Following the overwhelming success of last year’s sold-out event, four of Chester County’s leading organizations are once again joining forces to convene one of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s most anticipated leadership conversations: Executive Insights 2026: A Panel of Visionary CEOs.
Presented by the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry, the Chester County Economic Development Council, Transportation Management Association of Chester County, and West Chester University, the event will take place Wednesday, June 10 at Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall from 10 AM-11:30 AM, bringing together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers, and economic development professionals from across the region.
Building on the momentum of the 2025 event, which drew more than 500 attendees and generated extensive regional media coverage, this year’s panel features an extraordinary lineup of influential executives:
- Nick Bayer, Founder and CEO, Saxbys
- Greg Deavens, former CEO, Independence Blue Cross (retired)
- Chris Franklin, Chairman and CEO, Essential Utilities
- Dan Hilferty, Chairman and CEO, Comcast Spectacor and Governor of the Philadelphia Flyers
The conversation will explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping Southeastern Pennsylvania’s economy and future, including innovation, workforce development, regional identity, civic leadership, talent retention, and the growing influence of technology, sports, healthcare, and finance as economic drivers.
“Following the tremendous success of last year’s event, we are proud to once again convene some of the most respected voices in business and civic leadership,” said Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry President Laura Manion. “These conversations are essential to understanding how our region can remain competitive, innovative, and economically vibrant in an increasingly dynamic landscape.”
“We’re excited to partner again this year to bring this special event to Chester County. Our panel of four CEOs will engage in a dynamic dialogue that will offer attendees valuable perspective on where Chester County and our region’s economy is headed and how today’s leadership choices will influence growth and competitiveness in the years ahead,” said Mike Grigalonis, President and COO of Chester County Economic Development Council.
The event will once again feature 6abc’s Tamala Edwards as moderator, guiding a dynamic conversation with the region’s top executives on the trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping Southeastern Pennsylvania’s economic future. A respected and familiar voice in regional journalism, Edwards returns following her standout moderation of the 2025 event, which drew widespread acclaim from attendees and media alike.
Topics expected to be covered include:
- The Philadelphia Region in 2026 – Opportunities and challenges shaping economic competitiveness
- America 250 and Regional Opportunity – Exploring how the nation’s semiquincentennial can spotlight Southeastern Pennsylvania
- Leadership and Culture – Building and inspiring high-performing teams
- Technology and Innovation – Driving regional growth through transformation
- Corporate Civic Engagement – The evolving role of business in strengthening communities
- Workforce of the Future – Strategies to nurture, attract and retain top talent
- Regional Identity and Influence – Positioning Southeastern Pennsylvania on the national stage
“West Chester University is delighted to host a discussion that, for the second consecutive year, will bring business leaders, educators, and stakeholders to a campus that thrives on innovation, collaboration, and workforce development,” said West Chester University President Laurie Bernotsky. “The connection between higher education and the business community has never been more critical, and we believe hosting this event on West Chester’s campus proves the power of that partnership. All of us understand the importance of working together to bring out the very best in our community and in our next generation of leaders.”
The event is expected to once again generate strong media attention and provide attendees with unparalleled access to the ideas and leadership shaping the future of Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Tickets are available here.
For more information, contact Laura Manion at [email protected] or visit Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry.
