Erika Speed is Director, Live Programming at Forbes, where she leverages her 15+ years of experience and skills in curating programming across a wide range of business verticals. In her role, Erika works with the editorial team, vested clients, and a diverse set of speakers in bridging meaningful and engaging conversations with Forbes’ audience in both in-person and virtual spaces.

Prior to her role at Forbes, she has served in other experiential event management positions such as Chief Experience Officer, Lifestyle Director, Promotion Director, Community Manager, and Multicultural Event Marketing Manager. Across time and her diverse background, she has had the opportunity to help produce many award-winning events and build a vast network in many different arenas.

Erika’s thirst for community building, networking, and being a conduit for authenticity are things that she holds very dear to her heart and are what she brings with her wherever she goes. She holds her degree in Mass Communications from Hampton University.