Why the Media Ad Sales Summit Series Matters
For over seven years, the Matrix Summit Series has been a driving force behind progressive industry discussions and groundbreaking transformations in media ad sales. Our Media Ad Sales Summit and Candid Conversation Event Series serve as a platform to inspire collaboration and connect with influential figures who are shaping the future of media and advertising. Each event is carefully curated to foster meaningful conversations, practical insights, and actionable strategies that create lasting impact.
Matrix is committed to driving the evolution of the media marketplace through open dialogue and forward-thinking events. From challenges like reducing buy-sell friction to emerging opportunities in automation, data-driven strategies, and cross-platform growth, the Media Ad Sales Summit Series solidifies its position as the thought leader and catalyst for industry transformation.
What’s Next? Upcoming Events
To ensure we’re reaching more members of the media community, we’ve recently expanded Matrix Solutions’ Media Ad Sales Summit 2025 programming to include a mix of regional in-person gatherings and virtual Candid Conversations.
Regional Events: Join us for smaller, focused in-person gatherings taking place in key cities. These discussions will bring regional insights into the broader industry landscape. TBD
Candid Conversation Series: Engage in on-demand webinars and virtual panels, featuring influential experts revealing strategies, challenges, and solutions within the media ecosystem.
Stay tuned for updates and registration details, and prepare to participate in enriching discussions throughout 2025.
Transformational Leadership in Media Organizations:
Empowering Change Through Emotional Intelligence
In a time when media organizations are grappling with reinvention, relevance, and retention, transformation is no longer about tech upgrades—it's about rethinking how and why we lead.
Join Matrix and the Media Ad Sales Council for a candid conversation on transformational leadership, led by futurist, advisor, and author Rishad Tobaccowala. Drawing on his new book, Rethinking Work, Rishad will challenge attendees to shift focus from “return to office” debates to more urgent questions:
- How do we lead across five generations in the workplace?
- Are we managing legacy models or inspiring new ones?
- How do we earn the trust of a workforce that no longer believes in traditional structures?
Whether you’re managing transformation, building inclusive teams, or shaping the future of your organization, this is a don’t-miss conversation with leaders who’ve been on the front lines of disruption.

MODERATOR
Rishad Tobaccowala
Author, Rethinking Work
globally recognized speaker and futurist

SPEAKER
Christina Barlowe-Villano
SVP Business & Tech Transformation,
AMC Networks

SPEAKER
Al Lustgarten
Media Industry Consultant (formerly SVP, Hearst Television)
A Glimpse into Summit History
Each of these years exemplified why the Matrix Summits are more than just events; they are the pulse of our industry’s evolution.
Shifting from a single event to the Candid Conversation Series, 2024 allowed us to deliver content across regional gatherings and monthly webinars. Key topics included adapting to a post-election media landscape and leveraging AI for ad operations, ensuring continued connection and transformation despite industry challenges.
The 6th Annual Summit featured thought-provoking debates on modernizing sales tactics, harnessing CTV and FAST platforms, and tackling shifts in local TV streaming. Our attendees were inspired by engaging discussions exploring political advertising and data-enabled sales strategies, alongside keynotes from Rishad Tobaccowala and other influential voices.
Our 5th Annual Media Ad Sales Summit in Fort Lauderdale brought insights into reducing friction between buyers and sellers. With groundbreaking panels on addressable advertising and automation, this Summit was a launchpad for innovation. Exclusive conversations with industry leaders set the stage for long-term progress.
Be Part of the Future
Matrix Media Ad Sales Summit 2025 invites you to join the movement. Together, we’ll shape the next chapter of media ad sales innovation. Mark your calendars and prepare to unite, learn, and grow.