​Join AAF Los Angeles for the Ethics in Advertising Summit 2025

​Advertising is at its most powerful when it earns trust. But in a rapidly evolving industry, shaped by cultural shifts, new technologies, and changing regulations, ethics matter more than ever.

​This special summit brings together leading voices across agencies, brands, media, and influencer marketing to explore how our industry can uphold integrity while driving innovation. Through keynote insights, panel discussions, and interactive Q&A, attendees will gain practical tools and fresh perspectives to navigate the complex ethical challenges facing advertising today.

​Summit Agenda

​11:00 AM

• ​Doors Open

​11:15 AM

• ​Welcome & State of the Industry

  • ​Chris Degenaars, Global Digital Experience Leader at Giant Bicycles & Co-President of AAF Los Angeles

  • ​Thomas Mercier, Director of Media Operations at WildBrain

​11:30 AM

• ​The Importance of Self Regulation in Volatile Times:
  In an era of rapid technological change, political polarization, and shifting consumer trust, ethical self-regulation has never been more vital. Leaders from the American Advertising Federation and BBB National Programs explore how advertisers can uphold integrity, accountability, and transparency before regulation forces their hand.

  • ​Clark Rector, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs for the National American Advertising Federation

  • ​Peter Marinello, Vice President of the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council for BBB National Programs

​12:05 PM

• ​Raising the Bar: Ethics and Responsibility in Kids’ Media & Marketing: The “Made for Kids” space carries unique ethical responsibilities. This panel explores how brands and agencies can balance engagement with protection by building transparency, inclusivity, and fun while ensuring kids’ privacy and well-being come first.

  • ​Moderator: Peter Marinello, Vice President of the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council for BBB National Programs

  • ​Matt Kaplan, Director of Sales Development at WildBrain

  • ​Jessica Thomas, Former Director of Sustainability at Microsoft/Activision Blizzard

​12:35 PM

• ​Lunch thanks to Canvas Worldwide!

​1:00 PM

• ​Trust & Transparency: The Ethics of Influencers:
  As influencer marketing matures, ethical lines blur. How can creators, brands, and agencies navigate FTC guidelines, sponsorship transparency, and audience trust? Join a candid discussion on maintaining authenticity in a monetized world—followed by a live Q&A.

  • ​Chris Degenaars, Global Digital Experience Leader at Giant Bicycles, Co-President of AAF Los Angeles

  • ​Omari McNeil, Associate Director - Content Partnerships for Genesis Motors America

  • ​Mylen Yamamoto Tansingco, CEO and Founder of Clique-Now

  • ​Kylen Chen-Troester, Senior Content Creator

​1:45 PM

• ​How to Raise Ethical Issues: A fireside chat on how to escalate ethical concerns to senior leadership with confidence and clarity, followed by a 15-minute Q&A.

  • ​Moderator: Chris Degenaars, Global Digital Experience Leader at Giant Bicycles & Co-President of AAF Los Angeles

  • ​Laura Small, Executive Vice President - People Director at RPA

  • ​Raul Tafur, VP Paid Social & Strategy at Canvas

​2:30 PM

• ​Closing Remarks

  • ​Chris Degenaars, Global Digital Experience Leader at Giant Bicycles & Co-President of AAF Los Angeles

  • ​Thomas Mercier, Director of Media Operations at WildBrain

​3:00 PM

• ​Networking

​Additional Details:

• ​Light breakfast (coffee & pastries) and lunch included with every ticket.

• ​Hosted at Canvas Worldwide – Los Angeles Office.

​This is a must-attend summit for advertising professionals at every level, whether you’re shaping campaigns, leading teams, or simply want to ensure your work reflects the highest standards of integrity.