often offers cost savings and flexibility by utilizing external expertise. Offshoring extends these benefits globally, tapping into lower labor costs and round-the-clock operations. Both strategies enhance efficiency but require careful assessment of your business needs. Make sure your bank considers all of the possibilities.

  3:25 PM – 3:45 PM
  Refreshment Break
  Sponsored by:  Covington & Burling LLP
  

  3:45 PM – 4:25 PM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Participants may select one of seven concurrent breakout sessions to attend.  Sessions to be announced.

  Breakout 1: Don’t Forget the Fed! Regulatory Requirements inOwnership Transitions for Closely Held Institutions
  Doug Hiatt, Shareholder, Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.
  Caitlin Houlton Kuntz, Shareholder, Fredrikson & Byron, P.A.
  Ownership transitions, whether planned or unexpected, are unavoidable for privately-held and family-owned financial institutions, and they often trigger the need for regulatory filings or consultations under the Federal Reserve’s change-in-control or capital planning rules. This session explores typical transfer scenarios, outlines key regulatory requirements and their nuances and offers practical strategies to help institutions anticipate and manage compliance obligations effectively.
  

  Breakout 2:  High-Risk, High-Reward: Mastering the Art of Onboarding and Oversight
  Tony Repanich, President & CEO, Shield Compliance
  Onboarding and managing ongoing due diligence for high-risk customers, such as cannabis operators, money services businesses and digital asset providers, can provide operational challenges for financial institutions. This session explores strategies to reduce friction during account setup and build scalable compliance programs that improve efficiency, manage regulatory expectations and enable profitability.

  Breakout 3:  Doing An M&A Deal: M&A 101
  Gary Svec, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  You know that M&A is a vital way to grow your business – or an opportunity for an exit – but how do you do a deal?  What must you know to succeed, and what areas can cause delay or failure?  Learn the basics of M&A in this educational session.  And if you are attending the M&A simulation, this is a key session to attend.

  Breakout 4: Keys to Evaluating Strategic Alternatives & Maximizing Shareholder Value
  Chuck Stubbs, Managing Director, Financial Institutions Investment Banking, D.A. Davidson
  This session examines the considerations that boards of directors should weigh when evaluating strategic alternatives and how these choices – from capital offerings to mergers and acquisitions – can maximize shareholder value.

  Breakout 5:  Turning Data into Profit: Using Data to Evaluate Operations and Decisions
  Al Doering, Chief Lending and M&A Officer, Stearns Bank
  Laura Espeseth, Chief Administrative Officer, Bridgewater Bank
  David Heneke, Principal, CLA
  In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, banks must leverage one of their most important resources, data. This session explores how data-driven decision–making can empower banks to optimize operations better, manage risk and enhance decision–making. Attendees learn practical approaches to collecting, analyzing and applying data insights, with real-world examples tailored to the unique nature of community banking.

  Breakout 6: Modernizing With Purpose: A Community Bank’s Core Transformation Journey
  Aleda DeMaria, EVP and Chief Operating Officer, PeoplesBank
  Jeffery Kendall, CEO & Chairman, Nymbus
  Six months post-core conversion, PeoplesBank and Nymbus share results and lessons learned from becoming the largest U.S. community bank on a modern core. Explore board and regulator communication strategies, execution alignment and what’s driving new capabilities and long-term growth.

  Breakout 7: Doing Deals in the Age of Shareholder Activism
  Kevin Daniels, Managing Director, Mergers & Acquisitions: Activism and Raid Defense, BofA Securities
  Charlotte May, Partner, Covington & Burling LLP
  Samantha Kirby, Partner, Covington & Burling LLP
  Shareholder activism is at an all-time high. This session discusses current activism trends and presents strategies for maximizing the odds of getting your deal over the finish line and minimizing potential opposition. Hint: communication is key!

  4:40 PM – 5:20 PM
  Transforming Your Bank
  Sean Desmond, President & CEO, nCino
  John Martini, Philadelphia Office Managing Partner, Polsinelli
  Mark Wuchte, Principal, Risk Advisory, Baker Tilly
  Moderated by: Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  Open banking, artificial intelligence and stablecoin offer banks opportunities, but they also present challenges and risks.  During this panel discussion, hear best practices for transforming your bank for the future.

  5:20 PM – 6:20 PM
  Networking Peer & Guest Reception
  Sponsored by: FIS, HC3 and Wealth Access Inc.
  

• Day Two | Monday | February 2

  7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
  Breakfast
  Sponsored by: Crowe LLP
  

  8:00 AM – 8:10 AM
  Day Two Opening Remarks
  Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director

  8:10 AM – 8:50 AM
  The Best of RankingBanking
  James Beckwith, President & CEO, Five Star Bank
  Michael Daniels, Chairman, President & CEO, Nicolet National Bank
  Christopher Murphy III, Executive Chairman, 1st Source Corporation and 1st Source Bank
  Moderated by:  Kara Baldwin, Partner, Crowe LLP
  What does it take to become a top-performing bank?  For years, Bank Director has studied that question. In response, Bank Director created an annual report, RankingBanking, to dive into the performance of the largest publicly traded banks in the U.S.  During this panel discussion, hear from three banks that topped the most recent Bank Director’s RankingBanking study.

  8:50 AM – 9:30 AM
  What A Difference A Year Makes: The M&A Wave Is Upon Us
  Scott Anderson, Head of Investment Banking, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company
  John Asbury, CEO, Atlantic Union Bank
  Joe Gulash, Managing Director, Head of Depositories Investment Banking, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company
  Mike Maddox, President & CEO, Busey Bank
  Jim Ryan, Chairman & CEO, Old National Bancorp
  The regional and community bank M&A market has shifted decisively, with the pace of change over the last year increasing dramatically. Improved earnings visibility, continued stabilized credit, a clearer rate outlook and a rehauled regulatory environment have brought buyers back to the table.  This includes some of the largest banks in the country.  What once felt like a slow build with pauses created by macro uncertainties, has turned into a wave and conversations moving from “if” to “when.”

  9:30 AM – 10:10 AM
  The Global Impact on the Financial Industry
  Ebrahim Poonawala, Head of North America Banks Research, Bank of America
  Michael Reed, Partner, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
  Manolo Sanchez, Former Chairman & CEO, BBVA Compass
  Moderated by: Rodney Hood, International Advisory Board, SRM
  What should U.S. banks focus on regarding the evolving landscape of the global financial industry?  With technological advancements moving at lightning speed, regulatory changes and the shifting economic landscapes, it is challenging to manage the impact of global trends emerging in various markets. Further, fintech innovations are disrupting traditional banking models, enhancing efficiency and accessibility to consumers nationwide. During this session, we discuss key considerations banks should consider today.

  9:40 AM – 10:15 AM
  FinXTech Session: Driving Growth Through Small Businesses
  Laura Broderick, Chief Marketing Officer, Abrigo, Inc.
  Paul Provenzano, Head of U.S. Market, ebankIT
  Derik Sutton, Chief Marketing Officer, Autobooks
  Moderated by: Stan Viner, President, SJViner & Associates
  Small businesses that fuel our economy are the backbone of growth in our communities. They drive innovation and create jobs. How can banks best meet their small business customers where they are and serve them beyond their expectations?  Hear from experts who are helping banks drive small business growth.

  10:10 AM – 10:30 AM
  Refreshment Break
  Sponsored by:  PwC
  

  10:30 AM – 12:15 PM
  M&A Simulation
  Will Brackett, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  Grant Butler, Partner, Asset Management & Investment Funds Practice, K&L Gates LLP
  Matt Kennedy, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  Adam Smith, Partner, M&A Practice, K&L Gates LLP
  Gary Svec, Managing Director, Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC
  Rob Tammero, Partner, M&A Practice, K&L Gates LLP
  Striking a deal for a prized target has never been more competitive than it is today.  For buyers, careful discipline is required to ensure that bids are designed to accomplish acquisition growth without damaging the company’s value.  For sellers, a competitive bid process must be skillfully navigated to earn the best deal for shareholders.  In this session, participants work through the final rounds of a competitive auction involving a prized seller to see which bank emerges as the successful acquirer.  Of course, as in real deals, some wrinkles will appear.  The simulation is exclusive to 45 bank attendees only, allowing one banker per institution, no capital markets titles (this session is NOT for investment bankers of any kind) and runs concurrently with the below breakout sessions.

  10:30 AM – 11:05 AM
  FinXTech Session: Branch Transformation Strategies, Leveraging Your Brand
  Gina Bleedorn, President & CEO, Adrenaline
  David Ehlis, President & CEO, Bravera Bank
  Marcell King, President & COO, Nuuvia
  Moderated by: Lexie Garcia, Vice President of Business Development, Bank Director
  How are your branches evolving to best leverage your brand and attract audiences within your markets? How has your branch strategy changed over the last five years? New strategies focus on digital integration, personalized services, naming and branding relevance and community-centric, advisory layouts. Improve customer engagement while optimizing operations by evaluating your naming risks, enhancing technology and redesigning spaces.

  10:30 AM – 11:10 AM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Participants have the opportunity to select one of seven breakout sessions to attend.  Sessions to be announced.

  Breakout 1:  IT Integrations and Implementations: A Survival Guide for Non-IT Leaders of Closely Held Financial Institutions
  Bill Clarkin, Managing Director, RSM US LLP
  Brandon Koeser, Director, RSM US LLP
  Whether you’re staring head on at an IT integration of a recently acquired institution or your IT stack is changing to keep pace with the state of play in banking, continued operational success depends on your team’s ability to get these tall tasks done. This session demystifies the process for non-IT executives of family owned, closely held, or thinly traded Financial Institutions- what to expect, what can go wrong, and how to stay engaged. Learn to lead confidently through IT transitions and hear best practices from a former banking leader who completed over 20 post-M&A IT integrations and system implementations.

   

  Breakout 2:  M&A Master Class:  A Seasoned Acquirer and Recent Seller Share Best Practices and Lessons Learned
  Brad Elliott, Chairman & CEO, Equity Bank
  Kurt Knutson, Former CEO, Freedom Bank
  Moderated by:  Christopher Olsen, Managing Partner, Olsen Palmer LLC
  This moderated ‘fireside discussion’ with the CEOs of a seller and an acquirer reveals key findings applicable to sellers and buyers alike. For prospective sellers, learn best practices for preparing for and executing a sale, as well as characteristics that achieve a premium price. For would-be buyers, gain better insights into the seller’s mindset, the deal process and key transaction risks.

  Breakout 3: The Devil Is In the Details: Metrics for Credit & Operational Excellence
  Joe Ehrhardt, CEO & Founder, Teslar Software
  Derek Gibson, EVP, Chief Operating Officer, Legacy National Bank
  Behind every credit or operations team is a set of often overlooked metrics telling a powerful story. Drawing on real-world trends across community and regional banks, this session examines how indicators like exception percentages, collateral and policy exceptions, risk rating distributions and loan maintenance activity reveal more profound insights into operational discipline and credit health. Whether you’re preparing for acquisition or planning to scale independently, this session equips you with a sharper understanding of the KPIs that drive sustained success and how to benchmark your institution accordingly.

  Breakout 4:  Post-M&A Reality Check: Unifying Tech, Clients & Teams Without Breaking Your Wealth Group
  Scott Grauer, EVP, Wealth Management, BOK Financial and CEO, BOK Financial Securities, Inc.
  John Handy, President & CEO, Commerce Trust
  Moderated by: David Benskin, Founder & CEO, Wealth Access Inc.
  M&A growth often creates fractured tech stacks, overlapping clients and resource strain—especially for wealth teams. This session explores how boards and executives can turn post-merger chaos into strategic value by consolidating systems, aligning leadership and empowering wealth to drive non-interest income and client retention. Learn how disciplined oversight transforms integration into a competitive advantage.

  Breakout 5:  M&A Unveiled: The Essential Due Diligence Playbook for Banks
  Rob Azarow, Partner, Arnold & Porter
  Amber Hay, Partner, Arnold & Porter
  Michael Mancusi, Partner, Arnold & Porter
  Kevin Toomey, Partner, Head of Financial Services, Arnold & Porter
  Where are the potential minefields that can damage deal value, create a regulatory challenge to deal approval or mangle an integration plan? Learn about the key diligence issues and how best to tackle them, including tips on building your diligence team, conducting management interviews, pulling together the results for constructing a bid and preparing for the regulatory process taking into account the new environment under the Trump Administration.

  Breakout 6:  Where Has All The Risk Gone?  The Bond Market’s View of Community and Regional Banks
  Van Hesser, Senior Managing Director, Chief Strategist, KBRA
  Regional and community banks have been active issuers of bank debt and preferred stock over the last year amid tight credit spreads and still modest credit losses across the industry. Banks with callable debt facing steep resets and those engaged in resurgent mergers and acquisitions activity have been frequently coming to market. Against this backdrop, we explore what investors should be thinking about in today’s market for regional and community bank debt and preferred stock.

  Breakout 7: When Reversing Beliefs Bring Results
  Adela Lowers, VP, Treasury Product Manager, First Horizon Bank
  Amy Mailloux, Director of Treasury Management Sales, First Horizon Bank
  Sharon Pamuk, SVP, Head of Cash Management Sales & Product, Apple Bank
  Moderated by: Jill Feiler, CEO, ZSuite Technologies, Inc.
  Effective leaders know that changing your mind isn’t a weakness, it’s a strategy. In this session, bank and fintech executives share key beliefs they’ve reversed in recent years. Then, they discuss how those shifts are shaping their forward plans. With real-time audience polling and candid insights, this conversation blends reflection with foresight – helping you rethink what’s possible in 2026 and beyond.

  11:15 AM – 11:50 AM
  FinXTech Session: Strengthening your Bank’s Defenses
  Steve Durney, VP, Partnerships and Alliances, Quavo, Inc.
  Daniel Haisley, Senior Vice President of Product Management, CSI
  Matt Sickles, Executive Strategist, CDW
  Moderated by: Sal Inserra, Senior Advisor, Bank Director
  In today’s digital landscape, protecting sensitive financial data from cyber threats and fraud is not just a necessity – it’s a business imperative. Financial institutions need to implement advanced security and compliance measures while maintaining a seamless customer experience. This panel explores how leading organizations are leveraging technology partnerships, innovative solutions to reduce risks, enhance fraud detection and resolution to safeguard both customer trust and financial assets.

  11:25 AM – 12:05 PM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Conversations continue with a second round of morning breakout sessions — participants select one of seven concurrent opportunities to engage with industry leaders. Sessions to be announced.

  Breakout 1: Corporate Governance for the Privately-Held Community Bank: What Boards and Management Need to Know
  David Hooper, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
  John Martin, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
  Syd Whitlock, President, The New Washington State Bank
  This session explores the critical aspects of corporate governance tailored specifically for privately-held community banks. Attendees gain insights into best practices for proper board size, board recruitment and retention matters, shareholder engagement, shareholder liquidity programs, taking advantage of expansion opportunities and managing technological developments. Key strategies for enhancing governance structures and ensuring effective oversight will be discussed to strengthen both performance and community impact.

  Breakout 2:  From Reactive to Predictive: Build Winning Deposit Products That Drive Loyalty and Revenue
  Rob Armour, EVP, Chief Marketing & Product Development Officer, BankPlus
  Dave DeFazio, Chief Strategy Officer, StrategyCorps
  Herber de Ruijter, Chief Product Officer, StrategyCorps
  The fastest-growing banks aren’t winning with rates alone. They’re winning with more innovative strategies that unlock hidden deposit revenue, prevent leakage and drive loyalty through data-led decisions. In this forward-looking session, see how leading banks design deposit products and pricing strategies that turn transactional data into actionable growth and walk away with a roadmap you can use immediately.

  Breakout 3: Strengthening Credit Resilience: Processes, Contingencies and Culture
  Raleigh Green, VP, Credit Risk Management, Bank Independent
  David Ruffin, Principal, IntelliCredit, A Division of Infusion Marketing Group
  Preparing for periods of weaker credit performance is an enduring risk management protocol – and has clear implications on credit marks in potential M&A activity. The uncertainties of the past few years have given industry experts reason for concern, particularly following such a long period of benign performance. In this co-presentation, an experienced and practical banker joins IntelliCredit to share tangible strategies and processes to help mitigate portfolio deterioration – emphasizing the role of a robust, consistent credit culture as a key driver of resilience.

  Breakout 4: Developments in Stablecoin
  Gary Bronstein, Partner, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP
  The Genius Act has been enacted into law, which could have a profound effect on the payment system in the United States. Banks need to be informed whether or not your bank becomes an issuer of stablecoin. The goal of this session is to provide bank leadership with the necessary information on the subject.

  Breakout 5:  Tech-Enabled Agility: Transforming Deposit Management to Stay Competitive
  Kevin Bannerton, EVP, Chief Business Development Officer, R&T Deposit Solutions
  How can banks build the agility needed to transform deposit and liquidity management for lasting competitiveness in a rapidly changing regulatory and market landscape? Join R&T’s Kevin Bannerton to explore how technology is driving smarter funding strategies, sharper balance sheet optimization and stronger compliance alignment. Through real-world case studies, discover how institutions are diversifying funding sources, leveraging insured sweep networks, complementing overnight funding with flexible term options and implementing enterprise-wide solutions that enhance resilience, adaptability and growth in today’s dynamic environment.

  Breakout 6: Beyond the Branch: Redefining Relationship Banking for the Digital Era
  Matt Longmeyer, Chief Information Officer, Bank First
  Brendan Marston, Chief Operations Officer, Bank First
  Moderated by: Matt Phipps, Chief Marketing Officer, Agent IQ
  As consolidation accelerates, the banks that win will be those that build deeper relationships, not just bigger balance sheets. This session explores how relationship banking can evolve across four critical stages: acquisition, adoption, expansion and retention to drive sustainable growth. Attendees learn how forward-thinking institutions are translating the personal connection of the branch into digital channels and how AI can enhance these efforts by identifying key moments, personalizing outreach and scaling authentic engagement.

  Breakout 7: Technology’s Impact on Shareholder Value
  Mark DeFazio, President & CEO, Metropolitan Commercial Bank
  Brad Smith, Partner, Cornerstone Advisors
  In the past decade, the investment and utilization of technology have moved from an operational concern to a pressing strategic focus. While no significant correlation exists between technology investment and bank shareholder returns, smarter banks are actively managing technology to truly drive value creation. Join us as Cornerstone Partner Brad Smith shares Cornerstone research in how banks drive shareholder value through technology by gaining operating leverage, deepening customer relationships and supporting niche growth strategies.

  12:00 PM – 1:05 PM
  Networking Lunch
  Sponsored by:  Quantum Six
  

  12:00 PM – 1:05 PM
  Women in Leadership Luncheon
  Sponsored by:  Mastercard
  Expanding on the Women in Leadership Reception held on Saturday, this is an opportunity for women to come together over lunch.  Both men and women are invited to attend this luncheon.

  1:05 PM – 1:30 PM
  What We Learned from Bank Director’s 2026 Bank M&A Survey
  Emily McCormick, Vice President of Editorial & Research, Bank Director
  Naomi Snyder, Editor-in-Chief, Bank Director
  Patrick Vernon, Partner, Crowe LLP
  Renewed merger activity in 2025 has increased the appetite for M&A in 2026, driven by factors including scale, improved currency and a desire for low-cost deposits and high-growth markets. In this interactive session, participants will weigh in on today’s dealmaking environment and dig deeper into the results of Bank Director’s annual Bank M&A Survey.

  1:30 PM – 2:10 PM
  Stories & Best Practices From Your Peers
  Randy Chesler, President & CEO, Glacier Bancorp
  Lynn Harton, Chairman & CEO, United Community Banks, Inc.
  Steve Steinour, Chairman, President & CEO, Huntington Bancshares Incorporated
  Moderated by: Jack Milligan, Editor-at-Large, Bank Director
  During this session, hear from leading banks from across the country as they share their insights and experiences.

  2:25 PM – 3:05 PM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Participants may select from one of six breakout sessions to attend.  Sessions to be announced.

  Breakout 1:  Community Bank M&A – Getting to “Yes” Faster
  Scott Coleman, Partner, Ballard & Spahr LLP
  Kenneth Haglund, Partner, Ballard & Spahr LLP
  Beau Hurtig, Of Counsel, Ballard & Spahr LLP
  This session covers the key provisions in a definitive agreement from the perspective of a community bank buyer and seller, including the representations and warranties, operating covenants and terms of indemnification. We explore the points of friction and emerging trends in M&A transactions and offer practical strategies to streamline negotiations, bridge gaps between parties and maintain deal momentum.

  Breakout 2: Harnessing Hedging: Driving Growth, Deepening Relationships and Strengthening the Balance Sheet
  Todd Cuppia, Managing Director, Balance Sheet Risk Management, Chatham Financial
  Ray Reitsma, President & CEO, Mercantile Bank
  Kalen Van Maanen, Managing Director, Chatham Financial
  Explore how community and regional banks are using hedging strategies to fuel growth, enhance client relationships and manage risk with confidence. This session highlights how customer hedging programs can expand commercial lending opportunities and improve pricing flexibility, while strategic balance sheet hedging supports disciplined risk management and long-term performance.
  

  Breakout 3:  Assessing the Competitive Landscape and Impact on Bank Capital Raising and M&A Activity
  Nathan Stovall, Director of Financial Institutions Research, S&P Global Market Intelligence
  Hear the outlook for the operating environment for U.S. banks and how competition, including from nonbanks such as private credit firms and fintechs, will impact bank profitability. This session focuses on drivers of deposit costs and loan growth, while also identifying early warnings for potential credit deterioration. Attendees also hear how changes in the fundamental and regulatory environment are impacting bank valuations, capital raising and M&A activity.

  Breakout 4: Rethinking CDs in the Digital Age: Turning a Classic Product into a Modern Growth Engine
  Mary Grace Roske, Head of Marketing and Communications, CD Valet
  Learn how the $2 trillion Retail CD market is being reshaped in the digital age — and what that means for both consumers, financial institutions and you. CDs account for nearly 15% of all bank deposits, with large average balances and strong appeal among high-net-worth individuals. Yet despite their value, CDs often get little attention from the bank C-suite. This session explores how digital innovation is transforming this overlooked product into a modern engine for growth, client acquisition and balance sheet stability.

  Breakout 5: The Evolution of Embedded Finance
  Brock Blake, Co-Founder & CEO, Lendio
  Matt Schneider, Managing Director, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company
  David Wexler, CEO, PortX
  Discover how embedded finance is reshaping the competitive landscape at lightning speed. Join leading fintech innovators as they unpack the power of data connectivity and seamless integration across the fintech ecosystem, explore how strategic partnerships can unlock new revenue streams and boost customer monetization and explain why interoperability is the ultimate future-proofing strategy for institutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and stay ahead in the embedded finance revolution.
  

  Breakout 6: M&A as a Line of Business
  Aaron DiRusso, Managing Director, Raymond James Financial, Inc.
  Jude Melville, CEO, b1BANK
  Matthew Paramore, Managing Director, Raymond James Financial, Inc.
  Clint Stein, President & CEO, Columbia Banking System
  Join this moderated discussion with two experienced acquirers of bank and non-bank fee businesses. The conversation covers best practices, lessons learned and an assessment of the current environment.
  

  2:25 PM – 3:05 PM
  FinXTech Session: The Advantages of Acquiring a Fintech
  Shehzad Ashfaq, Principal, Deloitte
  Keith Gruebele, EVP, Institutional Relationships, BHG Financial
  Tom Witherspoon, Partner, Stinson LLP
  Moderated by: Bill Herrell, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
  A bank acquiring a fintech offers transformative advantages, delivering innovation and agility. This synergy can enhance digital capabilities, streamline operations and provide customer solutions. By leveraging fintech’s cutting-edge products, banks gain a competitive edge, driving growth and strengthening their market position in our rapidly evolving industry.

  3:05 PM – 3:25 PM
  Refreshment Break
  Sponsored by:  Ludwig Advisors
  

  3:25 PM – 4:05 PM
  FinXTech Session: A New Era of Digital Currency
  Chris Dean, CEO & Co-Founder, Treasury Prime
  Jon Eisenstein, SVP, Digital Assets and Embedded Finance, FIS
  Soumya Johar, Senior Director, Visa USA Inc.
  Moderated by: Naomi Snyder, Editor-in-Chief, Bank Director
  The GENIUS Act has passed, creating a U.S.-regulated stablecoin. What does the future hold, and how can your bank best prepare for what lies ahead regarding digital assets?  The session dives into the need-to-knows, and how to rethink crypto-related offerings.

  3:25 PM – 4:05 PM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Conversations continue with a second round of afternoon breakout sessions — participants select one of six concurrent opportunities to learn.

  Breakout 1: The Strategic and Competitive Advantage of AI: What Community Bankers Should Know
  Canh Tran, CEO & Co-Founder, Rippleshot
  Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Generative AI are reshaping financial services today. Whether you’re exploring AI’s potential or advancing current initiatives, this session provides strategic insights to navigate this transformation confidently. Discover the latest AI trends impacting banking, from operational efficiency to enhanced customer experiences. Attendees learn about real-world implementation examples, understand key opportunities and risks and learn a practical framework for evaluating AI solutions.

  Breakout 2: The Regulatory Pendulum – What it Means for Banks
  Christopher Wolfe, Managing Director, Head of North American Banks, Fitch Ratings, Inc.
  The regulatory pendulum is in full swing, and understanding this new paradigm is critical. In many respects, so far, it has been a return to the status quo ante. Regulatory relief may go further this time and could have implications for banks of all sizes. The session breaks down key areas of regulatory focus and what this means for banks, with a reminder that the pendulum can swing back the other way.

  Breakout 3:  Ahead of the Curve: Why High-Performing Hedging Programs Excel as Others Falter
  David Cortes, Head of Capital Markets & Corporate Treasurer, SmartBank
  Frank Fiorilli, Managing Director of Bank Solutions, Derivative Path, Inc.
  Isaac Wheeler, Managing Director of Balance Sheet Strategy, Derivative Path, Inc.
  The majority of banks over $1B in assets now have a derivatives capability – but having the tool in the toolkit is no longer enough. This session unpacks what the best hedging programs get right and what pitfalls to avoid as we navigate a persistently volatile interest rate environment.

  Breakout 4:  Better Management Data Starts with Better Data Management
  Barry Adcock, Senior Performance Strategy Consultant, Quantalytix, Inc.
  Christopher Aliotta, CEO, Quantalytix, Inc.
  What if better executive decisions aren’t about more data—but better data management? Learn how to build an enterprise data strategy that improves transparency, defines ownership and delivers management-ready visuals. Walk away with practical steps to ensure consistency, access and alignment — so your data becomes a true strategic asset for smarter decisions.

  Breakout 5: Profits in Plain Sight – How C-Corps Can Reduce Their Income Tax Expense by 10%
  Bill Hoving, SVP, Business Development, KeyState
  Eric Newell, SEVP & Chief Financial Officer, EagleBank
  You work hard to maximize pre-tax earnings, yet income tax expense remains one of your largest and least-managed expenses. With a more intentional approach, banks can meaningfully reduce this expense…and do so without locking up liquidity, committing capital long-term or adding staff. This session explores practical strategies, including renewable-energy tax credits, that can lower effective tax rates by 10% or more and deliver lasting value to shareholders.

  Breakout 6: AI in Action: How ChatGPT and Claude Can Power Deposit Growth & Primacy
  Mike Butler, CEO, Grasshopper Bank
  Nikhil Lakhanpal, Co-Founder, Narmi
  How long will the banking industry wait on AI? In this session, we discuss how the Model Context Protocol (MCP), a groundbreaking approach to securely connect data to large language models (LLMs), provides banks the rare opportunity to truly be at the forefront of a shift – not just in the banking industry but in how the average person engages with the internet. We discuss how a MCP integration immediately unlocks three key variables for your bank: visibility, ease of use and unprecedented financial insights through a conversational approach.

   

  4:20 PM – 5:00 PM
  Succession Planning: Building the Next Generation of Talent
  Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Chair of the Board, blueharbor bank
  Andrea Short, President & CEO, 1st Source Bank
  Krista Snelling, President & CEO, West Coast Community Bank
  Additional Speaker to be Announced
  Moderated by: Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  We recognize that developing the next generation of talent is crucial for any business’s success, and this is particularly true for our industry. By investing in training and development, banks can cultivate innovative leaders. Emphasizing diversity and creative thinking ensures adaptability in a changing market. Hear advice from industry leaders as we explore new ideas to build your bank’s future team.

  5:00 PM – 5:40 PM
  Risks & Strategic Challenges for 2026
  David Dunn, Chief Risk Officer, FIS
  Craig Sanders, Principal, Baker Tilly
  Joe VanFleet, Member & Chair Financial Institutions Practice, Howard & Howard
  Moderated by: Sal Inserra, Senior Advisor, Bank Director
  Fighting fraud, protecting the bank from cyberattacks, regulatory challenges, compliance and liquidity risks were all top concerns facing financial institutions, according to the respondents of Bank Director’s 2025 Risk Survey. During this session, hear from industry leaders as they share how financial institutions can combat and plan for these challenges on the road ahead.

  5:40 PM – 6:40 PM
  Networking Peer & Guest Reception
  Sponsored by:  Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
  

• Day Three | Tuesday | February 3

  7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
  Breakfast
  Sponsored by:  PwC
  

  8:00 AM – 8:10 AM
  Day Three Opening Remarks
  Michelle King,CEO, Bank Director
  Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director
  Today, we focus on perspectives that have not already been shared on the first two days of the conference – and we look into forces outside of our industry that may have profound implications.

  8:10 AM – 8:40 AM
  Strategically Reallocating Capital
  John Roddy, Head of Financial Services Investment Banking, Raymond James Financial, Inc.
  Brennan Ryan, Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
  Moderated by: Bill Herrell, Executive Vice President & Managing Director, Bank Director
  Private equity’s revolving activity enables banks to unlock value through investment cycles. These cycles can generate returns by strategically reallocating capital, which can enhance bank portfolios. In a volatile market, private equity remains a dynamic tool, offering substantial opportunities for financial institutions to thrive. This session explores these opportunities.

  8:40 AM – 9:10 AM
  Emerging Payment Trends
  Dan Hanks, Senior VP, Global Product Management, i2c, Inc.
  Bob Rohr, Managing Director, Payments Strategy, SRM
  Matt Wilcox, Deputy Head & President Digital Payments, Fiserv, Inc.
  Moderated by: Naomi Snyder, Editor-in-Chief, Bank Director
  During this session panelists unpack current trends shaping the future of transactions.  From buy-now, pay later to digital wallets and real-time payments, discover the key strategies your financial institution needs to stay competitive and meet evolving consumer expectations.

  9:10 AM – 9:40 AM
  Ask Me Anything!
  Jacque Kruppa, Partner, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP
  Mac Thompson, CEO & Founder, White Clay
  Dory Wiley, President & CEO, Commerce Street Capital, LLC
  Moderated by: Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  See what’s top of mind for attendees at this year’s Acquire or Be Acquired Conference! During this interactive live polling session, attendees can ask our panel of industry experts questions based on what they’ve learned over the past two days. Join this session for a lively discussion on the issues, opportunities and challenges facing banks today!

  9:40 AM – 10:00 AM
  Refreshment Break
  Sponsored by:  Dinsmore & Shohl LLP
  

  10:00 AM – 10:40 AM
  Breakout Sessions (select one)
  Conversations conclude with a final round of breakout sessions — participants select one of six concurrent opportunities to learn.

  Breakout 2:  Digital Transformation Gut Check – What It Really Takes to Succeed
  Alec Dicks, Partner, Chief People Transformationist, Alacrity Partners
  Steve Monahan, Partner, Chief Enterprise Transformationist, Alacrity Partners
  Most banks are investing heavily in transformation to compete in the digital era, but are they set up for success? With 70% of transformations estimated to fail (McKinsey), this session offers a practical framework to assess whether your efforts are on track, at risk or need rethinking.

  Breakout 2: Executive-Driven Growth: Turn Marketing Insight into Action
  Ben Udell, SVP Product Marketing & Innovation, Marquis
  Executives don’t need more marketing; they need marketing that’s measurable, accountable and tied to growth. This session explores how leaders are turning marketing data into actionable insight that delivers ROI, drives alignment and powers growth across the organization. Learn how your peers are transforming marketing into a modern, bank–wide growth engine powered by strategic clarity, metrics and executive leadership.

  Breakout 3: Intro to Bitcoin for Banking Leaders
  Andrew Begin, Chief Strategy Officer, Galoy Inc.
  Bitcoin’s steady rise in global adoption is changing the way people store and move money. As regulations catch up, banking decision makers have a unique opportunity to take advantage of the changing financial landscape. In this session, learn the fundamentals of Bitcoin and discover how forward-looking banks are using it to increase deposits and margins, generate new revenue streams and meet the expectations of tomorrow’s customers.

  Breakout 4:  Safely Leveraging AI to Enhance Efficiency and Compliance as the Foundation to Strategic Growth
  Ronny Chapman, AI Strategist and Partner, Encore Bank
  Amy Ferguson, Communications Manager, TruStage Compliance Solutions
  Erin Simpson, EVP, Chief Operations Officer, Encore Bank
  Join TruStage Compliance Solutions and Encore Bank in a candid discussion on how they are using AI to enhance compliance accuracy and operational efficiency. This session highlights how AI can scale reviews, reduce manual burden and support regulatory adherence without compromising human oversight or service quality.

  Breakout 5: Mastering the Margin: High-Impact Strategies for Sustainable Profitability
  Dick Burch, Performance Banking Consultant, Deluxe Corporation
  Set sail from the shores of low Net Interest Margin (NIM) and chart a course toward profitability. Leverage strategic tools like disciplined loan pricing, cost-effective deposit strategies and a performance-driven culture to elevate your NIM. Discover how to take command of your financial journey and navigate confidently to the far side of the margin.

  Breakout 6: Digital Deposit Growth: Unlocking New Customers and Deepening Relationships
  Len Eschweiler, Chief Revenue Officer, FIS Amount
  As deposit competition grows, banks need profitable ways to attract and retain customers. This session explores innovative digital strategies for new account growth and deeper relationships. Learn how data-driven engagement, optimized account opening, and targeted product design can convert short-term rate seekers into long-term loyal clients. Gain practical insights to fuel sustainable, digital-first deposit growth.

  10:55 AM – 11:25 AM
  What’s Next On The Bank Policy Horizon
  Randal Quarles, former Vice Chairman, Federal Reserve System
  Moderated by: Rob Blackwell, Chief Content Officer & Head of External Affairs, IntraFi
  Join us for a fireside chat with Randal Quarles, the first Vice Chair of Banking Supervision at the Federal Reserve. He discusses the outlook for bank M&A, the economic environment for 2026 and a discussion of the policy issues facing financial services.

  11:25 AM – 11:30 AM
  Parting Thoughts
  Michelle King, CEO, Bank Director
  Laura Schield, President & COO, Bank Director

  1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  L. William Seidman Annual Acquire or Be Acquired Golf Tournament
  Sponsored by:  FHLBank Atlanta and Saris AI
  Enjoy the afternoon playing golf with your peers during Bank Director’s annual L. William Seidman Golf Tournament. The tournament is available to registered conference attendees and is limited to 144 players. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note: Additional registration is required and additional fees apply. Be sure to reserve your spot today!

  1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  Let’s Play Pickleball!
  Sponsored by:  KlariVis
  Whether you have never played before or you are a seasoned player, this activity is for you. All participants are grouped by experience level for a tournament, and those who are new to the sport enjoy a Beginners Clinic. This afternoon’s activity is available to registered attendees and is limited to 136 players. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note: Additional registration is required and fees apply. Be sure to reserve your spot today!

  5:45 PM – 7:00 PM
  Closing Peer & Guest Reception
  Sponsored by:  FHLBank Atlanta, KlariVis and Saris AI
  Attendees and their guests join in the fun to see who the winners of the L. William Seidman Golf Tournament and the Pickleball Tournament are!

Award-winning AAA 4-Diamond JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa welcomes guests to its beautiful 316 acres in the Sonoran Desert. This luxury resort will take you to a place where luxury, personal services, invigorating recreation and excellent dining are abundant. This premier resort also impresses with the award-winning Revive Spa and championship Wildfire Golf Club, home to the LPGA Founders Cup. Relax and enjoy the company of friends and family indoors or outside on one of many patios with inviting fire pits overlooking the resort’s waterways. Among the leading North Phoenix resorts and resorts near TPC Scottsdale, the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is your one-stop vacation haven.

Discounted Hotel Rate
The room block at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge is currently sold out. However, rooms may become available closer to the time of the event. If you are a registered attendee and want to be added to the hotel waitlist, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

Bank Director has a room block at the below properties for attendees of the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference until January 9, 2026. The room blocks at the Hyatt Place and Hyatt House are currently sold out. However, rooms may become available closer to the time of the event. Please continue to check the links below for room openings:

Hyatt Place North Scottsdale (group code G-BNKD)
Hyatt House North Scottsdale (group code G-BNKH)

When booking online, be sure to select check-in on January 31, 2026, and check-out on February 3, 2026, as these are the only dates available within our block. The group code will auto-populate in the designated field.

A minimum stay of three (3) nights is required to book a room within the event block (check-in: January 31, 2026, and check-out: February 3, 2026). The last day to cancel with a refund is January 9, 2026. After this date, the three (3) night stay is non-refundable, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

The Hyatt Place North Scottsdale and Hyatt House North Scottsdale are at the same address and are located 10 minutes (4.5 miles) away from the host venue, and the cost is $313/night for a standard room.

Bank Director is providing a complimentary shuttle running between the JW Marriott Desert Ridge and the Hyatt Place/House North Scottsdale every 15 minutes, morning and evening, during peak event times starting Saturday 1/31 evening through Tuesday 2/3 afternoon.

Should you wish to make room reservations now, below is a list of other nearby properties:
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Phoenix North – Scottsdale
4575 East Irma Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85054
1.1 miles away
877-570-9579

Hilton Garden Inn North Phoenix Scottsdale
4425 East Irma Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85054
1.1 miles away
480-585-6644

Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Desert View at Mayo Clinic
5665 East Mayo Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85054
1.6 miles away
480-563-1500

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
7575 East Princess Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
3.9 miles away
480-585-4848

SpringHill Suites Scottsdale North
17020 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
3.7 miles away
480-922-8700

Marriott’s Canyon Villas
5220 East Marriott Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85054
0.4 miles away
844-631-0595

Marriott Courtyard Scottsdale North
17010 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
3.8 miles away
480-922-8400

Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix/Scottsdale
16620 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
3.9 miles away
480-348-9280

For more information, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

• Who should attend the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference?

  With over 1,900 industry leaders joining us in 2025, this annual event is created specifically for those executives leading U.S. financial institutions, specifically Chief Executive Officers, Chair of the Board, Board Members, Presidents, Chief Operating Officers, Chief Financial Officers, Chief Risk Officers, Chief Compliance Officers, Chief Technology Officers, Chief Marketing Officers, Heads of Retail, Heads of Lending, Heads of Strategy and Senior Management of financial institutions.

• Why should I attend the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference?

  Since 1995, Bank Director’s Acquire or Be Acquired Conference has been widely regarded as the financial industry’s premier bank growth and strategy event. Beyond M&A, bank executives, members of the board and financial leaders have attended the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference for more than 30 years to get advice from knowledgeable advisors through no-nonsense interactive sessions that help them explore various growth options. This conference addresses the most critical and timely issues facing banks year after year.

• How much does the in person conference cost, and what does this fee cover?

  The standard individual registration rate for bankers is $2,795. This fee includes all conference activities, materials, meals and beverages at the event site. This price does not include travel or hotel accommodations.

• Where can I register for the Acquire or Be Acquired Conference?

  You may register online or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

• Who is eligible to book a room within the hotel room block?

  Only registered attendees of the 2026 Acquire or Be Acquired Conference are eligible to book a room within the hotel room block. Audits will be conducted throughout the year, and any hotel reservations made by non-registered individuals will be removed from the block.

• What is the minimum stay requirement?

  The hotel room block is currently sold out. However, should rooms become available, a minimum stay of three (3) nights is required to book a room within the event block (check-in January 31, 2026, and check-out February 3, 2026).

• How do I book my hotel reservation?

  The hotel room block is currently sold out. However, rooms may become available closer to the time of the event. If you are a registered attendee and want to be added to the hotel waitlist, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

• Is a deposit required to book my hotel reservation?

  Yes. A deposit equal to three (3) nights’ room charges will be charged to the card on file at the time of booking rooms in the hotel room block. This charge will appear within approximately one (1) week of making the reservation.

• What is the hotel cancellation and refund policies?
  • The last day to cancel with a refund is January 9, 2026.
  • After January 9, 2026, the three (3) night stay is non-refundable, regardless of the reason for cancellation.
  • Late arrivals, no-shows and early departures will be charged for the full three (3) nights’ stay with no exceptions. If you anticipate arriving late, please notify the hotel in advance to ensure your reservation is held.
• What if I anticipate checking in late to the hotel the day of my reservation?

  If you expect to arrive late, please notify the hotel in advance to ensure your reservation is held.

• What happens if there are unregistered people who want a room at the hotel?

  Only registered attendees are permitted to book hotel rooms in the event room block. We will conduct hotel audits throughout the year, and if you are not a registered attendee, your hotel reservation will be released.

• What if I need to cancel my in-person reservation at the conference?

  Due to commitments and expenses, all cancellations after December 5, 2025, will be subject to a $500 processing fee. We regret that no refunds will be given after January 9, 2026; however, substitute participants are welcome. DirectorCorps, Inc. assumes no liability for any nonrefundable travel, hotel or related expenses incurred by registrants. For more information regarding refunds, to register, concerns and/or program cancellation policies, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.

• Is there a guest program?

  Yes. The guest rate of $595 covers Sunday lunch and all receptions at the JW Marriott. If a guest would like to attend the sessions, please register them as attendees. All guests must have a name badge to be admitted to these events. A guest is a spouse, significant other or friend who is not in a financial services occupation. A co-worker (even a spouse co-worker) or an associate within the financial services industry is not considered a guest and should register as an attendee.

  The guest program fee does not include participation in Tuesday’s golf or pickleball tournaments. Guests interested in playing with attendees in the golf and pickleball tournaments can sign up based on space availability. The additional fee for guests to play golf is $200, and the additional fee for guests to play pickleball is $50. Both include lunch; however, it does not include rental clubs or other expenses.

• As a non-banker (sponsor and/or vendor) attendee, are there any guidelines to follow?

  Below are a list of guidelines for non-banker attendees:

  • Pass-sharing is not allowed.
  • Non-registered employees will not be allowed on hotel property for meetings, promotions or any other reason without prior permission from Bank Director.
  • Business casual attire is the dress code for the conference.
  • When promoting the event, any reference to the conference should be “Bank Director’s Acquire or Be Acquired • Conference” or “Bank Director’s AOBA Conference.”
  • All attendees agree not to host or promote events occurring during conference hours.
• How can I sign up for the golf tournament on Tuesday, February 3?

  The golf tournament fee is $200 for all registered conference attendees. Pre-registration is required for participation. We can accept a max of 144 players on a first-come, first-served basis. Rental clubs and shoes are available to participants at their expense through the Wildfire Golf Club. The cost is $100 plus tax for rental clubs and rental shoes cost $35 plus tax. Please indicate your club and shoe needs when registering for the conference online. Registration for the golf tournament is included in the event registration form. Simply select that you would like to attend the tournament and the fee will be added at checkout.

• Is CPE credit available for this conference?

  DirectorCorps, Inc., the parent company of Bank Director, is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website:www.nasbaregistry.org. Visit their information page for CPE learning objectives, program levels, prerequisites, recommended credits and complaint resolutions.

  All of Bank Director’s education programs are classified as “Basic” program level with no pre-requisites or advance preparation required for participation in these events. All events fall under “Group-Live” delivery method. At the event, attendees will be required to keep a time sheet, and attendance at sessions will be monitored in order for attendees to receive the appropriate number of credits and a certificate of completion following the event. Please contact Bank Director at events@bankdirector.com for more information regarding this program and on the number of credits awarded for this event.

• What is the policy for audio & video recordings at the conference?

  Audio and/or video recordings of the presentations made at this conference are expressly forbidden unless advance written consent has been obtained from both Bank Director and the presenter(s) to be recorded. Bank Director may conduct audio and/or video recordings during a session. Bank Director owns the rights to all such recordings.

• What is your suitcasing policy?

  Suitcasing is the act of soliciting business by non-exhibiting companies during the event or in other public spaces, including another company’s booth, exhibit hall or hotel lobby. It is Bank Director’s objective to do everything possible to protect its exhibitors and bank attendees from suitcasing.

  For more information, please email events@bankdirector.com or call our events department at 877-397-7595.