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The GEO Annual Conference is a premier gathering of industry leaders, experts, and professionals from around the globe, dedicated to advancing the field of equity compensation. We are excited to invite a diverse and dynamic line up of speakers to explore the latest trends, innovative strategies, and future directions in equity compensation.

Monday, 20 Apr 2026

PRE-CONFERENCE EVENTS

To be confirmed

Exhibitor set up

12.00 - 18.00

REGISTRATION OPENS

All attendees of GEO’s 27th Annual Conference are invited to collect their conference badge and welcome swag

16.00 - 17.00

GLOBAL CHAPTER TEAMS CONNECT AND GROW HAPPY HOUR
GEO's global chapter coordinators only

FIND OUT MORE

17.00 - 18.00

FELLOWS, FUTURE LEADERS AND ELEVATE HAPPY HOUR
GEO Fellows of Global Equity, geoElevate participants and Future Leaders only

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19.00 - 23.00

SERVICE PROVIDER SPONSORED EVENTS 
By invitation - non-GEO hosted offsite events

Tuesday, 21 Apr 2026

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

7.00 - 8.00

GEOfit CLUB - morning run/jog/walk
Everyone welcome!

Experience Austin’s iconic murals alongside your conference peers

8.00

Registration opens
 

8.00 - 9.00

CHAPTER DEVELOPEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING

Invitation only

8.30

ISSUER ATTENDEE ARRIVALS
Corporate issuer attendees only

9.00 - 10.30

ISSUER-ONLY CONNECT AND COLLABORATE
Corporate issuer attendees only

An exclusive chance for issuers to build global connections, exchange ideas, and participate in a dedicated issuer-only roundtable discussion

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10.00

ALL NON-ISSUER ARRIVALS AND EXHIBIT HALL OPENS
Service provider and other non-issuer attendees arrive

10.45 - 12.00

OPENING ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION AND KEYNOTE

12.00 - 13.30

ALL ATTENDEE LUNCH

Enjoy a networking lunch in the Exhibit Hall where you can reconnect with familiar faces and meet new attendees. As the first lunch of the conference, it’s the perfect way to start building connections that will last all week

13.30 - 14.30

BREAKOUT SESSION I
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

14.30 - 14.45

Transition

14.45 - 15.35

BREAKOUT SESSION II
Roundtable discussions - CPE credits available 

15.35 - 17.00

OPEN NETWORKING
GEO Puppy Party 
Stop by for wagging tails and warm welcomes! Join us for our GEO Puppy Party, featuring adoptable pups from the Austin Humane Society.

Issuer Council Meeting (by invitation): 15.35 - 16.15
First-timers' networking: 16.15 - 17.00

17.00 - 22.00

OPENING NIGHT PARTY
Taste of Texas

Kick off the conference in style! Join us on opening night for a 'can’t-miss' evening of networking with a Texas twist!

Opening reception in the Exhibit Hall: 17.00 - 18.30
Transfers to venue: 18.30 - 19:00
Opening night party: 19.00 - 22.00
Return transfers to JW Marriott: 22.00 - Late

All attendees to wear conference badges. Guests to bring their event ticket
Guest tickets are available to purchase

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22.00 - 23.00

RETURN TRANSFERS TO THE JW MARRIOTT HOTEL

Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

7.00 -8.00

GEOfit CLUB - morning run/jog/walk
Everyone welcome!

Experience Austin’s iconic murals alongside your conference peers

7.30

Registration opens

8.00 - 9.00

ALL-ATTENDEE BREAKFAST 

Gather in the Exhibit Hall to start your day the right way!

8.00 - 9.00

GEO FELLOWS' BREAKFAST
GEO Fellows attendees only

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9.00 - 10.15

ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION - GEO LEADERS' LOUNGE: ASK THE EXPERTS

Join us as we welcome GEO Fellows of Global Equity experts from around the world to the main stage

10.15 - 10.45

Refreshment break

10.45 - 11.45

BREAKOUT SESSION III
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

11.45 - 12.00

Transition

12.00 - 12.50

BREAKOUT SESSION IV 
Roundtable discussions - CPE credits available

12.50 - 14.00

LUNCH AND NETWORKING BREAK

Take a break, refuel, and connect with peers over lunch in the Exhibit Hall. It’s the perfect opportunity to network, recharge, and explore our exhibitors all in one place

14.00 - 15.00

BREAKOUT SESSION V
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

15.00 - 16.00

THE BIG AUSTIN SOCIAL

A lively event in the Exhibit Hall featuring structured networking activities designed to help you meet fellow attendees and make connections, Austin-style!

16.00 - 17.00

BREAKOUT SESSION VI
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

17.00 - 19.00

FREE TIME

18.30 - 19.30

FUTURE LEADERS OF GLOBAL EQUITY WRAP PARTY

Class of 2024 and program sponsors only

19.00 - Late

THE 25TH GEO AWARDS CEREMONY

Drinks reception: 19.00 - 20.00
Celebration gala and dinner: 20.00 - 22.00
After party: 22.00 - Late

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

Thursday, 23 Apr 2026

AGENDA AT-A-GLANCE (subject to change)

7.00 - 8.00

GEOfit CLUB - morning run/jog/walk
Everyone welcome!

Experience Austin’s iconic murals alongside your conference peers

8.00

Registration opens

8.30 - 9.30

ALL-ATTENDEE BREAKFAST 

Gather in the Exhibit Hall for a hearty Texan breakfast

9.30 - 10.20

BREAKOUT SESSION VII
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

10.20 - 10.35

Transition

10.35 - 11.25

BREAKOUT SESSION VIII
Panel presentations - CPE credits available

11.25 - 12.15

LUNCH AND NETWORKING BREAK

Join all attendees in the Exhibit Hall for a lively lunch designed to spark conversations, build connections, and keep your conference energy going strong

12.15 - 12.55

BREAKOUT SESSION IX
Focus sessions - No CPE credit

12.55 - 13.05

Transition

13.05 - 13.45

BREAKOUT SESSION X
Focus sessions - No CPE credit

13.45 - 14.00

Transition

14.00 - 15.30

ALL-ATTENDEE SESSION AND KEYNOTE
Our final keynote session is followed by gamification prize giving and closing remarks

15.30 - 18.00

Exhibitor breakdown

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

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Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 14:00 - 15:00
5.6 The Architecture of Equity: How to Build an ESPP That Lasts

Liz Stoudt, Infinite Equity
Lihi Levy, NICE
Amy Henry, The Coca-Cola Company

BREAKOUT V

A well-designed ESPP is more than a benefit—it’s a powerful tool for fostering ownership, engagement, and alignment across your organization. But creating a lasting program requires a strong foundation.
In this session, participants will explore the essential elements of sustainable ESPP design, from aligning with corporate objectives and managing financial trade-offs to navigating compliance and global complexities. Attendees will gain a practical framework for evaluating plan features, modeling participation, and future-proofing their ESPP to meet evolving workforce and market needs. 

Whether you’re refreshing an existing plan or launching a new one, this session provides actionable tools and strategic insights to build an ESPP that endures.
 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how to align your ESPP with corporate goals, financial strategy, and workforce objectives for long-term impact.
  • Gain insights into managing regulatory, tax, and operational challenges across multiple jurisdictions.
  • Discover strategies for modeling participation, evaluating plan features, and adapting your ESPP to evolving workforce and market needs.
LOCATION:
401
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 14:00 - 15:00
5.7 In Charge at Last: What Leaders Would Change If They Could

Carine Schneider, FGE, Compass Strategic Advisors
Brian McDonald, Grantd
Billy Vitense, Starbucks
Suzie Bentley, NVIDIA

BREAKOUT V

What would global equity programs look like if seasoned stock plan professionals were truly “in charge”? This interactive panel brings together highly experienced practitioners to explore the changes they would make—and the decisions they would rethink. 
Drawing on more than 100 years of combined experience, panelists will share candid perspectives on what works, what doesn’t, and what they would redesign if given the opportunity. Attendees can expect an honest, thought-provoking conversation grounded in lived experience and informed by today’s evolving global landscape.
 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Gain insight into how experienced professionals would approach decisions differently if starting with a clean slate.
  • Understand where real-world challenges arise between policy, regulation, and day-to-day administration—and how seasoned leaders would address them.
  • Take away practical advice, common pitfalls to avoid, and forward-looking recommendations informed by over a century of collective expertise.
     
LOCATION:
402
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.1 The Equity Games: The Global Stock Plan Showdown

Rob Miceli, Bank of America
Dave Lanka, Bank of America
Tara Hagen, FGE, Aon
Carrie Kovac, Elastic

BREAKOUT VI

Global stock plan administration is evolving quickly—and staying current requires both technical depth and practical judgment. This interactive session delivers a fresh, high-energy approach to learning, combining real-world scenarios with a fast-paced trivia format that challenges participants to apply their knowledge in the moment.Attendees will test their understanding across a wide range of global equity topics, including mobility and cross-border planning, ESPP design insights, 10b5-1 plans, Section 16 and Rule 144 reporting, tax withholding and payroll coordination, 409A valuations, and financial reporting considerations. Designed to spark discussion and peer learning, this session sharpens expertise while reinforcing best practices in a memorable, engaging way.
 

KEY LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

  • Gain up-to-date insight into global equity trends, regulatory developments, and emerging best practices.
  • Deepen understanding of complex compliance, reporting, and administration topics through practical scenarios.
  • Reinforce learning in real time by making decisions under pressure in a competitive, game-based format.
LOCATION:
JW Grand Salon 1
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.2 Navigating Executive Trading: Insights on Readiness, SEC Compliance and Market Trends

Josh Shek, Morgan Stanley at Work
Mike Andresino, ArentFox Schiff LLP
Matt Connor, FGE, Lucid Motors
Erika Rivera, Morgan Stanley at Work

BREAKOUT VI

Whether your company is preparing for an IPO, recently went public, or has been public for some time, managing liquidity solutions and executive stock positions is critical. This session provides actionable guidance on navigating liquidity events across all stages of a company’s public journey.

Attendees will gain insights from the latest Morgan Stanley 10b5-1 Survey Report, market trends, and recent SEC rule changes. The session will cover practical strategies such as Rule 144 trades, 10b5-1 plans, and managing RSU releases, while addressing both capital considerations and potential market impacts. Participants will also learn how pending SEC changes, including possible semi-annual reporting, may influence executive liquidity planning.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand strategies to manage executive stock positions effectively, from IPO to mature public company stages.
  • Learn how Rule 144 trades, 10b5-1 plans, and RSU release management can support liquidity while staying compliant with SEC rules.
  • Gain insights into current market dynamics, recent SEC updates, and pending rules that impact executive stock planning.
LOCATION:
JW Grand Salon 2
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.3 Modern LTI Strategies: Designing for Impact, Growth and Retention

Lenka Haase, Fidelity
Jeremy Boraks, Fidelity
Ajit Jacobs, Aon
 

BREAKOUT VI

Equity compensation is one of the most powerful tools for attracting, retaining, and motivating top talent—but not all LTI plans are created equal. In this session, we’ll explore the evolving landscape of LTI design, highlighting innovative strategies that go beyond the basics.

From multi-day pricing models and accelerated vesting schedules to creative retirement eligibility provisions, participants will examine emerging trends and forward-thinking plan features that leading companies are using to stay competitive. Whether you’re building a new program or refining an existing one, you’ll walk away with practical insights, best practices, and creative solutions to make your LTI plan more effective, engaging, and aligned with your workforce goals.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

  • Discover the latest approaches in LTI plans, including multi-day pricing, accelerated vesting, and retirement eligibility innovations.
  • Learn strategies to make LTIs more motivating and aligned with employee priorities, improving participation and retention.
  • Gain actionable tips for designing, launching, or refining LTI programs to maximize strategic impact and workforce alignment.
LOCATION:
JW Grand Salon 3
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.4 Equity at the Margins: Navigating Tax Challenges in Lower-Income Countries

Brian King, Charles Schwab
Suzie Bentley, NVIDIA
Tom Parker, Tapestry 

BREAKOUT VI

Rolling out equity compensation in new countries—especially those with higher tax rates—comes with unique compliance and operational challenges. From withholding obligations to payroll complexities and cultural expectations, administering equity globally requires careful planning and local insight.
 

Join our panel of global equity experts as they unpack practical strategies for navigating these challenges. Through real-world examples from companies like Nvidia, you’ll learn how to balance compliance, employee experience, and organizational goals while delivering equity programs that resonate locally.
 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand employer obligations, cross-border reporting, and managing high tax rates to protect both your organization and employees.
  • Strategies for handling year-to-date wages and income data across multiple payroll systems to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
  • Learn how to structure awards and communicate effectively to maintain fairness and engagement, even in regions with low income thresholds or high tax rates.
LOCATION:
JW Grand Salon 4
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.5 Mastering Equity Plan Reporting: From Data Integrity to Audit Readiness

Michael Mauro, insightsoftware
Liz Stoudt, Infinite Equity
Trevin Rard, Remitly

BREAKOUT VI

Equity plan reporting can be a minefield of data discrepancies, compliance risks, and audit challenges. This session provides practical guidance for maintaining clean, accurate data and preparing for audits with confidence. 
 

Participants will explore strategies for reconciling information across systems, managing reporting schedules, and addressing common pitfalls such as deferred tax assets and liabilities. Attendees will leave with actionable tools and best practices to ensure equity plan reporting is efficient, reliable, and audit-ready.
 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn strategies for reconciling information across multiple systems and preventing discrepancies.
  • Gain insights into preparing for audits, managing reporting schedules, and addressing common pitfalls in equity reporting.
  • Explore actionable approaches and best practices to streamline equity plan reporting while ensuring accuracy and compliance.
LOCATION:
402
Wednesday, 22 Apr 2026, 16:00 - 17:00
6.6 Fresh Perspectives in Equity Compensation: A Roundtable on Innovation and Impact

Robyn Shutak, FGE, Infinite Equity
Jennifer Shepherd Cashio, Flex International
Rebecca Kargl, FGE, Upstart
Tierney Dowling, Reddit
Vicky Phrydas, FGE, UBS

BREAKOUT VI

The world of equity compensation is evolving rapidly—and some of the most meaningful innovation comes not from new tools or plan designs, but from shared experience and open dialogue. This interactive roundtable brings together industry peers to exchange ideas, compare approaches, and discuss what’s next for equity compensation.

Through candid conversation, participants will explore emerging trends in plan design, communication, and administration, while tackling the real-world challenges stock plan professionals face today. From simplifying complexity to increasing employee engagement, this session is designed to surface practical solutions and fresh perspectives drawn directly from those in the trenches.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Gain insight into the latest developments in equity plan design, communication, and administration.
  • Learn strategies to address operational, compliance, and engagement challenges faced by stock plan professionals.
  • Exchange real-world experiences and creative approaches with fellow equity compensation practitioners to inspire new solutions.
LOCATION:
401
Thursday, 23 Apr 2026, 09:30 - 10:20
7.1 Ain’t No Hold ’Em: Boosting Your Odds of Global Share Plan Success

Tom Parker, Tapestry 
David Edwards, NatWest
Julie Shepherd, FGE, Sage
Sarah Long, Wealth at Work

BREAKOUT VII

Operating share plans globally is no easy task—but there are proven ways to significantly improve their effectiveness and impact. In this session, a highly experienced panel featuring leaders from NatWest, Sage, Tapestry, and Wealth at Work will share practical insights drawn from real-world experience across industries and regions.

The discussion will explore evolving trends in plan design, effective approaches to financial education (without crossing into financial advice), and strategies for engaging a multigenerational and multicultural workforce. 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how to deliver responsible plan communications and financial education without crossing into regulated financial advice.
  • Discover innovative solutions to common communication challenges that improve how employees perceive and value their share plans.
  • Explore strategies for addressing cultural and generational differences to ensure equity programs resonate across regions.
LOCATION:
JW Grand Salon 1