IFEBP 57th Annual Canadian Benefits Conference Schedule Guide

1

11/24/2024, 4:45 PM

1 hr 30 mins

OPENING SESSION—The Hero Effect®—Being Your Best When It Matters the Most!

ONLY

In a fresh and entertaining style, Kevin shares ideas, strategies and principles that will inspire and equip participants to show up every day and make a positive difference. At the heart of Kevin’s message is a simple yet powerful philosophy for life that drives every thought, every action and, ultimately, every result we achieve both personally and professionally. You will be motivated to reach beyond what is required and do something remarkable!

2

11/25/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr 15 mins

KEYNOTE SESSION—Global Issues—The World Today

ONLY

Few people have a better understanding of global issues than Professor Janice Gross Stein. Her dynamic presentations provide a unique perspective into what’s really happening around the world—from China to Russia and from the Middle East to Europe—and what it means to her audiences. Janice’s presentations not only connect the dots regarding key events, but also provide a look at where things are headed and where the potential dangers and opportunities may lie. Both realistic and hopeful, she leaves her audiences with a better understanding of current global issues and a clear, compelling vision of the future.

3

11/25/2024, 9:30 AM

1 hr

FEATURED SESSION—Economic Outlook 2025

ONLY

Topics covered will include: Inflation, interest rates, housing and immigration—What’s in store for 2025? Economic implications of the U.S. election outcome The impact of AI on productivity Fiscal policy—Sustainability challenges and hard choices Key market risks to watch.

4

11/25/2024, 10:45 AM

1 hr

FEATURED SESSION—Legal/Legislative Developments Across Canada

ONLY

This panel will discuss proposed and recently passed legislation and regulations as well as court decisions affecting pension and health and welfare plans.

5

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

On the Horizon—What Is the Forecast for Investing and Governance?

Investments

1st

What are the top five priorities for leaders in finance, plan management, and public policy over the next few years? This panel is designed to get you thinking about what’s next—in governance as well as investment risk and opportunity—and how to prepare for it now.

6

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Investments 101

Investments

ONLY

Join us to learn the fundamentals of investing with a special focus on: Asset classes Interest rates and their impact on bonds Risk-and-return concepts.

7

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Decumulation Strategies

Investments

1st

Decumulation strategies are a cornerstone of effective pension planning, ensuring sustained financial well-being of plan participants throughout retirement. This session will examine: Strategies to mitigate longevity risk Asset allocation Dynamic withdrawal approaches Participant education and support.

8

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Liquidity Management

Investments

1st

Should cash be an allocation in your investment policy, or is it solely a medium for transferring contributions and benefit payments to and from your investment portfolio? This session will look into the importance of liquidity management for pension plans by highlighting best practices and innovative approaches to pension liquidity challenges.

9

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Advances in Mental Health Treatment—Psychedelics and the Neuroscience of Mental Health Conditions

Health & Wellness

1st

This session will cover: Composition and types of psychedelics Diagnosis and treatment Research overview

10

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Intellectual Wellness

Health & Wellness

1st

Intellectual wellness provides a way to improve our overall health and wellness by increasing our brainpower while lowering our risk for life-altering conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This session will: Show how intellectual wellness fits into our overall model of health and wellness Briefly discuss the impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on our overall health Discuss the potential health impacts of intellectual wellness and ways to increase intellectual wellness.

11

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

How to Better Manage Cancer at Work

Health & Wellness

1st

Half of cancer survivors are of working age, and almost two-thirds (63%) of them return to work within one year or continue to work during treatment. Still, many survivors need help to overcome struggles at work. Comprehensive and practical approaches are needed. This presentation will: Introduce the McGill University/BC Cancer Cancer and Work website as a robust resource for Canadian cancer survivors, employers and health care providers Address facilitators and barriers to work using the Vocational Rehabilitation Model for Cancer Survivors Apply value-based health care principles that can improve health outcomes for plan members while controlling plan sponsor costs.

12

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Legal/Legislative Update—Atlantic Canada

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This update provides an overview of proposed and recently passed legislation and regulations as well as court decisions affecting pension and health and welfare benefit plans specific to Atlantic Canada.

13

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Does Size Matter? Exploring the Effects of Consolidation in the Pension Plan Industry

Pension & Retirement

1st

The pension plan landscape has experienced significant consolidation in recent years with the emergence of larger multi-employer plans. This session will examine the potential benefits and drawbacks of this trend, focusing on whether individual plans can maintain their investment autonomy while reaping the competitive advantages of joining larger entities.

14

11/25/2024, 1:30 PM

1 hr

Workforce Deployment Through SEIU Healthcare

HR

1st

The SEIU Healthcare Training Centre provides workforce development opportunities. This includes a proprietary workforce deployment platform that provides participant employers with access to thousands of high-quality union workers who are matched to shifts in situations where the union seniority list has been exhausted and an agency would otherwise be called. As a union platform, members who participate have access to competitive wages set by the union, a retirement benefits plan and extended health care. Learn more about this exciting new platform that offers an alternative to the traditional agency model.

15

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Cybersecurity—The Continued Evolution

Legal & Governance

ONLY

Cybersecurity needs are constantly changing as cybercriminals enhance their capabilities—What is reasonably expected of trustees and third-party service providers, and what are the impacts of the ever-evolving technology landscape? Trust funds hold valuable information (including members’ personal data) and, as a result, are a prime target for attack. This session will focus on: Privacy and security considerations for trust funds Generative AI and its security and privacy implications Recent regulatory guidance.

16

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Legal/Legislative Update—Central Canada

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This update provides an overview of proposed and recently passed legislation and regulations as well as court decisions affecting pension and health and welfare benefit plans specific to Central Canada.

17

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Running Your Board and Committee Meetings Effectively

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This session will cover the following topics: Preparation—Agenda and meeting materials Role of the chair—Facilitating reporting and decision making Documentation and record retention Self-assessment—Measuring your effectiveness.

18

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Harnessing Member Insights to Maximize Plan Outcomes

Comms & Culture

1st

Everyone recognizes the importance of gathering data and research to understand plan members and the plans we offer to them. But how many of us have a clear idea of what to look for, how to interpret those insights and how to use them most effectively? In this session, you’ll learn how to: Create a meaningful suite of insights and organize them into a dashboard Use data and research across key categories such as communication, understanding, benchmarking and value/appreciation Distinguish between the dos and don’ts of survey research Understand attitudes and context to create a better member experience.

19

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Food for Thought for Improving the Governance of Your Retirement Plan

Investments

1st

This session will cover the following topics: Risk management Elements to reduce the pension gap between men and women CAPSA’s consultation paper on ESG considerations in pension plan management.

20

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Asset Allocation in a Higher Interest Rate Environment

Investments

ONLY

The significant rise in Canadian and U.S. interest rates since the historic low in the summer of 2020 is driving asset allocation considerations for pension fund trustees. What is the impact of this increase on the expected returns of the different asset classes and the risk-return profile of portfolios? How have pension fund trustees responded to this increase so far? What factors should they consider relating to this increase in their asset allocation decisions?

21

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Breaking Down (and Building Back Up) Your Fixed Income Allocation

Investments

ONLY

Traditional views on fixed income often overlook the diverse risks inherent in bond investments. By dissecting fixed income allocations into various factors encompassing interest rates and credit, asset owners can better understand and optimize their portfolio exposures. This session will explore: Dissecting fixed income allocations into interest rate and credit risk factors Understanding how this granular perspective optimizes portfolio exposures Exploring synergies with other asset class allocations.

22

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

The Role of Real Estate Mortgages

Investments

ONLY

Real estate mortgage investments can provide investors short-term fixed income exposure with the potential for higher returns. Secured by real property, these investments have contributed to attractive volatility and correlation characteristics, providing investors with a unique tool to manage the overall risk and return of their total portfolios. This session will provide background on the different factors for you to consider when allocating to mortgages, such as: Credit considerations Borrower recourse Liquidity.

23

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

The Role of Virtual Health in Your Benefits Plan

Health & Wellness

ONLY

Virtual care has become an essential solution in health care, providing immediate access to health care providers without the need for physical visits. Learn about the: Advantages of enhanced access and early intervention Significance for employers Challenges and potential cost savings for your health plan.

24

11/25/2024, 2:45 PM

1 hr

Pension Plan Redesign

Pension & Retirement

ONLY

This session will review vision, mission and value statements as well as different plan design options and what to consider when reviewing the provisions. We will discuss: What determines if your plan is successful Alternative plan designs Communicating changes to members.

25

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

On the Horizon—What Is the Forecast for Investing and Governance?

Investments

2nd

What are the top five priorities for leaders in finance, plan management, and public policy over the next few years? This panel is designed to get you thinking about what’s next—in governance as well as investment risk and opportunity—and how to prepare for it now.

26

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Decumulation Strategies

Investments

2nd

Decumulation strategies are a cornerstone of effective pension planning, ensuring sustained financial well-being of plan participants throughout retirement. This session will examine: Strategies to mitigate longevity risk Asset allocation Dynamic withdrawal approaches Participant education and support.

27

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Liquidity Management

Investments

2nd

Should cash be an allocation in your investment policy, or is it solely a medium for transferring contributions and benefit payments to and from your investment portfolio? This session will look into the importance of liquidity management for pension plans by highlighting best practices and innovative approaches to pension liquidity challenges.

28

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Performance Monitoring of Your Service Providers—After the Hire

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This session will cover the following considerations: Roles and responsibilities as well as service levels Operational monitoring Monthly, quarterly and semiannual monitoring Annual monitoring including service provider health, performance evaluation and compliance Events including risk management Identification, transparency and response of the service provider Identification and response of the plan sponsor.

29

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Legal/Legislative Update—Western Canada

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This update provides an overview of proposed and recently passed legislation and regulations as well as court decisions affecting pension and health and welfare benefit plans specific to Western Canada.

30

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Advances in Mental Health Treatment—Psychedelics and the Neuroscience of Mental Health Conditions

Health & Wellness

2nd

This session will cover: Composition and types of psychedelics Diagnosis and treatment Research overview

31

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Intellectual Wellness

Health & Wellness

2nd

Intellectual wellness provides a way to improve our overall health and wellness by increasing our brainpower while lowering our risk for life-altering conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This session will: Show how intellectual wellness fits into our overall model of health and wellness Briefly discuss the impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on our overall health Discuss the potential health impacts of intellectual wellness and ways to increase intellectual wellness.

32

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

How to Better Manage Cancer at Work

Health & Wellness

2nd

Half of cancer survivors are of working age, and almost two-thirds (63%) of them return to work within one year or continue to work during treatment. Still, many survivors need help to overcome struggles at work. Comprehensive and practical approaches are needed. This presentation will: Introduce the McGill University/BC Cancer Cancer and Work website as a robust resource for Canadian cancer survivors, employers and health care providers Address facilitators and barriers to work using the Vocational Rehabilitation Model for Cancer Survivors Apply value-based health care principles that can improve health outcomes for plan members while controlling plan sponsor costs.

33

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Actuarial 101—Getting Back to the Actuarial Basics

Pension & Retirement

ONLY

Whether you’re new to the pension world or a seasoned expert, this session will provide useful content on actuarial basics for pension plans. You’ll walk away with: A high-level understanding of the actuarial valuation results Thoughts on how assumptions are used and the implications Key questions for your actuary.

34

11/25/2024, 4:00 PM

1 hr

Does Size Matter? Exploring the Effects of Consolidation in the Pension Plan Industry

Pension & Retirement

2nd

The pension plan landscape has experienced significant consolidation in recent years with the emergence of larger multi-employer plans. This session will examine the potential benefits and drawbacks of this trend, focusing on whether individual plans can maintain their investment autonomy while reaping the competitive advantages of joining larger entities.

35

11/26/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

KEYNOTE SESSION—The Human Side of Unconscious Bias

ONLY

First impressions, positive or negative, are made in seven seconds or less. We all make quick assessments of others without even realizing it. We are not born with bias. Biases are formed by past situations, experiences, backgrounds and cultures. Unconscious biases affect and impact decision making both professionally and personally, with real impact. Recognizing, managing and mitigating unconscious bias promotes diversity and inclusion. Diversity and inclusion drives innovation, increases productivity and stimulates creativity while promoting a healthy, happy and engaging workplace culture.

36

11/26/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

FEATURED SESSION—U.S. 2024 Election Results and the U.S.–Canada Relationship

ONLY

John Parisella will provide the 2024 U.S. election results and what they mean. The impact of the results will then be examined from the context of the Canada−U.S. relationship, including what the impact represents and how to prepare from a Canadian perspective.

37

11/26/2024, 10:30 AM

1 hr

FEATURED SESSION—Nurturing Resilience—How Community, Family and Colleagues Can Help Us Cope Better With Stress

ONLY

Throughout this fast-paced, story-filled presentation, Dr. Ungar will show that resilience is much more than just personal grit in the face of adversity. It is also a reflection of how well individuals, communities, families, colleagues and employers work together to create opportunities for us to find the resources we need for well-being while making those resources available in meaningful ways. Based on Dr. Ungar’s research around the world and in his clinical practice, this presentation explores how to maintain resilience on the job and at home even when stressors pile up. Twelve factors that make us more resilient will be discussed along with practical tools participants can use to find the supports they need to cope successfully on and off the job. Dr. Ungar will also show how these same factors can help the people we work with achieve their life goals and the value of remaining connected to a network of relationships to create lifelong resilience.

38

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

The Role of the Trustees in Collecting Delinquencies

Legal & Governance

1st

Learn about the effect of the various applicable statutes that come to bear in enforcing the employee benefits contributions provisions of collective agreements (e.g., the Labour Relations Act, Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, Bank Act, Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act, Business Corporations Act (which covers liabilities on directors), Criminal Code (including interest chargeable)).

39

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Trustee Orientation—A Thorough, Continuing Growth Process, Not a One-Time Event

Legal & Governance

ONLY

Being a trustee is an evolution. Hear how to best prepare your board with the following: Growth mindset Strategic initiatives (including mentoring, collaboration and knowledge sharing) Ongoing support.

40

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Harnessing Member Insights to Maximize Plan Outcomes

Comms & Culture

2nd

Everyone recognizes the importance of gathering data and research to understand plan members and the plans we offer to them. But how many of us have a clear idea of what to look for, how to interpret those insights and how to use them most effectively? In this session, you’ll learn how to: Create a meaningful suite of insights and organize them into a dashboard Use data and research across key categories such as communication, understanding, benchmarking and value/appreciation Distinguish between the dos and don’ts of survey research Understand attitudes and context to create a better member experience.

41

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Understanding the Business Case for Reconciliation

Comms & Culture

1st

In this session, we will: Explore the meaning of reconciliation and how it can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable culture Discuss the benefits of reconciliation in terms of employee satisfaction, retention, innovation and market competitiveness Provide practical strategies for integrating reconciliation principles into company policies and practices Discuss ways to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the workplace, including hiring practices, employee training and cultural competency initiatives.

42

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Drug Trends and Strategic Insights

Health & Wellness

ONLY

In recent years, private drug plans have been dominated by specialty drugs, biologics and biosimilars, and more costly treatments for chronic diseases. With regard to these drugs, this session will cover trends and strategies related to: Utilization rates in private plans Changes in clinical practice guidelines Cost-saving measures.

43

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Empowering Women’s Health—Advocating for Equity in Health Care and the Workplace

Health & Wellness

1st

Gender bias, whether conscious or unconscious, remains a significant barrier to accessing quality health care. However, the tide is turning as women and allies recognize these challenges, work to dismantle barriers and champion gender equity. In this discussion, panelists will discuss health care accessibility, workplace culture, technological innovation and diversity considerations, uncovering actionable strategies for advancing women’s health and empowerment. Key questions include: How are organizations proactively addressing women’s unique health care needs across different life stages? What role do workplace culture and leadership attitudes play in shaping perceptions of women’s health issues and social stigma? How can employers ensure their benefit packages are inclusive and responsive to women’s diverse needs?

44

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Index Investing Is Not Such a Passive Decision—How to Overcome the Challenges of the Evolving Index Landscape

Investments

1st

The impact of recent volatility on traditional indices has not gone unnoticed and continues to wreak havoc on portfolios. These dynamic shifts have far-reaching implications on asset allocation and diversification strategies if left ignored. In this session, we will uncover the driving forces behind index investment performance and how to position your passive portfolio for this new market landscape, including: The hidden risk exposures in indexing Understanding the evolving investment landscape and its implications Strategies to adapt passive allocations to volatile markets.

45

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Target Date Funds

Investments

1st

This session will: Define target date funds and how they are used Distinguish between trustee-directed and participant-selected funds Explain fee structures Explore glide paths and issues related to glide paths Discuss participant communication

46

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Can Your Pension Plan Afford Improvements?

Pension & Retirement

1st

A key feature of target benefit pension plans is the ability to make benefit changes, but how do you know when to make improvements? This session will educate trustees on: The process for making plan design changes How to determine if improvements are affordable Treating each generation of members fairly.

47

11/26/2024, 1:15 PM

1 hr

Financial Literacy for Apprentices

Pension & Retirement

1st

Financial literacy education for apprentices is essential for preparing them for their careers, increasing retention and promoting long-term financial well-being. This session will discuss: The need for financial literacy Best practices Retention impact Wellness impact.

48

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Driving Engagement Through Tech—Modernizing Benefits Communication

Comms & Culture

1st

Digital sprawl and competition for attention have made it harder than ever for trustees and plan sponsors to effectively manage communications, now across multiple channels and formats. Employees who feel informed and supported are more productive and more likely to stay with their employer, but their expectations and communication needs change over time. This requires trustees and plan sponsors to continuously evolve their communication approach—and toolkit. With case studies and practical takeaways, we’ll dive into several impactful technologies that can improve communication and engagement in your programs. From AI to websites, from automation to video and from gamification to data analytics, it’s not as hard as you might think to leverage the latest technology to transform your benefits communications to maximize employee engagement.

49

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Food for Thought for Improving the Governance of Your Retirement Plan

Investments

2nd

This session will cover the following topics: Risk management Elements to reduce the pension gap between men and women CAPSA’s consultation paper on ESG considerations in pension plan management.

50

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Health and Welfare Plans—Aligning Your Investment Strategy With Your Objectives

Investments

ONLY

Health and welfare plans require unique investment strategies compared to pension plans. Discover how to build sustainable portfolios aligned with your benefit plans’ objectives and adapt asset mixes to changing economic climates. This session will discuss: Key differences between health and welfare plans as well as pension plans in investment needs Constructing sustainable portfolios Navigating asset mix adjustments in response to changing economic conditions.

51

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Putting the Plus Before the Core

Investments

ONLY

Examine the shift to Core Plus strategies among Canadian asset owners and the impact of different management styles on fixed income’s role in the portfolio. Learn how selecting a Core Plus approach can either enhance or undermine investment goals. This session looks at: The evolution of Core Plus strategies in asset allocation The impact of different management styles How a Core Plus approach can align with investment objectives.

52

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Navigating a Changing Landscape in Emerging Markets

Investments

1st

Emerging markets (EM) stocks offer an exciting opportunity for value-oriented investors. Challenge the myths surrounding EM investing and learn strategies to capitalize on this overlooked asset class. This session will explore: The myths associated with EM investing Navigating risks of EM Opportunities available in EM stocks and currencies.

53

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Designing Inclusive Benefits and Pension Programs for the Evolving Workplace

Health & Wellness

1st

Today’s workplace is more diverse than ever, with many different generations working side by side both in person and remotely. To attract talent and keep employees engaged, employers need to commit to health equity in their programs. Learn about the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in benefits and pension programs as well as current and evolving practices to meet the dynamic needs of employees now and in the future.

54

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

The Mental Health of Canadian Workers—A Path for Improvement and Change

Health & Wellness

ONLY

This session aims to shed light on the critical topic of mental health in the workplace. We will: Assist participants in establishing a foundation for implementing and promoting employee assistance programs (EAPs) Explore the importance of reducing cost barriers related to mental health support Discover how educational initiatives can enhance the understanding of mental health resources and services.

55

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Plan Design Change—Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Pension & Retirement

1st

The BC Public Service Pension Plan changed its design to unlink from the Canada Pension Plan and to preserve the balance between contributions and benefits. Hear about the change process and lessons learned in areas including: Planning and design Systems and communication Member consultation How lessons were applied to a subsequent plan change.

56

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

The World Is Your Oyster—Trustee Education and Resources

Legal & Governance

ONLY

As a trustee, you must keep up to date on legislative developments and trends. Gain an understanding of the value of trustee education in key knowledge areas. Learn how the International Foundation’s programs can support you on your educational path, and explore Foundation resources, including topic web pages, customized research, survey results and curated news.

57

11/26/2024, 2:30 PM

1 hr

Workforce Deployment Through SEIU Healthcare

HR

2nd

The SEIU Healthcare Training Centre provides workforce development opportunities. This includes a proprietary workforce deployment platform that provides participant employers with access to thousands of high-quality union workers who are matched to shifts in situations where the union seniority list has been exhausted and an agency would otherwise be called. As a union platform, members who participate have access to competitive wages set by the union, a retirement benefits plan and extended health care. Learn more about this exciting new platform that offers an alternative to the traditional agency model.

58

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Top Fraud Risks That Organizations Should Watch For

Legal & Governance

ONLY

This session will examine some of the opportunities that allow fraud to occur, the motivation and rationalization for committing it, and how best to position your organization to mitigate the top five fraud risks in 2024 and beyond. What are the lessons learned from recent cases? The top fraud risks include: Cyber Employee Wire Procurement Insurance

59

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Trustees Bear Pit

Legal & Governance

1st

This facilitated open forum allows trustees to discuss issues of importance to all trustees and the funds they represent.

60

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Understanding the Business Case for Reconciliation

Comms & Culture

2nd

In this session, we will: Explore the meaning of reconciliation and how it can contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable culture Discuss the benefits of reconciliation in terms of employee satisfaction, retention, innovation and market competitiveness Provide practical strategies for integrating reconciliation principles into company policies and practices Discuss ways to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the workplace, including hiring practices, employee training and cultural competency initiatives.

61

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Empowering Women’s Health—Advocating for Equity in Health Care and the Workplace

Health & Wellness

2nd

Gender bias, whether conscious or unconscious, remains a significant barrier to accessing quality health care. However, the tide is turning as women and allies recognize these challenges, work to dismantle barriers and champion gender equity. In this discussion, panelists will discuss health care accessibility, workplace culture, technological innovation and diversity considerations, uncovering actionable strategies for advancing women’s health and empowerment. Key questions include: How are organizations proactively addressing women’s unique health care needs across different life stages? What role do workplace culture and leadership attitudes play in shaping perceptions of women’s health issues and social stigma? How can employers ensure their benefit packages are inclusive and responsive to women’s diverse needs?

62

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Basics in Financial Performance Benchmarking

Investments

ONLY

Understanding how to benchmark your plan’s financial performance can be complex, and not all benchmarks are created equal. This session will answer key questions, such as: What are the appropriate performance monitoring tools? What are the pitfalls of performance monitoring?

63

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Private Markets—A Lever for Implementing Your Convictions Through Thematic or Impact Investing

Investments

ONLY

This session will cover: Formulating your sustainability thesis and priorities Identifying the most suitable approach (thematic or impact investing) Deploying in private markets (private equity, infrastructure, real estate, etc.)

64

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Risk Management Through Asset Liability Matching

Investments

ONLY

As a pension trustee, asset liability matching—an integral part of risk management—is a critical concept to understand and implement effectively to ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension fund. Join this session to gain insight into: An overview of asset liability matching Key objectives and issues Strategies and best practices

65

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

A Member’s Savings Journey—From Hire to Retire

Pension & Retirement

1st

In today’s diverse workforce, we see a unique convergence of generations, each facing their own financial challenges. How can you help your members overcome these hurdles? This session will explore practical ways to provide support and direction, helping every generation within your organization navigate their financial journey. Learn how to be an integral part of their financial success story.

66

11/26/2024, 3:45 PM

1 hr

Financial Literacy for Apprentices

Pension & Retirement

2nd

Financial literacy education for apprentices is essential for preparing them for their careers, increasing retention and promoting long-term financial well-being. This session will discuss: The need for financial literacy Best practices Retention impact Wellness impact.

67

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

The Role of the Trustees in Collecting Delinquencies

Legal & Governance

2nd

Learn about the effect of the various applicable statutes that come to bear in enforcing the employee benefits contributions provisions of collective agreements (e.g., the Labour Relations Act, Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act, Bank Act, Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act, Business Corporations Act (which covers liabilities on directors), Criminal Code (including interest chargeable)).

68

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

Driving Engagement Through Tech—Modernizing Benefits Communication

Comms & Culture

2nd

Digital sprawl and competition for attention have made it harder than ever for trustees and plan sponsors to effectively manage communications, now across multiple channels and formats. Employees who feel informed and supported are more productive and more likely to stay with their employer, but their expectations and communication needs change over time. This requires trustees and plan sponsors to continuously evolve their communication approach—and toolkit. With case studies and practical takeaways, we’ll dive into several impactful technologies that can improve communication and engagement in your programs. From AI to websites, from automation to video and from gamification to data analytics, it’s not as hard as you might think to leverage the latest technology to transform your benefits communications to maximize employee engagement.

69

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

Target Date Funds

Investments

2nd

This session will: Define target date funds and how they are used Distinguish between trustee-directed and participant-selected funds Explain fee structures Explore glide paths and issues related to glide paths Discuss participant communication

70

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

The Natural Evolution of Discount Rates

Investments

ONLY

Market interest rates have a significant knock-on effect on the discount rates used in pension plan valuations—but there is more at play in their evolution. This session will provide: A contextual comparison of changes to this key assumption over the years Contrast between the discount rate and actual rates of return of the various market indices that contribute to its determination A high-level overview of the impacts on funded positions and opportunities for derisking

71

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

What Colour Is My Bond?

Investments

ONLY

This session will cover the following topics: The role ESG plays in fixed income The definition of sustainable finance, including green, social and sustainable bonds Not all sustainable finance is created equal—How do we evaluate?

72

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

Derisking—Is Now the Time?

Investments

ONLY

This session will explain derisking and explore derisking strategies ranging from liability-driven investment strategies to annuity purchase options. Attendees will learn to: Identify derisking opportunities Prepare meaningful analyses Understand the decision-making process

73

11/27/2024, 8:00 AM

1 hr

Can Your Pension Plan Afford Improvements?

Pension & Retirement

2nd

A key feature of target benefit pension plans is the ability to make benefit changes, but how do you know when to make improvements? This session will educate trustees on: The process for making plan design changes How to determine if improvements are affordable Treating each generation of members fairly.

74

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Designing Inclusive Benefits and Pension Programs for the Evolving Workplace

Health & Wellness

2nd

Today’s workplace is more diverse than ever, with many different generations working side by side both in person and remotely. To attract talent and keep employees engaged, employers need to commit to health equity in their programs. Learn about the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in benefits and pension programs as well as current and evolving practices to meet the dynamic needs of employees now and in the future.

75

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Trustees Bear Pit

Legal & Governance

2nd

This facilitated open forum allows trustees to discuss issues of importance to all trustees and the funds they represent.

76

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Managing Risk in Group Insurance

Investments

ONLY

In this session, we will discuss how to optimize the following elements when managing the risks of a group benefits plan: Optimal stop-loss threshold and QDIPC/EP3 arrangements Biologic vs. biosimilar drugs Optimal waiting period for long-term disability Various financial arrangements

77

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Index Investing Is Not Such a Passive Decision—How to Overcome the Challenges of the Evolving Index Landscape

Investments

2nd

The impact of recent volatility on traditional indices has not gone unnoticed and continues to wreak havoc on portfolios. These dynamic shifts have far-reaching implications on asset allocation and diversification strategies if left ignored. In this session, we will uncover the driving forces behind index investment performance and how to position your passive portfolio for this new market landscape, including: The hidden risk exposures in indexing Understanding the evolving investment landscape and its implications Strategies to adapt passive allocations to volatile markets.

78

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Navigating a Changing Landscape in Emerging Markets

Investments

2nd

Emerging markets (EM) stocks offer an exciting opportunity for value-oriented investors. Challenge the myths surrounding EM investing and learn strategies to capitalize on this overlooked asset class. This session will explore: The myths associated with EM investing Navigating risks of EM Opportunities available in EM stocks and currencies.

79

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

A Member’s Savings Journey—From Hire to Retire

Pension & Retirement

2nd

In today’s diverse workforce, we see a unique convergence of generations, each facing their own financial challenges. How can you help your members overcome these hurdles? This session will explore practical ways to provide support and direction, helping every generation within your organization navigate their financial journey. Learn how to be an integral part of their financial success story.

80

11/27/2024, 9:15 AM

1 hr

Plan Design Change—Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Pension & Retirement

2nd

The BC Public Service Pension Plan changed its design to unlink from the Canada Pension Plan and to preserve the balance between contributions and benefits. Hear about the change process and lessons learned in areas including: Planning and design Systems and communication Member consultation How lessons were applied to a subsequent plan change.

81

11/27/2024, 10:30 AM

1 hr

FINALE SESSION—A Shared Human Values Playbook for Trustees—Precision Decisions for Plan Members

ONLY

The connection between employee benefits and the underlying human values of plan members has never been more critical. How can trustees make decisions that align with what members truly care about? David Allison will unveil how trustees can use the shared values of plan members as a critical new set of insights for designing employee benefit plans. By using data from nearly a million surveys across 152 languages, David will pinpoint the precise core human values shared by your plan members. Then, he will share the profound impact of aligning plan decisions with these values, ensuring that the benefits truly resonate with the members’ core motivations and needs.

Full Conference Schedule