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Sunday, 27 Apr 2025

PRE-CONFERENCE EVENTS

8.00 - 12.00

Exhibitor set up

12.00 - 17.00

REGISTRATION OPENS
Congress Foyer, Lower Level
For all GEO's 26th Annual Conference attendees

17.00 - 18.00

CHAPTER TEAM HAPPY HOUR
By invitation - global GEO Chapter co-ordinators only

FIND OUT MORE

18.00 - 19.30

FELLOWS DRINKS RECEPTION
By invitation - GEO Fellows of Global Equity only

FIND OUT MORE

19.30 - 23.00 (event times differ)

Provider sponsored events 
By invitation - venues vary

Monday, 28 Apr 2025

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

8.00

Registration opens
Congress Foyer, Lower Level

8.30 - 9.30

ISSUER ATTENDEE ARRIVALS
Corporate issuer attendees only

8.30 - 9.30

ISSUER COUNCIL MEETING
By invitation - GEO's Issuer Council members only

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9.30 - 11.30

ISSUER-ONLY KEYNOTE AND NETWORKING EVENT
Corporate issuer attendees only
LEVEL M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3 
 

A fun-packed keynote from DUNCAN STEVENS and roundtable networking event designed to foster deeper connections with global peers through engaging activities. 

FIND OUT MORE

11.00

ALL NON-ISSUER ARRIVALS
Service provider and other non-issuer attendees
Congress Hall, Lower Level

11.30 - 12.30

ALL ATTENDEE LUNCH
Congress Hall, Lower Level

12.30 - 14.00

OPENING ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION
KEYNOTE: SILVIA GARCIA, Former Coca-Cola Global Director of Happiness, Marketing and Communications
Congress Hall, Lower Level

ABOUT SILVIA

14.00 - 14.45

Afternoon refreshment break
Congress Hall, Lower Level

14:45 - 15.45

BREAKOUT SESSION I
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

15.45 - 16.00

Transition

16.00 - 17:00

BREAKOUT SESSION II
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

17.00 - 18.00

Free time

18.00 - 18.40

OPENING RECEPTION - TRANSPORT
Special Events Collection Point, Group Entrance, Lower Level

Join your coach transfer to the Opening Night Party!
All attendees to wear conference badges, including guests

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SPONSORED BY MORGAN STANLEY AT WORK

19.00 - 22.30

OPENING PARTY
Luxury Grand Bohemia Cruise
A 'not to be missed' event for all conference attendees - join us for a spectacular VIP dinner cruise along Prague's famous Vltava River.
All attendees to wear conference badges, including guests.
Guest tickets are available to purchase.

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Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

7.30

Registration opens
Congress Foyer, Lower Level

Before 9.00

BREAKFAST AT YOUR OWN LEISURE
Hotel guests may take breakfast in the hotel restaurant 
Atrium Restaurant, Level L

8.00 - 9.00

FIRST-TIMERS, FUTURE LEADERS AND FELLOWS' BREAKFAST
By invitation only - GEO Fellows, GEO Future Leaders and new annual conference attendees only
Congress Hall, Level LL

FIND OUT MORE

9.00 - 10.30

ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION
Join GEO as we welcome experts to the main stage.

SPONSORED BY COMPUTERSHARE

10.30 - 11.00

Refreshment break and book signing

11.00 - 12.00

BREAKOUT SESSION III
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

12.00 - 13.15

LUNCH AND NETWORKING BREAK
Congress Hall, Lower Level

13.15 - 14.00

BREAKOUT SESSION IV 
Roundtable sessions
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

14.00 - 14.10

Transition

14.10 - 15.10

BREAKOUT SESSION V
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

15.10 - 15.40

Refreshment break 
Congress Hall, Lower Level

15.40 - 16.25

BREAKOUT SESSION VI
Roundtable sessions
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

16.25 - 16.45

Transition

16.45 - 17.45

BREAKOUT SESSION VII
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

17.45 - 19.15

Free time

19.15 - 19.45

GEO AWARDS 2025 - TRANSPORT
Special Events Collection Point, Group Entrance, Lower Level

Join your coach transfer to the GEO Awards!
All attendees to wear conference badges, including guests

PURCHASE A TICKET

SPONSORED BY J.P.MORGAN WORKPLACE SOLUTIONS

19.30 - midnight

THE 2025 GEO AWARDS
Žofín Palace, Prague

Drinks reception: 19.30 - 20.30
Celebration gala and dinner: 20.30 - 22.00
After party at Cloud9 Sky Bar and Lounge: 22.00 - 00.00

A seat is included in the conference ticket - a limited number of guest tickets, individual tickets and tables of ten are available to purchase

FIND OUT MORE

SPONSORED BY J.P.MORGAN WORKPLACE SOLUTIONS

Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

8.00

Registration opens
Congress Hall, Lower Level

Before 9.45

BREAKFAST AT YOUR OWN LEISURE
Hotel guests may take breakfast in the hotel restaurant 
Atrium Restaurant, Level L

9.45 - 10.45

BREAKOUT SESSION VIII
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

10.45 - 11.00

Transition

11.00 - 11.45

BREAKOUT SESSION IX
Roundtable sessions
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

11.45 - 12.30

LUNCH AND NETWORKING BREAK
Congress Hall, Lower Level

12.30 - 13.30

BREAKOUT SESSION X
Level M - Palmovka 1, 2 and 3, and Karlin 4

13.30 - 13.45

Refreshment break 
Congress Hall, Lower Level

13.45 - 15.00

ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION
KEYNOTE - JASON BEVAN, Former Head of Creative Development at Warner Bros Studios

ABOUT JASON
 

SPONSORED BY UBS WORKPLACE WEALTH SOLUTIONS

Followed by prize giving and closing remarks

15.30 - 23.59

Exhibitor breakdown

16.00 - 19.00 APPROX

BONUS NETWORKING EVENT - PRAGUE MEDIEVAL EXPERIENCE
Additional fees apply

Step back in time and immerse yourself in Prague’s rich medieval heritage with this exclusive, post-conference event. This unforgettable event is your chance to enjoy history, flavours, and adventure all in one evening. Admission, food and unlimited drinks are included with your ticket.

Tickets are limited and available for purchase until 28 March

MORE INFORMATION
 

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Filter by:

Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 15:45 - 16:30
6.4 Navigating the Future of Work: Global Trends in Remuneration, Reward, and Share Plans

David Edwards, NatWest (UK)
Marcus McEvoy, Computershare (UK)
Liz Pierson, Deloitte (UK)
David Voggeser, Mercer (DE)

Global
BREAKOUT VI

This interactive roundtable discussion will dive into the global trends and shifts shaping the future of work, with a focus on how these transformations are impacting remuneration, reward systems, and equity compensation. Our experts will guide participants through the demographic, technological, and regulatory forces at play, while engaging in a lively conversation about the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attendees will have the chance to share insights, ask questions, and interact with panelists throughout the discussion.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Discuss how emerging regulations are influencing global compensation and equity plans, with a focus on adapting to various markets.
  • Explore the evolving expectations of today’s workforce, including preferences for flexibility, equity ownership, and long-term rewards.
  • Exchange ideas on integrating AI, automation, and new technologies into remuneration and share plans to improve efficiency and foster innovation.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 4
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Not eligible
Level:
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 15:45 - 16:30
6.5 LEADERS LOUNGE: Crafting Executive LTI Programs: Aligning Compensation, Performance, and Global Considerations

Matt Connor, FGE, Lucid Motors (US)
Chris Dohrmann, FGE, J.P. Morgan Workplace Solutions (US)
Hannah Needle, FGE, Tapestry Compliance (UK)
Pat Sims, FGE, Industry Expert (UK)
Gabbi Stopp, FGE, GEO (UK)
 

Global
BREAKOUT VI

Designing an Executive LTI program requires balancing leadership rewards with key considerations such as cost, tax, global compliance, and recruitment. This panel will examine the complexities of navigating diverse stakeholder requirements, including those of Boards, Compensation Committees, Audit Committees, and external advisors like ISS and Glass Lewis, which often vary across jurisdictions.

The session will focus on the challenges faced by companies in the EU/UK compared to their U.S. counterparts, exploring how to balance incentive effectiveness with increasing scrutiny.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Explore strategies for aligning executive LTI programs with the diverse expectations of Compensation Committees, proxy advisors, and other stakeholders.
  • Discuss how to design programs that effectively balance long-term performance objectives with retention strategies.
  • Uncover approaches for managing costs and global compliance requirements while maintaining program integrity.
LOCATION:
Karin 4
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Not eligible
Level:
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 16:45 - 17:45
7.1 Navigating Equity Compensation in Mergers & Acquisitions

Bekir Kocabiyik, UBS (CH)
Courtney Petroski, GE Aerospace (US)
Michael Sterchi, Sterchi Solutions for Incentives & Pensions (CH)
Julia Tensfeldt, UBS (US)

Global
BREAKOUT VII

M&A can be transformative events for any company, but they also come with complex equity compensation considerations. Whether your company is actively pursuing a deal or simply preparing for future opportunities, understanding the nuances of equity compensation in an M&A context is critical.
This session will explore key considerations from both the acquirer and target perspectives, providing actionable insights to navigate equity-related challenges. Additionally, we’ll discuss effective strategies for communicating with participants to ensure clarity and alignment throughout the process.


KEY LEARNING POINTS

  • Learn the different types of mergers and acquisitions and how to define critical equity compensation parameters to ensure seamless integration.
  • Explore the importance of testing scenarios and managing timelines to mitigate risks and align equity plans with deal structures.
  • Discover best practices for engaging and informing participants during M&A events to maintain trust and reduce disruptions.
LOCATION:
Karin 4
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
I
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 16:45 - 17:45
7.2 Tailored Solutions for Share Plans: Lessons from Admiral

Lewis Dulley, Tapestry Compliance (UK)
Helen Hopkins, MUFG (UK)
Andrew Martin, Admiral (UK)

Global
BREAKOUT VII

Uncover innovative strategies for enhancing employee share plans through creative processes and customized solutions. This session delves into Admiral’s off-market bid process, which generated hundreds of thousands of pounds in additional employee value, avoided tax implications, and preserved share price stability. Additionally, explore Endava’s global, all-employee discretionary share plan, thoughtfully designed to maximize employee benefits while aligning seamlessly with organizational objectives.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Discover how forward-thinking approaches can create substantial financial advantages for employees while safeguarding organizational goals.
  • Learn the value of designing share plans that align with both employee needs and broader business strategies.
  • Gain actionable insights on adapting administrative frameworks to meet diverse client requirements and enhance the effectiveness of share plan delivery.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 2
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
O
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 16:45 - 17:45
Design and strategy
7.3 AI's Impact on Equity Compensation: GEIS 2025 Insights

GEIS Sponsor Panel

All plan types
Global
BREAKOUT VII

This session explores the transformative impact of AI on equity compensation, drawing insights from the 2025 Global Equity Insights Survey (GEIS). It examines how AI is reshaping compensation strategies, offering a forward-thinking perspective on new trends, real-world applications, and best practices in this evolving landscape.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand how AI is disrupting traditional models and enhancing modern strategies for more effective compensation planning.
  • Learn how AI algorithms improve accuracy, efficiency, and scalability in equity management while providing deeper insights into employee preferences.
  • Discover how AI ensures regulatory compliance, mitigates risks, and enhances employee engagement in equity compensation programs.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 3
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
O
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 16:45 - 17:45
7.4 Transforming Stock Plan Administration with Technology

Kim Hackman, DoorDash (US)
Martin Hirsch, Bank of America (US)
Matt McKittrick, Moss Adams (US)
Robyn Shutak, FGE, Infinite Equity (US)
Annemarie Verwaaijen, S&P Global (US)
 

Global
BREAKOUT VII

Join industry leaders from DoorDash, S&P Global, Bank of America, Infinite Equity, and Moss Adams for an insightful session on how technology and purpose-built software tools can revolutionize stock plan administration.

This session will showcase real-world examples where automation, AI, and emerging tools streamline participant communications, enhance payroll reconciliation, and improve error detection. Learn how these innovations reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and elevate the participant experience.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Discover how to streamline participant communications and support with AI-driven tools.
  • Understand solving payroll reconciliation challenges with advanced equity platform integrations.
  • Delve into enhancing error detection in grants, vests, and releases using AI and machine learning.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 4
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
O
Tuesday, 29 Apr 2025, 16:45 - 17:45
7.5 Driving Ownership at Scale: Inside DHL’s Global ESPP Rollout

Gordon Rosch, EY (DE)
Bernd Schmelzer, DHL Group (DE)
 

Global
BREAKOUT VII

Explore how DHL successfully implemented a global employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) for 600,000 employees across up to 150 countries. This session highlights the strategic design, rollout approach, and innovative engagement strategies that empowered frontline workers to embrace ownership.

Discover how the ESPP fosters a culture of co-ownership, aligning employee success with the company’s goals while navigating the complexities of scaling across diverse regions and workforces.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how to design a globally scalable ESPP that balances business objectives with local needs.
  • Explore practical strategies for implementing ESPPs across large and geographically dispersed employee populations.
  • Gain actionable insights into engaging frontline workers and driving a strong culture of ownership.
LOCATION:
Karin 4
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
O
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 09:45 - 10:45
8.1 Equity Without Borders: Broad-Based Stock Plans on the Global Stage - Making the Case for Global Ownership

Danyle Anderson, FGE, Bank of America (US)
William Castellano, Rutgers University (US)
Lori Giardina, Block (US)
Nicole Hickle, Amgen (US)
Robyn Shutak, FGE, Infinite Equity (US)

 

Global
BREAKOUT VIII

In today’s interconnected world, companies are increasingly implementing global equity compensation strategies that foster trust, shared ownership, and accountability across their entire workforce. Striking the right balance between a uniform global approach and tailored region-specific strategies is key to achieving the best outcomes, especially in uncertain times. 

This session will explore how broad-based employee share ownership programs can drive mutual alignment and business success on a global scale.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understanding how to balance uniform equity plans with tailored approaches that account for regional differences in tax, regulation, and compensation expectations.
  • Weighing the pros and cons of offering the same equity plans for all employees versus customized strategies based on geography, role, or market conditions.
  • Learning from companies that have successfully implemented broad-based equity globally, and how they strategically use equity for retention, special-purpose awards, and stock purchase programs.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 1
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
I
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 09:45 - 10:45
8.2 Around the World in 60 Minutes: Key Compliance Updates for Equity Plans

Lewis Dulley, Tapestry Compliance (UK)
Anna Fletcher, Rentokil Initial (UK)
Tom Parker, Tapestry Compliance (UK)
Julie Shepherd, FGE, Sage Group (UK)
 

Global
BREAKOUT VIII

From Czechia to Chile, this session will explore the complexities of global equity compensation, focusing on the challenges and opportunities companies face when designing and managing plans across multiple regions. Experts will provide insights into tax, legal, and regulatory considerations in key markets, including the US, UK, and Europe. 

Attendees will also learn how to align their equity strategies with cultural factors and evolving global compliance requirements.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand the tax, legal, and regulatory requirements for equity plans in key international markets.
  • Learn how to address cultural influences on plan adoption and participation.
  • Explore strategies for maintaining global compliance while adapting to regional requirements.
LOCATION:
Palmovka 2
CPA CREDIT:
Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge
Level:
O