It was about getting better, together.

Female leaders from distributor and supplier firms in the promotional products industry recently convened for Facilisgroup’s Women in Leadership Event. Facilisgroup (asi/475998) is a software-as-a-service provider and partnering community for the industry.

Attendees enjoyed insightful business education sessions and networking at Facilisgroup’s Women in Leadership Event.

Held Sept. 19-21 at the company’s St. Louis headquarters, the executive conference featured education sessions and socializing, all aimed at further empowering female leadership in promo and building strong connections.

“We joined Facilisgroup in 2015 for the platform, but the blessing is the community,” said Joan Charbonneau, CEO of distributor Perfect Promotions (asi/293619). “I could not run my business without the support of this amazing community. After spending a few days with strong, intelligent women, I am refreshed and ready to tackle the fourth quarter and plan for 2023.”

The event’s education lineup covered topics including: tips to empower and mentor entrepreneurial women; work-life balance in a world of shifting priorities; kitting and fulfillment best practices; employee incentive and recognition opportunities; and success stories with an entrepreneurial operating system (EOS).

There was also ample time for networking, with trips to a winery and local restaurants.

“Facilisgroup’s community makes me feel included and recognized as a valuable partner,” said Trina Bicknell, chief revenue officer at Top 40 supplier HPG (asi/61966). “I was honored to be a part of the event, to share ideas and build relationships with industry leaders.”

Facilisgroup President Ashley McCune, a member of Counselor’s Power 50 list of the industry’s most influential people, shared that the event’s mission is near and dear to her heart.

“As a woman in leadership myself, I wanted to create a space for us to gather and discuss the value we bring to our industry, our teams and each other,” McCune said. “As much as each attendee learned, they taught one another, too. They left in high spirits and with plenty of momentum to keep their post-event motivation high: Each attendee collaborated on action plans for 2023 business planning so they can immediately pursue their roadmap for success.”