Agenda
Sessions may be updated and agenda is subject to change.
Registration and Breakfast
6:30-8:15 a.m.
Morning Plenary Session
Welcome Remarks
Scott Anderson, Board Chair, Zions Bank
Paul Burdiss, President and CEO, Zions Bank
8:30 a.m.
The Economic Impacts of Utah’s International Exports
Natalie Gochnour, Associate Dean; Director, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, University of Utah
Utah’s economy is one of the most diverse in the nation, and global trade and exports remain key components of the state’s economic dynamism. Hear the latest updates on the economic impacts of Utah’s international exports from Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute’s Director Natalie Gochnour.
8:40 a.m.
Making Utah the Crossroads of the World
Jonathan Freedman, President and CEO, World Trade Center Utah
Being globally minded is Utah’s competitive edge. Building on the moniker “crossroads of the West,” Utah has established itself as a global hub through large infrastructure initiatives as well as its population’s natural propensity for collaboration.
8:50 a.m.
The Future of Utah: Economic Prospects and the Startup State Initiative
Governor Spencer J. Cox, 18th Governor, State of Utah
Governor Spencer J. Cox will present an overview of Utah's economic landscape, highlighting its current vitality and future growth prospects. The 10-year forecast will spotlight transformative events like the prospective 2034 Winter Olympic Games, the state's development into a sports hub, and the completion of a new international airport. Additionally, Governor Cox will introduce the Startup State Initiative, a significant project intended to position Utah as a favorable location for emerging startups.
9:00 a.m.
Zions Global Pacesetter Award
9:15 a.m.
Strengthening Trade Relations with Our Southern Neighbor: Mexico
Vicente Fox, 62nd President of Mexico
Moderated by Don Salazar, Chairman, United States Hispanic Business Council
Explore the ever-evolving relationship between the U.S. and Mexico. From cultural bonds to economic alliances, this conversation will emphasize Mexico’s essential role as a primary U.S. trading partner. Our speakers will also explore the potential for U.S.-Mexico collaboration in innovative fields like renewable energy, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
9:30 a.m.
Strengthening Trade Relations with Our Northern Neighbor: Canada
Stephen Harper, 22nd Prime Minister of Canada
Moderated by Derek Miller, President and CEO, Salt Lake Chamber
The relationship between the United States and Canada, with nearly $2.6 billion in goods and services transiting our shared border daily, is a dynamic one. This bilateral trade relationship underpins millions of jobs in both nations. Through collaboration on supply chain resilience, critical minerals, and advanced manufacturing, we’re fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for talent development.
9:50 a.m.
The Power of North America
Vicente Fox, 62nd President of Mexico
Stephen Harper, 22nd Prime Minister of Canada
Moderated by Mark Garfield, Director of Global Financial Institutions, Zions Bancorporation
How can we more effectively capitalize on the unique strengths of Canada, the U.S., and Mexico? This conversation will delve into the impact of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement and explore its potential for positive change. At this critical juncture, we will address pressing issues around immigration and labor, aiming to strategize for mutual prosperity.
10:10 a.m.
Morning Breakout Sessions
10:45–11:25 a.m.
Leveraging International Expansion to Climb New Heights
Peter Metcalf, Founder, Black Diamond Equipment
Daniel Pische, National Director of Trade Finance, SBA
Moderated by J. Golden Moore, SVP, International Banking, Zions Bank
This panel will explore using global expansion to increase revenues and market share, obtaining new levels of volume to help your company keep up in a very competitive market and build a superior product. You will learn about local and federal resources available to avoid pitfalls and giving up too much control of your business to mismatched investors. It will discuss other global venture funding, including manufacturing grants, the SBA’s State Trade Expansion Program, and government guarantee programs to help you achieve your goals. How to face distribution, partnering, licensing, dead-end pricing obstacles and succession planning. You will receive tips on working with influencers and leveraging contracts to obtain more capital. The session is ideal for those navigating international business expansion.
Venezia
The Nexus of Geopolitics and Industry
Scott Baum, COO, SEMPRE TECHNOLOGIES
Larry Smith, Senior Advisor, Tokyo Electron
Moderated by Corey Johnston, Head of Strategy, Strider Technologies
This panel delves into the delicate balance between geopolitics and industry, including the impact of the 2016 China policy shift. Our expert panelists will discuss industrial challenges, future prospects, and the balance between decoupling and globalization in today's politically intricate yet interconnected world.
Savoy
Opportunities in Global Markets
John Tuttle, Vice Chairman, New York Stock Exchange ; President, New York Stock Exchange Institute
Moderated by Michael MacDonald, Managing Director, Zions Capital Markets
This panel will feature John Tuttle from NYSE and will explore global M&A trends, IPOs, SPACs, and the path to going public. Gain a wealth of insights into the world of global finance and market trends. Tuttle will discuss the global impact of companies listed on the Exchange, policy implications, the future of foreign acquisitions of U.S. firms, the role of blockchain in ETFs, investor trends, public markets vs. private equity, and dynamics in Asia, among other topics.
Grand Salon
U.S. Strategic Interests & Opportunities in Emerging Markets'
Mateo Goldman, Acting Vice President Office of Investment Funds, U.S. International Development Finance Corporation
Derek Kitchen, Congressional & Intergovernmental Affairs, Export-Import Bank
Moderated by T.J. Raguso, EVP of International Banking, Zions Bancorporation
This panel will discuss the billions of dollars not being utilized by U.S. businesses due to lack of knowledge, product understanding, and trepidation of foreign or political risk in both foreign and emerging markets. You will learn how to better understand how such opportunities could improve the bottom line of your business through going to foreign markets. These programs explore advancing U.S. Interests, providing working capital to deliver a product with quality U.S. products to the rest of the world, improving infrastructure, quality of life for other countries and help your company thrive in a global market.
Murano
Luncheon
Lunch Served
11:30 a.m.
The Most Dangerous Decade
Richard N. Haass, President Emeritus, Council on Foreign Relations; Senior Counselor, Centerview Partners
Moderated by Astrid Tuminez, President, Utah Valley University
Join Richard Haass in a discussion of the most dangerous decade since the end of World War II, which surpasses even the most intense periods of the Cold War. This era is marked by escalating international conflicts, emerging global challenges, and a divided and introspective United States. Haass, a foreign policy expert who has served under both Republican and Democrat presidents, will discuss the origins of these issues, their potential impacts, and possible solutions.
12:10 p.m.
Guest Speaker
George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States
Interviewed by Harris Simmons, CEO, Zions Bancorporation
1:05 p.m.
Afternoon Breakout Sessions
2:25–3:10 p.m.
Building “Local” Presence in a Global Market
Brett Keller, CEO, Priceline; Joey Zwillinger, Cofounder, Allbirds
Moderated by Jeremy Andrus, CEO, Traeger Pellet Grills
Considering a strong presence in the global marketplace? Success on a global scale requires more than just business acumen — it demands a strong commitment to local consumers and communities. This panel of executives, with experience from Traeger Pellet Grills, Skullcandy, Allbirds, and Priceline, will discuss the variations in global consumer behavior, the importance of creating unique experiences and brand communities, and how factors like culture, regulations, and unspoken rules influence consumer behavior and product launch success. They will also touch on the potential of AI in helping brands be more “local” globally.
Grand Salon
Supply Chain Resilience to Harmonization
Carl Bentzel, Commissioner, U.S. Federal Maritime Commission; Felicia Pullam, Executive Director, Office of Trade Relations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Moderated by Kirk W. Aubry, President and CEO, Savage Companies
In a globally interconnected economy, efficient supply chain management is crucial for business success. How can your enterprise mitigate supply chain risks? What strategies can you use to address bottlenecks in a time when logistics are paramount? This discussion brings together international experts and Utah business leaders to explore the complexities of global products and material transportation. It offers valuable insights and a contextual understanding.
Savoy
Changing Demographics and Geographical Shifts — Evidence from USA and Utah
Joel Kotkin, Demographer & Fellow in Urban Studies, Chapman University
The world is changing, and so is America ---and Utah. This presentation focuses on demographic changes reshaping the American landscape. The future will be characterized by dispersion, work at home and the movement of groups like millennials and the foreign born to places like Utah. These trends have been evident for years but have accelerated by the pandemic. A new future awaits, are we ready for it?
Murano
Afternoon Plenary Session
Senegal: A Blueprint for Engaging in Africa
Macky Sall, 4th President of Senegal, Special Envoy for the Paris Pact for People and the Planet (4P)
Moderated by Edward Rowe, CEO, The Stirling Foundation
Explore West Africa’s dynamic landscape through Senegal’s unique trajectory as the most developed former French colony in the region. This conversation discusses Senegal’s strategic role linking North and West Africa, its contribution to regional stability, and its democratic and economic progress. Using Senegal’s experiences, we’ll discuss key drivers of Africa’s development, opportunities, and challenges, and strategies for fostering collaboration and unlocking Africa’s potential.
3:20 p.m.
Türkiye: A Bridge Between East and West
Jeffry L. Flake, U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye
U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye, Jeffry Flake, will join us to discuss the U.S.-Turkey relationship and Turkey's role as a bridge between East and West. Ambassador Flake will explore Turkey’s relationship with the United States, its role in NATO, its economy, and potential opportunities for U.S. businesses.
3:45 p.m.
Never Give Up – Anecdotes to Build a Global Brand
Bear Grylls, Global Entrepreneur and TV Adventurer
Moderated by J. Golden Moore, SVP, International Banking Manager, Zions Bank
Bear Grylls, a globally-renowned adventurer, TV host, and entrepreneur, will share insights from his expeditions, survival missions, and ventures. A U.K. native and former British Special Forces member, he has developed survival skills and a passion for adventure. Known for TV shows like “Man vs Wild,” Grylls exemplifies courage, kindness, and resilience. He has also launched survival gear, books, and mobile apps, and founded The Natural Studios, Outdoor.com, and BecomingX. He will discuss his experiences in the wilderness and building a global brand in an unpredictable world.
4:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Jon Huntsman, Board Chair, World Trade Center Utah; Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, China and Singapore
4:40–5:00 p.m.