Key Executive Roundtable
KERT
Key Executive Roundtable (KERT) is a peer learning experience designed for second-in-command executives and other top-level leaders, including COOs, General Managers, VPs, and others who work closely with and support the CEO.
KERT brings together small groups of senior executives to learn from one another, build trusted relationships, and gain new perspectives they can bring back to their organizations.
Peer Learning for the Leaders Working Alongside the CEO
Why KERT?
Leading from the second-in-command seat comes with its own set of challenges.
KERT gives senior executives a place to step outside the day-to-day demands of their business and connect with peers who understand the responsibilities that come with being part of an organization’s top leadership team.
Through confidential peer conversations and shared experiences, participants gain perspectives they may not encounter within their own organizations.
What You'll Gain
Meaningful Connections
Insights on key challenges and opportunities
Perspective beyond a single company or industry
A network of thought leaders and subject matter experts
Reduction in stress and isolation—an escape from feeling “stuck”
Accelerated professional and personal growth and success
How KERT Works
KERT brings together Roundtables of approximately 8 to 12 leaders. Each Roundtable is led by a professional facilitator and meets monthly in person from March through November.
Following the opening session, participants work together to establish their Roundtable’s schedule. Regular meetings are approximately three hours.
Confidential Peer Roundtables
Participants openly share the challenges, opportunities, and questions they are facing in their roles and learn from the experiences and perspectives of their peers.
Expert-Led Learning
KERT connects participants with subject matter experts who offer insights on areas relevant to business and leadership, including strategy, culture, technology, compliance, finance, HR, marketing, sales, and more.
“Coming from a small family business, it is good to see the experiences that others are dealing/have dealt with. Our view can be very narrow and the KERT experience allows me to see how other businesses operate. I like seeing what others are doing in their business.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Key Executive Roundtable?
KERT is a peer learning program for second-in-command executives and other top-level leaders. Participants meet monthly in small, professionally facilitated Roundtables to learn from one another’s experiences, discuss challenges and opportunities, and gain insights from subject matter experts.
Who is KERT for?
KERT is primarily designed for second-in-command executives and other senior leaders with significant responsibility within their organizations, including COOs, General Managers, VPs, Presidents, and other top-level executives working alongside a CEO or owner.
Do I have to know a VACEOs member?
No. KERT is open to executives from both VACEOs member companies and non-member organizations.
KERT is a separate program and participation does not constitute VACEOs membership or include access to regular VACEOs member events.
What happens during a KERT meeting?
Regular KERT meetings are approximately three hours and combine confidential peer Roundtable discussions with expert-led learning.
Participants bring real challenges, opportunities, and questions to their peers while also learning from subject matter experts on topics relevant to business and leadership.
What is the attendance commitment?
KERT meets monthly from March through November. After the March 18 opening session, participants work together to establish their Roundtable’s monthly meeting schedule.’
Participants are expected to attend each monthly meeting, with a maximum of one absence during the program.
How much does KERT cost?
The 2027 fee is $2,800 for key executives from VACEOs member companies and $3,100 for executives from non-member companies.
Fees are billed after acceptance.
Question not answered? Contact us or call the VACEOs office at 804-360-2644
“Overall, I would rate my KERT experience a 10 out of 10.”
“I thought the changes made this year were great and really enhanced the overall experience. I especially enjoyed the sponsor and content expert presentations. They brought valuable perspectives to the group and sparked some really great conversations.
I also loved the way the social events were structured this year. They gave us more opportunities to connect and build relationships in a relaxed setting, which I think is such an important part of the KERT experience.”
-2026 KERT Participant
Ready to Join the 2027 KERT Program?