Merit Gest has more than 20 years of experience working with companies to grow revenue, increase profitability and reduce turnover. Merit’s work experience and certifications in both Emotional Intelligence and cultural transformation give her a unique perspective for hiring, onboarding, selling and retaining top talent.

Prior to forming Merit-based Professional Development, Merit was the Senior VP of Sales for a nationwide sales training organization and the youngest General Sales Manager for a start-up radio station in the country’s third largest market.

In her various roles as a business owner, trainer, coach, consultant and keynote speaker, she has worked with CEOs, business owners, entrepreneurs, sales management teams and professionals across a wide variety of industries including financial services, manufacturing, engineering, professional services, technology and even pest control.

Merit infuses more than two decades of human dynamics, sales and leadership experience into power-packed, humorous keynotes on sales, leadership and communication. A Certified Speaking Professional, Merit has earned the highest designation in the speaking industry, achieved by less than 12% of speakers worldwide… your insurance policy that you are getting a real pro. Her presentation style is a blend of content, connection & comedy.