Over a 40-year span, Richard Polak has been recognized in more than 90 countries around the globe for creating and structuring world-class benefits and HR programs. His research, presentations, articles, subject expertise, and training program with IBIS Academy—the world’s longest-running international HR conference—was world renown. In 2012, Polak merged his company, IBIS Advisors, and his conference, IBIS Academy, in a deal with Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (AJG). This created the international department at Gallagher and the role on the Executive Committee as the Executive VP, Multinational Benefits & HR Consulting Services, a position he held for 6 years before deciding to reenter entrepreneurship. Today, Richard is a global advisor for dozens of companies and organizations around the world. He advises on productivity by working smarter, not harder. His book Work Smart Now was the #1 release on Amazon in April 2021. He is also a proud member of the American Benefits Council and Forbes HR Council.
Carl J. Cox is the CEO and founder of 40 Strategy Inc. Through his career, Carl has been an executive leader and board member with seven different organizations who have grown 2x to 7x with operations in four continents. Early in his career, he started at PricewaterhouseCoopers. He is a certified Gallup Coach for Clifton Strengths.
Carl J. Cox is author of Lost at CEO, An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Strategy, which reached #1 Amazon bestseller in 12 separate categories at launch in May 2023. He is the host of the Measure Success Podcast, where he talks with CEOs, authors, and extraordinary achievers about effective strategies that inspire success in business as well as their personal life. His company donates 10% of their client net revenues towards charitable organizations.
Carl has been married for over 25 years and they have four children. He coached over 20 winning seasons in youth football, basketball, and baseball. Today, Carl enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading books, and playing golf. He resides in North Plains, Oregon.
