The Illinois Search and Staffing Association is proud to host this virtual event in our series created for Staffing Owners and Executives

Presented by Kathy Gilbert, Head of DEI Strategy and Partnershps at CDK

The Leadership Seat:

Challenges, Choices & Change Across Industries

June 26, 2025

12PM-1PM CST

Cost to Attend: ISSA Members FREE, Nonmembers $39

SESSION DESCRIPTION

Leadership today requires more than just a title—it demands clarity, agility, and the ability to influence meaningful change across all levels of an organization. In this interactive session, we’ll explore what it truly means to lead in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Join us for a deep dive into the challenges leaders face, the choices they must make, and the change they have the power to shape. Through a modern framework centered on people, process, technology, and data, we’ll uncover how leadership is evolving—and what it takes to stay ahead.

Attendance at this event earns 1.0 hours CE Credit toward ASA certification

MEET THE SPEAKER

Kathy is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of leadership experience in the automotive industry, spanning sales, business development, product marketing, and customer success. She currently serves as Head of DEI Strategy and Partnerships at CDK, where she leads the execution of the company’s global DEI strategy across five pillars—culture, talent, supplier, marketplace, and community. In this role, she collaborates with senior leadership across HR, Procurement, Marketing, Sales and Customer Care to drive business growth, enhance supplier diversity, and foster inclusive workplace practices.

As Chair of the DEI Council, Kathy strengthens CDK’s internal culture and external brand through targeted strategies that engage underrepresented talent and customer segments. Previously, she served as Senior Director of Minority Dealer and Women Retail Business, overseeing a $260M portfolio of 5,000+ clients, where she deepened partnerships with dealers, associations, manufacturers, and industry stakeholders.

Earlier roles include Director of Customer Success, where she built and led high-performing teams focused on delivering engaging client experiences. Kathy is a Founding Board Member of Women in Automotive, and a respected industry speaker and mentor. Her recognitions include Automotive News’ 2025 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry,” “Notable Champion of Diversity,” and NAMAD’s “Woman of the Year.”

Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor, Avionté!