In today’s politically charged environment, organizational benefit strategies are under more scrutiny than ever. From anti-DEI sentiment to shifting climate policy, leaders face the dual challenge of responding to changing regulatory conditions while maintaining employee trust and engagement. These aren’t hypothetical pressures—they’re reshaping the very foundation of workplace values and plan design. In this timely session, we’ll unpack the latest insights from over 1,000 organizations on how they’re evolving their benefits philosophy in response to regulatory developments, political polarization, and employee expectations. We’ll explore how to balance financial responsibility with the need to reflect evolving social values—and how to avoid reputational risk while staying responsive to stakeholder needs. What to Expect: - A look at how many organizations have formal strategies or policies around DEI, ESG, and political change—and how those are evolving.
- Discussion of how group plan strategies are being reshaped by anticipated policy and regulatory changes, from tariffs to climate withdrawal.
- Exploration of how the political landscape has led organizations to re-examine their core benefits philosophy.
- Insights into changing employee feedback, expectations, and demands in light of cultural and political debate.
- A review of how political narratives influence strategic decisions around plan design and benefit offerings.
- Examination of how organizations weigh financial risks versus reputational benefits when navigating sensitive benefit changes.
Session Take-Aways: - Understand how social and political discourse is shaping plan sponsor priorities and expectations.
- Understand how employee values and expectations are evolving—and how to respond with empathy and alignment.
- Explore trends in employee engagement and values-based benefits design.
- Gain tools to help your organization navigate change while maintaining trust and continuity.
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Bernice CheungVP Financial Services & Cultural Markets Research Environics Research Bernice Cheung is a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in marketing research and management consulting, spanning financial services, consumer goods, retail, and healthcare. At Environics Research, she leads the Group Plan Sponsor Syndicated Study—Canada’s most comprehensive annual research on group benefits—delivering strategic insights that help providers better serve their clients. Bernice also heads the Canadian FinTech Study, examining consumer attitudes toward financial technology, open banking, and innovation. A respected thought leader, she frequently shares her expertise at top industry conferences including the CPBI Forum, FinTech Summit, and Payments Canada Summit. Her work is known for being both data-driven and highly actionable. She holds an MBA from Ivey Business School and an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from the DeGroote School of Business. |
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With uncertainty on the rise, this session will explore how open, honest communication can help keep employees engaged, especially when there’s anxiety about finances and benefits. Clearly explaining how current realities affect group benefits and pension and savings plans will enable employees to understand tough choices, see the value in what’s offered, and make informed decisions. The session will offer practical tips for explaining benefits, balancing business needs with employee well-being, and setting clear expectations as costs and changes arise. Ongoing education, support for healthy money habits, and flexible benefit and savings options will provide a strong foundation for informed choices and lasting engagement. | | 
Matthew D. PavelichPartner Normandin Beaudry With more than 25 years’ experience, Matthew specializes in change management, employee communication, and total rewards. He helps organizations translate complex HR programs—such as compensation, benefits, pensions, and performance management—into clear, engaging, and culturally relevant content for employees. Matthew is recognized for his strategic approach to employee research, using focus groups, interviews, and surveys to inform tailored communication strategies that support organizational goals. He is a certified Prosci Change Management Practitioner with a background in journalism and communication, holding a B.A. from the University of Ottawa and a graduate diploma in journalism from Concordia University. His expertise supports clients across sectors in Canada and abroad, making him a trusted advisor on the human side of HR program and organizational change. |