ISM World 2025 Detailed Agenda

Kevin O’Leary kicks off ISM World 2025 with an unflinching look at leadership, risk, and value creation in today’s complex economy. Drawing from his journey as a founder, investor, and Shark Tank icon, O’Leary will share real-world insights on high-stakes decision-making, scaling innovation, and building resilient organizations. Expect sharp takeaways, bold perspective, and a keynote that sets the tone for a conference focused on actionable strategies and next-level thinking.

All

Celebrate innovation and excellence as trailblazing organizations share their award-winning strategies and success stories.

Managers/Directors

Exclusive to ExecIn attendees, get a behind-the-scenes opportunity for a question and answer session with ISM's Opening Keynote, Kevin O’Leary.

Executives / Senior Leaders

2024 has been a year where Procurement’s priority shifted significantly to cost reduction in an effort to enable their organizations concerns over broader economic health, but it has also been a year where broad-based awareness of the impact of Generative AI on the procurement operating model became more entrenched.  Looking forward to 2025, how will procurement teams prepare for success?   Join this session to gain insights into Hackett’s recently published 2025 Procurement Key Priorities research covering the following areas…

• - Key trends that will have a transformational impact on the procurement agenda over the next five years.
• - 2025 key objectives and transformation plans for procurement organizations.
• - Projected changes in procurement workloads, staffing levels, operating budgets and technology spending.
• - Expected trends in procurement including operating model and analytics.
• - The use of generative AI and technology to enable procurement capabilities.

Executives/Senior Leaders

Managers / Directors

We have all heard the lore of the win/win combination when valued suppliers spend time and money to innovate products and services to meet your elevated expectations, strategic goals and profitability. But does it really work? Join this engaging panel discussion with members of ISM's own Strategic Sourcing & SRM Committee to learn what works, and what doesn't, from some of the world's most experienced supplier innovators.

Managers/Directors

Join the ISM's Emerging Professionals Committee for an engaging breakout session focused on bridging the gaps between students, young professionals, and established professionals. This interactive discussion will explore current trends and challenges in the industry, providing a platform for diverse perspectives. Our mixed panel of experts will share their insights and experiences, fostering a collaborative environment where attendees can learn from each other and develop strategies for effective intergenerational communication and collaboration. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and industry leaders and gain valuable knowledge to enhance your professional journey.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Leaking sensitive information to suppliers is a common negotiation pitfall that can significantly impact your company’s leverage. This session explores the concept of backdoor selling, how it undermines your negotiation position, and actionable strategies to prevent it while maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Presented from the perspective of a professionally trained salesperson who has used backdoor selling to close hundreds of millions of dollars in deals, attendees will gain a unique insider’s view. Learn how to protect your organization from these tactics and strengthen your negotiation outcomes.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Many procurement professionals encounter fleet management or mobility sourcing for the first time without fully understanding its significant impact on strategic organizational goals. This session explores how fleet and mobility initiatives contribute to decarbonization, employee safety, supplier diversity, and digital transformation.

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the strategic value fleet management brings to supply chain operations and leave equipped with knowledge to approach these exercises with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: Kodiak Hub

AI is only as intelligent as the data it's trained on. So despite the hype, AI can't transform the future of Procurement with Supplier Relationship Management that's stuck in the past. But with smarter SRM and innovative Supplier Information Management solutions, Procurement can accelerate and optimize its AI implementation.

Learning objectives:

• Discover why strong SRM is the foundation of AI

• Explore the data you need today to succeed tomorrow

• Learn how smarter SRM is accelerating AI-fication

Many companies unknowingly leave significant savings on the table due to misunderstandings, misconceptions, and a lack of shared language around procurement and financial decisions. This session dives into why organizations often opt for lower-value alternatives and fail to invest in their highest ROI functions, despite clear benefits.

Through engaging discussions and relatable examples presented in a simple and enjoyable format, attendees will uncover the barriers to achieving optimal procurement savings. Participants will leave with fresh perspectives and actionable ideas to align financial strategies with high-value procurement opportunities.

Executives/Senior Leaders

Managers / Directors

Sponsored by: Fairmarkit

Hear from thought leaders on the dedicated Insight Stages. Gain valuable perspectives and explore impactful ideas presented as part of the event's educational agenda.

Join us for an intimate, 30-minute discussion with industry leaders. Not your typical presentation. It's a chance to connect directly with experienced professionals, learn about their career journeys, and gain valuable insights to propel your own career forward.

In this small-group setting, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and build relationships with like-minded individuals. Join this informal and impactful conversation. Space is limited.

Managers / Directors

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: Synertrade

Join intimate, topic-driven networking sessions designed to foster connections and insightful discussions. With up to four topics per day, engage with thought leaders, participate in focus groups, and build valuable relationships in a collaborative setting.

Sponsored by: Synertrade

Discover cutting-edge solutions and technology from leading solution providers, engage in live polls, and experience content designed to inspire and inform.

Join us for an innovative session where an expert from the Federal Reserve Board presents groundbreaking research on using text analysis to forecast industrial production. This session will delve into the methodologies and findings that have significant implications for procurement and supply chain professionals.

Why Attend:

• - Advanced Techniques: Learn how natural language processing (NLP) and deep learning models are utilized to classify sentiment from survey responses of U.S. manufacturing firms. These cutting-edge techniques can provide valuable insights into market trends and supplier performance.

• - Predictive Power: Discover how sentiment measures, aggregated into monthly time series, offer predictive insights that go beyond traditional numerical data. This enhanced forecasting capability can help you anticipate market shifts and make more informed procurement decisions.

• - Real-World Applications: Understand the practical implications of these findings for supply chain management. Learn how integrating sentiment analysis into your forecasting models can improve decision-making, optimize inventory management, and enhance supplier relationships.

This session will share how to leverage advanced text analysis techniques for better predictive insights. By attending, you'll gain the knowledge to enhance your strategic planning, mitigate risks, and drive innovation in your supply chain operations.

Managers/Directors

In today’s digital landscape, the gap between technology investment and user adoption often limits ROI. This session delves into how Digital Adoption Platforms (DAPs) can bridge this gap, improving efficiency and reducing costs in procurement and supply chain management. Attendees will learn how DAPs drive quicker technology adoption, enhance system utilization, and maximize financial returns.

The session also addresses the leadership and cultural changes required to fully integrate DAPs, empowering organizations to remain competitive and innovative. Participants will leave with practical strategies to harness the full potential of DAPs in their operations.

Executives/Senior Leaders

Exclusive to ExecIn attendees, this roundtable discussion will dive into hot topics and concerns identified and facilitated by ISM's Thought Leadership Council. This includes discussion on the current and future state of the profession, talent challenges, geopolitical risks, digital transformation, AI, and more. Collaborate and share learnings with an elite group of peers in this freeform set of table topics and networking. 

Executives / Senior Leaders

The State of the Procurement Profession 2025 survey offers invaluable insights into the evolving procurement landscape. Last year’s findings revealed a positive economic climate and an optimistic outlook, with companies fostering entrepreneurial mindsets in procurement achieving higher performance, overcoming digitalization challenges, and boosting employee satisfaction. However, many procurement organizations continued to fall short of their digitalization targets, with progress slipping further compared to the previous year.

This year’s survey promises equally relevant and actionable insights. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of current trends, challenges, and opportunities in procurement, helping them navigate the year ahead with confidence and clarity.

Executives/Senior Leaders

Join past Richter Scholarship winners as they share their career journeys and the transformative impact of this prestigious award.

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: Element Fleet Management

Hear from thought leaders on the dedicated Insight Stages. Gain valuable perspectives and explore impactful ideas presented as part of the event's educational agenda.

Join us for an insightful panel discussion led by the ISM Sustainability Committee, featuring industry leaders like Matt Esper, Darlyne Freedman, and Daniela Osio. This session will explore the latest strategies for integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into procurement practices to build resilient supply chains.

Key Takeaways:

• Gain a high-level understanding of sustainable procurement and current industry trends.

• Discover key strategies to integrate sustainability into procurement practices.

• Understand the importance of ESG supplier due diligence and see real-world case studies in action.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from experts and enhance your organization's sustainability initiatives.

Managers / Directors

The new and evolving tariff climate and changing regulations continue to impact and reshape procurement strategies, presenting both challenges and opportunities for organizations with transportation fleets. As fleets prepare for these shifts, supply chain disruptions, fluctuating fuel prices, and rapidly changing tariff-driven cost structures on equipment are already influencing procurement timelines and truck availability. Without a strategic approach, companies risk operational inefficiencies, higher costs, and compliance issues.

This session equips attendees with strategies for multi-year procurement planning, aligning with financial goals, regulatory requirements, and evolving distribution demands. Participants will also gain insights into optimizing fleet utilization, leveraging financial strategies for cost control, and ensuring long-term business agility in an ever-changing market.

Executives / Senior Leaders

Join us for an intimate, 30-minute discussion with Daniela Osio. Not your typical presentation. It's a chance to connect directly with experienced professionals, learn about their career journeys, and gain valuable insights to propel your own career forward.

In this small-group setting, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and build relationships with like-minded individuals. Join this informal and impactful conversation. Space is limited.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: BDO

Join intimate, topic-driven networking sessions designed to foster connections and insightful discussions. With up to four topics per day, engage with thought leaders, participate in focus groups, and build valuable relationships in a collaborative setting.

Sponsored by: Zip

Hear from thought leaders on the dedicated Insight Stages. Gain valuable perspectives and explore impactful ideas presented as part of the event's educational agenda.

Join us for this exclusive luncheon program to meet the most recent class of Richter Scholars. It's a great opportunity to network and hear from top talent emerging from supply chain academic programs and learn more about the talent of the future.

Executives / Senior Leaders

Celebrate innovation and excellence as trailblazing organizations share their award-winning strategies and success stories.

Managers/Directors

Join us for an enlightening session where top supply chain leaders from the inaugural ISM Deliver Committee come together to delve into the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence in optimizing logistics processes. This session is designed for professionals eager to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving logistics landscape.

Managers / Directors

Join us for an intimate, 30-minute discussion with industry leaders. Not your typical presentation. It's a chance to connect directly with experienced professionals, learn about their career journeys, and gain valuable insights to propel your own career forward.

In this small-group setting, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and build relationships with like-minded individuals. Join this informal and impactful conversation. Space is limited.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Executives / Senior Leaders

Sponsored by: Simfoni

Discover cutting-edge solutions and technology from leading solution providers, engage in live polls, and experience content designed to inspire and inform.

Join the final four student teams as part of the final round of the annual ISM International Student Case Competition as they present their creative and compelling solutions to this year’s case. The competition gives students an opportunity to gain real-world case solving experience within supply management while also applying their knowledge and diverse perspectives to a solution.

Of the final four teams, the top three will receive a financial reward among other benefits from ISM. Attendees will be able to view case details and vote for their top selections within the conference mobile app, and input will be compiled along with votes from a panel of judges. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, June 3. 

Executives/Senior Leaders

Managers / Directors

All

Managers / Directors

A trusted supply chain is critical for success in Aerospace and Defense, but risks such as counterfeit parts and challenges in sourcing electronic components threaten operational reliability. These issues can disrupt your ability to meet customer needs and maintain performance standards.

This session will provide insights into gaining visibility into part information, navigating contractual obligations and rights, and implementing risk mitigation strategies. Attendees will walk away with actionable approaches to safeguard their supply chain against counterfeit risks and sourcing vulnerabilities.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Benchmarks can be your guiding light—or your blind spot. But which benchmarks truly add value, and which ones risk leading you astray? This session will explore all types of procurement benchmarking, examining price comparisons, spend levels, potential savings, and team resourcing.

Attendees will discover which benchmarks are most useful in different scenarios, learn to avoid common pitfalls, and explore the best sources for actionable insights. If you’ve ever questioned the relevance of your benchmarks, this session will provide the clarity needed to drive smarter, data-backed decisions.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

In this small-group setting, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and build relationships with like-minded individuals. Join this informal and impactful conversation. Space is limited.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: Levelpath

Hear from thought leaders on the dedicated Insight Stages. Gain valuable perspectives and explore impactful ideas presented as part of the event's educational agenda.

In today's rapidly changing economic landscape, reliable data is more crucial than ever. For over 80 years, the ISM Report On Business® has been a steadfast beacon of economic insight, providing month-by-month indicators that help businesses, policymakers, and analysts navigate the complexities of the market.

Each month, the ISM Manufacturing and Services PMI® Indexes make headlines, reflecting the health of the economy with unparalleled accuracy. These indexes have been referenced on-air for more than 40 years, underscoring their significance and trustworthiness in the eyes of the public and experts alike. Join ISM CEO and Chair of the Business Services Committee as they discuss the ISM Supply Chain Planning Forecast and the latest PMI reports.

What sets the ISM Report On Business® apart is its rigorous methodology, which has been adopted by dozens of countries and various industry sectors in collaboration with ISM®. This global recognition speaks volumes about the report's credibility and the value it brings to economic analysis. In the current environment, where economic conditions can shift rapidly and unpredictably, the ISM Report On Business® serves as a critical tool for understanding market trends and making informed decisions.

Join the ranks of those who rely on this authoritative source of economic data and stay ahead of the curve with the ISM Report On Business®-your guide to navigating the economic landscape with confidence and clarity.

Managers/Directors

Strategic business partnering plays a critical role in driving organizational success. This session explores how to build and sustain partnerships that align with business goals and deliver value. Attendees will gain insights into developing trust, fostering collaboration, and leveraging stakeholder relationships to achieve shared objectives.

The session will also cover strategies for breaking down silos, integrating procurement with stakeholders, and co-creating value through mutual trust and shared goals. Participants will walk away with actionable techniques to transform their approach to business partnering and cultivate exceptional stakeholder relationships.

Managers/Directors

Join past 30 Under 30 winners as they share their career journeys, achievements, and how this recognition has shaped their path in the profession.

Individual Contributors

Sponsored by: Synertrade

Join intimate, topic-driven networking sessions designed to foster connections and insightful discussions. With up to four topics per day, engage with thought leaders, participate in focus groups, and build valuable relationships in a collaborative setting.

This panel discussion, led by the ISM-New Jersey Chapter, brings together life sciences supply management professionals and a trade association leader to share best practices. The session explores how adopting an industry-specific lens to supply management capabilities and practices can enhance impact and effectiveness, providing valuable insights for attendees.

With New Jersey’s 130-year tradition of leadership in life sciences—home to 13 of the largest global biopharmaceutical companies and known as the "Medicine Chest of the World"—ISM-NJ members bring deep expertise in a sector renowned for innovation and global impact. Attendees will gain practical strategies and learn from experiences unique to this transformative industry.

Managers/Directors

Individual Contributors

Mix and mingle in the Innovation Park. It's a great way to "Klik" and connect with fellow attendees, grab a cocktail and some hors d'oeuvres and start off your evening with some fun networking. Prizes and custom giveaways await to sweeten the experience.

All

Sponsored by: Zip

Discover cutting-edge solutions and technology from leading solution providers, engage in live polls, and experience content designed to inspire and inform.

Sponsored by: BDO

Join intimate, topic-driven networking sessions designed to foster connections and insightful discussions. With up to four topics per day, engage with thought leaders, participate in focus groups, and build valuable relationships in a collaborative setting.

Sponsored by: RelishIQ

Discover cutting-edge solutions and technology from leading solution providers, engage in live polls, and experience content designed to inspire and inform.

To kickoff the ISM Awards Gala, registered gala attendees can enjoy a networking cocktail reception.

Ticketed Attendees

The ISM Awards Gala is a celebration of both our individual and organizational award winners. Join this year's award season winners from the ISM 30 Under 30 Rising Supply Chain Stars, the J. Shipman Gold Medal Award, the R. Gene Richter Scholarship Program as well as the organizational winners of the ISM Supply Chain Trailblazer awards. You will be among the best of the best to network and celebrate amazing contributions to supply chain excellence.

This supply management celebration is a can’t miss event kicking off ISM World 2025. Don’t miss your chance to network and celebrate with the best in supply chain.

Ticketed Attendees