Past Event
Against the backdrop of a fast-pace global economy, the forces of partnership and progress have defined American economic leadership for 250 years—fueling innovation, industrial growth, and long-term competitiveness. Today, being invested in America is no longer symbolic; it is a strategic commitment that will determine which companies help shape the country’s next era of leadership. As leaders gathered to debate what will define 2026 and beyond, this interactive conversation looked forward, asking what must come next to sustain and extend America’s economic advantage.
Presented by PMI U.S. – and moderated by Moira Forbes – this discussion convened U.S. CEOs from global companies spanning the CPG, technology, and manufacturing sectors, to examine how collaboration, innovation, and sustained investment in the U.S. are shaping the future of American economic leadership—from advanced manufacturing and technological leadership to workforce development and community impact.
With Forbes and Worth Media Group as media partners, the conversation at USA House was designed to contribute meaningfully to the dialogue around how America builds its next chapter of economic leadership.
About Moira Forbes
Moira Forbes is the Executive Vice President of Forbes, where she is responsible for driving new business initiatives across the company’s diverse media platforms and branding Forbes events worldwide. Moira also serves as the President and Publisher of ForbesWomen, a multi-media content channel dedicated to successful women in business and leadership which she founded in 2007. Moira oversees Forbes’ annual list of the World’s Most Powerful Women and the annual Power Women’s Summit which she launched in 2013.
Across Forbes’ global editorial platforms, Moira convenes preeminent thought leaders for timely perspective and analysis around today’s most critical issues.
About Stacey Kennedy
Stacey Kennedy, CEO, Philip Morris International, U.S. leads with purpose—enabling PMI’s mission to deliver a smoke-free future. Stacey’s leadership is marked by a steadfast commitment to innovation, public health and corporate responsibility.
Stacey has defined her career with PMI with a bold approach to orient the company around purpose—prioritizing product innovation, rigorous scientific research and transparent communication. Her strategic leadership fosters a culture of responsiveness and responsibility that includes robust community engagement and corporate accountability. Stacey’s extensive experience within various PMI global markets has shaped her visionary leadership style.
About Christiana Riley
Christiana Riley is the Chief Executive Officer and President of Santander US. Christiana is also a member of the PagoNxt Board, a leading payment solution provider for merchants, international corporates, SMEs, and consumers, fully owned by Santander. Christiana is an active member of the wider civic and business community and holds various active Trustee positions including The Clearing House, the Partnership for New York City and American Friends of the Munich Security Conference.
About Aamir Paul
Aamir Paul leads North America Operations and is a member of the Global Executive Committee for Schneider Electric. In this role, he leads all operations from strategy to execution for Canada, Central America, Mexico, and the United States — delivering best-in-class solutions for partners and end-users across the Energy Management and Industrial Automation businesses. Prior to this role, Aamir served three years leading commercial operations as the U.S. Country President. He also led Business Operations and the U.S. National Sales team since joining the company in 2013.
About Deb Cupp
As President of Microsoft Enterprise, Deb Cupp leads a $80 billion business responsible for the sales strategy, execution, and revenue growth for the US, Canada, and Latin America business. This includes enterprise, public sector, small and medium businesses, services, and partner communities. She leads a team pursuing Microsoft’s mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. Deb leads with a culture-first mentality, driving a diverse, inclusive, and flexible workplace that connects her team to the company’s purpose and values.
Panel
Presented By
In Partnership with
