From Paper to Practice: Strategic Planning for Real-World Impact

Strategic planning is often hailed as the key to better decision-making, smarter resource use, and long-term growth. But how do you take those big-picture goals and turn them into meaningful action for your team? Join us for a conversation with Zack O'Connor, Senior Vice President at Fort George Brewery, as he shares insights from years of hands-on experience. Learn how Fort George has adapted strategic planning to fit their unique culture—keeping it grounded, collaborative, and relevant to the day-to-day. Discover practical ways to align your strategy with your team’s strengths and build a growth mindset across your organization. About the Speaker: Zack O'Connor leads people, culture, and long-term planning at Fort George Brewery in Astoria, Oregon. A Certified Cicerone with deep roots in hospitality and people operations, Zack also holds certifications in Human Resources and degrees in English Literature and French. Since relocating from rural southern Idaho in 2011, he’s embraced life on the Oregon Coast with his wife and dogs—fueled by a love of great food, music, and, of course, beer.