Epitome of Excellence: A Keynote Conversation with Industry Legends, Sponsored by White Oak Commercial Finance
Some of the most pivotal moments in our industry never make it into court opinions or deal summaries. They live in the judgment calls, the risks taken, and the lessons learned along the way.
At this year’s TMA Distressed Investing Conference, you’re invited to experience a once-in-a-career conversation with the leaders who helped define the modern turnaround profession.
This special session brings together distinguished members of the TMA Hall of Fame for a candid discussion on the pivotal moments that defined their careers, the lessons learned from navigating high-stakes restructurings, and their perspectives on the evolving future of distressed investing and corporate renewal.
From landmark cases and breakthrough deal structures to the human stories behind the headlines, attendees will gain rare insight into the judgment, leadership, and resilience required at the highest levels of practice. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an emerging leader, this keynote promises perspectives you won’t find anywhere else and will serve as a powerful reminder of why our work and this community truly matter.
Meet the All-Star Lineup
Hon. Arthur Gonzalez, Senior Fellow, NYU School of Law, Former Chief Judge, U.S. Bankruptcy Court (SDNY)
Judge Arthur J. Gonzalez is one of the most influential figures in modern bankruptcy jurisprudence. During his tenure as Chief Judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, he presided over historic cases including Enron, WorldCom, and Chrysler—at the time among the largest and most complex bankruptcies in U.S. history. Following his retirement from the bench, Judge Gonzalez has continued to shape public policy and restructuring practice, including service on the PROMESA Oversight Board addressing Puerto Rico’s debt crisis.
Laura Davis Jones, Partner, Pachulski, Stang, Ziehl & Jones
Laura Davis Jones is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier bankruptcy and restructuring attorneys. She has led some of the most consequential cases of her generation, including LTL Management (Johnson & Johnson), and is known for her strategic brilliance, credibility, and unwavering integrity. A recipient of The American Lawyer’s “Dealmaker of the Year,” Jones has set enduring standards for excellence in restructuring law and professional leadership.
William Snyder, CTP, Senior Managing Director, Partner, CR3 Partners
With more than 30 years of hands-on turnaround experience, William Snyder, CTP, is among the most respected turnaround professionals in the country. He has served as chief restructuring officer in some of the nation’s most complex and high-profile engagements, including Pilgrim’s Pride and the Texas Rangers. Known for delivering extraordinary outcomes under pressure, Snyder has consistently preserved value while advancing the practice of turnaround management.
J. Scott Victor, Managing Director, SSG Capital Advisors, LLC
J. Scott Victor is one of the most influential pioneers in the global restructuring and special situations investment banking industry. As the founder of SSG Capital Advisors, he helped bring sophisticated restructuring and M&A solutions to the middle market, completing more than 200 transactions across North America and Europe. A former TMA Global Chairman and 2018 TMA Hall of Fame inductee, Victor is widely respected for his creativity, integrity, and leadership—and for shaping how complex restructurings are executed in the middle market and beyond.