Description

This conference is designed to connect, educate and provide resources to Iowa's family businesses. Family businesses are different, meaning you have unique opportunities and obstacles that you face each day. On Nov. 10, we will celebrate you, provide networking opportunities and explore best practices. Check back for more details, including breakout sessions.

Keynote Speaker: Tony Simmons

Anthony “Tony” Simmons is the retired President and CEO of McIlhenny Company, the makers of Tabasco Brand Pepper Sauce. A member of the 5th generation, Tony is the great great-grandson of the founder, Edmund McIlhenny. Tony serves on the board of McIlhenny Company and is the president and director of Avery Island Incorporated, a 7th generation family business with nine generations of family shareholders. Tony also serves on the board of King Ranch, Flagship Foods and is chairman of the S Corp Association, an advocacy group based in Washington DC. Joining McIlhenny Company in 2000 as Executive Vice President, he became President in 2012 and CEO in 2013, a capacity he served in till retiring at age 68 in 2019. Prior to working for his family Tony worked either for or with The Manitowoc Company based in Manitowoc, Wisconsin for 25 years. Tony graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans. Tony lives at Avery Island Louisiana with his wife of 48 years and his golden retriever Moose. Tony has two children and six grandchildren and is an avid sportsman and golfer.

https://www.tabasco.com/

Host Family: Kinseth Hospitality Companies

Our history spans over 70 years. The story begins with Ken & Cyrena Kinseth in 1957. Ken & Cyrena went into the hotel business quite by accident. Ken was a very successful mechanical contractor. But one of his business associates owed him some money and he paid his debt with a little “Mom & Pop roadside motel.” Ken & Cyrena liked the business so well and seeing the opportunities that could exist for investing in small motel properties. Ken switched careers in 1966 and founded the Kinseth organization. Today, Kinseth has a portfolio of 100+ hotels across the United States, with 2,700+ employees.

www.kinseth.com/

Accommodations

Need a place to stay overnight in Des Moines? The West Des Moines Mariott (our conference location) is offering a discounted room price for attendees. Click here to reserve your room.