CHICAGO and WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two renowned association industry firms are joining forces to help their clients tackle what’s ahead. Market-leading professional services firm Smithbucklin has acquired McKinley Advisors, an award-winning association consultancy. The combination, further supported by Smithbucklin’s event-focused agency 360 Live Media, creates a unique solution in the marketplace to accelerate association growth, innovation and mission impact.

The acquisition of McKinley Advisors, a firm with deep roots and an exceptional track record in the association industry, brings Smithbucklin expertise in research, strategy, governance and business transformation to further expand its portfolio.

“Contemporary associations increasingly need high-capability partners to help them successfully navigate new challenges and opportunities,” said Matt Sanderson, President and CEO of Smithbucklin. “McKinley is a highly respected, trusted advisor to the world’s leading associations and a natural extension of our current capabilities. We are excited to bring their talent and expertise into the fold and tap our collective knowledge for insights that can strengthen associations.”

The combined organization of nearly 650 employees connects McKinley’s broad portfolio of research-based, strategic advisory services with Smithbucklin’s 75-year track record of association management, education and event strategy, design and execution. McKinley Advisors will continue serving clients with its current leadership team, staff and proven methodologies while leveraging new opportunities to collaborate across the Smithbucklin enterprise.

“From our initial conversations, we saw incredibly strong alignment on the most important things – mission, vision and values,” said Jay Younger, President of McKinley Advisors. “Both firms share a deep, fundamental commitment to helping associations advance mission-driven work for the benefit of humanity. Given that starting point, I’m confident that we will unlock a host of impactful new solutions for our clients that wouldn’t have been possible independently.”

McKinley Advisors will retain its name and brand and will be led by President Jay Younger and its senior leadership team.

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a professional services company that helps associations modernize, strengthen and advance to deliver better results for their members and missions. For more than 75 years, Smithbucklin has provided association management and capabilities in meetings and events, sponsorship and exhibit sales, education, marketing and technology. With nearly 650 employees in Chicago and Washington, D.C., Smithbucklin companies include 360 Live Media, The France Foundation, SDI Meetings and Incentives and now McKinley Advisors. Learn more about Smithbucklin at www.smithbucklin.com.

About McKinley Advisors

McKinley Advisors is an award-winning consulting firm dedicated to accelerating associations’ positive impact on the world. McKinley works in partnership with association executives and volunteer leaders to identify and address their most significant challenges and opportunities. McKinley provides services through four practice areas: Strategy and Innovation, Organizational Excellence, Business Transformation and Research and Insights. Learn more about McKinley Advisors at www.mckinley-advisors.com.

Media Contact:
Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

CHICAGO – Smithbucklin announced that Ellen Brislin, Chief Financial Officer, has been named 2025 Chicago CFO of the Year® in the Small Private Company category by the Financial Executives International (FEI) Chicago Chapter. Presented annually by FEI Chicago, the CFO of the Year® Awards honor financial leaders who demonstrate excellence, innovation and meaningful organizational impact.

Brislin was recognized for her role in strengthening Smithbucklin’s financial operations, modernizing core systems and advancing the company’s long-term financial strategy. During her tenure as CFO, she has overseen wide-ranging improvements to the company’s finance, HR, planning and reporting platforms, offering teams enhanced tools and more efficient processes.

She has also played an important role in maintaining Smithbucklin’s strong financial position, leading the financial integration of multiple acquisitions with precision and care. She continues to support long-range planning efforts and plays a central role in leading the company’s Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP). She is credited with bringing transparency and sound judgement to complex decisions.

“Ellen’s impact on our company is significant and far-reaching,” said Matt Sanderson, President & CEO of Smithbucklin. “She brings a level of clarity, reliability and insight that strengthens our organization every day. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are proud to see her contributions recognized by FEI Chicago.”

Brislin joined Smithbucklin more than two decades ago as a staff accountant and progressed through several roles before becoming CFO. Her career demonstrates steady growth, strong financial expertise and a commitment to delivering value for Smithbucklin’s client organizations.

Effective financial management is essential for associations, particularly as they navigate shifting economic conditions, evolving member expectations and increasing pressure to demonstrate value. Sound financial oversight ensures that resources are used effectively, investments are aligned with mission-driven priorities and organizations are prepared for both opportunities and challenges. Leaders who bring discipline, openness and a forward-thinking mindset to financial management play an important role in sustaining the long-term health and impact of the associations they support.

About Smithbucklin

For more than 75 years, Smithbucklin has been helping associations advance their missions by providing management, strategic planning, education, meetings and events and advertising, exhibit, and sponsorship sales strategy. Working across all industries and professions with structured networks of knowledge, associations get insight, proven systems and practical expertise to grow, advance innovation,and deliver increased value to their members.

Media Contact 
Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

CHICAGO –In a new report titled “Unlocking Value for Members: Perceptions and the Evolving Role of Associations,” Smithbucklin reveals that associations continue to be essential players in shaping industries and fostering professional development in a rapidly evolving landscape. This research, which surveyed over 400 association members across various demographics, offers valuable insights into the high value members place on professional development and networking opportunities.

According to the report, 88% of members surveyed view their associations positively, and 85% are likely to renew their memberships to access professional development offerings.

Key Findings: High Satisfaction Among Members Points to Growth Potential 

• Members are engaged – 88% of members surveyed view their association positively, and 85% renew their memberships annually, citing professional development as the top benefit.
• Career growth is a top priority – Among members surveyed, 83% value professional development, 82% seek continuing education, and 80% look for certifications.
• Non-members lack awareness – 24% of non-members surveyed do not belong to an association simply because they are unaware of one relevant to their career.
• Willingness to invest beyond dues – 60% of members say they would pay more for certifications and continuing education, indicating strong demand for career-enhancing benefits.

“Our research shows that members genuinely value the opportunities for career advancement that associations provide, which highlights the need for associations to adapt their strategies in response to evolving member needs and to clearly articulate the value of membership,” said Matt Sanderson, President and CEO of Smithbucklin.

In addition to insights from current members, the report also features important data from non-members. Approximately 24% of surveyed professionals reported being unaware of associations relevant to their industries—highlighting a significant opportunity for associations to expand outreach and raise awareness. Additionally, 20% cited membership costs as a barrier, suggesting that associations may need to reevaluate their pricing structures to increase accessibility.

The findings from non-members underscore the opportunity for associations to reach those who are not yet engaged. With 24% of professionals unaware of associations relevant to their industries, there’s a clear need to showcase the real value of membership—especially in terms of career development and networking—to better connect with potential members,” said Jeff Hartney, Senior Vice President of Association Management.

The report outlines four fundamental strategies associations can leverage to enhance member engagement and attract new members. Key recommendations include emphasizing career growth opportunities, offering tailored professional development and networking initiatives, leveraging technology for improved engagement, and gaining a deeper understanding of member value through consistent feedback.

The complete study, “Unlocking Member Value: Perceptions and the Evolving Role of Associations,” is available for download.

For media inquires, interview, and headshot requests, please contact:

Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

CHICAGO – Smithbucklin is pleased to announce strategic leadership updates to its Association Management business, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering expertise and innovation to unlock growth for association clients and for organizations considering professional management. Jeremy Van Ek has been named Chief Operations Officer, Association Management, and Jeff Hartney has been named Senior Vice President, Association Management. Additionally, Kirsten Shaffer, CAE, has been named Client Network Lead for one of three Healthcare and Clinical Administration networks.

Jeremy Van Ek, Chief Operations Officer, Association Management 

Based in Chicago, Van Ek will lead efforts to modernize and transform Smithbucklin’s association management approach, focusing on client growth and operational excellence. He joins Smithbucklin’s Corporate Management Team and reports to Matt Sanderson, President and CEO.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy to Smithbucklin,” said Sanderson. “His deep expertise in strategy, financial performance, and operational transformation will be instrumental in evolving our approach to association management. Jeremy’s leadership will help us enhance our service model, formalize our membership engagement methodology, and drive meaningful growth for the associations we serve.”

Van Ek brings over 20 years of experience in professional services, marketing, and association management. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer at the American Marketing Association (AMA), where he led key functions including strategy, governance, technology, finance, and operations. During a leadership transition, he also served as Acting CEO for 13 months, achieving revenue growth and exceeding operating profit targets.

Prior to AMA, Van Ek held executive leadership roles at professional services and marketing firms. As Chief Financial Officer at Trisect, a Chicago-based digital and retail marketing agency, he spearheaded growth initiatives and led the company through an acquisition. At Edelman, the world’s largest public relations firm, he served as Senior Vice President, Global Business Solutions, where he overhauled global operations and led change initiatives to improve efficiency and impact.

Van Ek holds a master’s degree from University at Buffalo and a bachelor’s degree from Hope College.

Jeff Hartney, Senior Vice President, Association Management 

Hartney, a 10-year veteran of Smithbucklin, will lead the overall Association Management network structure and delivery model. He will continue to oversee one of the company’s Trade Association networks while also supporting all Client Network Leads in their roles.

Jeff joined Smithbucklin in 2014 as Executive Director of BISA, the premier financial services industry association focused on marketing, sales, and distribution of financial products through banks and credit unions. For the past two years, he has served as a Client Network Lead, overseeing a network of 10 trade associations and providing stabilizing and strategic leadership for clients and teams.

Kirsten Shaffer, Client Network Lead, Healthcare and Clinical Administration  

Shaffer has been named Client Network Lead for one of three Healthcare and Clinical Administration networks, effective January 1, 2025. In this role, she will continue to serve as Executive Director of the National Association Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) while providing strategic oversight for Smithbucklin’s healthcare association clients.

With 13 years at Smithbucklin, Kirsten has worked with multiple healthcare associations, including NAMSS, NAHAM, NCCAOM, and ASBMR.

Commitment to Association Management Excellence 

“These leadership updates reflect our continued investment in association management expertise, ensuring that our clients and prospective partners benefit from top-tier leadership and innovative solutions,” said Sanderson. “These leaders bring deep experience and a shared commitment to client growth and success, positioning us to deliver even greater impact for the associations we serve.”

For media inquires, interview, and headshot requests, please contact:

Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

CHICAGO – Smithbucklin has welcomed Vincent L’Erario as Chief Information Officer (CIO). Based in Chicago, L’Erario will lead Smithbucklin’s enterprise technology strategy and bring forward innovations to support client impact. He also joins Smithbucklin’s corporate management team.

With over 25 years of experience in strategic technology enablement and transformation, L’Erario will also support client growth and impact through innovative technologies.

“We are thrilled to welcome Vince to Smithbucklin,” said Matt Sanderson, President & CEO of Smithbucklin. “His leadership marks a significant investment in advancing our technology capabilities to enhance efficiency, productivity, and agility across the organization. Vince’s expertise will not only strengthen our enterprise systems but also enable our clients to embrace innovative solutions that drive growth and adaptability. He is a valuable addition to our technology team, and we look forward to the impact his leadership will bring.”

In his most recent role as CIO at Arabella Advisors, L’Erario led a transformative technology roadmap that included automating critical client processes with scalable cloud platforms, delivering a market-leading cybersecurity program, and integrating systems and data to support Arabella’s significant revenue growth. He expanded the technology function, aligning resources across infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise systems, and business intelligence. His initiatives resulted in a modern Salesforce and Microsoft Azure enterprise architecture and a cohesive team that significantly improved operational efficiency and security.

Prior to Arabella, L’Erario’s background spans a range of industries, including executive technology roles at Coverdell and engineering and leadership positions at Slalom, Ashmore EMM, Harris Associates, and Global Securities Information (now part of Thomson Reuters).

L’Erario is a graduate of the Kellogg School of Management with an MBA in Management and Strategy and has a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Rochester.

For media inquires, interview, and headshot requests, please contact:

Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

Chicago — Smithbucklin, a professional services company that works with non-profits and industry associations, announced leadership changes in its Event Services and Education and Learning Services practices. These changes, designed to spur growth and innovation, will take effect on July 1, 2024.

Jeff Calore will be promoted to vice president and will lead Smithbucklin’s Event Services business. His experience in event design, strategy, and business management, and his in-depth understanding of association operations creates impact, growth, and value for our clients. He is a trusted collaborator and a respected partner in the events industry and association community. Prior to joining Smithbucklin, Jeff served as senior vice president of the National Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Show, leading the association’s supplier partnerships and non-dues revenue teams.

Julie Ferry will be promoted to senior director and will continue her role as portfolio director in Event Services. Julie has been with Smithbucklin for 25 years, working in various capacities including membership, operations, and education. She offers strategic guidance to associations to help them grow their events. Julie also holds a Digital Events Strategist (DES) designation, which highlights her expertise in managing live stream, virtual, digital, and hybrid events to attract and engage audiences and enhance event profitability.

Jerry Murphy will be promoted to senior director while continuing his role as portfolio director in Event Services. Jerry leads a team responsible for the strategy, development, delivery, and impact of client events, meetings, and tradeshows. He brings experience in event execution, particularly in the scientific and healthcare sectors. He counsels clients on event profitability leveraging his background in customer experience and business operations and focuses on improving event delivery and client satisfaction.

Peter Finn will expand his role to become the head of Education and Learning Services. Currently the executive director of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), Peter’s background in professional association education, including prior roles at the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), gives him unique perspective on adult learning for association members. Peter focuses on driving growth, innovation, and impact by focusing on the opportunities, solutions, and trends that are unique to professional associations.

“We are thrilled about the changes to our leadership team and confident in the team’s ability to drive change and enable growth for our clients,” said Smithbucklin President & CEO Matt Sanderson. “Their collective skills and commitment set us up for ongoing success in creating outstanding events and educational experiences.”

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

For media inquiries and interview, headshot, and photo requests, please contact:

Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211

Washington, D.C. — Beth Surmont, FASAE, CMP Fellow, CAE, Vice President of Business Event Strategy and Design at Smithbucklin company 360 Live Media, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Groundbreaker Award. The award is presented annually by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Foundation to honor industry trailblazers who represent diverse sectors of the business events community, recognizing those who have made a significant contribution to their organizations and programs that advance inclusion and equity.

“Beth has always been a trailblazer for what the next era of events will be, especially in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Jack Macleod, President of 360 Live Media. “Prioritizing inclusion and equity in both her professional and personal life, Beth is a leader who combines audience-centered design with purposeful intention to create and execute impactful events for clients across all industries.”

Beth has on-the-ground event experience spanning more than 20 years in corporate and nonprofit events and tradeshows. She has been a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) since 2008, and a Certified Association Executive (CAE) since 2016. Surmont served as chair of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Meeting & Exposition Council from 2016-2018, and frequently speaks on event design and strategy at industry events.

“It is a great honor to be a recipient of this year’s PCMA Groundbreaker Award and be among the distinguished event professionals nominated,” said Beth. “I’m continuously inspired by the missions of the associations we serve and motivated by my passion for redesigning, reinventing, and reinvigorating events for meaningful impact.”

In addition to this year’s PCMA Groundbreaker Award, Beth was a 2023 finalist for the Event Designer of the Year Award from PCMA. In 2022, she was named a Fellow by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) for making noteworthy and sustained contributions of leadership to associations and was an inductee of the Events Industry Council inaugural CMP Fellows program. Beth was also identified as one of BizBash’s 500 Most Influential People in Events in 2021. Beth is a founding board member of SocialOffset, a nonprofit that encourages local donations instead of destination boycotts.

About Smithbucklin

Smithbucklin is a leading professional services company serving non-profits and industry associations. Through full-service management, meetings, sales, and strategic marketing solutions, we unlock the power of human networks that move every industry, field and profession forward. Learn more.

About 360 Live Media

360 Live Media, a Smithbucklin company, is an event strategy, marketing, and design agency that helps organizations maximize their impact and advance their mission. We drive tangible business results by helping organizations modernize their approach to events, membership, and revenue. Learn more.

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For media inquiries and interview, headshot, and photo requests, please contact:

Karen Saverino
Chief Marketing Officer, Smithbucklin
ksaverino@smithbucklin.com | 202.367.1211