Nearly 200 CEOs gathered in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in August for The ESOP Association’s 2025 CEO Summit. With the macroeconomic, legislative, and regulatory challenges ESOP companies are facing, this year’s Summit was designed to connect CEOs with leading experts to spark new insights and strategies for navigating the current landscape.
The only event of its kind, the CEO Summit is also a unique opportunity for senior ESOP leaders to forge new connections and share best practices with their peers. The Summit kicked off with a true western welcome. Attendees and their spouses/significant others took over the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar on opening night for an evening of live music, dancing, and authentic Wyoming hospitality. The casual, spirited atmosphere set the tone for meaningful networking and relationship-building from the start of the Summit.
Monday opened with Daniel Murphy’s Economy & Tariffs general session, which offered a deep dive into the causes and effects of current economic uncertainty, providing insights for ESOP companies looking to develop more reliable forecasting methods. In addition, two other keynotes hit the mainstage on Monday, including Marty Roesch, founder and CEO of Netography, who provided an in-depth look into the ongoing efforts in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. His keen insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities leaders must prepare for in an increasingly digital future.
Ron Insana, CNBC’s Senior Analyst, gave attendees an unparalleled glimpse into the White House, Washington, Wall Street, and Main Street, explaining the shifting environment with a thought-provoking analysis of what lies ahead. Throughout the Summit, our expert presenters not only shared their unique worldviews, but offered actionable takeaways for CEOs while broadening the discussion beyond ESOP-specific issues.
On Monday afternoon, attendees and guests had their choice of a wide variety of activities to explore the Jackson Hole area and bond with one another. With activities ranging from scenic float trips and horseback riding to a mountain hike and wine tasting, participants had a chance to recharge, strengthen peer relationships, and experience the beauty of Jackson Hole.
That evening, the group reconvened for a dinner reception atop Snow King Mountain. Against the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range, attendees enjoyed an evening of conversation and connections.
General sessions throughout the CEO Summit explored macro business, economic and political themes, while roundtable discussions provided space for candid conversations on practical challenges. Roundtables were a clear highlight and benefit for our CEOs, with highly attended sessions on Repurchase Obligation, M&A, Board of Trustees, Executive Compensation, and the evolving role of AI in ESOP companies. Engaging with other ESOP leaders provided attendees with new ideas and practical solutions to take home to their companies.
The event closed with a compelling panel on private equity featuring TEA CEO Jim Bonham and Board members Ben Holder, Peter Jones, and Peter Ney. This discussion underscored the growing pressure ESOPs face from private equity buyouts and provided strategies for defending employee ownership as a sustainable, competitive model.
From unforgettable networking moments to highly impactful sessions, the 2025 CEO Summit combined energy, expertise, and inspiration in equal measure. Leaders left Jackson Hole with fresh strategies, strengthened connections, and a renewed commitment to advancing employee ownership.
Thank you to our sponsors, speakers, and attendees for making the 2025 CEO Summit such a resounding success. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Summit!
