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strategist
Today’s challenges need new solutions. As a strategist, I bring the thought leadership and expertise that will help you develop and execute strategies that deliver results and achieve new levels of organizational performance. Since 2005, I have been assisting leaders like you from these sectors:
not-for-profit organizations
community banks and credit unions
health care and social services
small businesses
Much of my work is concentrated on organizational culture, marketing/communications, branding, leadership development, and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB). I am a skilled strategic planning facilitator - and I have also served as counselor and mentor to dozens of organizations and individuals.
Book ME for your next event or conference
speaker
Selecting the right speaker for your next conference, educational workshop or webinar can equip your audience with fresh perspectives, new approaches and bold solutions to their most pressing questions and concerns.
Contact me today to schedule a presentation at your next meeting or conference.
upcoming speaking engagements
03.13-14.25
Rethinking the Role of Culture & Strategy and Achieving Growth by Doing Good
Illinois Bankers Association The ONE Conference | Bloomington-Normal, IL
03.31.25
The Gen Z Blueprint: Transforming Banking Relationships and Workforce Engagement
Alkami Co:lab | Nashville, TN
04.17-18.25
Demographic Disruption – Banking in an Aging America and Rethinking the Role of Culture, Strategy and DEIB in Banking
FHLBank Topeka Annual Member Conference | Wichita, KS
05.4-7.25
Community Banking in the Age of AI
Michigan Bankers Association Perry School of Banking | East Lansing, MI
05.7-9.25
Topic T/B/D
Finovate Spring | San Diego, CA
05.20-21.25
Topic T/B/D
Abrigo ThinkBIG 2025 | Orlando, FL
08.12.25
a survival guide for banks & bankers
Minnesota Bankers Association Bankers Conference | Edina, MN
2025 FEATURED TOPICS
ACHIEVING GROWTH BY DOING GOOD
The high cost of living remains a significant concern in the United States and invites banks and credit unions to rethink their approach to financial inclusion. This session will look closely at the current needs of consumers earning low- to moderate-incomes and show how the financial sector can look beyond CRA requirements, identify emerging segments within this population, and develop new ways to address their needs and goals.
BANKING IN THE AGE OF GENERATIVE AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been evolving for 80 years, but the advent of ChatGPT and the science of Generative AI is redefining what it means to live and work in an augmented and automated age. This session explores the rapid advancements in AI, highlighting how community-based financial institutions can leverage this technology to enhance efficiency, security, and personalization. Learn how to navigate the challenges, adopt key use cases and seize the opportunities presented by this new era.
A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR BANKS & BANKERS
Banks and bankers face unprecedented pressure due to rapid technological advancements, the rise of embedded finance, increased regulatory complexity, and escalating digital competition. This "Survival Guide" session provides practical insights into the trends reshaping retail banking and offers actionable guidance for bankers to recalibrate strategies and realign with evolving consumer expectations.
DEMOGRAPHIC DISRUPTION: BANKING IN AN AGING AMERICA
America is approaching a demographic crisis that will impact every facet of society, the economy, and the banking industry. This powerful session explores how bankers must rethink their strategies for long term relevance and success in the face of accelerating demographic shifts.
THE EMERGING CONSUMER- WHAT’S NEW? WHAT’S NEXT?!
Achieving sustainable growth requires continuous realignment with the behaviors and expectations of consumers. Financial institutions can no longer rely on yesterday’s consumer insights. This routinely updated session highlights key trends shaping new behaviors and provides practical strategies for financial institutions to engage, acquire, and retain the emerging consumer.
Other Available Topics:
Harnessing the Power of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
Rethinking the Role of Culture & Strategy
The Zen of Banking
Standing for Equality: Connecting with LGBTQ+ Consumers
I shared some of the latest demographic trends during a presentation entitled WHERE DO CUSTOMERS GET FINANCIAL ADVICE? for New York Bankers Association Business of Banking Conference in September 2024
Moderating a panel on DEIB at Money 20/20 USA 2023 for their Rise Up/Amplify initiatives.
I spoke about diversity, equity and inclusion with David Penn (r) during a Fireside Chat at Finovate Fall 2023 in New York City.
recent speaking engagements
“Jim Perry’s presentation was once again very well received and earned highest marks from our attendees. Truly, the information shared was right on target.”
10.17.24 - DEMOGRAPHIC DISRUPTION: Banking in an Aging America
NEFMA Fall Conference | Framingham, MA
09.25.24 - Community banking in the age of ai
Michigan Bankers Association Emerging Leaders Fall Summit | Grand Rapids, MI
09.24.24 - THE EMERGING CONSUMER
Ohio Bankers League Bank Management School | Columbus, OH
09.19.24 - WHERE DO CUSTOMERS GET FINANCIAL ADVICE?
New york bankers association business of banking conference | Ithaca, Ny
09.10.24 - DEEP DIVE EXECUTIVE BRIEFING - FInancial inclusion
Finovate Fall | New York, NY
08.15.24 - Top Trends in Successful Association Communication
State Banking Association Communicators Conference | Seattle, WA
05.23.24 - Fireside Chat: Why Diversity Matters – The Case For Diversity
Finovate Spring | San Francisco, CA
05.09.24 - Community Banking in the Age of AI
Michigan Bankers Association Perry School of Banking | East Lansing, MI
04.22.24 - A Survival Guide for Banks and Bankers
Baker Hill Prosper 2024 Annual User Conference | Orlando, FL
03.21.24 - Harnessing the Power of DEI and Belonging and the evolving customers
Michigan Bankers Association BEST Conference | Traverse City, MI
03.08.24 - Keys to Marketing Success in 2024
Illinois Bankers Association The ONE Conference | East Peoria, IL
02.07.24 - Keys to Marketing Success in 2024
Nebraska Bankers Association 2024 Operations Conference | Lincoln, NE
11.09.23 - Supercharge your strategic planning for future growth
Kansas Bankers Association | Wichita, KS
“This was fantastic! He had a true passion for DEI speaking. It was eye opening and definitely gave a larger understanding for this topic.”