CONNECTIONS 2025 AGENDA
Registration
June 9 • 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM • Marriott on the Falls Hotel, Great Room, Lobby Level
Technical Tours of Niagara Region
June 9 • 11:15 AM – 5:00 PM • View Itinerary Here
On Monday, June 9, 2025, join Niagara Region Economic Development and FEI Canada on a behind the scenes tour of some of the new and growing businesses across various industry sectors that are changing the economy of Niagara.
Hear how these companies, each with a different business scenario, re-developing vacant brownfield infrastructure, new Foreign Direct Investment and a multi-million dollar expansion chose the Niagara Region to do business.
Meet their CFOs / C Suite Management and discover what business opportunities exist in the region.
This tour is sponsored and space is limited.
Early Arrival Reception
June 9 • 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM • Marriott on the Falls Hotel
Sponsored by:
6:30 AM
FEI Canada Annual Golf Tournament • Presenting Sponsor: Corpay
June 10 • 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM • Whirlpool Golf Course
8:00 AM
Registration
June 10 • 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Foyer
3:30 PM
RSM Workshop
STRATEGIC COST OPTIMIZATION: Embracing Outsourced and Co-Sourced Solutions
June 10 • 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 201/202
Join RSM as we deep dive on the value proposition and structured methodology for transitioning Finance & Accounting (F&A) functions to a co-sourced or outsourced model. During this session, you will gain insight into how organizations can drive meaningful bottom-line improvements through cost optimization, enhanced scalability, and access to specialized expertise—without compromising operational continuity or service quality.
Real-world case studies and lessons learned will illustrate how finance leaders can effectively balance cost efficiency with strategic value, positioning their organizations for agility and sustainable growth.
4:30 PM
UKG Workshop
GLOBAL WORKFORCE MEGATRENDS: Insights and Guidance for 2025
June 10 • 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 207/208
TERESA SMITH • Partner Direct, Human Insights and HCM Strategic Advisory • UKG
As workplace dynamics continue to evolve due to rapid technological and talent shifts, organizations across all industries must adapt with unprecedented speed. In this session, we will investigate the three major workforce trends poised to significantly impact organizations worldwide in 2025. Attendees will gain a thorough understanding of the upcoming workforce challenges and receive actionable insights to develop an effective talent management strategy to help their organization thrive in the year ahead.
Session Learning Objectives
• Identify effective strategies for attracting and recruiting talent amidst a growing labor shortage
•Explore specific actions to improve employee engagement and retention within your organization
•Understand how to implement a human-centric approach to your organization’s artificial intelligence strategy
Sponsor and Exhibitor Appreciation Reception
June 10 • 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM • Marriott on the Falls Hotel, Hennepin Room, Lobby Level
5:00 PM
New Member Reception
June 10 • 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM • Marriott on the Falls Hotel, Peninsula Room, Lobby Level
6:00 PM
Welcome Reception
June 10 • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • National Bank Exhibit Hall, Peller Estates Ballroom
Sponsored by:
7:00 AM
Registration
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Foyer
Breakfast Seminar
BUILDING A HIGH PERFORMANCE BUSINESS THROUGH ACQUISITION
7:15 AM – 8:35 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 201/202
MARK FREY • President, Corpay
A well-defined Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) strategy can help ensure long-term growth and improved performance for your business. Building a successful business through acquisition requires more than deep pockets, though. Defining objectives and success criteria will help you determine the right strategic fit. Then the hard work begins: the best-laid plans require thoughtful and methodical execution.
In this session, Mark Frey, Group President, Corpay Cross-Border Solutions, shares his experience and his learnings in building Corpay Cross-Border.
Please bring your questions and your stories to this lively seminar.
Breakfast Seminar
TARIFF TURBULANCE MASTERING RISK MANAGEMENT IN YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN
7:15 AM – 8:35 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 207/208
IOANA ARNAUTU • Senior Vice President, Trade Credit Practice Leader • Marsh Canada
PAUL DRAGOS • Vice President – Client Executive, National Construction and Surety Practice • Marsh Canada
As tariffs and trade restrictions continue to reshape the global economic landscape, businesses must adopt a comprehensive approach to risk management within their supply chains. This session will explore the multifaceted risks posed by tariffs, including credit risk, supplier reliability, and operational disruptions. Participants will engage in discussions on assessing existing supplier and buyer relationships, identifying alternative suppliers, and implementing effective risk management strategies. Through case studies and interactive exercises, attendees will gain practical insights into enhancing supply chain resilience and navigating the complexities of tariff-related challenges.
8:45 AM
GREETINGS
8:45 AM – 9:00 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
MAYOR JIM DIODADI
Welcome, Land Acknowledgement and Opening Remarks
VIVIAN TONG & PETE PIGOTT • Conference Co-Chairs
HOWARD KERBEL • Executive Director, FEI Canada
ALYSIA CARTER • Chair, FEI Canada National Board of Directors
MINDFULNESS SESSION
provided by VZN Health Coaching
9:00 AM
Opening Keynote Speaker
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
MICHAEL PINBALL CLEMONS • Canadian Sports Hall-of-Famer • GM Toronto Argonauts
Pinball is a name synonymous with vibrancy, charisma and an unyielding commitment to excellence, both on and off the field. Renowned for his illustrious career in Canadian football and his dynamic presence as a motivational and keynote speaker, Clemons has inspired countless individuals and organizations with his compelling narratives and life lessons drawn from his personal and professional experiences. For those looking to ignite a spark of motivation, foster leadership and drive excellence within their teams or themselves, Pinball stands as a beacon of inspiration and a testament of the power of positive influence and resilience.
10:00 AM
Refreshment Break
10:00 AM – 10:35 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • National Bank Exhibit Hall, Peller Estates Ballroom
10:35 AM
Economic Outlook Panel – Keynote Session
STRATEGIES FOR RESILIENCE AMONGST GLOBAL TRADE & SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTIONS
10:35 AM – 11:35 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: KARL SCHAMOTTA • Chief Market Analyst, Corpay
Panelists:
JAY BRYSON • Managing Director and Chief Economist and Managing Director, Wells Fargo USA
ARNAUD FRANCO • Director of Economic Research, BDC
JAMES MARPLE • Associate Vice President, TD Commercial Banking
Economists will discuss the financial impact of global trade trends and supply chain disruptions on companies after the US and Canadian elections and the issues in Eastern Europe. CFOs will be able to relate these insights to financial planning, exploring how to mitigate risks, manage currency volatility and protect margins in a volatile global market. CFOs will learn how to connect these insights with capital allocation, risk management and strategic planning.
11:40 AM
Lunch
11:40 AM – 12:40 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • National Bank Exhibit Hall, Peller Estates Ballroom
12:40 PM
TARIFF TALK
CFO Panel – Keynote Session
THE POWER OF STRATEGIC ALLIANCES
12:40 PM – 1:40 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: MICHEAL KRAVSHIK • Co-Founder & CEO, LumiQ
Panelists:
NANDINI MULLIAH • CFO, AON Insurance Company
GORD NELSON • CFO, Cineplex Entertainment
NADIA VATTOAZ • CFO & EVP Logistics, Sporting Life
More and more organizations are using strategic alliances to create stronger competitive advantages and financial benefits. Our CFO panel will share their experiences on the different alliances and collaborations used, the value they create, the key success factor and any lessons learned.
See the full lineup of Tariff Talks here
Sponsored by:
2:00 PM
Concurrent Session 1
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN FINANCE: Summary and Future Directions
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 201/202
Panelists:
WISH BAKSHI • Founder, Energy Data & AI Consultant
SEDEF AKINLI KOCAK • Director, Professional Development, Industry Innovation, Vector Institute
SHRUTI SHETTY • CFO, Global Vice President, SAP Business AI RIG
This final session serves as a capstone for the Journey to AI series, offering a comprehensive summary of the lessons learned and practical insights gathered throughout the webinars. The session will provide a forward-looking view of how AI is poised to reshape the finance sector over the next decade, including how Canadian businesses can leverage AI to improve productivity while mitigating associated risks. The panel discussion will feature finance and AI experts, offering their perspectives on the future of AI in finance and strategies to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
Key Takeaways:
• Consolidated insights from the series on implementing and using AI responsibly in finance
• Strategic guidance on driving Canadian productivity with AI while managing risks
• Interactive discussion on the future of AI in finance, with audience Q&A
Afternoon Stretch
provided by VZN Health Coaching
Concurrent Session 2
SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING – The Continuing Evolution
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 207/208
Moderator: STEVEN GLOVER • Director, General Land Development Corporation
Panelists:
MICHAEL JANTZI • Member, International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB)
The ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board) standards, released in June 2023, are a set of globally applicable sustainability reporting standards designed to provide investors with consistent, comparable, and decision-useful information about companies’ sustainability performance. These standards, IFRS S1 (General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-Related Financial Information) and IFRS S2 (Climate-related Disclosures), are intended to be used in conjunction with existing financial reporting frameworks. The standards have an investor focus and are designed to meet the information needs of investors and facilitate international comparability.
In December 2024, the Canadian Sustainability Standards Board (CSSB) finalized CSDS 1 and CSDS 2, plus its Criteria for Modification Framework.. CSDS 1 establishes general requirements for the disclosure of material sustainability-related financial information. CSDS 2 focuses on disclosure of material information on critical climate-related risks and opportunities. The accompanying Criteria for Modification Framework outlines the criteria under which global standards, developed by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), may be modified for the Canadian context. CSSB provides opportunities to learn about the Standards and provides access to resources to assist Canadian entities in the implementation of the Standards
FEI (Canada) welcomes ISSB member, Michael Jantzi, and CSSB member, Sandra Odendahl. Their presentations and discussion will provide a review of the current priorities and implementation resources of their respective organizations, an update on the status of work being done by regulators as to whether the standards will be mandated, followed by an overview of the go-forward strategies and next steps being considered by the sustainability Boards.
Afternoon Stretch
provided by VZN Health Coaching
TARIFF TALK
Concurrent Session 3
NAVIGATING THE NEW TRADE REALITIES:
Tariffs and their impact on North American business
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Panelists:
GEORGE SPEZZA • Director Economic Development, Niagara Region
ALBERTO CALVA • Economist, Acus Consulting
With recent developments in global trade policy, businesses operating across Canada, Mexico, and the United States are facing a new wave of uncertainty. The introduction of significant tariffs by the U.S., combined with Canadian countermeasures, is reshaping supply chains, increasing costs, and challenging long-standing trade relationships.
This session will explore the evolving trade landscape and what it means for business leaders and financial executives navigating operations across North America. Through a moderated panel discussion, attendees will hear diverse perspectives on the economic, political, and operational implications of the current trade environment.
See the full lineup of Tariff Talks here
2:45 PM
Networking & Travel Time
2:45 PM – 2:55 PM
Refreshment Break
2:55 PM – 3:25 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • National Bank Exhibit Hall, Peller Estate Ballroom
3:30 PM
Keynote on Ethics
THE ETHICAL COMPASS: CFOs as the Conscience of the Connected Enterprise
3:30 PM – 4:30 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: STEPHEN MILL • President – Executive Search, Robert Half Canada
Speaker: MICHELLE CAUSTON • Communications and Education Specialist
CFOs play a crucial role as the ethical backbone of the company. This session will immerse participants in real world ethical scenarios, highlighting how CFOs can steer their organizations through complex moral challenges while driving growth and innovation.
4:30 PM
Keynote on Energy
CANADA AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE ENERGY TRANSITION
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: MATT PULLEN • Managing Director, National Industry Leader – Power & Renewable Energy, Marsh Canada Limited
Panelists:
CHUCK FARMER • Chief Energy Transition Officer and VP, Planning,Conservation and Resource Adequacy, Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)
IVETTE VERA-PEREZ • Chief Executive Officer, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries
CARL MARCOTTE • Senior Vice-President, Marketing & Business Development, Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company
HARRY TAYLOR • Executive Vice President, Chief Financial and Regulatory Officer, Hydro One
The growth in electricity demand is driving the Canadian electricity industry to take a leadership position in investing for the future. This will require new generation capacity from nuclear infrastructure and renewables. This panel will discuss the leading technologies that Canada is developing, including the challenges required to meet future electricity demand.
6:00 PM
Bus Departure for Offsite Event
6:00 PM – 6:30PM • Marriott on the Falls Hotel Lobby
An Evening in Paris
6:00 PM – 10:15 PM
Indulge in a magical night at Trius Winery, with fine wine, great food, and even better company.
Sponsored by:
10:15 PM
After Party at the Hard Rock Club
10:15 PM onwards
Sponsored by:
7:00 AM
Registration
7:00 AM – 2:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Foyer
FEI Canada Talks Breakfast #1
MIDDLE MARKET & CORPORATE GROWTH ALIGNED TO WORKING CAPITAL
7:15 AM – 8:40 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Presenter:
JOSEPH MIGLIACCI • Head of VISA Commercial Solutions Canada, VISA
How are companies globally managing their organizational Working Capital and what are they are looking for from their trusted advisors. Visa has conducted research from across 1,297 Global CFO’s to better understand what the immediate and future needs of CFO’s are and they can be supported.
FEI Canada Talks Breakfast #2
AGILE CASH-FLOW MANAGEMENT: A NEW MODEL FOR FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
7:15 AM – 8:40 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Presenter:
ALI MASOUD • Senior Finance Consultant, Talan Americas
Cash in, cash out. Traditional cash-flow management works well—if you assume stability.
But when was the last time anything felt stable for you and your team? For your projects? For your company?
When your processes (Forecasting, billing, collection, revenue recognition etc.) are manual, your tools are fragmented, hardly keeping up the pace, and disruptions keep coming — maintaining visibility over cash flow becomes a daily struggle.
In this session, we’ll introduce a new model: the Agile Cash-Flow Management for Finance leaders to build operations they can rely on and trust at any time—shaped by conversations with Talan, SAP and FEI Canada finance executives and grounded in the realities of project-driven SMBs. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to empower your team through the right mindset, adaptive processes, and connected tools—so you can stay fast, stay precise, and stay in control, even when everything changes.
8:40 AM
Welcome Back Remarks and Capon Award Presentation
8:40 AM – 9:00 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
VIVIAN TONG & PETE PIGOTT • Conference Co-Chairs
HOWARD KERBEL • Executive Director, FEI Canada
ALYSIA CARTER • Chair, FEI Canada National Board of Directors
MORNING STRETCH
provided by VZN Health Coaching
9:00 AM
Keynote Session
PREPARING SENIOR FINANCE LEADERS FOR EFFECTIVE BOARD SERVICE
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: JUDY MUNRO • Vice-Chair of FEI Canada’s Thought Leadership Forum
Panelists:
HARI PANDAY • President & CEO, PanVest Capital Corporation
DEBORAH ROSATI • Founder & CEO, Women Get on Board
JO MARK ZUREL • Corporate Director & Investor
This session empowers senior finance professionals to leverage their financial expertise for broader government roles, contributing to risk management, growth strategy and long-term value creation. Learn how to build meaningful connections with board members, executive search firms and key influencers to secure board opportunities.
Gain insights into navigating boardroom dynamics, including collaboration, communication and leadership within diverse and evolving boards. Stay ahead of emerging governance trends in ESG, digital transformation and regulatory compliance.
Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of board members, including fiduciary duties and best practices, while exploring ways to position yourself as a champion of diversity and inclusion. This session equips you to make a meaningful impact as a board member and elevate your career.
10:05 AM
Keynote Session
AI BEYOND THE HYPE: HOW ENTERPRISES ARE ADOPTING AND SECURELY DEPLOYING AI
10:05 AM – 11:05 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Moderator: JORDAN BEALLOR • Board Member and Past President, FEI Canada Toronto Chapter
Panelists:
DARRELL MACMULLIN • Senior Vice President – Product and Solutions, Mastercard
APRIL OLSON • Head of Product, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Finance and HR
NASSIM TAYARI • Data and AI Platform Leader, Technical Series, IBM Canada
AI has the power to revolutionize not just finance but entire business ecosystems. In this session, explore real world AI use cases that drive value across operations, customer experience and strategy. Learn how to develop compelling business cases that align AI investments with organizational goals, effectively communicate their impact to the board and secure buy-in. Additionally, discover innovative funding models tailored to AI’s unique life cycle, supporting the iterative “test and learn” approach critical to successful implementation. Equip yourself to lead your organization’s AI-drive transformation with confidence and clarity.
11:05 AM
Exhibitor Draw Prizes
11:05 AM – 11:20 AM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
11:20AM
Refreshment Break
11:20 AM – 12:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • National Bank Exhibit Hall, Peller Estate Ballroom
12:10 PM
Concurrent Session 1 – Private Companies
USING FEI CANADA CONNECTIONS TO MANAGE RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
12:10 PM – 1:10 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 201/202
Moderator: PAUL HART • President & CEO, Hart Ventures Inc.
Panelists:
JONATHAN BRINDLEY • President, Capitally Finance Corporation
FLORIAN MEYER • Fractional CFO and Board Member
JIM THOMSON • Chief Financial Officer, Sylvite
CFOs of private companies are expected to have an answer to the financial issues facing their company – this is especially true now given unprecedented trading risk among others. However, they usually have limited resources to help in making these key decisions. This panel will address some of the current risks and how members can use their FEI networks to gain valuable insights on how their peers are addressing these very same risks, as well other finance challenges and growth opportunities.
Sponsored by:
TARIFF TALK
Concurrent Session 2
FRACTIONAL CFOs FIRESIDE CHAT: AI Impact on Finance and The Fractional CFO Role
12:10 PM – 1:10 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Room 207/208
Moderator: MARIETJIE MACMILLAN • President & CEO, MacMillan Consulting and Fractional CFO
Panelists:
NIALL COTTER • CEO & Founder, Claricy Inc. & Fractional CFO
MARY PARKES • CFO & Co-Founder, CMP Business Advisors. Fractional CFO
Discover the evolving world of Fractional CFOs at our concurrent session! Join us as we dive into the growing diversity and increasing demand for Fractional CFOs in today’s business landscape. Don’t miss this chance to connect and learn during an engaging fireside chat with our distinguished panel of Fractional CFOs.
See the full lineup of Tariff Talks here
Concurrent Session 3
DATA-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP: Elevating Your Communication Game
12:10 PM – 1:10 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
Presenters:
KEVIN GALLOWAY • Principal Communications Advisor, Oracle NetSuite
Explore the fusion of financial insights and impactful communication, where finance leaders not only decode data but also weave compelling narratives that resonate with impact.
Delve into an enlightening conversation with renowned professional storyteller Kevin Galloway, alongside accomplished former financial leader, and current Principal Value Consultant Gary Meisner. Together, they will uncover the keys to becoming indispensable communicators within your organization, providing valuable insights on:
• transforming raw data into a persuasive and captivating narrative
• effectively selling your ideas to navigate challenges in a dynamic economy
• communicating data insights with finesse to drive strategic initiatives forward
• unlocking the connection between strategic communication and financial profitability
1:15 PM
Closing Luncheon and Keynote Speaker
1:15 PM – 2:50 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre • Fallsview Theatre Jr. Ballroom
STEPHEN POLOZ • Former Governor, Bank of Canada
See the full lineup of Tariff Talks here
2:50 PM
Closing Remarks and Launch of 2026 Conference
2:50 PM – 3:00 PM • Niagara Falls Convention Centre