Agenda

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.

9:45 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.

10:25 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: Concentration Management, Optionality and M&A Flexibility
Jorge Puente, Co-Head FIG Strategies, Managing Director, Cantor Fitzgerald
Chris Sanger, Head of FIG, Managing Director, Cantor Fitzgerald
Ryan Smith, Co-Head FIG Strategies, Managing Director, Cantor Fitzgerald
Join the Cantor financial institutions team to discuss balance sheet management ideas that drive valuation, improve long-term performance and support M&A execution. Identifying and managing concentrations – whether excess exposure or underinvestment – continues to be a driving factor for investors, regulators and acquisitive leaders in the depository space. Review case studies on loan securitizations, M&A restructuring, portfolio dispositions, capital allocation and risk transfer tools and learn how these tactics directly influence strategic flexibility, stakeholder returns and deal economics.

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
Erika Small, EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Studio Bank
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.

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.

2:45 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 Alexander, 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.

3:25 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.

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
Andrea Short, President & CEO, 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
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.

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. You may sign up for the simulation when registering for the event.

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: Insider Insights: 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.

11:25 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, President, Credit Risk Solutions, OptimaFI (formerly Infusion)
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: Soren Bested, Chief Operating 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. 

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: Strengthening the Balance Sheet, Deepening Relationships and Driving Growth
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.

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

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
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

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 1:  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!