CFDD National Conference a frightful success.(CFDD National Conference)(Centre for Career Development)

CFDD hosted its second annual National Conference from October 23-25 at the Embassy Suites--Kansas City Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, MO, drawing a diverse contingent of credit professionals to the mid-western city hoping to increase their expertise on topics like payment processing, fraud, contract structure and other hot-button issues.

October's conference began with a promise that was, on all accounts, fulfilled by the program's educational and networking opportunities. "My theme for this year, 'CFDD: Today's Investment, Tomorrow's Success,' was chosen because it is my belief that the time you invest will pave the way for your future successes and your personal and professional growth," said Mary Moore, CBA, CFDD national chairman, in her opening remarks at the event's business meeting and opening session. "With the current economic conditions, we need CFDD more than we ever have. The networking could become priceless and the education we receive cannot be taken away. You will be one step ahead of the game by continuing your education and being on the right path for 'tomorrow's success.'"

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Moore's remarks kicked off an event that included a host of relevant general sessions, including a dynamic economic roundup from Armada Corporate Intelligence s Chris Kuehl, Ph.D. The Global Talent War is On!" a unique presentation focusing on the country's currently delicate and ever-aging workforce, was delivered by Travis Lewis of Ajilon Professional Staffing and Leigh Wintz, CAE delivered an informative and timely presentation on strategic planning. One of the most popular and lively sessions was an open forum held on the second day of the conference. Entitled "Managing Credit in Challenging Times" and moderated by longtime CFDD supporter Jeffrey O'Banion, CCE, CICP, the session included the valuable insight of panelists Donna Hypse, CCE, Dennis Thomassie, CCE and Val Venable, CCE, as well as broad participation by many of the credit professionals present. "I think this forum could have lasted all day," said Moore. "There were excellent questions from the audience and it was very educational."

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Moore wasn't the only one singing the panel's praises. "I gained the most from the open forum 'Managing Credit in Challenging Times,'" said Carolyn VanKrevelen, CBF, a credit manager with Metal-Matic, Inc. "The moderator and panelists are seasoned credit professionals whose commentary elicited useful feedback from the audience." VanKrevelen noted that the high-quality nature of the forum also reflected the ...