Williamson, Inc.’s Biggest Night of the Year Celebrates Williamson County’s Business Community

Keynote Speaker, Michael Cairnes, President and Chief Operating Officer of Kirkland’s

FRANKLIN, Tenn.-Williamson, Inc. is set to host its largest event of the year, the 2018 Annual Celebration presented by Franklin Synergy Bank, on Wednesday, Nov. 7 to honor Williamson County business leaders and celebrate accomplishments from the past year.

The event will kick off at 5.30 p.m. for networking and cocktails at Franklin Sports Hall (A-Game Sportsplex), 215 Gothic Ct., Franklin where guests can network with top elected officials, business owners, educators and civic leaders.

Dinner and the program will begin at 6 p.m. and feature a keynote address by Keynote Speaker, Michael Cairnes, President and Chief Operating Officer of Kirkland’s, on the leadership lessons he has learned throughout his career and his and Kirkland’s innovative approach to business.

Mike Cairnes has held senior leadership roles for over 15 years in wholesale, start up and retail businesses; at each, making transformational changes and demonstrating dynamic performance. He is an advocate for Special Needs and serves on the Board of Directors for BrightStone.

Prior to Kirkland’s, Mike worked for Michael’s Stores, Inc. as President of a subsidiary business, Artistree which is a vertically integrated custom frame “store in a store” business that was re-invented and became the largest in the world with market share more than doubling during his tenure along with accelerated profitability. Prior to that at Michael’s, Mike took over the largest merchandise division that was down trending; the business was re-imagined and re-set shattering expectations with double digit sales growth over 20% and profits growing faster than sales with categories outpacing the largest retailer.

In addition to Mike Cairnes’ address, Williamson, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer, Matt Largen will highlight the county’s economic growth, recognize volunteers and introduce new board members as part of his State of the Chamber address.

“The Annual Celebration is a way to show our appreciation for the hard working volunteers and board members who make Williamson, Inc. one of the top-performing chambers in the state,” said Largen. “They are the driving force behind the exceptional programs, events and services that contribute to the county’s continued economic prosperity.”

The event is presented by Franklin Synergy Bank. The VIP Reception sponsor is Williamson medical Center. Event sponsors include GBI, Granite City, Ravenwood High School Varsity Orchestra, Spring Tree Media Group and Franklin Sports Hall.