Sessions & Speakers
Day 1, April 21 | Verizon Showroom
The Relationship Roundup: Building Trust That Drives Business
Trust is your strongest currency. This Texas style keynote reveals how value driven connections and authentic relationships create lasting business success. Saddle up and discover why relationships win every time.
Angeli International
Kim Angeli
Kim Angeli strongly believes that it’s not your customer’s job to remember you. Rather it’s your job to be unforgettable! And the principle-based strategies she uses to help her clients become unforgettable both in the minds and hearts of THEIR clients results in a business that is much more personally rewarding and financially profitable.
Kim has been in sales and entrepreneurship for 30 years and – as creator of the programs, Grow with Gratitude™ and Grumpy to Grateful™ is passionate about your business being in alignment with gratitude.
She began her career with Campbell Soup Sales, Sprint Wireless, and Cisco Systems, where she was a 65 million dollar producer. Immediately after the “dot com bust” and just 11 days after 9/11 she began her own insurance agency in a guest room closet. She then sold that agency in 2016 for 600% profit to inspire people to choose grateful living.
Kim serves as Executive Director of the Certified Go-Giver® Speaker and Coaching Program in partnership with Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver®, mentoring speakers and coaches to lead with generosity, authority, and purpose.
She is the author of My Daily Gratitude Journal, which has inspired readers worldwide to transform their mindset and results through daily gratitude practices.
When not coaching or consulting with business owners or speaking on the stages of the world, you will find Kim traveling with her husband, daughter, and English labs, Katie and Henry Ford.
Day 1, April 21 | Verizon Showroom
The Big Texas Roundup: Industry Insights on the Horizon
This fast-paced panel walks attendees through six critical relocation partners—mortgage, corporate housing, van lines, tax, real estate, and immigration—each sharing timely industry insights and market updates. Designed for relocation professionals navigating today’s evolving landscape, the session highlights current trends, challenges, and opportunities impacting transferees and corporate programs, with a Texas-focused lens on mobility, housing, and workforce movement.
U.S. Bank | VP, Regional Sales Manager of Corporate Programs
Faye Hoxworth
With over two decades of experience in the real estate and relocation industry, Faye is a VP, Regional Sales Manager of Corporate Programs at U.S. Bank, one of the largest and most trusted financial institutions in the country. She oversees corporate mortgage program sales for relocation and employee services for corporate clients across Texas and the Southwest, ensuring their satisfaction and loyalty. She is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service and creating value-added solutions for her clients and partners. She has been recognized by WERC® with the Distinguished Service Award, Meritorious Service Award and the Senior Certified Relocation Professional (SCRP) and Senior Global Mobility Specialist (SGMS) designations. She is also an active board member of the North Texas Relocation Professionals (NTRP), a non-profit organization that provides education and networking opportunities for relocation professionals in the Dallas area. Through her involvement with NTRP and formerly the Houston Relocation Professionals (HRP), she has contributed and will continue to work towards the advancement and advocacy of the relocation industry.
Preferred Corporate Housing | Vice President of Client Services
Michelle Velasquez
Michelle Velasquez, GMS, CCHP, serves as Vice President of Client Services for Preferred Corporate Housing, where she oversees sales, forecasting, client development and retention, onboarding, and industry training initiatives. A two-time Houston Relocation Professionals board president and current member of WERC's Supplier Advisory Council, Michelle is widely recognized for her forward-thinking perspective and deep corporate housing expertise.
Oler Relocation | Senior Director of Customer Experience and Sales
Don Rupe
Don leads the customer experience and sales teams at Oler Relo and brings more than 40 years of experience in the relocation industry. His background spans sales, client services, customer service, sales and operations management, and project management. Don has extensive expertise in domestic employee relocation, global mobility management, commercial workplace services, warehousing, and logistics. He is a past president and board member of the Houston Relocation Professionals and holds the Certified Relocation Professional (CRP), Certified Moving Consultant (CMC), and Certified Mobility Management Consultant (CMMC) designations.
GTN | Managing Director
Raj Azad
Raj enjoys partnering with his clients and providing responsive and personalized service, regardless of the size of their business. He joined Global Tax Network in 2004 as one of the firm's first employees; one of his proudest achievements has been helping this dynamic company grow.
With more than 25 years of experience in tax, Raj serves as Managing Director. Previously he was with PricewaterhouseCoopers in their International Assignment Services practice area in the Minneapolis office, and with Ernst & Young in their corporate tax services area in Kuwait.
Clients rely on Raj for his:
Responsiveness and attention to detail;
Personal experience as an expatriate and knowledge of different cultures;
Extensive international tax knowledge;
Tailored information and consultation.
Raj earned his undergraduate degree with honors in accounting from Hansraj College, Delhi University, India. He holds a Master of Business Taxation from the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management. He is a Certified Public Accountant and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants. He is also a Chartered Accountant and is an inactive member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.
Away from the office, it's family time. Raj has three young daughters who keep him busy with their gymnastics, piano, ice skating, dance and soccer schedules. He also feels fortunate to have extended family nearby who rely on his advice in their business affairs. Besides family, he is an avid tennis player and hopes to meet Johnny Mac at Senior Circuit someday.
Envoy | Managing Attorney, Corporate Immigration Partners
Julieta Grinffiel
Julieta Grinffiel is a U.S. immigration and mobility leader and managing attorney with Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C. She is board certified in immigration and nationality law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and partners closely with HR professionals and in-house legal teams to design and manage corporate immigration strategies. Julieta leads U.S. immigration programs for Fortune 500 companies and advises multinational employers on workforce mobility, compliance, and program development.
Berkshire Hathaway | Relocation Director
Lynn Breedlove
Lynn Breedlove is an experienced Relocation Director in the mobility industry, known for delivering strategic guidance and seamless transition experiences for clients and their employees. With a strong background in global mobility and relocation services, Lynn specializes in managing complex moves, developing client-focused solutions, and ensuring a high level of service throughout every stage of the relocation process.
Throughout their career, Lynn has built a reputation for leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of workforce mobility. By combining industry expertise with a people-first approach, Lynn helps organizations support their talent while maintaining efficiency and compliance.
Passionate about creating positive relocation experiences, Lynn continues to drive innovation and excellence within the mobility field, fostering strong relationships with clients, partners, and teams alike
Day 1, April 21 | Guitar Bar
Don't Fence Me In: Opening the Range for Flexible Mobility Policies
In today's rapidly changing global landscape, flexibility in mobility programs is more crucial than ever. Join us for this interactive session that will explore the importance of flexible mobility programs and policies, focusing on how they can serve as powerful recruitment and retention tools by allowing employees to select benefits that fit their needs. Together we will delve into the concept and execution of flexible mobility, providing participants with the opportunity to engage in small group discussions to share best practices, challenges, and innovative strategies to enhance flexibility in their programs or policies. Each small group will receive flash cards with various categories that will guide the discussions, and a note taker will be identified to debrief in the larger group, ensuring a comprehensive exchange of ideas.
Toyota North America | Senior Manager of Talent Strategy and Travel Services
Jessi Koppenhauer
As a Senior Manager of Talent Strategy and Travel Services at Toyota North America, Jessi brings over 17 years of experience in leading and delivering global mobility and relocation solutions for diverse clients and industries. She is a certified Global Mobility Specialist and a passionate advocate for organizational efficiency, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Her mission is to empower and support the mobility and talent needs of Toyota North America.
Cartus | Director of Strategic Business Development
Lauren Serfilippi
Lauren Serfilippi is a Director of Strategic Business Development at Cartus, bringing over 25 years of experience in the global mobility and relocation industry. She specializes in partnering with HR and Talent leaders to design strategic global mobility solutions that align with organizational goals and deliver exceptional employee experiences. Lauren has a proven track record of driving business growth, fostering collaboration among corporate stakeholders and service partners, and leading initiatives that address complex relocation challenges. Passionate about education and industry engagement, she is committed to advancing the relocation community through innovation, networking, and thought leadership.
Mobility leader | Bellevue University adjunct professor
Morgan Snapp
For over ten years, Morgan Snapp has been a passionate leader in the Mobility Industry. Having relocated for her career 3 times, she understands the value that mobility solutions can offer in securing the right talent in the right place at the right time. Her experiences in a variety of roles have helped her to understand how all groups collaborate to create the best experience possible for companies and their employees. She regularly contributes to regional WERC event educational content and other roundtables and workshops, currently serving as Education Chair for both HRP and BAMM. Morgan is an Adjunct Professor at Bellevue University, teaching supply chain and logistics for their cohort program. In her spare time, Morgan enjoys traveling with her family, skiing/snowboarding, and hiking (really anything outdoors!)
Day 1, April 21 | Guitar Bar
The Technology Two-Step
Too many tools, not enough outcomes? In this interactive, case‑led panel, corporate leaders from Toyota, Halliburton, Zendesk, and TEL reveal how they made mobility technology deliver - now. We’ll unpack real-world innovations, from ecosystem integrations and data automation to AI-enabled workflows and employee experience tools -and the practical lessons learned along the way.
Moderator | Equus Software | VP, Solutions Consulting
Tom Richardson
Tom Richardson is VP of Solutions Consulting at Equus Software, where he partners with global mobility, HR, tax, and talent leaders to translate technology strategy into real-world operational outcomes. With deep experience advising multinational organizations on mobility platforms, business travel compliance, and ecosystem integrations, Tom specializes in helping teams identify high-value technology initiatives, drive stakeholder alignment, and realize measurable business impact. As moderator of The Technology Two-Step, he brings a practitioner’s perspective on what it truly takes to move from technology selection to sustained adoption and value.
Tokyo Electron | Director, Talent Acquisition & Global Mobility
Kathryn Garner
Kathryn Garner, CRP, is Director of Talent Acquisition & Global Mobility at Tokyo Electron (TEL), where she leads global talent acquisition, contingent workforce management, and employee mobility programs across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. With deep experience in high-tech manufacturing and R&D environments, Kathryn focuses on balancing compliance, process efficiency, and positive employee experiences while advancing technology-enabled mobility solutions at scale.
Toyota Motor North America | Talent Mobility Analyst
Naumy Khawaja
Naumy Khawaja is a dynamic Talent Mobility Analyst at Toyota Motor North America, managing the permanent transfer program. With a decade of global and domestic mobility experience, Naumy helps programs function effectively by cultivating collaborative spaces, crafting precise policies, and implementing data-driven strategies that support impactful mobility outcomes. A DFW local and University of North Texas graduate, Naumy is trilingual and brings a strong enthusiasm for food, travel, and new adventures.
Zendesk | Global Mobility Leader
Rebecca Stephens
Rebecca Stephens is a seasoned Talent Mobility and HR Compliance leader with 20+ years of experience guiding global organizations through complex workforce challenges. She has built and led high-performing mobility teams at companies like Dell, VMware, and SIRVA, where she delivered innovative solutions across global mobility, immigration, and remote work functions.
As the Founder of Talent Mobility Experts, Rebecca now advises a diverse portfolio of clients—from startups to Fortune 500s—on how to hire, relocate, and retain global talent. She is currently the Global Mobility Leader at Zendesk in Austin.
Rebecca holds advanced degrees in Employment & HR Law and Human Services, and is known for her strategic mindset, operational excellence, and collaborative leadership.
UL Solutions | Global Mobility Professional
AnTuan Jeffery
AnTuan Jeffery is a Global Mobility professional at UL Solutions, supporting cross-border employee movement and compliance within a global, highly regulated environment. With over a decade of experience in global mobility, AnTuan brings hands-on expertise in operational delivery, stakeholder partnership, and leveraging technology to support scalable, compliant mobility programs aligned to business growth.
Day 1, April 21 | Verizon Showroom
The Digital Rodeo: Taming AI Frontiers
AI has grown up—from a wild idea to a powerful partner. This session shows how individuals and companies can tame AI, put it to work, and turn innovation into measurable performance gains.
AI strategist | Professor | Consultant
Antonio Paes
Antonio Paes is a recognized leader in Artificial Intelligence and digital innovation, specializing in Agentic and Generative AI, enterprise modernization, and data-driven transformation.
With a career spanning top-tier organizations including NASA, IBM, Boeing, and Morgan Stanley, he has led complex initiatives that bridge cutting-edge technology with real-world business impact.
His work focuses on helping organizations leverage AI to modernize legacy systems, accelerate software development, and unlock new revenue streams. Antonio brings a unique combination of hands-on technical depth and executive-level strategic vision.
He also serves as a professor of AI and Data at the University of Texas at Dallas, and also Program Director for the MS in Business Analytics and Artificial intelligence where he contributes to shaping the next generation of technology leaders.
Also, he is a consultant helping companies to improve performance through AI adoption
Day 1, April 21 | Texas Club
Mobility in the Saddle: Proving ROI That the Business Can Ride With
Participants will learn how to put talent mobility in the saddle by building a framework that demonstrates the ROI of your mobility program that aligns with business priorities bringing measurable value in workforce planning, talent retention, and market growth. Attendees will explore how to define success, partner with internal stakeholders, and use data to shift Mobility from a perceived cost center to a strategic “value” center. By the end of the session, participants will walk away with a practical, foundational ROI framework they can apply within their own organizations to clearly demonstrate the value of Mobility.
Director, Global Advisory Services
Judee Duran
With over 15 years of experience in global mobility and talent strategy, Judee has a proven track record of driving organizational growth through innovative people solutions. Specializing in scaling international operations, Judee has built and led high-performing teams in major industries, such as retail, technology, and financial services. In these roles, Judee developed comprehensive mobility frameworks, managed multimillion dollar budgets, and forged strategic partnerships with government entities to secure talent pipelines and navigate complex immigration landscapes.
As a strategic leader with an entrepreneurial mindset, Judee has excelled in creating Centers of Excellence (COE) to streamline operations, enhance compliance, and drive cost efficiency. Her expertise spans global talent development, government relations, employee rewards, and AI integration into HR functions, ensuring alignment with business goals and return on investment.
Passionate about empowering organizations to unlock the potential of their global talent, Judee is focused on leveraging technology and mobility to build the future of work.
Seaspan ULC | Global Mobility Professional
Kendra Bartlett
Kendra is a Global Mobility Professional with over six years of experience supporting corporate relocation, immigration, and global mobility programs. She currently supports global mobility immigration programs and initiatives at Seaspan ULC and previously spent over eight years with lululemon, where she managed end to end North American retail relocations, including cross border and inbound assignments.
Throughout her career, Kendra has partnered closely with senior business leaders, talent acquisition, and immigration providers to deliver equitable, cost effective mobility solutions and talent development programs while maintaining a strong employee experience. Her responsibilities have included managing to budget, overseeing relationships with global relocation management companies, and contributing to policy development, benchmarking, and compliance initiatives.
Kendra brings a highly collaborative, solutions oriented approach, with experience spanning large scale relocation operations, vendor management, and cross functional project work across payroll, HR systems, and compliance. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Simon Fraser University.
Day 1, April 21 | Texas Club
Conversations on the Range - Immigration Session
Giddy up for a dynamic, Western‑themed immigration session where leading experts from Ogletree Deakins, Fragomen, and BAL break down the latest twists and turns in corporate immigration. We’ll kick off with a rapid global and U.S. roundup, then ride straight into a CAP‑season postmortem—what happened, what surprised us, and how employers can prepare for the next stampede. Didn’t snag an H‑1B? The rodeo isn’t over. We’ll explore key alternatives, from L‑1 and O‑1 to TN, E‑3, E‑2, J‑1, and global mobility options. Then we’ll tighten the reins on compliance, spotlighting the biggest risks employers face today and the best ways to stay out of trouble. We’ll wrap with a look at the “spiciest” hot topics on the horizon—policy shifts, agency trends, and what employers should be watching in the months ahead. Expect practical insights, lively discussion, and a few fun Western‑style twists along the way.
Aires | Associate Immigration Success Manager
Aimee Tricquet
Aimee Tricquet is an Associate Immigration Success Manager at Aires with four years of experience in global mobility and corporate immigration support. In her role, she partners with employers and immigration providers to help navigate complex U.S. and global immigration processes that impact workforce planning and employee mobility. Aimee also brings a personal perspective to the discussion, having lived and worked abroad in China and Australia, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by globally mobile employees. As moderator, she offers a thoughtful, practical approach that bridges legal expertise with real‑world mobility experience.
Ogletree Deakins | Attorney
Amanda Goodman
Amanda practices in the Austin office of Ogletree Deakins. She has extensive experience in employment-based immigration across non-immigrant visas in the H, L, E, O, P, and TN classifications and immigrant visas in all preference categories (focusing on PERM, EB-1, and EB-2 NIW). Her work includes strategy and guidance on the Adjustment of Status and citizenship application lifecycles. Amanda provides tactical immigration advice to large-scale U.S. immigration programs, advising multinational corporations, universities, and hospitals, as well as start-ups, investors, and uniquely situated individual across the technology, healthcare, entertainment, manufacturing, and retail sectors.
Fragomen | Senior Associate
Laurie Snider
Laurie is a Senior Associate at Fragomen’s Dallas office with more than 18 years of immigration experience. In her role, she provides advice and counsel to corporate immigration clients and their employees.
Laurie has extensive experience advising clients and their employees on navigating the complex and ever-changing corporate immigration landscape. She has a wide range of experience with both nonimmigrant and immigrant matters and has represented clients across several industries. Laurie has assisted clients with numerous trips for visa stamping, liaised with embassies worldwide, guided clients through complex corporate restructurings, assisted clients in immigration policy development and advised on I-9 and corporate compliance matters.
Laurie has provided pro bono assistance to victims of domestic violence through The Family Place.
BAL | Partner
Mark Yelich
Mark is a Partner in BAL’s Dallas office. He focuses on providing strategic advice and insight to clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries. He brings extensive experience in healthcare immigration to his practice and has represented both institutional clients and individual physicians. During his career, Mark has represented companies in the technology, engineering, transportation and pharmaceutical sectors. He currently oversees U.S. service delivery for a global technology company.
Mark also advises companies on the impact of corporate reorganizations, mergers and acquisitions, leveraging BAL’s industry-leading technology solutions to support program initiatives and to improve experiences during the immigration journey. He has spearheaded the implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions developed at the firm and is driven by the pursuit of integrating novel technologies into clients' programs. Mark's dedication to his work is fueled by the personal connections and positive impact he’s able to make while supporting clients’ immigration journeys. As the son of two immigrant parents from Croatia, Mark also brings his family’s experience to bear in his practice.
Prior to joining BAL, Mark was a Senior Attorney at a boutique immigration law firm in Washington, D.C. He is fluent in Croatian and is an active member of Croatian organizations nationally, as well as a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and the Dallas Regional Chamber’s Leadership Dallas Class of 2026. Mark has been recognized as one of the Best Lawyers in America since 2021, has spoken at national events including AILA and SHRM and has authored content for Washington Business Journal. Outside of work, Mark enjoys spending time with his four children, playing soccer and running marathons — he ran his first marathon in 2022 and continues to race every year.
Day 1, April 21 | Verizon Showroom
This Ain't Our First Rodeo: Wrangling the 2026 C-Suite Mandate
In 2026, the "polycrisis" isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a bucking bronco. Between skyrocketing operational costs and the stampede of AI integration, the CEO-CHRO partnership is the only thing keeping the ranch together. With 81% of CEOs feeling the pinch of rising workforce costs, the C-suite can’t afford to be passengers.
Join Meredith Morris, Michael Stambaugh, and Njsane Courtney as they pull back the curtain on the SHRM 2026 research. We’re moving past the "business as usual" fluff to tackle the three pillars of the modern mandate: sharpening leadership, reclaiming the employee experience, and redesigning the organization for a world that won't sit still.
The Three Horns (Learning Objectives)
By the end of this session, you’ll be ready to:
- Tighten the Reins on Strategy: Align leadership development and org design with the CEO’s 2026 demand for extreme agility and structural grit.
- Navigate the Financial Squeeze: Lasso rising wage inflation and operational costs without sacrificing long-term performance or talent.
- Ride the AI Wave: Turn the 92% AI adoption surge into a productivity powerhouse rather than a digital distraction.
Benivo | Client Development-North America
Meredith Morris SHRM-CP,CRP,GMS
A global mobility and international HR strategist, Meredith brings over a decade of expertise helping organizations deploy, relocate, and employ talent across international markets. Currently leading global client development at Benivo, she has held senior executive roles at many of her former organizations — building revenue-generating practices from the ground up across multi-state and global territories.
She is a SHRM-CP certified professional and holds her CRP and GMS designations from WERC. Meredith is a longtime Director of the Texas SHRM Global Business Conference. She is a recognized thought leader in global workforce strategy, employer of record (EOR) solutions, international and domestic relocation and cross-border talent management.
Beyond her corporate career, Meredith has spent over 15 years in volunteer roles coordinating and supporting events and education across various relocation industry councils and Texas SHRM— a passion that evolved into her latest venture. She has taken on HRWorldWise, LLC a platform dedicated to bringing high-level connection and education to Global Mobility and Global HR practitioners around the world.
Personally she is a Native Houstonian who graduated from the University of Houston and is the proud Mom to 2 Sons both in College and 2 Fur babies-Boo and Mable.
TDECU | Director of Talent & Organizational Transformation
Andrew Clements, MS LHRD, SPHR
Andrew Clements, MS LHRD, SPHR, is a seasoned human resources and organizational development leader with nearly 20 years of experience guiding complex, matrixed organizations through strategic talent and transformation initiatives. He specializes in translating business goals into human capabilities through integrated talent and performance management, targeted learning and development, and enterprise-wide change management—empowering people, leaders, teams, and organizations to grow.
Andrew holds a Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development from Louisiana State University and is a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). He currently serves as Director of Talent & Organizational Transformation at TDECU, the largest credit union in Houston and the fourth-largest in Texas. In this role, he leads enterprise learning, organizational development, performance and talent management, employee experience and culture, and change management, partnering closely with leaders to drive growth, engagement, and organizational effectiveness.
Director of Global Mobility | GPT - Habitat for Humanity International
Michael Stambaugh, SPHR, GPHR
Michael Stambaugh, SPHR, GPHR, is a seasoned human resources executive with over two decades of experience in strategic HR leadership, talent acquisition, and global mobility. His career has taken him from the complexities of HR operations in war zones like Kosovo and Iraq to humanitarian efforts in Yemen, South Sudan, and Pakistan. Michael’s approach is defined by a relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence, transforming recruitment processes, modernizing HR systems, and driving organizations to stay ahead of workforce trends. His tenure in senior HR roles, including Chief Human Resources Officer and Vice President of HR and Operations, has been marked by transformative initiatives that position organizations as leaders in their fields.
At the core of Michael’s expertise lies his passion for global mobility, ensuring that organizations can effectively move and manage talent across the world. His experience spans the entire spectrum of HR, from compliance management to talent cultivation, and he thrives on navigating the complexities of modern workforce dynamics. Known for his authenticity, integrity, and commitment to growth, Michael is a catalyst for change, advocating for education, collaboration, and inclusive development in every organization he serves.
American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) | Vice President of Human Resources
Njsane Courtney, MBA, FCIPD, SHRM-SCP
Njsane Courtney, MBA, FCIPD, SHRM-SCP, is an accomplished HR executive and former U.S. Army officer with more than 20 years of international human resources experience spanning six continents. He currently serves as Vice President of Human Resources at the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), where he leads all HR operations across North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
A practitioner first, Njsane has spent two decades doing the work, leading global HR operations, advising C-suite leaders, and coaching professionals at every stage of their careers. As a Certified Executive Coach, his real-world, straight-talk credibility, paired with a growing community of more than 20,000 followers, has positioned him as a go-to voice on the future of work, workplace culture, and HR leadership.
Njsane is the creator and host of My Friend in HR, a bi-weekly podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to helping professionals navigate the workplace with confidence and clarity. He is known for his passion for building exceptional workplace cultures and his unique ability to forge meaningful relationships with executives and C-suite leaders — translating complex people strategies into real business results. A self-proclaimed 80’s trivia and cigar aficionado.
He holds a B.A. in Computer Information Systems from the University of Houston and an MBA from the University of Illinois.
Day 2, April 22 | Guitar Bar
Boots On, Game On: Navigating Group Moves the Texas Way
When large-scale relocation opportunities arise, helping employees confidently decide whether to move is just as critical as the move itself. This session explores how companies can approach corporate group relocations with a people-first mindset, focusing on the strategies used to support employees through the decision-making process. Attendees will hear how curated visits, on-the-ground experiences, and thoughtful guidance are used to help employees evaluate both the professional opportunity and the personal fit—ensuring they feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout their relocation journey.
Chevron | Manager, Relocation Programs
Brett Lyons
Brett brings more than 25 years of experience in the mobility industry. After 12 years with two Relocation Management Companies, where he held roles of increasing responsibility and ultimately served as Director, Client Services for the company’s largest domestic relocation client, Brett joined Chevron in 2012.
Today, Brett leads Chevron’s relocation program, with a focus on emerging industry trends and the strategic management of relocation supplier partners. He holds the CRP, GPHR, and SHRM-SCP designations. Brett has served as Treasurer of Houston Relocation Professionals since 2014 and is also the Controller for Lone Star Relocation Council. He is Co-Chair of the WERC Global ’26 Conference Planning Committee and a member of the 2026-2027 Relocation Directors Council (RDC) Corporate Advisory Council. Brett received the Meritorious Service Award from WERC in 2025 and is a frequent speaker at regional and national mobility events, including WERC and RDC conferences.
Yum! Brands | Global Mobility Leader
Ashley Hunter
Ashley Hunter is the Global Mobility Leader at Yum! Brands, where she leads both the strategy and execution of international and U.S. domestic mobility programs across a global portfolio of brands. She partners closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to design policies, manage complex moves, and ensure talent can move where the business needs it most.
Ashley began her career in HR and Total Rewards, giving her a broader perspective on how mobility connects to compensation, talent strategy, and overall business priorities. Since stepping into mobility, she has led large-scale relocation efforts, overseen vendor strategy, and is currently driving a full redesign of Yum!’s global mobility programs.
She’s known for balancing a strategic, big-picture mindset with a strong focus on execution — all while keeping the employee and family experience at the center of every move.
Ashley Hunter is the Global Mobility Leader at Yum! Brands, where she leads global and U.S. mobility strategy and execution. With a background in HR and Total Rewards, she brings a big-picture view of how mobility connects to the business and is passionate about creating experiences that support both business goals and employees through major transitions.
Day 2, April 22 | Texas Club
Honky Tonk Hackers: Staying Safe in the Digital Wild West
Cybercrime is riding high on the range and real estate transactions are prime targets. In this eye-opening session, relocation professionals will hear from a panel of experts (a title company, lender, and realtor) who’ve seen firsthand how wire fraud, phishing, and digital deception can derail deals and damage trust.Through real-world stories and practical advice, panelists will explore how fraudsters exploit vulnerabilities in communication, documentation, and transaction workflows. You’ll learn how to spot suspicious activity, safeguard sensitive information, and implement protocols that protect your clients and your business. Saddle up for a session that’s equal parts cautionary tale and action plan because in the digital Wild West, vigilance is your best defense.
Moderator | XONEX Relocation | President and CEO
Paige Holden
Paige Holden is the President and CEO of XONEX Relocation, a full-service global relocation management firm. No stranger to the relocation industry, Paige returned to XONEX as President in 2018 and has since successfully led the company through a top-down re-organization, the COVID-19 disruption, new cyber security requirements and implementation, a complete technology platform upgrade and, most recently, a dramatic shift in the real estate industry that impacts all stakeholders in relocation. Paige remains focused on driving innovation across all functional areas, including operational strategy technology solutions. She has a strong reputation for building trust with clients and stakeholders as this is reflected in XONEX’s promise to deliver consistency, accountability and genuine care.
Prior to her return to relocation, Paige co-founded Snag-A-Slip, a robust boat slip reservation and marina marketing platform, and Oasis Marinas, a full-service marina management firm. With her team, she grew the companies from inception through successful investment rounds, ultimately completing a $7 million dollar Series A close.
Paige is a member of Worldwide ERC and active participant alongside her peers in various subgroups. In 2025, she was named a Philadelphia Titan 100 honoree for her achievements as a business leader in the region. She has a master’s in business administration from the Robert H. Smith School at the University of Maryland, and a bachelor of science in public relations from the S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University.
Speaker | Fidelity Residential Solutions | Executive Vice President
Tine Dickey
Tine Dickey is Executive Vice President of Fidelity Residential Solutions (FRS), a national relocation services company. With a career rooted in the national and regional title agent and underwriter space, combined with deep expertise in relocation title, closings, inspections, and appraisals, Tine brings a strategic and forward-thinking lens to her leadership role. At FRS, she oversees new product development, sales management, and initiatives centered on elevating the customer experience through innovative, service-driven solutions.
A sought-after speaker at regional and national real estate conferences, Tine is widely recognized for her expertise in RESPA compliance and risk management across U.S. real estate transactions. She holds both the SCRP® and SGMS® designations, is a Meritorious Service Award recipient, and actively serves on panels and committees for WERC®. Tine is also a published contributor to Mobility magazine, where she shares insights on industry trends and best practices.
Whether navigating regulatory complexity or the evolving risks of digital business, Tine helps organizations stay one step ahead—keeping deals, data, and people safe while riding confidently through today’s digital wild west.
Speaker | Premia Relocation Mortgage | President
Nina Arnaiz
Nina Arnaiz is President of Premia Relocation Mortgage, where she leads the organization with a focus on secure, technology-driven mortgage solutions for relocating employees. Since assuming the role in 2019, Nina has prioritized borrower education, data protection, and transaction integrity as cybercrime and wire fraud increasingly target real estate deals.
With more than two decades at Premia, Nina brings deep expertise in mortgage operations and digital workflows. She previously served as Vice President of Sales and helped lead the development of Premia’s DigitalMove™ platform, reinforcing secure communication, documentation controls, and fraud-prevention practices across the relocation mortgage process.
Under Nina’s leadership, Premia has earned top industry recognition, including highest scores for Overall Satisfaction and Willingness to Recommend in the 2025 Trippel Relocation Managers’ Survey (second consecutive year), as well as the 2024 NEI Own It Award for Excellence in Accountability.
On this panel, Nina offers the lender’s perspective on how education, vigilance, and collaboration help safeguard borrowers, funds, and trust in today’s digital wild west.
Speaker | Martha Turner Sotheby's | Relocation Director
Tess Chaney
As relocation director, Tess is responsible for the growth and development of sales by establishing corporate business partnerships and connecting referral clients within Sotheby’s International Realty global network. Tess is an innovative mobility industry strategic thinker with a competitive business mindset for lead generation. Her commitment is to provide top-quality referral services to their partners, clients, and associates when buying or selling real estate.
Tess was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and is the current Outreach Chair for Houston Relocation Professionals. Her commitments expand as a past board member of the Relocation Director’s Council and actively contributes as a member of the Worldwide Employee Relocation Council. Professional accreditations include Broker Associate, Certified Relocation Professional, and Global Mobility Specialist, and she holds a Bachelor of Science from Texas Christian University.
Day 2, April 22 | Verizon Showroom
Wrangling the Market: A Dual Economist Rodeo
Saddle up for a fast-moving economic faceoff as two expert economists take the reins on today’s rapidly shifting market landscape. With volatility changing by the day, this joint session brings timely insight from two critical angles shaping Texas and beyond. Kicking things off, Selma will break down the real estate side of the economy—what’s driving housing trends, rates, and market confidence. Then, Detlef will take the arena to unpack the Oil & Gas macroeconomy and what it all means for Texas’s broader economic outlook. Each speaker will ride their topic for 30 minutes, delivering clear takeaways to help you navigate what’s ahead.
Cotality | Chief Economist and Senior Vice President
Selma Hepp
Selma Hepp is the Senior Vice President and Chief Economist for Cotality, formerly CoreLogic where she leads the economics team and is responsible for analyzing, interpreting and forecasting economic trends in real estate, mortgage and insurance. Selma's 20-year housing economics experience spans across several housing organizations including Pacific Union International, later acquired by Compass, Trulia, California Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, as well as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Selma frequently appears on local and national radio and television programs and has been widely quoted in The Wall Street Journal, New York Times and many industry trade publications such as National Mortgage News and HousingWire. Selma received the HousingWire Women of Influence Award in 2022 and Vanguard Award in 2025 and was named to Mortgage Professional America’s Global Top 100 list in 2025.
Texas A&M | TRIP Director and professor
Detlef Hallermann
Detlef Hallermann is a Full Clinical Professor and Director of the Trading, Risk, Investment Program (TRIP) at Texas A&M University. TRIP has been recently featured in Bloomberg Markets magazine as the best Commodity/Energy Trading Training program in the United States. As part of TRIP, he manages an advisory Board of over 50 energy trading firms. Detlef has created training programs related to almost all aspects of front-office and mid-office responsibilities. Detlef has also taught at Rice University, University of Denver and the Colorado School of Mines.
Detlef Hallermann has over a decade of practical energy industry experience. He is well versed in oil and gas field work, acquisitions, energy trading and risk management. Prior to joining Texas A&M University, Detlef performed product development for a trading and risk management software company and managed the quantitative groups (R&D) at multiple trade floors. Detlef has an M.S. and a Ph.D. from the Colorado School of Mines, an MBA from the University of Denver, and a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from Texas A&M University (whoop).
Detlef enjoys hunting, tennis, MMA and working out, but his two greatest passions in life are his family and Texas A&M / Colorado Avalanche sports.
Day 2, April 22 | Texas Club
The New Frontier: Transitioning Talent Without Losing the Trail
Relocating a key employee is more than a logistical hand-off; it’s a high-stakes "leap of faith" into a new frontier. When a move fails, it’s rarely because the truck didn't arrive—it’s because the person in the saddle lost their way. In this session, corporate leaders join to discuss the "Human ROI" of mobility.
We’re moving past the "moving boxes" mindset to focus on the grit it takes to settle a new territory. Attendees will learn how on-the-ground integrations act as the ultimate survival kit for relocating families. Whether you’re managing a single move or a massive cattle drive of talent, this panel provides the strategic "Trail Map" needed to foster belonging, minimize productivity lag, and ensure your investment in people results in a successful homestead, not a ghost town.
Moderator | Orion Mobility
Chris Kline
With decades of direct experience, Chris provides practical insights and proven strategies to help organizations regain control of their relocation programs, ensuring financial efficiency, fairness, and an improved employee experience.
Having spent years navigating the complexities of employee relocation firsthand, Chris has witnessed the real-world impact of both well-managed and poorly managed programs. This deep understanding, stemming from direct involvement in numerous corporate relocations, has equipped him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the industry. His experience includes identifying and rectifying hidden costs, streamlining inefficient processes, and ultimately enhancing the employee experience during what can be a significant life transition.
This practical background fuels his passion for advocating transparency, efficiency, and better industry practices.
Outside of his professional life, Chris enjoys cycling and spending time with his family in Florida. His own experiences balancing career demands with relocation challenges further deepen his commitment to making employee relocation programs more effective and supportive. He continues to partner with companies to optimize their relocation strategies, reduce costs, and enhance employee satisfaction. He is available for consulting engagements, strategic advisory services, and speaking opportunities.
Indeed | Global Mobility Strategy Director
Karen Hale
Karen Hale is a highly accomplished Global Mobility leader with approximately two decades of expertise in relocation, immigration, remote work strategies, international business travel compliance, and contingent workforce management. Her career path includes significant roles in corporate Global Mobility, relocation management companies, the Big 4, and as a Corporate HR Business Partner. This diverse experience provides her with a unique and comprehensive understanding of the complexities of global talent mobility.
Currently, Karen serves as the Global Mobility Strategy Director at Indeed and contributes her expertise as a member of the Board of Directors for the Austin Relocation Council. Her contributions to the field have been widely recognized, including being named Global Mobility Professional of the Year by FEM in 2022 as well as being honored as a Top 100 Innovator and a Top 250 Global Corporate Leader by The View from the Top. Karen resides with her husband in New Braunfels, TX, and is the proud mom of two almost-grown humans, two dogs, and a cat.
CSG International | Senior Manager of Global Mobility and Talent Acquisition Operations
LadyRose Kvitek
LadyRose Kvitek is the Senior Manager of Global Mobility and Talent Acquisition Operations at CSG International, with over a decade of experience supporting international workforce strategies within IT and construction-based industries. She has led and scaled global mobility programs, advising on immigration strategy, compliance, and workforce planning, particularly during periods of rapid growth, mergers and acquisitions, and organizational transformation.
In her current role, she drives global mobility and immigration strategy with an expanded mandate to align mobility with broader talent and business goals. LadyRose is passionate about the human side of mobility and drives the development of solutions that are Seamless, Intelligent, and Human.
Zendesk | Global Mobility Leader
Rebecca Stephens
Rebecca Stephens is a seasoned Talent Mobility and HR Compliance leader with 20+ years of experience guiding global organizations through complex workforce challenges. She has built and led high-performing mobility teams at companies like Dell, VMware, and SIRVA, where she delivered innovative solutions across global mobility, immigration, and remote work functions.
As the Founder of Talent Mobility Experts, Rebecca now advises a diverse portfolio of clients—from startups to Fortune 500s—on how to hire, relocate, and retain global talent. She is currently the Global Mobility Leader at Zendesk in Austin.
Rebecca holds advanced degrees in Employment & HR Law and Human Services, and is known for her strategic mindset, operational excellence, and collaborative leadership.
PorchLight Rental & Services | Founding Partner and President
Diane Ayres
Diane Ayres is the Founding Partner and President of PorchLight Rental & Services, a company she established in 2003 to address the growing need for comprehensive home-finding solutions for transferees and their employers. Under her leadership, PorchLight has expanded to support both domestic and international inbound relocations across the United States and Canada.
Diane has held senior leadership roles in both privately held and publicly traded corporate housing organizations before pivoting to destination services. Her vision in founding PorchLight, in 2003, positioned the company as a pioneer—the first destination services provider to offer coverage across North America. PorchLight is proud to be a certified women-owned business.
Diane is a recipient of the Meritorious Service Award and an active member of the Employee Relocation Council (ERC). She has contributed to both the editorial and planning committees and currently serves on the Value Creation Committee.
Corporate Living | Vice President of Business Development
Heather Jamison
Heather Jamison is Vice President of Business Development at Corporate Living and a seasoned global mobility executive with 25+ years of experience supporting domestic and international relocations. She brings a strong track record of driving organizational growth through strategic account management, supplier partnerships, and employee-centric program design. Throughout her career at Global LT, BGRS, ReloDirect, and SIRVA Relocation, Heather has led complex mobility programs, streamlined operations, worked onsite at corporations, optimized relocation processes, and identified cost-saving and revenue-generating opportunities for corporate clients.
Heather is a CRP and GMS designee, holds a Six Sigma Green Belt, and currently serves as President of the Michigan Relocation Council, where she has been an active board member for over six years. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership style and practical, results-driven approach to global mobility. www.heathermariejamison.com
Day 2, April 22 | Verizon Showroom
Mind over Spurs: A Wild West Mentalist Exerience
Scott Xavier is an interactive mentalist and former forensic scientist who blends psychology, intuition, and illusion into a unforgettable live experience. Through real-life demonstrations of mind reading, impossible predictions, hypnotic-like thought control, psychokinesis, and sixth-sense phenomena, Scott creates moments that feel genuinely impossible.
More than just a show, each session is highly interactive, drawing audience members directly into the mystery as their thoughts, choices, and reactions become part of the experience. The result is a fast-moving, engaging presentation that leaves guests questioning what is real and what is beyond explanation.
Praised by audiences for his charisma and originality, Scott Xavier has even been called “the best” by Michael Jordan, making his performance a powerful blend of credibility, intrigue, and unforgettable entertainment.
You’ve seen him on the stages of Americas Got Talent, the streets of America on his Travel Channel TV Special the Mind Reader, and now he is coming to your event...
Interactive mentalist and former forensic scientist
Scott Xavier
Day 2, April 22 | Verizon Showroom
The Next Gold Rush: How AI is Leading Global Mobility
AI in Global Mobility ain’t just the talk of the saloon anymore—it’s gone from a shiny extra to the pickaxe and pan every modern corporate relocation program needs to strike pay dirt.
Why? Because the territory’s been redrawn these past five years. Lower volumes and thinner revenue veins have pushed the whole outfit to rethink how mobility proves its worth—not as a back-office wagon train, but as a strategic trail boss inside talent management.
For suppliers, it’s about tightening the harness—streamlining the work, cutting costs, and finding fresh seams of revenue. At the same time, clients and transferees want answers quick, clear, and made-to-fit, so their move feels less like a rough ride and more like a well-marked trail. AI is the guide that helps deliver on all fronts.
In this panel, we’ll swap trail stories and hard-won lessons from the field—real-world uses of AI in mobility, both behind the scenes and out on the open range—including how AI can:
- Sharpen the work and raise the quality of every deliverable
- Save time by rounding up call notes and summaries in a hurry
- Speed up key processes so the wagons keep rolling
- Sift the data for signals and spot what’s coming down the trail
- Lift the relocation experience for employees and clients from dusty to first-class
We’ll also take a look at the next wave of AI-powered tools riding into town—new ways to gather and share mobility data—such as:
- AI-spun policy reviews and benefits “campfire” podcasts
- Chatbots and AI-driven virtual agents acting as front-desk deputies
- Exception automation to cut the red tape and keep folks moving
- Policy-selection assistants to point the way to the right trail
- AI-powered move summaries, dashboards, and emails that read like a tidy ledger
Micron Technology
Nikki Thomas
Nikki Thomas is a Global Mobility Program Manager for Micron Technology, Inc. She has led and contributed to a wide range of initiatives including HRIS implementations, vendor transitions, technology upgrades, policy revamps, buddy programs, and tax planning. She is passionate about continuous learning, creative problem-solving, and enhancing employee experiences through innovative and thoughtful program design.
Weichert Workforce Mobility | Vice President, Technology Solutions
Shawn Sweeney CRP, GMS
Joining Weichert in 2021, Shawn serves as a liaison between existing and prospective clients and Weichert’s IT group, he helps to refine and advance the user experience, providing the insight they need to get the most out of Weichert’s continuously evolving technology tools.
He also spearheads the relentless innovation of these tools to ensure that they reflect the voice of the customer. Shawn provides the valuable link between our development team and the end user to help us deliver an experience that is truly ‘mobility their way.'
Sweeney has over 25 years of workforce mobility experience with a focus on software development, sales and marketing. He most recently served as Senior Vice President at Orion Mobility.
Day 2, April 22 | Texas Club
Lassoing Tomorrow's Talent: How Global Mobility Supports Early-Career Programs
Organizations are under increasing pressure to attract, develop, and retain top talent in a competitive global landscape. Early career programs such as internships, graduate rotations, and early leadership tracks play a critical role in building the workforce of the future. Gen Z and early Gen Alpha, will constitute 80% of the workforce by 2034. This session will explore how companies structure these programs to meet business needs while balancing costs and ensuring ROI. A panel of corporate clients will share strategies for stakeholder alignment, tailoring programs to generational expectations, and integrating mobility as a differentiator in talent development.
With recent shifts in U.S. immigration policy and rising H-1B costs, companies are also reconsidering how to balance domestic talent development with global opportunities. The discussion will address how these external factors are shaping program design and investment decisions.
Altair Global | SVP, Client Services
Liana Ciatto
Liana Ciatto is an SVP of client services at Altair Global leading a team that supports clients Headquartered in the Central and Mid-West Region. Liana Ciatto has spent nearly two decades working with multinational companies across the globe to shape and refine best-in-class mobility programs. With experience spanning multiple regions and client partnerships, she focuses on helping organizations turn mobility into a strategic advantage while navigating the complexities of global talent movement.
Texas Instruments | People Mobility Leader
Courtney Crosby
Courtney Crosby serves as the People Mobility Leader at Texas Instruments (TI), a multinational semiconductor company headquartered in Dallas, Texas. She leads global relocation and immigration programs that support the company’s international workforce and has spent nearly 10 years in progressive HR roles across the organization, including HR Business Partner and Compensation Manager. With seven years focused specifically on mobility, she brings deep expertise in process design, technology enablement, and creating seamless employee experiences across the global workforce.
Adobe | Senior Global Mobility Specialist
Liz Barker
Liz Barker is a Senior Global Mobility Specialist at Adobe Inc., based in Austin, Texas. In addition to managing Adobe's relocation and assignment programs, Liz also supports Adobe’s University Talent mobility efforts, helping earlycareer hires navigate their first big moves.
Emerson | Director of Global Mobility
Katie Noelke
Katie Noelke is the Director of Global Mobility at Emerson, based in St. Louis, where she leads the company’s global mobility and immigration program with a mix of strategic insight, international experience, and just the right amount of sarcasm. Her career began in the Big 4, specializing in corporate tax and global compliance - though she didn’t discover the world of global mobility until her own expat assignments, which she now refers to as “a very immersive onboarding.”
Day 2, April 22 | Verizon Showroom
Grumpy to Grateful
Wrangling the Grumpy: Turning Frustration into Loyalty is a practical, high-energy session on transforming challenging moments into stronger relationships. Learn how to calm tense situations, build trust quickly, and turn frustrated clients into your biggest advocates. Walk away with simple, real-world strategies you can use immediately to create exceptional experiences and lasting loyalty.
Angeli International
Kim Angeli
Kim Angeli strongly believes that it’s not your customer’s job to remember you. Rather it’s your job to be unforgettable! And the principle-based strategies she uses to help her clients become unforgettable both in the minds and hearts of THEIR clients results in a business that is much more personally rewarding and financially profitable.
Kim has been in sales and entrepreneurship for 30 years and – as creator of the programs, Grow with Gratitude™ and Grumpy to Grateful™ is passionate about your business being in alignment with gratitude.
She began her career with Campbell Soup Sales, Sprint Wireless, and Cisco Systems, where she was a 65 million dollar producer. Immediately after the “dot com bust” and just 11 days after 9/11 she began her own insurance agency in a guest room closet. She then sold that agency in 2016 for 600% profit to inspire people to choose grateful living.
Kim serves as Executive Director of the Certified Go-Giver® Speaker and Coaching Program in partnership with Bob Burg, co-author of The Go-Giver®, mentoring speakers and coaches to lead with generosity, authority, and purpose.
She is the author of My Daily Gratitude Journal, which has inspired readers worldwide to transform their mindset and results through daily gratitude practices.
When not coaching or consulting with business owners or speaking on the stages of the world, you will find Kim traveling with her husband, daughter, and English labs, Katie and Henry Ford.
Hosted by Texas relocation councils
The Lone Star Summit is a joint conference hosted by three regional relocation councils, bringing their communities together for one great big Texas event.

Austin Relocation Council (ARC)

Houston Relocation Professionals (HRP)

North Texas Relocation Professionals (NTRP)


