One of the most difficult challenges any leader can undertake is steering a business, and its employees through a major acquisition integration, a corporate spinoff, or a merger. United Technologies is doing all three, simultaneously. The company is integrating Rockwell Collins in the largest aerospace transaction, and spinning off two multi-billion dollar industry leaders (Otis Elevator and Carrier), while merging with defense leader Raytheon to become the premier systems provider to the aerospace industry. Akhil Johri, UTC’s Chief Financial Officer, will share his leadership strategy during these transitions.

• Akhil Johri, President and CEO, Otis Elevator Company
• Discussion with John A. Elliott, Interim Provost, University of Connecticut

From the perspective of two very different industries, these panelists will focus on how they use data, lots of data, to help understand complex situations, make difficult decisions, and hold themselves and their teams accountable.

• Ben Harrell, Chief Marketing Officer, Priceline
• Mano Mannoochahr, SVP & Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Travelers
• Professor David Bergman, Faculty Moderator, University of Connecticut

What’s one of the traits that YouTube seeks in its employees? You might be surprised to learn that it is the ability to handle complexity and ambiguity. This discussion will focus on the importance of dealing with complexity in a fast-moving, dynamic organization, where 400 hours of content are uploaded every minute!

• Liz James, Global Lead, YouTube Unskippable Curriculum
• Professor Greg Reilly, Faculty Facilitator, University of Connecticut

In a world that is changing rapidly, how can you be the kind of leader that your employees trust, respect, and turn to in times of uncertainty? Both of these executives have experienced industry turmoil during recent years and will share their personal and professional strategies for steering the ship on stormy seas.

• Joanne Crevoiserat, Chief Financial Officer, Tapestry
• Tina Thornton, SVP, Production & Office of the President, ESPN
• Professor Cinthia Satornino, Faculty Moderator, University of Connecticut

Sustainability initiatives are about reducing negative impact while positively impacting the environment and lives of those you touch. Both Stanley Black & Decker and the CT Girl Scouts are committed to making a difference in their community by providing their employees, clients, and customers the tools necessary to build a better future.

• Lee McChesney, President, Stanley Black & Decker Hand Tools and Storage Group
• Mary Barneby, CEO, Girl Scouts of Connecticut
• Professor David Noble, Faculty Moderator, University of Connecticut

Communication is one of the most complex and powerful tools that an organization has at its disposal. Alicia will address new ways to inspire, instill brand loyalty and increase sales while Jim will add to this panel by discussing the juxtaposition of having to communicate while at the same time keeping company data private and safe. His many years at the FBI add a whole new dimension to this conversation.

• Alicia Young, Founding Managing Partner, Finn Partners
• Jim Trainor, Senior Vice President, Aon Cyber Solutions, Former Assistant Director, FBI Cyber Division
• Professor Mary Caravella, Faculty Moderator, University of Connecticut

During her career, Dawn Hudson has been at the forefront of two very large, diverse, and visible organizations, the National Football League and PepsiCo. In both organizations she has had to manage major “situations” both behind the scenes and in the public eye. Dawn will discuss how leaders have to juggle both perceptions and reality, and empower their employees to drive change.

• Dawn Hudson, Former President, Pepsi North America, Chief Marketing Officer, National Football League

Industry disruption is a monumental challenge. Some say it’s like leading people down a dark hallway; and that people will be afraid. But you, as a leader, cannot be reluctant to embrace change and the growing pains that accompany it. Join WWE Co-President George Barrios as he shares his experience, and often emotional journey, leading media disruptions, including at the New York Times, and ultimately embracing digitization at the WWE.

• George Barrios, Co-President, WWE

These two top CFOs will share the mindset that investing in innovation is one of the smartest choices that executives can make, regardless of financial climate. When times are uncertain, people turn to the CFO because they control the purse strings. Understanding your role in the company’s future, and seeing innovation as an essential as part of your financial strategy is necessary for survival and ultimate success.

• Jon Pedersen, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, iHeartMedia Market Group
• Patrick Harris, Financial Consultant, COO, LA Urban League, Former Chief Financial Officer, LA Lakers
• Interim Dean David Souder, Faculty Moderator, Universtiy of Connecticut