Jeff Fortmann
Jeff Fortmann
Jeff Fortmann
A seasoned media and partnerships executive with over two decades of experience helping brands and startups grow through strategic collaborations. As VP, Partnerships at Brand Innovators, he has led national-scale programming and forged relationships with many of the world’s most influential marketers and companies across top marketing events including CES, NFL Superbowl, NBA & MLB All-Star, SXSW, Cannes Lions, F1, Wimbledon, US Open & Ad Week . Previously, he helped launch and scale several media ventures at Tidesmart Experiential, Highmark Technologies and Access Intelligence. Jeff is known for building high-impact platforms that connect brand marketers, agencies, tech leaders, and cultural influencers.
Jason John
Jeff Fortmann
Jeff Fortmann
Chief Marketing Officer at 1-800-Flowers.com, where he leads the company’s marketing, e-commerce, and customer acquisition strategy across its family of brands. A veteran of Gilt Groupe, J.Crew, and Martha Stewart Omnimedia, Jason has driven digital growth and brand transformation at scale. He’s known for blending creative storytelling with advanced data and analytics, earning industry accolades for innovation and performance in consumer marketing.
Gary Lisiewski
Gary Lisiewski
Gary Lisiewski
A Founder and Partner at Level One Fund, where he drives investments at the intersection of media, entertainment, and consumer innovation. He has helped identify and back some of the most forward-thinking founders and companies reshaping culture and technology. Prior to Level One, Gary held roles in strategy and development at Point72, SAC Capital, and other marquee finance firms building a unique lens on both dealmaking and storytelling. His portfolio includes investments in early-stage ventures with breakout potential.
Jon Winkel
Gary Lisiewski
Gary Lisiewski
President of LaunchPad, a nonprofit that creates life-changing career opportunities for young adults facing barriers. LaunchPad has connected nearly 1,000 young adults to mentorship, professional development, and career opportunities through high-impact, experiential learning programs. Jon formerly served as CEO of the Stamford Partnership, one of the fastest-growing regional economic development nonprofits in the U.S. and was the founder and former CEO of Stamford Innovation Week, the largest innovation festival in New England.