University Park, Ill. (PRWEB) May 11, 2015
Applied Systems and the Applied Client Network today announced that Madeleine K. Albright, first woman Secretary of State, global strategy consultant and best-selling author, will be the featured keynote speaker at Applied Net 2015. Additionally, Horst Schulze, legendary leader renowned for creating a culture of service as founding president and COO of Ritz-Carlton, will share his insights on delivering successful customer experience strategies during the final keynote of the conference.
In 1997, Albright was named the 64th Secretary of State, becoming the first female Secretary of State and, at that time, the highest ranking woman in the history of the U.S. government. As Secretary of State, Albright reinforced America’s alliances, advocated democracy and human rights and promoted American trade and business, labor and environmental standards abroad. In 2012, she was awarded the U.S. Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, citing her inspirational life as well as her ongoing scholarship that continues to make the world a better, more peaceful place.
Schulze is a legendary leader in the service world whose vision has helped reshape the very concepts of customer experience throughout the hospitality and service industries. He served as vice chairman of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company from 2001-2002, after serving as president and COO of The Ritz-Carlton Group, starting in 1988. Under his leadership, the Ritz-Carlton Group was awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in both 1992 and 1999, the first and only hotel company to win even one such award. In addition, Ritz-Carlton was continuously voted “best hotel company in the world” by meeting and other trade publications.
“We are extremely pleased to have Madeleine Albright and Horst Schulze deliver keynotes at this year’s Applied Net conference,” said Ed Higgins, chairperson, Applied Client Network. “As global leaders and business visionaries, Applied Net attendees will gain valuable insights on how to drive business success and further commit to providing an exceptional customer experience.”
Since 2011, the Applied Net conference has grown by more than 170 percent, making the conference the “must-attend” technology event in the industry. This year’s conference theme, The Digital Future of Insurance, focuses on opportunities for growth and enhanced profitability for agencies, brokerages and insurers worldwide in today’s digitally driven economy. As the leading forum for innovation and education, Applied Net 2015 promises more than 175 education sessions, keynote presentations, networking opportunities and exhibitors from the entire insurance industry to ensure attendees gain the most from their technology investment.
“This year’s conference will spotlight the opportunities agents, brokers, and insurers have to increase industry collaboration and enhance customer experience through a more connected digital experience,” said Reid French, chief executive officer, Applied Systems. “We are thrilled to have both Secretary Albright and Horst Schulze join us at this year’s conference, providing our attendees with unique perspectives and strategies on leadership, business, and customer experience.”
Early-bird conference discounts run through June 12. Register now for Applied Net 2015. Join the conversation on Twitter with hashtag #AppliedNet.
About Applied Systems
Applied Systems is a leading provider of software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and data exchange between brokerages, insurers and their clients, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems. Automating the insurance lifecycle for more than 12,000 agencies and brokerages and 450 insurers worldwide, Applied enables millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.
About Applied Systems Client Network
Applied Client Network is the international association that promotes successful technology and business practices through communication, education and advocacy. Founded in 1985 and based in Des Plaines, Ill., Applied Client Network is the only authorized user group for Applied Systems software. Visit http://www.ascnet.org.