It would appear to be a Port of Sydney Development Corporation sponsored event, though the speaking line up seems exclusive to Harbor Port Development Partners (or the alternative "Sydney Harbor Investment Partners" they are also calling themselves). Note: This is a paid registration event, ranging from $65.22 to $250 / person + HST: http://www.sydneyport.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/REGISTRATION-FORM-2016.pdf Upon review, I do see that the keynote has a career history bio indicated. However, his current affiliation is only noted as "James C Evans LLC". This was an LLC registered in Michigan two months ago by the LegalZoom online incorporation service. Perhaps its creation is aligned with getting involved with the Port Corp, or HPDP, or SHIP. Of course, the primary motivation for knowing the expertise and affiliation of your keynote speaker is to determine whether they have the qualifications to assess a project of this scope, particularly as it relates to the business case analysis, feasibility, etc. And all within the context of the changes to the shipping industry through its move to larger vessels, etc. Of course, a common alternative is to showcase someone in a spokesperson type of role, paid to advocate for the project for public relations purposes. Sheehy has talked about this need before. Fairly standard strategic marketing: "“It would help if the community would form some kind of a booster group for the port who could help us develop an outreach program, because I don’t think that we have done as good a job as we should have." http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1297636-container-terminal-for-sydney-harbour-possible-consultant In the absence of significant public support, bringing in perceived authority figures is a good way to try to grow public confidence and get buy-in.