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Thursday, 16 Nov 2023

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE

7.30

Registration opens

7.30 - 8.30

Coffee and pastries

8.30 - 9.30

Breakout session I

9.30 - 9.40

Transition

9.40 - 10.40

Breakout session II

10.40 - 11.00

Morning break

11.00 - 12.00

Breakout session III

12.00 - 12.10

Transition

12.10 - 13.10

Breakout session IV

13.10 - 14.10

Lunch and networking break

14.10- 15.10

Breakout session V

15.10 - 15.20

Afternoon break

15:20 - 15:30

Welcome remarks 
GEO's Executive Director and Chair of the Board

15:30 - 16:30

Keynote address
Prof. Dr. Christian Berg, Corporate Sustainability Expert

16.30 - 16.35

Transition

16.35 - 17.30

GEO Fellows Leaders' Lounge

17.30 - 18.30

Networking drinks reception

MEET OUR KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Thursday, 16 November 2023
15.30 - 16.30

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PROF. DR. CHRISTIAN BERG

We are delighted to introduce Prof. Dr. Christian Berg as our keynote speaker for PERE 2023.

With a wealth of experience in sustainability across business, civil society, and political advisory roles, Dr. Berg brings valuable insights on how companies can set ESG goals that drive innovation and boost employee satisfaction.

Following his keynote, Dr. Berg will join the Leaders' Lounge panel of GEO Fellows to discuss sustainability in the context of effective ESG performance targets. Don't miss this insightful conversation!

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

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Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 11:00 - 12:00
Workplace solutions
3.4 EMPATHY IN EQUITY: STOCK PLANS AND THE TOTAL REWARDS JOURNEY

Maurice Day, Fidelity
Christine Karlsson, Saint Gobain
 

Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Performance shares
Stock options
Global
BREAKOUT III

Today’s rapidly evolving global workforce expects more than just financial rewards to join, stay and succeed at organisations. Recent data shows that employees are 3.5 times more likely to reach their full potential in workplaces where they feel they belong.

In this illuminating discussion between Saint-Gobain and Fidelity, you will discover how leading organizations can connect equity into a comprehensive, human-centric total rewards experience to strengthen the wider employee experience.

You’ll hear about the power of empathic, user experience (UX)-led approaches to shape a full rewards offering – including equity plans, workplace benefits, and retirement strategies - that inspire diverse global workforces.

Join to gain insights into how you can shape your organization's rewards approach in this way – to support a culture of belonging, connection, and performance excellence.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Enhanced engagement and financial wellness: Explore how organizations have strengthened understanding, engagement, and financial well-being among their diverse workforces through holistic rewards strategies.
  • Talent attraction, retention, and performance: Learn how companies have leveraged human-centric rewards to attract, retain, and drive high performance among their top talent.
  • Fostering stronger connections: Discover strategies employed by organizations to build stronger connections and commitment between employers and employees, fostering a sense of belonging and dedication to the organization.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Personnel/HR 
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 12:10 - 13:10
Design and strategy
4.1 EMPOWERING EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP: SUEZ'S AWARD-WINNING ESPP SHARE PLAN

Jerome Laurre, BeyondSolutions
Nadine Thouin, Suez

Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Global
BREAKOUT IV

Suez, the recipient of the 2023 GEO AWARD for Best Use of Employee Share Plans in a Corporate Action, invites you to explore their remarkable journey. This presentation will walk you through their commitment to significantly increase employee ownership, the global implementation of a French-type ESPP with innovative leverage formulas, and the resounding success of this initiative.

Join this inspiring session that unveils the power of employee ownership and shares valuable lessons from Suez's award-winning plan.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Strategic implementation: Learn how Suez executed its most significant employee share ownership plan, achieving record-high participation rates within the organization.
  • Navigating challenges: Explore the complexities and challenges that Suez encountered while implementing their employee share plans, gaining insights into overcoming obstacles.
  • Adapting best practices: Discuss opportunities to incorporate similar features into your own share ownership plans, leveraging the success and strategies employed by Suez.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 12:10 - 13:10
Operational effectiveness
4.2 ELEVATE YOUR GLOBAL EQUITY PROGRAM: NUGGETS OF WISDOM FROM EXPERTS

June Davenport, FGE, Morgan Stanley at Work
Tara Hagen, FGE, Global Tax Network
Eaton Williamson, Seagate

Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Restricted shares
Stock options
Global
BREAKOUT IV

Looking for nuggets of wisdom to help improve the performance of your global equity program? This illuminating session explores the profound influence of advice on personal and professional growth.

Featuring a diverse panel of accomplished individuals who have both offered and received life-changing guidance, our experts recount the pivotal moments when they received or provided advice that led to transformative outcomes.

You will leave with a treasure trove of insights and actionable takeaways that aid a deeper understanding of the power of guidance and the lasting impact it can have on your journey to success.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Transformative guidance: Discover the most impactful advice shared by our panelists and how it has shaped their careers and personal development.
  • Decision-making insights: Learn how pivotal advice moments have influenced critical decisions, providing you with valuable perspectives for your own journey.
  • Actionable takeaways: Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding talent, gain actionable insights to enhance your path to success. Explore the enduring power of guidance and its potential to shape your trajectory.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 12:10 - 13:10
Legal and regulatory
Private and pre-IPO companies
4.3 PROMOTION OF THE STARTUP ECOSYSTEM TO PUBLIC EQUITY TRANSITIONS

Christian Hyldig, Aon plc
Jaime Pavía, Cuatrecasas
Katalin Kiss, Delivery Hero

Cash deferral
Executive plans
Performance cash
Performance shares
Restricted shares
Stock options
Germany
Spain
BREAKOUT IV

Join us for a dynamic session that sheds light on the thriving startup landscapes in both Germany and Spain. Berlin consistently ranks among the top three startup cities in Europe, while Madrid and Barcelona secure coveted spots in the top 10. In this enlightening presentation, we will explore how both countries have recently upgraded their regulatory frameworks to support the creation and growth of startups.

The expert panel will provide invaluable insights into implementing your equity strategy across the transition in both countries. Discover how the Spanish Act to Promote the Startup Ecosystem, enacted in 2023, has revolutionized the regulatory landscape to support startups, and compare it to the German startup ecosystem.

This session is a unique opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of startup-friendly policies in Germany and Spain and equip yourself with the knowledge to thrive in two of Europe's most dynamic startup ecosystems.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Startup ecosystem comparison: Gain a deep understanding of the startup ecosystems in Germany and Spain, and learn why Berlin is a top contender. Explore the factors that contribute to the success of these cities.
  • Navigating equity vehicles: Understand the intricate landscape of equity vehicles, spanning both private and public markets, and gain insights into their significance for startups in both countries.
  • Evolution of equity guidelines: Explore the evolving equity guideline framework, tracing its journey from the private sector to the public domain in both Germany and Spain, and grasp its implications for your startup's growth trajectory.
  • Global equity roll-out: Dive into market data and practical perspectives on executing a global equity strategy, ensuring you're well-prepared for international expansion, with a specific focus on Germany and Spain.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 14:10 - 15:10
Legal and regulatory
5.1 MINDING THE (GENDER PAY) GAP: HOW TO NAVIGATE THE EUROPEAN PAY TRANSPARENCY DIRECTIVE

Jennifer Granado Aranzana, Linklaters LLP
Yukiko Hitzelberger-Kijima, Linklaters LLP

Cash deferral
Choice plans
Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Equity deferral
Executive plans
Performance cash
Performance shares
Restricted shares
Stock appreciation rights (SAR)
Stock options
Global
BREAKOUT V

The Pay Transparency Directive in the EU is a significant step towards achieving equal pay and reducing the gender pay gap. Companies operating within the EU must adapt their pay structures and policies to ensure compliance and promote a more equitable work environment.

Join this session as the expert panel explores the practical implications of this directive and unveil strategies for fostering transparency and equity. Master the intricacies of the Pay Transparency Directive and equip yourself with the knowledge to promote pay equality and transparency in your organization.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Directive insights: Gain a deep understanding of the European directive on pay transparency, covering vital aspects such as information rights, reporting obligations, enforcement mechanisms, compensation practices, and potential sanctions.
  • National law variations: Discover the key differences between the directive and current national laws in Germany, the UK, France, and Belgium, ensuring compliance in diverse legal landscapes.
  • Effective employee engagement: Receive valuable tips on skillfully managing employee requests related to pay transparency and equal pay, fostering a collaborative and equitable work environment.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Business Law
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 14:10 - 15:10
Communications
5.2 REVOLUTIONIZING EQUITY COMPENSATION COMMUNICATION: INSIGHTS FROM FINTECH

Carmen Egermann, KPMG AG
Brittmarie Kronqvist Merino, Global Shares - a J.P. Morgan company
Priyanka Ojha, Klarna
Rafaella Apuzzo, Klarna
 

Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Global
BREAKOUT V

In an era of information overload, participants can become overwhelmed with information and employee equity communication that relies on traditional methods such as brochures and emails is often rendered ineffective.

In the fast-paced world of FinTech where engaging customer communication is the norm, learning from FinTech's strategies can transform your equity compensation communication, regardless of your industry.

This panel promises to leave attendees inspired and equipped to adapt modern FinTech approaches and external influences to enhance their equity compensation communications. Join our experts for an invigorating exploration of innovative communication strategies.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Innovative engagement: Learn from Klarna's Slack channel and onboarding approach and the importance of visually appealing graphic designs for effective employee engagement.
  • Modern learning: Explore the benefits of concise, engaging methods like videos, webinars, and podcasts.
  • Tech integration: Discover in-app, AI-driven solutions and strategies for inclusive communication, catering to all generations.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Communications and Marketing
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 14:10 - 15:10
Case Study
5.3 LOCAL VS GLOBAL: EMPOWERING EMPLOYEES WITH GLOBAL CONTRIBUTORY PLANS

Elliot Alexander, Computershare
Christian Hyldig, AON
Sebastian Wetzel, Siemens Energy
 

Employee stock purchase plans (ESPP)
Global
BREAKOUT V

Join our expert panel for an insightful session as we tackle the perennial question surrounding all-employee plans: should you prioritize locally approved plans or opt for a one-size-fits-all approach? We will draw lessons from Siemens Energy's experience in launching a new all-employee plan, delving into their decision-making process and rationale.

Don't miss this session, which promises to provide valuable insights into the strategic considerations behind all-employee plans and practical lessons learned from Siemens Energy's experience.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

  • Strategic decision-making: Gain insights into Siemens Energy's decision-making process, understanding why they chose to launch a new all-employee plan and the strategic considerations that guided their choice.
  • Navigating challenges: Explore the challenges Siemens Energy encountered along the way and how they effectively addressed them. Discover the practical insights that emerged from overcoming hurdles.
  • Objectives and outcomes: Dive into the objectives that drove Siemens Energy to launch the scheme and the ultimate results they achieved. Understand the tangible benefits and outcomes of their approach.

 

CPE CREDIT HOURS: 1.0*

Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Levels: O
Delivery method: Group live
Advanced preparation: None

CEP Continuing Education (CE) credit: 1.0 credits

Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.


 

Thursday, 16 Nov 2023, 16:35 - 17:35
Trending now
LEADERS’ LOUNGE: ESG INTEGRATION AND PROXY ADVISOR INFLUENCE ON EQUITY PROGRAMS

MODERATOR: Matt Connor, FGE
Paul Arens, MSc, FGE
Dr. Adie Leung, FGE
Sandra Sussman, FGE
Prof. Dr. Christian Berg, Corporate Sustainability Expert

 

Global
BREAKOUT VI

This session extends the insights from Dr. Christian Berg's sustainability keynote, exploring the evolving global trends affecting society, climate, regional economies, and humanity's future.

A distinguished panel of GEO Fellows will dissect the interplay between ESG targets, proxy advisors, and investor influence on equity programs. Our industry experts will also address the emergence of the 'anti-ESG' movement in North America, challenging conventional corporate sustainability. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the dynamic ESG landscape, proxy advisor impact, and aligning equity programs with ESG goals.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Advisor and investor influence: Grasp the powerful influence of proxy advisors and investors on shaping equity programs and their direct implications for ESG integration.
  • Anti-ESG challenges: Examine the 'anti-ESG' movement's emergence and consequences in North America, and its impact on conventional ESG approaches and future business strategies.
  • Impactful metrics: Identify and prioritize measurable performance metrics that are both vital for sustainability and directly affect an organization's environmental and social footprint.