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Gene Marks
Gene Marks is a CPA, business owner, keynote speaker, and nationally recognized columnist whose reporting focuses on AI, automation, the economy, workplace trends, taxes, and technology issues impacting businesses today.
He writes regularly for Forbes, The Hill, The Guardian, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Washington Times, The Chicago Daily Herald, and other national publications. Gene is also host of the Paychex Thrive Podcast, where he interviews CEOs, economists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders about the trends shaping business.
As owner of The Marks Group, Gene advises hundreds of businesses across the country, giving him firsthand insight into how executives are responding to economic, technology, workforce, and policy changes.
His presentations combine national reporting with real-world business experience, delivering practical strategies audiences can immediately apply. Prior to founding The Marks Group, Gene spent nine years with KPMG as a Senior Manager in its Entrepreneurial Services practice.
Topics
AI, Automation & The Future of Your Industry: Forbes Contributor Shares What Leaders Need to Know Now
or more than 20 years, Gene Marks has covered business technology for Forbes, reporting regularly on artificial intelligence, automation and enterprise software. In this fast-paced, practical keynote, he separates AI hype from business reality and explains what is actually impacting industries like construction, manufacturing, distribution, retail and financial services.
Drawing from interviews with Microsoft, Google, emerging AI firms and real-world companies implementing these tools, Gene shows where AI is delivering measurable ROI — and where businesses are wasting time and money.
The session covers AI agents and automation, practical applications in sales, CRM, estimating, forecasting and finance, workforce implications, AI governance and data management, where to invest in 2026–2027, and what leaders should expect over the next 12–24 months.
Attendees leave with a clear, practical technology roadmap — not theory — and a better understanding of how smart leaders are using AI to protect margins and drive growth.
From Washington to Your Workplace: Economic, Policy and Business Trends Impacting Your Industry
In this fast-paced, highly customized keynote, Gene Marks helps business leaders understand how the economy, Washington, taxes, tariffs, interest rates, labor issues and changing public policy will affect their companies — and what they should do next.
Drawing from his national reporting, interviews with business leaders and policymakers, and firsthand experience working with hundreds of small and mid-sized companies, Gene cuts through the headlines and focuses on the developments that matter most to business owners and executives.
The presentation is tailored to the audience’s industry and provides practical guidance on economic conditions, government policy, workforce challenges, technology investment and the business decisions leaders should be making over the next 12–24 months.
Attendees leave with a clearer understanding of what’s coming and specific actions they can take to manage risk, find opportunities and position their organizations for growth.
The Great Workforce Handoff: How to Replace Retiring Talent, Transfer Critical Knowledge and Build the Next Generation of Your Workforce
Businesses across the country are approaching one of the biggest workforce transitions in decades. Experienced owners, executives, managers, salespeople, technicians and other key employees are retiring — and when they leave, decades of relationships, skills and institutional knowledge can leave with them.
In this practical keynote, Gene Marks shows business leaders how to prepare for the generational handoff before critical knowledge walks out the door. He addresses succession planning, knowledge transfer, recruiting and retaining younger workers, changing workplace expectations, multigenerational teams and the growing role of AI and technology in capturing and sharing institutional knowledge.
The session also examines what Gen Z and younger employees expect from employers, how managers can adapt without sacrificing accountability or performance, and how organizations can build systems that preserve experience while developing the next generation of leaders.
Attendees leave with practical steps to protect institutional knowledge, strengthen succession plans and create a workforce strategy that prepares their organization for the years ahead.
How can I check Gene Marks's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Gene Marks's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.
What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.
Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.
How do I book Gene Marks for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps:
- Contact Key Speakers to confirm the speaker's availability, fees, and any unique requirements. We can also help negotiate fees and terms.
- Submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker. These details will be used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts.
- All parties coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions.
- Confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.
What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.
How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors:
- The speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry.
- Their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages.
- Past client testimonials, reviews, or references.
- The speaker's availability and fee within your budget.
What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.
How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.
Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.
Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.
Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.
Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.
How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.
Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help them improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.
Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.
Why book Gene Marks though Key Speakers?
- We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker—from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We work closely with you from speaker selection to post-event success and always ensure that your needs are addressed first.
- We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. Leave the fine print to us so you can focus on other aspects of your event. Key Speakers mediates and absorbs some of the contractual risks that inherently come with booking a keynote speaker.
- With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. We pride ourselves on speedy response time and always keep you updated on all new developments relating to your event. Our experienced agents are personable (after our morning coffee!) and always eager to do whatever it takes to secure a fantastic speaker for your event.
To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event. We do the heavy lifting for you. Our dedicated and knowledgeable advisors ensure that your speaker's message and personal brand perfectly align to your event objectives.
Remember that the specific details and offerings may vary among different speakers, so it's always recommended to consult with your Key Speakers representative for accurate information and assistance.
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