MTM Forum: Marketing in Uncertain Times — How Physical Experience, Retail and Branding Connect in a Disruptive Environment
Hosted by Mall of America on Sept 30, 2026 (virtual participation also available)
Location
Mall of America, Minneapolis
Overview
Join Marketers That Matter for an in-depth, candid conversation with Jill Renslow, Chief Business Development & Marketing Officer at Mall of America, alongside other senior marketing leaders as they navigate one of the most complex and rapidly evolving environments our industry has faced.
Today’s leaders are being asked to do more than drive demand — they’re responsible for helping organizations stay close to customers, adapt with agility, and build meaningful, lasting connections.
This Forum will explore how marketing leaders are balancing short-term performance with long-term brand, navigating disruption with clarity, and leading teams through constant change while continuing to deliver measurable impact.
Designed for senior marketers and their leadership teams, this session blends strategic perspective with practical takeaways you can apply immediately.
During this Forum, you’ll hear about:
The role of marketing in times of disruption
How leading organizations are leaning into marketing as a driver of stability, growth, and customer insight.
Experience as a differentiator
Not just connecting digital to physical experiences, but how brands are creating ‘reasons to show up’ in a world where convenience is just table stakes.
Building community and connection through platforms not campaigns
How brands are building emotional loyalty and shifting toward always-on engagement versus episodic campaigns.
Driving innovation and leading marketing teams through periods of change
What it takes to guide teams through ambiguity, shifting priorities, and new ways of working while maintaining momentum and morale.
Lessons from the top: career pivots and leadership decisions
Real-world perspectives from senior leaders on navigating change, making pivotal decisions, and evolving as a marketing leader.
Speakers:
- Jill Renslow, Chief Business Development & CMO, Mall of America
- Lynn Farmer, Chief Audience and Engagement Officer, Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Michelle Barbeau, Chief Revenue Officer, eHealth
- Kathy Hollenhorst, Moderator, Chief Community Officer, Marketers That Matter
Agenda:
1:30 – 2:00: Arrivals/Networking
2:00 – 3:30: Panel discussion
3:30 – 4:15: Breakouts
4:15 – 4:30: Wrap Up/Final Thoughts
4:30 – 5:30: Social Hour
