The 24th annual Summit Directors and Officers event, sponsored by IMA Financial Group, returns to the Montage Deer Valley on December 5 and 6, 2024, for directors, officers, and execs of public, pre-IPO, and private companies.
September 17, 2024, Salt Lake City, Utah
The Summit Directors and Officers Conference is back for its 24th annual gathering, set to take place on December 5th and 6th, 2024, at Montage Deer Valley Resort in Utah. For over two decades, Summit has been a highly anticipated event for leaders in governance, compliance, and corporate leadership. Designed specifically for directors, officers, and executives of public, pre-IPO, and private companies, the conference has built a reputation as a world-class forum for discussing and shaping best practices in corporate governance.
Attendees from across the world come together for this unique opportunity to learn from renowned experts, exchange ideas, and discuss strategies that can help improve boardroom practices. Organized by IMA Financial Group's Salt Lake City office, under the direction Spence Hoole, event is focused on the challenges and opportunities that companies face today, making it one of the most timely and relevant conferences for corporate leaders in the country.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, the role of corporate governance has become more critical than ever. With increased scrutiny from regulators, investors, and the public, companies need strong, informed, and well-equipped boards. The Summit Conference helps ensure that directors and officers are prepared to navigate this complex landscape by providing them with tools and insights they can immediately apply.
The conference’s primary mission is to support the continuous improvement of corporate governance. This goal is achieved by bringing together a mix of expert speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and interactive discussions. "This conference is geared towards anyone with outside directors helping them . . . to discuss what boards should be really thinking about,"said Hoole.
Corporate governance is no longer just about compliance. It has evolved into a strategic tool that shapes how businesses operate, make decisions, and handle risks. Past conferences have addressed a wide array of governance issues, from compliance to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. As Hoole put it, “We are taking the topic of AI and putting it in the context of how board members should be thinking about it. What questions should they be asking their
executive teams?”
Over the past 24 years, the Summit has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its attendees. What started as a smaller, more regionally focused event has grown into a nationally. recognized conference that draws directors and executives from across the United States. While many governance conferences exist, Summit sets itself apart by offering an intimate environment where attendees can engage in meaningful discussions, network with peers, and build long-lasting professional relationships.
The event has also gained a reputation for its high-caliber speakers. Past conferences have featured some of the most respected names in corporate governance, including Andy Fastow, former CFO of Enron, and Bill Lerach, a prominent securities class action attorney. While some of these speakers have brought controversial perspectives, their inclusion has made the event more engaging and thought-provoking. As Hoole explained, "We aren't afraid to invite
speakers that challenge the status quo. It's that kind of edge that makes the Summit stand out."
In fact, it was Fastow's speech that marked one of the most memorable moments in the Summit's history. Despite pushback from some attendees, his candid discussion of his mistakes and the lessons he learned during the Enron scandal left a lasting impact on the audience. "He had a great story to tell. He was contrite and realized he made mistakes and served his time. It was a gratifying discussion to have" shared Hoole with TechBuzz News. This kind of thoughtful programming is what continues to draw attendees back year after year.
What to Expect at the 2024 Summit
The 2024 edition of the Summit promises to be one of the most dynamic yet. The
conference's agenda is packed with keynote speeches, panel discussions, and breakout sessions, all centered around the most pressing issues in corporate governance today. Topics include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies, and more.
“We have some great keynote speakers coming in,” said Hoole. “The whole idea is to find ideas that are topical, relevant, and on the front of mind for all those who attend.”
He added, “sometimes certain sessions have been a little controversial, which makes it interesting. We’ve invited speakers that not everyone has agreed with, but it’s helpful to hear different perspectives.”
The event will also offer continuing professional education (CPE) and continuing legal education (CLE) credits for attendees, making it an excellent opportunity for both learning and professional development. The combination of practical insights and networking opportunities is a major draw for directors and officers looking to stay ahead in their roles.
Summit is not just about thought leadership. It also provides extraordinary opportunities for professional networking. Unlike many other conferences, however, Summit deliberately avoids attracting vendors or service providers "who often dominate larger gatherings," said Hoole. Instead, the focus is on creating a peer-driven environment where directors and officers can share ideas and build meaningful relationships. “We want this to be about connecting with a true peer network,” Hoole emphasized. “Not service provider networking, but peer networking that wouldn’t normally happen."
The Venue: Montage Deer Valley
One of the unique aspects of the Summit is its location at the Montage Deer Valley, a luxury resort nestled in the pristine Deer Valley ski area of one of Utah's world famous ski areas. The venue offers a perfect blend of high-end accommodations and a relaxing environment, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in the conference experience.
The Montage has been the home of the Summit since 2012, after the event initially took place at Stein Eriksen Lodge and later the St. Regis. “The Montage has treated us well, and people love it,” Hoole said. The event is scheduled for the first week in December, a strategic choice that allows attendees to enjoy off-season rates at the resort while also offering early skiing opportunities. “Room rates go from $300 to $1,500 overnight, so it works out well for us,” Hoole explained.
While the event is primarily focused on corporate governance, the picturesque setting adds to the overall experience. Attendees can take advantage of the early winter ski season, adding an element of leisure to the otherwise professional atmosphere. “We want people to come to a destination and ski,” Hoole noted, highlighting the value of combining professional development with personal enjoyment.
Building Stronger Boards for the Future
As Summit continues to grow, it remains committed to its core mission: helping companies build stronger boards and improve corporate governance practices. Looking ahead to its 25th anniversary next year, Hoole reflected on the lasting impact the conference has had over the years: “For the most part, people say the conference gets better every year.”
With its carefully curated mix of speakers, high-quality content, and intimate setting, Summit has positioned itself as one of the premier corporate governance conferences in the country. “We’re not trying to drive mass attendance,” Hoole explained. “For that target audience—directors and officers—this is the place to be from a content and educational standpoint.”
Registration for the Summit 2024 Directors and Officers Conference is open now. Those interested in attending should visit www.summitconf.org to secure a spot. Space is limited to maintain the intimate, high-impact nature of the event; it fills up quickly every year. Attendees are encouraged to book early and take advantage of the discounted room rates at the Montage.
For more information about the event or to register, click here.