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Event Details

Wednesday, June 4, 2025
2:00 – 6:30 PM
Brookfield Conference Center

Family & Closely Held Business Summit

Join BizTimes Media and a panel of family and closely held business owners for a discussion on balancing tradition and new ideas, taking strategic risks, making crucial investments, and other keys to growing in a world that often seems to favor consolidation and big corporations.

The program begins with a panel discussion followed by concurrent breakout sessions and a networking reception.

Take Your Family Business to the Next Level

Join us at the 2025 Family & Closely Held Business Summit—the premier gathering for family business leaders in southeastern Wisconsin. Navigate the unique challenges of family enterprise alongside peers who share your experience. Learn proven strategies for growth, succession, innovation, and handling those essential but difficult conversations that shape your company’s future. This BizTimes Media event offers the connections and insights you need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Seats are limited—register now to ensure your place at the table.

Keynote Conversation

  • Jane Blain Gilbertson, Executive Chair and Sole Owner, Blain’s Farm & Fleet

  About Jane Blain Gilbertson

After graduating college, Jane started her career as a buyer at Macy’s. She joined the family business in 1985. After the passing of her uncle and father, founders of Blain’s Farm & Fleet, Jane and her brother bought out the remaining family members in 1998. The duo ran the business together until her brother retired in 2014, when Jane become CEO and sole owner. In 2024, Jane transitioned to the role of executive chairman with Mark Hasting, who joined the company in 2020, taking over as CEO.

Panel

  • Craig Jorgensen, President and CEO, VJS Construction Services (1)
  • Katie Poehling Seymour, CEO & president First Supply (2)

Moderator: Arthur Thomas, Managing Editor, BizTimes Media

Presented By

Sponsor

Partner

Past Events

Interested in sponsoring an event? To reap the benefits of the ultimate in-person marketing opportunity contact Linda Crawford, Director of Sales, to discuss opportunities. Event sponsorships are limited.

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Limited time offer. New subscribers only.