A message from Executive Summit Program Chair, Mike Hundert.

As an eyecare industry CEO, I recognize that running an eyewear company is more challenging than ever. Advancements in technology outpacing changes in fashion, leading young millennials who have new job expectations, e-tailing disrupting traditional distribution, healthcare reform implications, old media upended by social media, and so much more.

This January 16 to 18 in Key Biscayne, Miami, we expect more than 250 top executives from throughout the industry to ‘step out’ of their business to ‘work on’ their business—tackling the most relevant challenges we all face—at The Vision Council’s annual Executive Summit.

Here is a snapshot of what you can expect beyond the high-value always placed on networking.

Industry Peer Panel – Exploring the ramifications of e-tailing eyewear on traditional brick-and-mortar retailers, this panel will include top executives from ILORI/OSA, Rob McCoy; Visionworks, Jim Eisen; National Vision Inc., Bruce Steffey; and SEE, Richard Golden. That’s representatives from high to low tiers, from branded to mono-brand concepts.

Game Changer – Find out what a proven visionary sees ahead. Join us for a one-on-one conversation with industry pioneer and LensCrafters founder, E. Dean Butler.

Economic Update – Andrew Dugay, senior economist for the Institute for Trend Research, will reveal the latest market trends, complete with interpretations of key indicators and make-your-move moments.

Leadership Workshop – Former Chairman of Vistage, Mark Lefko, a CEO coach and advisor to the Young President's Organization (YPO) forum groups, will lead a workshop designed to tune up your organization’s culture to improve performance and profitability.

Customer Loyalty – Learn to create a powerful, emotional, unique brand that will turn your team and customers into loyal advocates.

Division Breakouts – Each division will have exclusive time to dive into the issues that specifically pertain to their industry component. With the expansion of The Vision Council, including the recent addition of the European Sunglass Association, the division meetings will include: Eyewear and Accessories, Sunglass and Reader, Lens, Lens Processing Technology, and Optical Lab.

After a nearly-sold out venue last year, the Executive Summit will return to the remarkable Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Hotel and Spa for an encore. In addition to enjoying the spa, guests have the option of joining our afternoon golf tournament, or just lying on the beach. Some members bring additional senior level personnel, such as marketing, brand, and sales leaders to enrich their knowledge of the industry and issues. Others choose to have their spouses accompany them to this premiere event.

Registration is now open for the Executive Summit, and I must point out that last year we ran out of hotel rooms, forcing some people to stay at nearby locations. So, register early and book your rooms!

Join us and join in the most important conversations of the year at the Executive Summit!