Keynote Speaker
Zach Kass
Former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI, futurist and visionary
One of the most respected and experienced figures in tech and innovation, Zack Kass has been at the crossroads where AI meets business for over a decade. He served as the GTM (Go-To-Market) Lead at OpenAI, one of the world's leading artificial intelligence research organizations. In his informative, accessible keynotes, he helps businesses enhance efficiency, improve productivity, and bolster employee satisfaction at reduced costs by harnessing the power of AI.
General Session & Breakout Session Speakers
Brett Anderson
Director of Business Products & Solutions, IDEA
Brett is an experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. He is skilled in Customer Service, Data Analysis, Marketing Strategy, Sales Operations, and Strategic Partnerships.
Angela Baraks
Director of Data Quality & Standards, IDEA
Angela brings 25+ years of experience in the electrical industry. She has contributed to the industry data standards through her volunteer work on standards development and consulting work through DATAgility for the past 15 years. Angela has a master’s degree in communications from Eastern Illinois University.
Tom Guzik
Director of Digital Integration Services, IDEA
Tom brings to IDEA nearly 30 years of experience working with electronic data interchange (EDI), 20 of which have been in the electrical industry. Prior to joining IDEA, he also worked with SAP systems, inventory control, logistics and warehousing, and Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI).
Denise Keating
VP Customer Success, IDEA
Denise, former CEO & co-founder of DATAgility, is passionate about helping companies put quality product data into motion to drive results. With 30 years’ experience in distribution, she is a thought leader & frequent speaker on digital trends & strategies. Denise will oversee the customer success team, data quality & standards, and HDM initiative.
Patrick Knight
President & CEO, IDEA
Patrick is an experienced and outgoing leader and consultant with strong analytical skills. He has a demonstrated history of success in National Accounts, GPOs, and value-add industries. Patrick is a strong professional, skilled in Strategic Planning, Business Process Improvement & Business Development.
Mark McGready
Director of Data Analytics & Solutions, IDEA
Mark has over 25 years of experience in the electrical industry, with deep expertise in data analytics and converting insights into actionable strategies that drive sales growth and operational efficiency. He began his career at Schneider Electric in Channel Development, where he focused on expanding channel-led sales. In 2008, Mark founded Jigsaw Systems to help manufacturers and distributors optimize business processes. Jigsaw was acquired by SparxIQ in 2019.
Mark holds dual degrees in electrical and mechanical engineering from the University of Edinburgh. He lives in Naperville, IL, with his wife Shona and their two sons, Finn and Rafe.
Mike Wentz
VP of Sales and Marketing, IDEA
Mike has nearly 40 years of experience in the electrical industry. His knowledge and experience make him a vital player in the organization. During his time with IDEA, he has grown the client base significantly, facilitated industry advisory groups and successfully rebranded IDEA’s products.
Kerry Young
President & COO, Blue Meteor
A luminary and trailblazer in product information management, co-founded Ennovative, a pioneering force in PIM software. Following its acquisition by EnterWorks, he played a crucial role in propelling EnterWorks to the top position in both the Forrester and IDC PIM rankings, solidifying its position as a global leader in PIM software. Now with Bluemeteor, Kerry continues to lead the effort to redefine the product information management landscape.