Speakers
Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier: Award-Winning Leadership Psychologist | Workplace Mental Health and Resilience Expert
Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier is a workplace mental health pioneer, blending psychology with business strategy to drive performance and resilience. One of the few experts with both a Ph.D. and an MBA, she delivers actionable insights to help organizations navigate change and lead effectively.
An award-winning psychologist, executive coach, and former board director, her expertise has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and Thrive Global. She’s also the author of The Resilience Plan, named a “Top 5 Book to Read” by Inc. and Forbes.
Recognized for her leadership and academic contributions, Pelletier is a sought-after expert who equips audiences with the tools to thrive.
Session Speakers:
Tari Dugay &
Lianne Clarke
Principal Consultant and Practice Lead,
National Benefits Consulting
Cowan Benefits Ltd.
tari.duguay@cowangroup.ca
&
Principal, Vice President, Wellness & Disability
Cowan Benefits Ltd.
lianne.clarke@cowangroup.ca
Navigating Chronic Diseases: Integrating Pharmaceuticals and Workplace Wellness Strategies
Chronic diseases are a leading cause of workforce disruption and healthcare costs, demanding a strategic response that blends pharmaceutical solutions with workplace wellness initiatives. This discussion explores how employers can proactively support employees living with medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, mental illness, and cancer diagnoses, through integrated benefits plan design and targeted wellness programming.
Seann McAleese
Davies Ward Phillips and Vineberg, LLP
Navigating Legal Change: Staying Compliant and Confident in a Shifting Legal Landscape
We welcome back Seann McAleese, a leading expert in employment law. This year, Seann will unpack the latest legal trends impacting workplaces. He’ll also leverage real-world examples to share practical strategies to help organizations stay compliant and confident in a shifting legal landscape.
Jacquie Fritsch
Principal Consultant, Global Benefits
Cowan Benefits Ltd.
jacquie.fritsch@cowangroup.ca
Navigating Organizational Change: Cultivating Resilience in Mergers & Acquisitions
Mergers and acquisitions bring complexity, but also opportunity. Our expert panel will explore how to successfully integrate benefits and retirement programs during organizational change. You will learn how to foster alignment, support employees, and build a culture that embraces growth and innovation.
Shelly Redwood &
Margaret Bennett
Principal Consultant and Practice Lead,
Pension and Retirement Consulting
Cowan Benefits Ltd.
shelly.redwood@cowangroup.ca
&
Manager, Branch Compliance and Sales Support
Cowan Financial Solutions
margaret.bennett@cowangroup.ca
Navigating Economic Change: Understanding CAP Guidelines, Economic Insights, and Market Impacts on Retirement Plans
In 2024, the Canadian Association of Pension Supervisory Authorities introduced revised CAP guidelines, and since then, Cowan has been working to interpret the requirements and implement changes as necessary. We’ll share our insights and steps for alignment. Plus, don’t miss our fireside chat with Shelly Redwood, Principal Consultant and Practice Lead, Pension & Retirement Consulting and Margaret Bennett, Manager, Branch Compliance and Sales Support, Wealth as they break down the 2025 economic landscape and its impact on retirement plan savings.
Wellness Fair
Explore the Wellness Fair. Meet our Wellness Partners and explore fresh ideas to support employee well-being. Whether you're looking to enhance your current benefits or simply gather information, this is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and discover what's possible.
Questions?
Contact the Cowan Insurance Group Events Team, events@cowangroup.ca.