The Rising Talent Academy is where experience meets fresh perspective. Trailblazing leaders share their career journeys and insights, and Gen Z voices offer real-world viewpoints on what drives their generation and how brands can connect authentically.


Rising Talent Academy
Host

Danny Gardner
Danny Gardner is a leading expert and content creator in social media intelligence, helping brands transform online conversations into actionable intelligence that drives strategy, consumer insights, and growth.
He is an adjunct professor at the University of Florida, where he teaches the course Social Media Metrics & Evaluation to master’s candidates in the College of Journalism and Communications. His expertise includes advanced social listening, applied analytics, measurement frameworks, eCommerce ratings & reviews, influencer marketing, the creator economy, and cultural intelligence.
Danny most recently served as the Head of Social Media Insights, Analytics & Measurement at Haleon, the maker of Advil, Sensodyne, Tums, and other leading consumer health brands. He previously held similar leadership roles at GSK and Pfizer.
Danny has been recognized as a leading authority in the industry by organizations including The Drum Future 50, Brand Innovators 40 Under 40, Advertising People of the Year, and Social Intelligence Insider 50. He is widely followed on LinkedIn for his insights on the evolving role of social data in modern marketing.
2026 Agenda

Where is the
Rising Talent Academy?
How to Get There
The Rising Talent Academy is located on the 4th Floor in the Flicker 1-3 rooms at Fontainebleau.
- From the Main Lobby: Walk through the Luster Gallery (past Registration) and take either escalator to the 4th floor. Follow the signs to Flicker 1-3.
- From the Outdoor Expo Garden: Walk toward the Ocean Lawn and look for the large blue reflective building. Take the stairs up to the top floor of the Expo Terrace, walk through the Expo Hall, and continue down the hallway following signs to Flicker 1-3.
Explore the Stages and Experiences that Shape What’s POSSIBLE








