Connection and Innovation at Forefront of UT Haslam’s Second Annual Marketing and Sales Innovation Conference and Awards

The Department of Marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Haslam College of Business hosted the second annual Marketing and Sales Innovation Conference and Awards April 9-10, 2025. Held in downtown Knoxville, the event brought together marketing and sales professionals, as well as Haslam students, faculty and staff, to learn from one another and reflect on their work and the future of the professions.

Day One, Setting the Stage: Opening Remarks and Partnership Power

Alex Zablah, marketing department head, Gerber/Taylor Distinguished Professor and Kinney Family Faculty Research Fellow, kicked off the conference by recognizing sponsors, including 21^st Mortgage, Barnett Roofing, Stowers CAT, Cherokee Distributing, Coca-Cola, FedEx, Kingdom Culture, Leverage Group Advertising and UT Federal Credit Union. Zablah shared that the conference connects attendees with leading industry experts to spark meaningful dialogue at the intersection of marketing, sales and innovation — bridging gaps and inspiring forward-thinking collaboration.

Conference attendees then heard from day one keynote speaker Jeff Sundheim, a Google business strategist in AI-powered marketing, who spoke about the rise and impact of artificial intelligence. He opened by prompting Google’s AI to describe a table decoration, which it identified with striking clarity as a UT-themed centerpiece featuring Smokey, the university’s mascot. The AI program explained Smokey’s role, UT’s school colors and traditions, its knowledge and precision illustrating how this technology is reshaping storytelling and transforming marketing. Sundheim highlighted how these capabilities can help marketers better understand consumer needs and elevate their careers, saying, “AI represents the most profound opportunity to transform marketing.”

After Sundheim’s keynote, the afternoon shifted into a series of breakout sessions designed to deepen the day’s insights. Attendees could tailor their experience by selecting from 10 dynamic options—spanning topics from practical sales strategies to a panel on entrepreneurial marketing—scheduled across three time slots. Day one of the conference wrapped up with a networking night in downtown Knoxville, offering attendees a lively setting to forge new connections and deepen professional relationships.

Day Two, Insights: Leadership Lessons and Career Journeys

Day two began with a breakfast keynote, presented as an engaging fireside chat featuring Jamael Hester, global vice president of energy at The Coca-Cola Company, who discussed his journey from UT student to a career with the international beverage company, as well as aspects of marketing and sales careers. Hester explained what a typical workday looks like for marketing staff at Coca-Cola, misconceptions about marketing and sales careers, his perspective on brand management and more. He encouraged marketing and sales professionals in attendance to focus on reputation, results and respect, and ended his session with a Q&A period.

Hester was excited to speak at the conference, explaining that professionals often need guidance not found in traditional settings. “It’s important for folks to see tangible examples of what they’re doing now, how they can apply that learning to their own lives and how it connects to building equity in their futures and careers,” he said. “I’m happy to pour in, because I needed that kind of support when I began my career.”

Following the fireside chat, attendees chose from curated breakout sessions—ranging from evolving a legacy brand to mastering sales negotiations—spread across two time slots. Afterward, they reconvened for the luncheon keynote.

Jason Tartick delivered the final keynote. A 2018 contestant on The Bachelorette and former banker, Tartick combines his media prowess with his financial knowledge to host the podcast Trading Secrets and work as CEO of Rewired Talent Management. Tartick addressed the conference with an inspiring message about influence, income and impact, urging attendees to break free from societal blueprints and expectations. He encouraged them to lead with vulnerability, dream bigger and develop a deeper understanding of their finances — empowering them to take ownership of both their personal and professional journeys.

Tartick expressed his enthusiasm for sharing his story with the Haslam community and the broader professional audience. “There is no substitute for experience — good, bad or sad,” he said.” Over the last seven years, I feel like I’ve lived three lifetimes, and it’s empowering to bring forward the lessons I’ve learned to such a distinguished institution.”

Honoring Excellence

The event concluded with a lively awards ceremony emceed by Michael Galyean, business development manager for Painter1, but perhaps better known as the Dancing Blue Shirt Guy. Galyean brought his signature energy to the stage as he announced the winners in four key categories: Brand Journey, Better Marketing for a Better World, Digital Marketing Innovation and Sales Achievement.

The Knoxville Entrepreneur Center was honored with the Brand Journey award, while Alderwood Creative received the Better Marketing for a Better World distinction. BoldSquare earned recognition for Digital Marketing Innovation, and FedEx took home the award for Sales Achievement.

Building Community and Looking Ahead

Rena Ishak, marketing’s senior special events and experiences manager, highlighted the strong sense of connection at this year’s conference. “The conference brought together an incredible community of students, faculty and industry leaders, all eager to learn, connect and inspire,” she said. “From three powerful keynotes to thought-provoking breakout sessions, the conversations are sure to leave a lasting impact.”

Christine White, assistant professor of practice and the department’s director of partnerships and growth initiatives, seconded Ishak’s sentiment, adding, “At every keynote, people were intentionally meeting new faces. Hallways buzzed with introductions, and networking night was electric. We’re proud to create a space for industry and academia to connect. The Marketing and Sales Innovation Conference and Award brings professionals together to learn, collaborate and envision the future, and we can’t wait to do it again.”

Next year’s Marketing and Sales Innovation Conference and Awards is set for April 8-9, 2026.

CONTACT:

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Leah McAmis, senior editor, leah@utk.edu

Contact

Leah Powell

Senior Editor

lpowel20@utk.edu

Haslam College of Business - Connection and Innovation at Forefront of UT Haslam’s Second Annual Marketing and Sales Innovation Conference and Awards