John Brandt, CEO and founder of The MPI Group, is an internationally recognized expert on manufacturing and technology with more than two-decades experience devoted to studying leadership in effective, purpose-driven organizations as well as how companies can adapt themselves to today\u2019s new markets, corporate structures, and customer demands.\n\nJohn\u2019s work at MPI Group has produced the Six Strategies for Next Generation Manufacturing Success and studies on manufacturing performance benchmarking, distribution and logistics and manufacturers\u2019 readiness for the Internet of Things.\n\nBefore founding The MPI Group in 2003, John was publisher and editor-in-chief of IndustryWeek magazine, which under his leadership garnered more than 70 editorial awards for excellence and doubled its revenues. He led the development of several pioneering research efforts, including the IndustryWeek 1000, the World\u2019s Best Managed Companies Program, and the IW Census of Manufacturers. John also served as president, publisher, and editorial director of Chief Executive.\n Key topics: overarching trends in manufacturing, MPI Group's annual Internet of Things survey and John's advice to small and medium firms.