2026 PM Symposium Dorri McWhorter

Bio

Dorri McWhorter is a transformational executive widely recognized for her collaborative, innovative, and purpose-driven leadership style, blending corporate strategy with social impact in a way that is both disruptive and deeply focused on humanity. Known for her strategic vision, genuine warmth, optimism, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and collective advancement, Dorri brings a distinctive perspective to conversations about leadership, innovation, and the future of business.

As President & CEO of the Executives’ Club of Chicago, Dorri is leading one of Chicago’s most storied and influential business platforms into its next chapter — one defined by bold ideas, meaningful connections, and transformational leadership. She also serves on the Boards of Directors of several organizations, including LanzaTech Global, Lifeway Foods, William Blair Funds, NexPoint Capital, and Skyway Concession Company (Chicago Skyway).

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorrimcwhorter/

Topic

Innovation Revolution Panel

Role

Moderator

Description

Innovation is transforming how organizations operate, how leaders make decisions, and how teams prepare for what comes next. But with rapid advancement comes an important challenge: how do organizations embrace innovation while keeping people, purpose, and meaningful impact at the center?

Moderated by transformational executive and business leader Dorri McWhorter, the Innovation Revolution panel will bring together diverse perspectives for a dynamic conversation about the forces reshaping today’s business landscape. Dorri will guide panelists through a thought-provoking discussion exploring emerging opportunities, evolving leadership expectations, and what it takes to turn innovation into meaningful organizational progress.

Attendees will leave with fresh perspectives on how leaders and project professionals can navigate disruption, encourage forward thinking, and help their organizations move confidently from new ideas to meaningful impact.

Key Takeaways

• Lead through innovation: Explore how leaders can embrace emerging opportunities while keeping people, purpose, and organizational impact at the center.
• Navigate disruption with intention: Gain perspectives on approaching rapid change with greater curiosity, adaptability, and strategic focus.
• Connect innovation to impact: Consider how organizations can move beyond pursuing innovation for its own sake and translate new ideas into meaningful business outcomes.
• Strengthen future-ready leadership: Discover perspectives on the leadership mindsets and behaviors that can help teams navigate an increasingly complex and evolving business environment.
• Turn conversation into action: Leave with fresh ideas and perspectives that project professionals can bring back to their teams and organizations.