Join us for a celebration of Conexus Midwest Launch featuring

Executive Panel: "How CFOs Become Board Members?"

4:30 PM to 7:30 PM (local time)
September 29, 2026
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Join Our Celebration

Join our celebration as we open the evening with a panel discussion featuring C-suite executives and a leading expert on the boardroom journey.

Evening Agenda

Registration: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Panel Discussion: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Networking: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
mike-kelly-new

Welcome and Opening Remarks By
Mike Kelly
CEO & Founder, Conexus

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How CFOs Become Board Members?

What does it really take for a CFO to earn a seat in the boardroom?
Join us for an engaging conversation with experienced board members who have made the journey from CFO to the boardroom. They’ll share candid insights into how they positioned themselves for board opportunities, what boards look for in prospective directors, and the experiences and relationships that helped open the door.
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We’ll also discuss how CFOs can become more effective partners to their boards today—communicating beyond the numbers, providing meaningful strategic insight, navigating challenging conversations, and building the trust and credibility that boards value. Come hear firsthand lessons from executives who have successfully made the transition from CFO to Board Member and learn what it takes to make the leap yourself.
Reserve Your Seat

Who Should Attend?

CFOs and senior finance executives looking to network with Chicago’s top CFOs and elevate their leadership.
Professionals within or around the Office of the CFO — Controllers, VPs of Finance, FP&A and other senior finance leaders.
Current and aspiring board members who want to better understand board governance, expectations and the board process.
Executives who report to a Board and want to strengthen their effectiveness and better understand the Board–CFO relationship.

Speakers

A panel of current and former CFOs, now also Board Members, on their path to the boardroom and sharing insights on how to work effectively with a Board.
Frank-Jaehnert

Frank Jaehnert

former President & CEO,
Brady Corporation
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Jill-Evanko-Duravant

Jill Evanko

CEO, 
Duravant
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Naomi-Kent

Naomi Kent

Founder & CEO, 
The Boardroom Company
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Lawrence A. Hilsheimer

Larry Hilsheimer

CFO,
Greif
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Natasa-Lukic

Natasa Lukic

Partner,
Conexus
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Planning to attend?

RSVP For The Event

Date: September 29, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Registration: 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Panel Discussion: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Networking: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Location: Lockton, 500 W Monroe, Suite 3400

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