Thomas Morris

Renowned author and philosopher Tom Morris will headline the 2013 Allied Trades of the Baking Industry (ATBI) breakfast on April 22 during the annual American Bakers Association Convention, which will be held April 21-24 at the Turnberry Isle Resort in Aventura, Fla.

Known as one of the most active public philosophers in the world, Morris is recognized for his ability to bring the wisdom of the past into the challenges of the present. He will take a fresh look at business icon Steve Jobs, drawing on the principles that catapulted Jobs’ success, to offer guidance on how leaders can create environments to spur innovation.

“Tom Morris recently completed an analysis of the conditions Steve Jobs created that led to unprecedented innovation and new product development at Apple,” says ABA president and CEO Robb MacKie. “Tom will share his insights from his study to enlighten, energize and entertain the ABA Convention attendees. With process and product innovation critical components to success, Tom’s presentation is especially timely.”

A native of Durham, N.C., Morris was a Morehead Scholar at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and holds a Ph.D. in philosophy and religious studies from Yale University. He served for 15 years as a professor of philosophy at the University of Notre Dame and is now chairman of the Morris Institute for Human Values.

The theme of this year’s ABA Convention is “Staying Ahead of the Curve When You Don’t Know What’s Around the Bend,” a nod to the constantly changing trends, shifting consumer tastes, new technology, government regulations and the almost impossible task of staying current and competitive in today’s marketplace. The event brings together the top leaders from America’s baking businesses and their suppliers for networking, idea exchange, and working sessions.

Registration information can be found at www.americanbakers.org.