10.1 The Employee Communication Conundrum

Communicating equity plan details is crucial for employee understanding and appreciation, especially when cash is often prioritised over non-cash benefits. In this session, we will explore how different companies approach the challenge of conveying the value of equity compensation.

With insights from Google, we’ll discuss how to reach both mobile and non-mobile employees, and examine the most effective communication strategies for different generations, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z and beyond.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how to emphasize the value of equity plans to employees, particularly when cash compensation is more immediately attractive.
  • Discover the most effective communication methods for different generations of employees, from quick, digestible information for younger workers to more detailed, comprehensive content for older generations.
  • Explore strategies for communicating equity compensation to mobile employees, addressing how their mobility impacts their equity awards and ensuring they understand their benefits.
Speaker/Author

Pam Chernoff, Aon (US)
Sarah Long, Wealth at Work (UK)
Gemma Ludwig, Vialto Partners (UK)
Eileen Nguyen, Google (UK)
Augustin Serban, Industry Expert (ES)

Event date
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 12:30 - 13:30
Country
Breakout series
Location
Palmovka 1
Field of Study
Communications
Level
O

10.5 Equity Hacks to Simplify Life at Any Stage of the Equity Lifecycle

Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of administering equity plans? This session is here to help! Drawing on years of best practices from issuers and providers, we’ll explore actionable hacks to streamline your administration workload and reduce stress. 
From leveraging data and streamlining processes to fostering cross-departmental collaboration, these insights will challenge your perspective on roles, tools, plan design, and participant communication. Whether you're new to equity administration or a seasoned pro, you'll walk away with strategies to work smarter, not harder.


KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how clean, accurate data drives every aspect of equity administration, from payroll integration to financial reporting.
  • Discover how equity and payroll teams can partner effectively to ensure seamless operations and successful outcomes.
  • Explore how simplicity in plan design, processes, and participant communications creates a far-reaching impact for all stakeholders.
Speaker/Author

Veena Bhatia, Atlassian (US)
Susan Ford, Industry Expert (US)
Andrea Kagan, NVIDIA (US)
Vicky Phrydas, UBS (US)
 

Event date
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 12:30 - 13:30
Country
Breakout series
Location
Karlin 4

Field of Study
Specialized Knowledge
Level
O

10.4 Broadening Benefits: ESPPs for PEO Employees, Franchisees and Employees of Records

Extending Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPPs) to non-traditional employee groups—such as those working for PEOs, franchisees, or Employers of Record (EORs)—offers new opportunities but also significant complexities.

This session explores the tax, legal, and regulatory considerations involved, with practical insights from a company case study. Learn how innovative approaches, including groundbreaking efforts in the UK, have made these plans viable for a broader workforce.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand the tax, legal, and regulatory complexities of offering ESPPs to non-traditional employee types across various jurisdictions.
  • Explore practical steps to address challenges when extending ESPP access to PEOs, franchisees, and EOR employees.
  • Gain insights from a groundbreaking case study, including successful strategies and lessons learned in the UK.
Speaker/Author

Emily Cervino, FGE, Fidelity (US)
Jeremy Edwards, Baker McKenzie (UK)
Peter Kontara, Uber (US)

Event date
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 12:30 - 13:30
Country
Breakout series
Location
Palmovka 4
Field of Study
Specialized Knowledge
Level
I

10.3 Equity Compensation in Asia: Adapting to Global Demands

As globalization reshapes business landscapes, Asia has become a key focal point for multinational companies looking to expand their workforce and operations. This session will explore how companies can effectively implement equity compensation strategies that align with the dynamics of this fast-growing region, ensuring they attract and retain talent while complying with local laws. 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Learn how equity compensation plans can be tailored to meet Asia’s competitive job markets and regional expectations. 
  • Understanding the tax, securities, and employment law differences across key Asian markets. 
  • Uncover how to design equity plans that align with varying attitudes toward risk and long-term incentives in Asia.
Speaker/Author

Paul Arens, Compass Equity Strategic Advisors (US)
Adie Leung, FGE, Industry Expert (HK)
Rahul Somani, Qapita (IN)
 

Event date
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 12:30 - 13:30
Country
Breakout series
Location
Palmovka 3
Field of Study
Specialized Knowledge
Level
I

10.2 Strategy Meets Policy: Establishing and Maintaining a Global Tax Withholding Framework

Managing global equity plan taxation sits at the intersection of employee experience and corporate risk mitigation, requiring administrators to balance competing priorities across functions. Defining a tax strategy that works for all stakeholders—while aligning policies to support this strategy—is a critical yet complex task.

This panel of experts, featuring leaders from Palo Alto Networks and NVIDIA, will explore contrasting approaches shaped by differing budgets and strategic priorities. Through practical insights and real-world examples, the session will offer actionable tips for crafting and executing effective tax policies that align with organisational goals.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Explore how corporate policies, such as entity type and statutory accounting, influence payroll and employment tax obligations.
  • Understand considerations for diverse worker types, including employees, gig-workers, and employees of record.
  • Gain strategies for addressing exceptions like international mobility and executive business travel.
Speaker/Author

Suzie Bentley, NVIDIA (US)
Nancy Kobs, Palo Alto Networks (US)
Mark Miller, Deloitte (US)

 

Event date
Wednesday, 30 Apr 2025, 12:30 - 13:30
Country
Breakout series
Location
Palmovka 2
Field of Study
Tax
Level
I

10.3 Achieving global parity

As workplaces become increasingly geographically diverse, achieving not just pay parity but also benefit parity poses significant challenges. With variations in tax, labor laws, and social systems across countries, coupled with distinct corporate cultures, aligning benefits such as retirement and equity compensation becomes a complex task. Join our expert panel as they delve into the intricacies of global benefits harmonization, sharing insights on overcoming these hurdles. Join them in unraveling the complexities of global equity and benefit strategies in the modern, diverse workplace.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Navigate the challenges posed by diverse tax, labor, and social systems
  • Address variations in corporate culture impacting benefit alignment
  • Gain insights into successful strategies employed by companies to harmonize global benefits

 

CPE CREDIT: 1.0
Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Level: 0
Delivery method: Group internet-based
Advanced preparation: None

CEP CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT (CE): 1.0

*CPE credits are provided for live webcasts only. Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

 

Speaker/Author

Anton Seatter, JTC Group
Kim Woodard, Walmart

Event date
Thursday, 11 Apr 2024, 12:45 - 13:35
Topic
Country
Breakout series
Location
Germantown 1

10.5 Five steps to easier performance award administration

In today's dynamic compensation landscape, performance awards administration is crucial for equity plan professionals. Join our expert panel in an informative session demystifying global performance award management. Explore complexities, responsibilities, and collaborations essential for success. Navigate the nuances of performance awards in a volatile market, backed by real-world issuer examples and actionable steps to streamline equity compensation plans. 
Our goal is to impart practical knowledge, making the process manageable and sparing you from frustration. Don't miss this engaging presentation delivered by industry leaders, leaving you better prepared for global performance award challenges.
 

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Unravel complexities in global performance award management
  • Understand responsibilities and collaborations crucial for success
  • Gain actionable insights for navigating volatile market conditions

 

CPE CREDIT: 1.0
Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Level: 0
Delivery method: Group internet-based
Advanced preparation: None

CEP CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT (CE): 1.0

*CPE credits are provided for live webcasts only. Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Speaker/Author

Elena Thomas, OptionTrax
Karol Peake, Stock and Option Solutions
Brandon Foster, American Woodmark

Event date
Thursday, 11 Apr 2024, 12:45 - 13:35
Country
Breakout series
Location
Germantown 3

10.4 T+1: the increased imperative for automation

In the face of tightening settlement time regulations, including the imminent US T+1 requirements, our expert panel, featuring Fidelity, and representatives from Deloitte US and Deloitte Canada, invites you to explore the imperative of establishing an automated and efficient end-to-end processing system for equity transactions. Drawing from their experiences with companies boasting complex remote work policies, mobility programs, and diverse equity awards, the panel unveils insights into challenges, lessons learned, and leading practices in achieving process efficiencies from grant to global payroll instructions. Dive into discussions covering broker and HR systems requirements, data exchange challenges, collaboration with payroll, and the pivotal role of enhancing employee experience.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Understand the challenges posed by evolving regulations, such as the US T+1 requirements and SEC Rule 15c6-2
  • Explore strategies employed by Airbnb, Nike, and Fidelity Investments in achieving automated and efficient end-to-end processing of equity transactions
  • Gain insights into planning ahead for common surprises and anticipating the impact of upcoming changes in regulations, ensuring a seamless automation process

 

CPE CREDIT: 1.0
Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Level: 0
Delivery method: Group internet-based
Advanced preparation: None

CEP CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT (CE): 1.0

*CPE credits are provided for live webcasts only. Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Speaker/Author

Jerome Tresallet, Deloitte 
Katie Lyons, Fidelity

 

Event date
Thursday, 11 Apr 2024, 12:45 - 13:35
Country
Breakout series
Location
Germantown 2

10.2 D&I-driven excellence: pioneering plan designs for inclusivity

Our panel will explore the intricate landscape of compensation and equity management, with a focus on aligning with Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) standards. The panel will discuss the latest trends in D&I across different types of companies, examining specific plan design elements crafted to improve access and facilitate wealth creation for employees at all organizational levels. We will critically examine existing policies and processes, highlighting potential unintended consequences. When faced with unexpected challenges, explore effective strategies to navigate disruptions and realign your compensation and equity strategies seamlessly.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Explore unique plan design elements that could foster inclusivity and wealth creation for employees at every organizational level
  • Examine how existing policies and processes may inadvertently lead to unforeseen outcomes in compensation and equity management
  • Learn strategies to navigate unforeseen challenges and regain harmony in the dynamic landscape of compensation and equity management

 

CPE CREDIT: 1.0
Field of study: Personell/HR
Level: 0
Delivery method: Group internet-based
Advanced preparation: None

CEP CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT (CE): 1.0

*CPE credits are provided for live webcasts only. Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Speaker/Author

Sophie Altaf, Fidelity
Galahad Dong, Simspon Strongtie
Maya Wright, Iron Mountain

Event date
Thursday, 11 Apr 2024, 12:45 - 13:35
Plan type
Country
Breakout series
Location
Midtown 1

10.1 Preparing executives for liquidity events in shifting regulations

Planning to go public amid the dynamic SEC landscape? After a prolonged dry market period, companies are eager to resume IPO efforts, but executives face new regulations and scrutiny. Join our panel as they guide you through the entire IPO timeline – from pre-IPO preparations to lock-up expiration. Gain insights into the challenges posed by an active SEC, changes to Rule 10b5-1, Rule 144, and the shift to T+1 settlement. Join them as they give you a comprehensive playbook to manage expectations and ensure a smooth IPO experience for your executives and key insiders.

KEY LEARNING POINTS:

  • Explore stock plan services, regulatory education, communication planning, and pre-liquidity financial planning
  • Discuss differences in direct listing and the intricacies of lock-up expiration
  • Review updates on Rule 10b5-1, Rule 144, and T+1 settlement, and receive guidance on navigating these new rules

 

CPE CREDIT: 1.0
Field of study: Specialized Knowledge
Level: 0
Delivery method: Group internet-based
Advanced preparation: None

CEP CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT (CE): 1.0

*CPE credits are provided for live webcasts only. Please visit our Continuing Education and Event Policies pages for more information.

Speaker/Author

Rich Baker, Morgan Stanley at Work
Joshua Shek, Morgan Stanley at Work
Travis Triano, Davis Polk
Lamont Walker, Lyft
Mary Anne Becking, Canva

Event date
Thursday, 11 Apr 2024, 12:45 - 13:35
Plan type
Country
Breakout series
Location
Germantown 4