Over a 40-year span, Richard Polak has been recognized in more than 90 countries around the globe for creating and structuring world-class benefits and HR programs. His research, presentations, articles, subject expertise, and training program with IBIS Academy—the world's longest-running international HR conference—was world renown. In 2012, Polak merged his company, IBIS Advisors, and his conference, IBIS Academy, in a deal with Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (AJG). This created the international department at Gallagher and the role on the Executive Committee as the Executive VP, Multinational Benefits & HR Consulting Services, a position he held for 6 years before deciding to reenter entrepreneurship. Today, Richard is a global advisor for dozens of companies and organizations around the world. He advises on productivity by working smarter, not harder. His book Work Smart Now was the #1 release on Amazon in April 2021. He is also a proud member of the American Benefits Council and Forbes HR Council.