North American Learning Executive Summit

The North American Learning Executive Summit is a premier gathering of industry leaders, learning & development executives, and experts dedicated to exploring innovative strategies, emerging trends, and best practices in the dynamic world of talent management.

January 13 - January 15, 2025

The Hilton Austin | Austin, TX

Attendees
+
of attendees are Director level and above
%
Global Organizations
+
Renowned Speakers
+

Join This Year's Conversation

NALES gathers Chief Learning Officers (CLOs), SVPs, VPs, and Directors of Learning Development, Workforce Enablement/Development, and Head of Leadership Development to share insights, foster innovation, and build invaluable connections. Dive into a thoughtfully curated environment that brings together thought leaders, allowing you to explore new ideas and engage in meaningful discussions. Join the conversation at NALES and be part of a community dedicated to pushing the limits of leadership development success.

Featured Speakers This Year

Year after year, we bring to the stage today's thought leaders and innovators

Brian Glaser

Brian Glaser is a seasoned learning and development executive with a passion for leveraging technology to drive innovation and growth. As the Chief Learning Officer at Google, he leads the strategic direction of learning initiatives, ensuring that Google employees have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for professional development. With over two decades of experience in the tech industry, Glaser has a proven track record of designing and implementing high-impact learning programs that empower individuals and teams to thrive in dynamic environments. His visionary leadership has been instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous learning and knowledge-sharing at Google. Prior to joining Google, Glaserheld leadership roles at several prominent technology companies, where he honed his expertise in learning strategy, organizational development, and talent management. He holds a master’s degree in Educational Technology from Stanford University and is committed to staying at the forefront of educational innovation. Beyond his professional endeavors, Glaser is deeply passionate about education and believes in the transformative power of learning to drive positive change in individuals and communities worldwide. He is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and actively champions initiatives to create a more inclusive learning environment at Google and beyond. In his role as Chief Learning Officer, Glasercontinues to spearhead initiatives that empower Googlers to unlock their full potential, drive innovation, and make meaningful contributions to Google’s mission of organizing the world’s information and making it universally accessible and useful. His strategic vision, combined with his dedication to lifelong learning, makes him a driving force in shaping the future of learning at Google and beyond.

Brian Glaser

VP & Chief Talent and Learning Officer

Google

Lorraine Stomski

Lorraine Stomski, Ph.D., is the Chief Talent Officer at Walmart, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company’s workforce. With a profound commitment to driving organizational excellence, Lorraine spearheads Walmart’s talent strategy, focusing on leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and employee engagement. Before joining Walmart, Lorraine brought her expertise to various high-profile roles in the industry, demonstrating a consistent ability to innovate and inspire. She holds a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, which underscores her deep understanding of the science behind effective human capital management. Lorraine is renowned for her strategic vision and her ability to cultivate a thriving corporate culture that aligns with Walmart’s mission to create a workplace where associates can unlock their full potential. In addition to her professional achievements, Lorraine is an advocate for lifelong learning and mentoring, often sharing her insights through speaking engagements and thought leadership. Her dedication to fostering an inclusive and dynamic work environment continues to position Walmart as a leader in the retail industry.

Lorraine Stomski

Chief Talent Officer

Walmart

Sandra Humbles

Sandra Humbles is a visionary leader with over 30 years of distinguished experience, currently serving as Johnson & Johnson’s Chief Learning Officer since 2021. She is the driving force behind the launch of an innovative and personalized learning and development framework, empowering every J&J employee to thrive in their careers.

Before assuming her pivotal role as Johnson & Johnson’s first Chief Learning Officer, Sandra Humbles served as the Vice President of Global Education Solutions for MedTech. In this capacity, she refined her expertise in pioneering learning strategies and global education, leaving an indelible mark on the MedTech industry. Her contributions shaped the educational landscape and propelled professional growth on a global scale.

Today, Sandra Humbles leads a global team devoted to shaping the future of L&D. Her forward-thinking leadership stands as the vanguard, ensuring that learning becomes a driving force behind the organization’s success.

Sandra Humbles’ unwavering commitment to professional growth and development within Johnson & Johnson is a testament to her dedication to nurturing a workforce that is both skilled and passionate. She envisions a future where learning and development seamlessly integrate into the Johnson & Johnson’s DNA, enabling every individual to thrive. Her legacy is one of transformation, where learning and progress go hand in hand, driving both individual success and the achievement of J&J’s vision to blend heart, science & ingenuity to profoundly impact health for humanity.

Sandra Humbles

Chief Learning Officer

Johnson & Johnson

Brandon Carson

Brandon Carson is Starbucks’ vice president of learning, leadership, and cultural experiences. In his role, Brandon is responsible for global partner (employee) learning and cultural experiences and their corresponding strategies.

Prior to Starbucks, Brandon led the talent development strategy and the academic degree programs for Walmart. Other career highlights include leading learning at Home Depot and Delta Air Lines as well as leadership roles at Apple and Yahoo!

Brandon has authored two books, Learning in the Age of Immediacy, and L&D’s Playbook for the Digital Age both from ATD Press. In 2020, he founded L&D Cares, a nonprofit that provides no-cost mentoring, coaching and resources for talent professionals. Brandon holds an M.Ed in Educational Technology, a BA in Business, and certification in advanced analysis. He has one daughter, Hannah, who lives in Santa Cruz, CA. His favorite hobbies include travel and street photography and collecting vinyl. Brandon’s favorite Starbucks drink is an iced grande caramel macchiato with soy milk, extra caramel, and vanilla sweet cream cold foam.

Brandon Carson

Global Head of Learning, Leadership, and Cultural Experiences

Starbucks

Anandi Shankar

Anandi Shankar is the Global Head of Learning at Unilever, a prominent multinational consumer goods company. With an exceptional track record in the fields of organizational development and talent management, Anandi brings a wealth of knowledge and innovative strategies to her role. She leads Unilever’s learning and development initiatives worldwide, driving growth and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization. Anandi’s passion for empowering individuals and teams is matched by her commitment to creating inclusive, diverse learning environments that cater to a global workforce. Her strategic vision and hands-on approach have helped Unilever achieve its business goals while nurturing the next generation of leaders within the company.

Anandi Shankar

Global Head of Learning

Unilever

Victoria Feldman

Victoria Feldman is an accomplished professional with over a decade of experience in learning and development strategies. As the Head of Learning and Development at Amazon, she spearheads initiatives to nurture talent and cultivate a culture of continuous growth within the organization. Victoria’s expertise lies in designing innovative training programs that empower employees to reach their full potential. With a keen focus on leveraging technology and data-driven insights, she ensures that Amazon remains at the forefront of employee development practices. Victoria is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments that foster collaboration and drive business success.

Victoria Feldman

Head of Learning and Development

Amazon

Roger Carrillo

Roger Carillo is a seasoned executive with a proven track record in driving transformative change and fostering employee growth. In his role as Senior Vice President of Global Talent, Learning, and Organization Effectiveness at Mondelez, Roger spearheads the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance organizational capabilities and drive high performance. With a strong background in human resources and organizational development, Roger focuses on nurturing talent, promoting a culture of continuous learning, and optimizing business processes to ensure a competitive edge for the company. Throughout his career, Roger has been recognized for his innovative approach to talent management and his ability to lead cross-functional teams in dynamic, global environments. He is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces where employees can thrive and contribute their best. His leadership and vision are instrumental in supporting Mondelez’s mission to empower people and deliver sustainable growth.

Roger Carrillo

Senior Vice President of Global Talent, Learning, and Organization Effectiveness

Mondelēz

Jennifer Buchanan

Jennifer is the Vice President of Walmart Academy, the learning arm of the world’s largest retailer, where she leads the design and delivery of learning experiences that enable over 2 million associates to build skills for now and the future. She has experience in various learning and development roles at Department of Defense, American Express, Walmart and Sam’s Club, where she has launched award-winning programs that have enhanced the learning culture, career development, and performance of the frontline and supply chain workforce.

Jennifer holds an Executive Program for Leadership Acceleration certificate from Harvard Business School Executive Education, a Master’s degree in Education from the University of South Florida, and a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. She has published multiple articles on learning and development topics and has been recognized as a Top 50 Learning and Development Professional and a CLO LearningElite Finalist. She is passionate about creating learning opportunities that empower associates to achieve their career dreams and contribute to the success of the organization.

Jennifer Buchanan

Vice President, Walmart Academy

Walmart

Shannon Custard

Shannon leads the Global Competence Development & Learning Organization at IKEA (Ingka Group), the leader in building sustainable life at home. Her organization is responsible for developing the global strategy for learning, competence development, skills, job architecture, and learning technology across 30 countries and 177,000 co-workers. With over 20 years in talent management, she has a strong background in supporting retail, digital, and corporate teams in talent acquisition, succession, learning, skills, and development. Shannon is passionate about delivering talent management programs that create equity for frontline employees, enhance leadership, and help teams achieve strategic goals.

Shannon Custard

Global Head of Learning

IKEA

Johann Laville

Johann Laville is a seasoned leader in learning and development, currently serving as the Chief Learning Officer at Merck. With over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry, Laville has demonstrated a profound commitment to fostering organizational growth through continuous learning initiatives. Throughout his career, Laville has been at the forefront of designing innovative learning strategies that align with Merck’s mission and vision. He is deeply passionate about leveraging technology and data-driven insights to optimize learning experiences and enhance employee performance. Prior to joining Merck, Laville held various senior leadership positions in global learning and development, where he successfully spearheaded large-scale learning transformations and talent development programs. Laville holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Development and Leadership from a prestigious institution and is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, sharing his expertise on topics such as workforce development, learning analytics, and organizational effectiveness. As the Chief Learning Officer at Merck, Johann Laville continues to drive a culture of learning excellence, empowering employees to thrive in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

Johann Laville

Chief Learning Officer

Merck

Vaishali Ahuja

Vaishali Ahuja

Vice President for HR Business & Talent Development North America

BMW Group

Martin Stöckl

Martin Stöckl is the Senior Vice President and Head of Leadership & Talent Development at Airbus, where he is responsible for fostering a strong culture of leadership and cultivating top talent across the organization. With over two decades of experience in human resources and organizational development, Martin has established himself as a thought leader in talent management and leadership training.

Before joining Airbus, Martin held several key HR positions in various global companies, where he demonstrated a consistent track record of driving strategic initiatives that empower employees and enhance organizational performance. His expertise lies in designing comprehensive talent strategies, implementing leadership development programs, and creating inclusive work environments that support innovation and growth. Martin holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology and is known for his ability to inspire teams and guide leaders through complex challenges. His passion for developing people and promoting diversity has earned him a reputation as a strategic partner and a champion of positive organizational change. In his free time, Martin enjoys mentoring young professionals, staying updated on industry trends, and participating in community service initiatives.

Martin Stöckl

SVP Head of Leadership & Talent Development

Airbus

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Empowered by Real & Measurable Strategies

Empowered by Real & Measurable Strategies

The North American Learning Executive Summit 2025 is designed to ensure every attendee walks away with real & measurable strategies to bring back to their organizations. 

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