ETA Strategic Leadership Forum 2025

Strategic Leadership Forum

In a world of transactions, relationships drive transformation

Sept 29-Oct 1 • 2025 • The Ritz-Carlton • Laguna Niguel • Dana Point, CA

It's a Wrap!

The 2024 ETA Strategic Leadership Forum has concluded, and what an incredible event it was! The energy in the room was palpable as payments industry leaders gathered for dynamic discussions and networking opportunities. From the moment attendees arrived, the atmosphere was filled with lively conversations as executives explored global trends, innovative investment strategies, and the ever-evolving economic landscape. Evening receptions were lively, with groups mingling and exchanging ideas late into the night, creating connections that will drive future collaborations.

Key Takeaways

BACK TO BASICS: Investors are focusing on core strengths and unique value propositions that maintain a competitive edge.
GLOBAL EXPANSION: The digital transformation is unlocking new markets, particularly in the Middle East, India, and Eastern Europe.
INDUSTRY CHALLENGES: As complexities rise, verticalization and continuous innovation are crucial, with SaaS becoming a foundational requirement.
ECONOMIC RESILIENCE: Despite uncertainties, strong real estate values and low unemployment are contributing to an optimistic economic outlook.
CONSUMER SENTIMENT: Consumer confidence remains robust, even amid inflation concerns in categories like car insurance.

2025 REGISTRATION WILL OPEN SOON.
BE THE FIRST TO KNOW.

STAY IN THE LOOP

ETA’s 2024 Hall of Fame Honoree

Kurt Strawhecker, founder of TSG (The Strawhecker Group), brings over four decades of innovation to the payments industry.

From pioneering marketing in credit card statements at Fiserv to championing data-driven strategies at TSG, Kurt has consistently pushed the industry forward. His nearly 20 years of leading ETA Committees and serving on its Board of Directors helped drive the association’s evolution.

Kurt's practical philosophy — "Life doesn't reward you for what you know, but for what you do" — continues to inspire industry professionals and drive payments industry growth.

Click here for bio.

At Fiserv, Strawhecker transformed credit card statements into powerful marketing tools, showcasing his talent for identifying untapped opportunities. His role in the company's international expansion highlighted his global perspective in an increasingly interconnected financial world.

The founding of TSG (The Strawhecker Group) in 2006 underscored his entrepreneurial drive and commitment to addressing industry gaps. Strawhecker's advocacy for the "Evolved Acquirer" concept and data-driven decision-making continue to influence industry practices.

His contribution to the industry also includes nearly 20 years of leading ETA Committees and serving on its Board of Directors. Strawhecker was earlier honored as ETA’s Member of the Year in 2009, and TSG was named Business Partner of the Year in 2010.

Born and raised in Omaha, Strawhecker has also called Los Angeles and London home during his diverse career. He brings a strong Midwest work ethic to his company, coupled with a business philosophy rooted in the belief that with hard work and a solid plan, anything is possible.
Strawhecker's personal mantra, "Life doesn't reward you for what you know, but for what you do," reflects his emphasis on practical application over theoretical knowledge. This hands-on approach has driven his contributions to industry advancement.

Through his accomplishments, Kurt Strawhecker has emerged as a true industry catalyst, consistently turning insights into innovations and ideas into industry-wide transformations. His legacy extends beyond the companies he's built and the strategies he's devised, encompassing the forward momentum he's given to the entire payments ecosystem.

Kurt Strawhecker

Managing Partner & Board Chairman
TSG (The Strawhecker Group)

In a Class by Itself

SLF is a must-attend event for leaders and decision makers in payments. The caliber of attendees, the depth of the content, and the intentional time given for quality networking create an incredibly productive environment. It's an event that consistently delivers unmatched value and impact.

Bill Dobbins

Head of Acquiring & Enablement, Visa

I look forward to attending SLF every year. It’s a unique event that combines cutting-edge content with best in-class networking.

Cameron Bready

President & CEO, Global Payments

SLF provides me with the time and space to engage in strategic conversations with my customers, partners and colleagues. The content is just right—forward-looking and thought provoking. And the networking opportunities are intentionally designed to foster the kinds of connections I want to have.

Chris Sweetland

Global Head of Payments Markets & Partnerships, PayPal

SLF is a rare gem in the world of industry conferences. The caliber of attendees, the depth of the content, and the intentional design of the networking opportunities create an incredibly productive environment. It's an event that consistently delivers amazing value and impact.

Todd Ablowitz

Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Infinicept

SLF is a master class in strategic leadership and industry disruption. The carefully curated program and the unparalleled networking opportunities allow me to pause, create and cement relationships, and engage at a different level. It's an event that consistently exceeds my expectations.

Julie Pukas

Head of Commercial Strategy and Integration, TD Bank

What I love about SLF is that it's not just about learning from the thought-leaders on stage; it's about the conversations and connections that happen between sessions, over meals, and during the networking activities. This event creates a unique space where leaders come together to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and forge relationships.

Jamie Walker

CEO, Elavon