2018

REGISTRATION BROCHURE

NOVEMBER 7-9, 2018 RITZ-CARLTON

in beautiful NAPLES, FLORIDA

come to GROW

come to NETWORK

come to LEARN

This is your invitation to attend the conference for architecture, engineering and environmental executives focused on growth and the creation of real and sustainable value in their organizations

Providing financial advisory services for the architecture,engineering and environmental consulting industries

Boston Washington, DC Las Vegas

Dear A/E Professional, I’d like to personally invite you to attend our annual Growth & Ownership Strategies Conference on November 7-9 at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Resort in Naples, Florida.

For the last eight years this event has gathered together top executives of success-ful architecture, engineering and environmental consulting firms throughout the U.S. and abroad, as well as a wide variety of thought leaders. The goal of this confer-ence is to showcase the most effective strategies and best practices for achieving growth, improving profitability, and building real and sustainable value in your firms.

I’m very excited about this year’s lineup of speakers and panelists. The wide range of sessions will cover the following topics:

• The current state and latest trends of the A/E industry• The outlook for the global, national and regional economies• Overcoming barriers to growth• How the tax reform act impacts the industry and the latest tax management strategies

• The importance of good corporate governance• Public Private Partnerships and the opportunities for A/E firms • How to find, grow and keep the best employees• Excelling through the application of deliberate thinking, teamwork, contingency planning and diversity experience.

Come to LearnWe’ve once again brought together an exceptional faculty of speakers and pan-elists in order to provide you with unique insight, new ideas and tactical informa-tion designed to help your organization work efficiently and be more successful.

Come to NetworkIncluded with your registration are a golf outing at the adjacent Tiburón Golf Club, a group fishing charter out of the Port-O-Call Marina, evening networking receptions, breakfast and lunch receptions as detailed in the following program. In short, our goal is to provide a wide variety of opportunities for you to leverage the knowledge and experience of all participants, make new connections, and build new relationships!

Come to GrowWhether your firm has a handful of employees or thousands, sustained growth and consistently strong performance is critical for the long-term success of your business. So please join us in beautiful Naples, Florida and see first-hand how other firm leaders are accomplishing their growth and performance goals.

Sincerely,

Ian Rusk, ASA, CM&AAManaging PrincipalRusk O’Brien Gido + Partners, LLC

CONFERENCE.ROG-PARTNERS.COM I 800.543.5259 X 4

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 201812:30 p.m. Golf Outing I Sponsored by DGC Tiburón Golf Club

1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Pre-Conference Ownership Transition and Merger & Acquisition Workshop Led by Ian Rusk and Michael O’Brien, Principals, Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Welcome Reception I Sponsored by Ames & Gough Tiburón Golf Clubhouse

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 20187:30 - 8:30 a.m. Registration & Networking Breakfast I Sponsored by Clearview

8:30 - noon Welcome & Keynote PresentationsState of the A/E Industry – At the Mountain’s Peak or Room to Climb?Steve Gido, Principal, Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

Trident Fundamentals: Navy SEAL Maxims for Business and LifeDave Sears, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Xundis Global, LLC

How A/E Leaders Overcome 7 Silent Growth KillersRobert Sher, Founding Principal, CEO to CEO

12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch I Sponsored by alliantgroup Court of Palms

1:30 - 2:45 p.m. Keynote PresentationEnjoy the RideSteve Gilliland, Hall of Fame Speaker and Best Selling Author

3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Concurrent Breakout SessionsAre You Ready for Tax Reform and Your Exit Strategy?David M. Sullivan, Jr, CPA, Partner, DGC

Score More Work through a Strategic Business Development ApproachJen Newman, CPSM, CEO, Ignite Coaching & Consulting, LLC

What Is Corporate Governance and Why Is It So Important?Michael O’Brien, Principal, Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Concurrent Breakout SessionsTax Breaks for Architects & EngineersBrian Aumueller, Managing Director, alliantgroup

P3 Opportunities for Design ProfessionalsMichael Herlihy, ARM, CRIS, Executive Vice President & Partner, Ames & Gough

Designing Incentive Compensation Plans that Attract, Motivate and Retain EmployeesJoseph Sorrentino, Principal, FW Cook

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. ROG+ Reception with hors d’oeurves and carving stations I Sponsored by Newforma The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Poolside

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 20187:30 - 8:15 a.m. Networking Breakfast I Sponsored by Planifi

8:15 - 9:30 a.m. Welcome & Panel Discussion The Perfect Storm - A/E M&A and Strategic Growth Panel Moderated by Steve Gido, Partner, Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. Keynote PresentationBrown Sugar: Deriving Satisfaction through Data Analysis Anirban Basu, Chairman & CEO, Sage Policy Group, Inc.

11:00 a.m. - noon Concurrent Breakout SessionsBusiness by DesignJane Walton, President, Jane Walton Consulting

Solve the People PuzzleKathleen Quinn Votaw, Founder & CEO, TalenTrust

How “Disruption” is Redefining LeadershipJim Nevada, CEO, Nevada Group

1:00 - 4:30 p.m. ROG+ Grand Slam Fishing Tournament Port-o-Call Marina

3

NOVEMBER 7-9, 2018 | RITZ-CARLTON | NAPLES, FL

4

KEYNOTE SESSIONS

State of the A/E Industry – At the Mountain’s Peak or Room to Climb? Steve Gido, Principal, Rusk O’Brien Gido + PartnersThe A/E industry continues to benefit from a strong national economy, steady demand from both the private and public sectors, robust executive confidence, promising tax reform, and solid financial performance. But have we seen this story before? With the current economic expansion the second longest on record, the ramifications of a mature industry cycle are in-

creasingly evident. Executives in 2018 have to navigate through a range of risks that potentially stand to curb future growth including rising interest rates, tight labor markets, higher material costs and disruptive technologies and consolidation. Steve Gido will break down the industry landscape, assess ROG’s latest financial metrics, and discuss various growth and exit strategy paths for A/E leaders today.

Trident Fundamentals: Navy SEAL Maxims for Business and Life Dave Sears, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Xundis Global, LLCUsing three popular Navy SEAL maxims, this presentation provides universal principles that everyone, regardless of position or industry, can use to improve their business and life. Dynamic stories from combat and training illustrate the key topics of deliberate thinking, cutting through noise, teamwork, contingency planning, diversity of experience,

and avoiding burn out.

How A/E Leaders Overcome 7 Silent Growth KillersRobert Sher, Founding Principal, CEO to CEOFor an executive team, the excitement of leading a steadily or rapidly growing midsized firm can be exhilarating – that is, until growth grinds down to a halt. In this presenta-tion, Robert Sher explores how seven silent growth killers have derailed midsized firms based on his years of research on more than 100 companies. Illustrating the seven si-

lent growth killers through real examples, Robert explains how leaders can protect their companies from them or avoid them altogether.

Enjoy the RideSteve Gilliland, Hall of Fame Speaker and Best Selling AuthorA blueprint for getting the most out of life, this session invites attendees to examine where they are personally and professionally. Attendees will leave lifted and inspired to evolve and appreciate, rather than simply maintain and exist. Steve will challenge attendees to: 1. Check your passions: Love what you do and never forget why you do it; 2. Cure your destination

disease: Live more for today, less for tomorrow and never about yesterday; and 3. Refocus your atten-tion: Decide what’s important and never take it for granted. To achieve true success and fulfillment, you must first discover an enthusiasm for your work and personal life. Decide where you are heading, get on the bus, choose the right seat and Enjoy The Ride™!

Brown Sugar: Deriving Satisfaction through Data AnalysisAnirban Basu, Chairman & CEO, Sage Policy Group, Inc.Always a favorite, this presentation provides detailed discussions of global, national and regional economies using the most up-to-date data available. Special attention is invested in critical elements of economic life, including the performance of financial, labor, and real estate markets.

Are You Ready for Tax Reform and Your Exit Strategy?David M. Sullivan, Jr, CPA, Partner, DGCWe will provide an overview of the tax reform act, recent technical guidance in “laymans” terms, and discuss the opportunities contained in the new law which your firm should be evaluating. We will also cover popular tax strategies such as tax incentives and credits, S- Corp / LLC vs C-Corp deci-sions and implications in an exit strategy, and the impact of a stock vs asset / 338(h)10 sale structure when selling your firm. Open discussion and Q&A encouraged.

CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS

CONFERENCE.ROG-PARTNERS.COM I 800.543.5259 X 4

5

Score More Work through a Strategic Business Development ApproachJen Newman, CPSM, CEO, Ignite Coaching & Consulting, LLCImplementing a strategic business development approach driven by a priority-based client manage-ment system allows you to place more focus on specific targets enabling you to convert more of your leads into projects. This session will guide you through the development of your strategic busi-ness development playbook and help you win more work!

What Is Corporate Governance and Why Is It So Important?Michael O’Brien, Principal, Rusk O’Brien Gido + PartnersWhether your firm is large or small, understanding corporate governance is essential to creating a well-lead organization. A firm with strong corporate governance will be better prepared for leadership succession than a firm that simply has a strong culture. Furthermore, shareholders of well-governed firms are more likely to successfully monetize their investments when it comes time to retire. Come hear how firms that focus on corporate governance are creating “leadership-lead” organizations.

Tax Breaks for Architects & EngineersBrian Aumueller, Managing Director, alliantgroupJoin alliantgroup for an educational session on the latest updates to powerful tax credits, incentives and deductions for architectural and engineering firms. To date, alliantgroup has helped architects and engineers uncover over $430 million in credits and incentives.

P3 Opportunities for Design ProfessionalsMichael Herlihy, ARM, CRIS, Executive Vice President & Partner, Ames & GoughThe current proposed Federal infrastructure plan, with its focus on Public Private Partnerships will lead to greater opportunities for design professionals. This session will examine the roles that engi-neers and architects can play on P3 projects. We will assess the risks associated with each role and provide advice on ways to manage and mitigate these risks. The goal is to prepare firms considering P3 work so that their opportunities will be profitable.

Designing Incentive Compensation Plans that Attract, Motivate and Retain EmployeesJoseph Sorrentino, Principal, FW CookExecutive compensation consultant, Joe Sorrentino will help unravel the secrets of successful incen-tive compensation structures including designing incentive compensation plans that are aligned with company goals and value creation. Essential annual and long-term incentive considerations will be ad-dressed including recent trends, goal setting challenges, payout curves, prevalence and mix of vehicles, length of performance periods, and use of relative vs. absolute performance measures.

Business by Design Jane Walton, President, Jane Walton ConsultingBeautifully designed organizations are meaningful for employees, memorable for customers and im-pactful to the bottom line. Utilizing the basic principles of design organization – focal point, contrast, scale, unity, movement, and rhythm – you will learn to refine your company’s vision, organize your internal efforts and achieve business results.

Solve the People PuzzleKathleen Quinn Votaw, Founder & CEO, TalenTrustCompanies are clearly struggling with how to recruit and retain top talent, but each company has a unique People Puzzle™. While the people puzzle isn’t easy to solve, Kathleen will offer specific personal and client stories as well as key perspectives that will help you find, grow and keep the best employees.

How “Disruption” is Redefining LeadershipJim Nevada, CEO, Nevada GroupWhat makes a great leader in this age of disruption? How do firms thrive in our highly dynamic busi-ness environment? Successful leaders understand that, to succeed in the future, they must become disruptive in how they lead. Being disruptive is an internal mindset that seeks continual improvement and recognizes that the world is evolving quickly, and that it’s far better to lead in that evolution than to follow. Jim Nevada will show you what success looks like in leading firms, why human capital is the key to success, and how you and your teams can lead in this new era.

CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS CONTINUED...

12:30 p.m. Golf Outing Sponsored by DGC

Plan on enjoying an afternoon round at the beautiful Greg Norman-designed Tiburón Golf Club adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples. We have arranged for a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. and your greens fee, cart and lunch are all included in your registration fee — all we need is your handicap and shirt size.

1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Pre-Conference Ownership Transition and Merger & Acquisition Workshop Led by Ian Rusk and Michael O’Brien of Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

This intensive four-hour workshop will cover the various internal and external options for transitioning ownership in an A/E or environmental consulting firm. Topics covered will include: 1.) The pros and cons of the various transi-tion options; 2.) How a firm’s valuation will vary under different transition scenarios; 3.) The basic elements of an internal transition plan; 4.) How ESOPs can augment an internal transition; and 5.) The basics of merging with or selling your firm to an outside entity.

6:30 - 8:00 p.m. ROG+ Welcome Reception Sponsored by Ames & Gough

This casual welcome reception will allow you to mingle with your peers from all over the country and abroad. Count on plenty of food and beverages to get everyone in the mood for Day One of the conference. Join your hosts, other attendees and speakers at the beautiful Tiburón Golf Clubhouse — right next to The Ritz-Carlton — for a relaxing get-together that promises to be a highlight.

6:30 - 9:00 p.m. ROG+ Reception Sponsored by Newforma

After a full day of keynotes and panel discussions (ending at 5:00 p.m.) get ready for the BIG ROG+ Reception at 6:30 p.m. Spouses and companions are welcome to join us and enjoy everything Florida has to offer along with hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, an open bar and fine wines. There will be no need for dinner reservations after this party!

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2018

1:00 - 4:30 p.m. ROG+ Grand Slam Fishing Tournament Plan on boarding an open trolley in front of The Ritz-Carlton at 12:30 p.m. for a 15-minute ride to Port-o-Call Marina where we will grab sandwiches and board numerous fishing vessels with experienced captains for some backwater sport fishing. Last year we filled every boat the Marina had to offer, so be sure to secure your spot on this fun, 3 1/2 hour outing as it’s truly a great way to end the conference and worth staying another night.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2018

NOVEMBER 7-9, 2018 | RITZ-CARLTON | NAPLES, FL

6

SPECIAL EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2018

The full conference registration fee is $1,995 through Friday, September 14th. Additional attendees from the same firm can also register for only $1,895. This fee includes the conference program, pre- conference workshop or golf outing, fishing tournament, breakfasts, lunch and refreshment breaks during the program, and evening receptions. After September 14th, the registration fee increases to $2,195 ($2,095 for additional attendees from the same firm). Spouses and significant others are welcome to attend the evening receptions at no extra charge. Your registration fee does not include your hotel room. Please call The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort at 877.557.3092 and identify yourself as participating in the ROG Growth & Ownership Strategies Conference on November 7-9 and receive the special room rate of only $235. We have secured this special rate so you can extend your stay through the weekend.

Full Name: T-shirt size: Small Medium Large X-Large

Nickname:Title: Yes, I will join the:Company:Address:

Phone:Email: Companion’s name:

Golf Outing on Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 7th

Pre-Conference Ownership Transition and M&A Workshop on Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 7th

Grand Slam Fishing Tournament on Friday afternoon, Nov. 9th

Please note that the Golf Outing and Pre-Conference Workshop events are conccurent. All events are included in your registration.

.....................................................................................................................................

Full Name: T-shirt size: Small Medium Large X-Large

Nickname: Specify event participation preferences below:Title:Email: Companion’s name:

Registering an additional attendee from the same company?

City State Zip

Total Payment Amount: $

Card: Visa Mastercard Discover Amex Billing address if different from address listed for first attendee:

Card holder name:Card number:Expiration Date: /Verification code: Phone:

Signature:

City State Zip

3 EASY WAYS TO REGISTER:

Go online to conference.rog-partners.com

Mail your registration form to Rusk O’Brien Gido + Partners

Four Mill & Main Place, Suite 310Maynard, MA 01754

Call 800.543.5259 x 4 to ask questions and/or conduct your

registration over the phone

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION FORM

Call 800.543.5259 x 4 for pricing on sending four or more attendees.

FOR TRAVEL INFORMATION, VISIT CONFERENCE.ROG-PARTNERS.COM

.....................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................

NOVEMBER 7-9, 2018 THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF RESORT NAPLES, FLORIDA

7

NO

VEM

BER

7-9,

201

8

RI

TZ-C

ARLT

ON

N

APLE

S, F

LORI

DA

2018

PA

RTN

ERS

AN

D S

PO

NSO

RS

Call

800.

543.

5259

x4

or v

isit

conf

eren

ce.r

og-p

artn

ers.

com

ROG

+ P

artn

ers

I

Four

Mill

& M

ain

Plac

e, S

uite

310

I

May

nard

, MA

0175

4

This

ann

ual c

onfe

renc

e ga

ther

s le

ader

s of

suc

cess

ful e

ngin

eerin

g, e

nviro

nmen

tal c

onsu

lting

an

d ar

chite

ctur

e fir

ms

thro

ugho

ut th

e co

untr

y w

ith th

e go

al o

f sho

wca

sing

the

mos

t effe

ctiv

e st

rate

gies

for a

chie

ving

gro

wth

, im

prov

ing

profi

tabi

lity,

and

bui

ldin

g re

al a

nd s

usta

inab

le v

alue

.

Som

e of

this

yea

r’s to

pics

incl

ude:

Addr

ess

corr

ectio

ns?

eMai

l us

at

even

ts@

rog-

part

ners

.com

Pres

orte

d Fi

rst C

lass

Mai

l U

S Po

stag

e PA

ID

Hol

listo

n, M

A

Perm

it N

o. 7

2

REG

ISTE

R N

OW

& S

AVE!

com

e to

GR

OW

com

e to

NET

WO

RK

com

e to

LEA

RN

• Ta

x Re

form

and

the

A/E

Firm

• Sc

ore

Mor

e W

ork

thro

ugh

a St

rate

gic B

usin

ess

Dev

elop

men

t App

roac

h•

Wha

t Is

Corp

orat

e G

over

nanc

e an

d W

hy Is

It

So Im

port

ant?

• Ta

x Br

eaks

for A

rchi

tect

s &

Eng

inee

rs•

P3 O

ppor

tuni

ties

for D

esig

n Pr

ofes

sion

als

• In

cent

ive

Com

pens

atio

n Pl

ans t

hat A

ttrac

t, M

otiv

ate

& R

etai

n Em

ploy

ees

• Bu

sine

ss b

y D

esig

n•

Solv

ing

the

Peop

le P

uzzl

e•

How

“Dis

rupt

ion”

is R

edefi

ning

Lea

ders

hip

• H

ow A

/E L

eade

rs O

verc

ome

Sile

nt G

row

th

Kille

rs —

and

muc

h, m

uch

mor

e!