Agenda & Speakers

Barbara Hagen, VP of Sales and Marketing, ThriftBooks

Barbara Hagen is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing of ThriftBooks, the world’s largest online independent seller of used and new books. Hagen has more than 20 years of experience as a senior marketing executive with an exceptional track record of success at Fortune 100 companies spanning Retail, CPG, and Tech and proven expertise in many areas including global strategy; loyalty and retention; eCommerce, inclusive of digital and performance marketing; omnichannel marketing; media, social, and multi-channel communications. Her previous roles include executive marketing leadership positions at Target, Microsoft, Best Buy and Johnson & Johnson.

As a data-driven marketer she leverages her experience to drive profitable sales growth, establish deep customer loyalty, and bring to market innovative strategies for ThriftBooks. Her extensive background has enabled her to successfully deliver continued top-line and bottom-line growth for ThriftBooks while strengthening the brand’s overall market position within the industry.

Hagen received her undergraduate degree in Marketing and Advertising from Syracuse University, an MBA in International Marketing from NYU’s Stern School of Business, and a Master of Science in Business Analytics also from NYU’s Stern School of Business.  She lives in the Seattle area with her husband, three kids, and two much-loved cats.

Jeremy Halek, Senior Director of Consumer Marketing, Cleveland Cavaliers

Jeremy Halek is the Senior Director of Consumer Marketing for the Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA), where he leads innovative strategies in consumer research and product marketing. With a focus on driving strategic planning and the execution of fan growth across the organization, Jeremy oversees consumer marketing efforts for the Cleveland Cavaliers and their affiliated properties, including the Cleveland Monsters (AHL), Cleveland Charge (NBAG), and events at Rocket Arena.

A key contributor to Rock Entertainment Group, Jeremy supports various initiatives within this dynamic portfolio of sports and entertainment entities, formed under the Dan Gilbert ROCK Family of Companies in 2021. His expertise lies in creating impactful marketing campaigns that enhance fan experiences and expand audience reach.

Nick Triantafellou, Director of Marketing & Merchandising, Weigel’s

Nick Triantafellou is the Director of Marketing & Merchandising at Weigel’s, where he leads category management, marketing strategy, NIL campaigns, and retail media innovation. Under his leadership, Weigel’s has achieved industry-leading loyalty penetration, launched award-winning NIL partnerships, and rolled out a private label program that continues to exceed sales expectations.

Nick’s passion for community, innovation, and storytelling has helped transform Weigel’s into a powerhouse in convenience retail—blending tradition with bold, modern campaigns that drive real results. From leading successful beverage loyalty initiatives to overseeing multi-million dollar foodservice launches, Nick’s approach is both strategic and hands-on.

A frequent industry speaker and board member, Nick has earned multiple national accolades—including recognition for his category leadership and for innovation in private label development. His work has driven triple-digit year-over-year social engagement growth, viral campaigns reaching millions, and a company culture that’s as energizing as it is effective.

Amy Ferguson, Senior Director Marketing, Royal Bank of Canada

Amy is the Senior Director of Marketing at Royal Bank of Canada, leading the Loyalty portfolio and Avion Rewards brand. She oversees the brand strategy, content and campaign strategies, as well as driving acquisition and engagement of the 10M+ Avion Rewards members. Joining Royal Bank of Canda in 2023 to launch the Avion Rewards brand in Canada and position ourselves as Canada's newest program.

With deep Marketing experience spanning some of Canada's top retail and loyalty brands, including Shoppers Drug Mart and PC Optimum, Amy brings a unique blend of strategic insight, thought leadership and constant agility to meet the evolving world of customer engagement in the Loyalty space. Proven success driving business impact across consumer packaged goods, health & wellness, beauty and loyalty by transforming customer insights and data into impactful and actionable strategies.