Is DEI in Your DNA? Embedding DEI in the Fabric of Your Board.

It’s 2022 and it’s highly likely that almost every board will add Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to their agenda.

Boards are steadily making progress in terms of their capability, focus and impact in this area yet most have gaps, and few are at a stage where they would say that DEI is a true strength in their work.

Moderated by Rachel O’Connor, join WATSON senior governance consultant, Jodi Butts, and guest panelist David Simmonds as they discuss about what comes next in DEI. They’ll look at how boards can get ahead of the curve and be ready for the next conversations in DEI. This is about what your board can do to feel truly ready for whatever might come next.

We’ll discuss:

• Where most boards are focused today
• Where they need to expand their thinking and their work
• What leading boards are doing

We’ll bring the topic to life by combining WATSON’s knowledge with real-world insights from guest panelist, David Simmonds, who sees this topic from multiple vantage points: as a director, an executive, and an advisor. We’ll be sure to leave ample time for Q&A and discussion so we can tap into the wisdom and experience of the group.

When: January 25, 1pm EST / 10am PST

Register here.

Registration is Complimentary

Moderator:

• Rachel O’Connor: Rachel leads WATSON’s Leadership and Performance practice and is a key leader for strengthening the DEI through-line in all of WATSON’s work and ensures our advice and work for clients puts them in a position of strength and continuous learning and growth.

Panelists:

• Jodi Butts: Jodi, a senior governance consultant at WATSON, has that much sought-after governance trifecta: professional experience as a lawyer and as a senior executive, combined with hands-on board experience. Jodi brings her knowledge supporting organizations in areas ranging from human rights to diversity to ensuring accessible work environments.
• David Simmonds (guest panelist): David is the Global Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer with Great-West Lifeco & Canada Life, a director on multiple boards, and a strategic advisor, panelist, and educator. He brings experience, insight, humour, and energy to the conversation about where boards are and where they need to go next.

Governing with Intention™ is WATSON’s flagship course based on the three tenets of intentional governance – purpose, belief and design. It delivers practical tools and clear guidance to address the governance challenges facing many organizations. Learn how to shift the dialogue to the issues that matter, navigate the line between governance and management, elevate your personal contribution at the board table and design your board’s culture. Ideal for current, new and incoming directors and chairs, members of the management team supporting the board, corporate secretaries and others who play a role in your organization's governance.

January 27-28, 2022

Course Timing (Day 1 and Day 2. Coffee, Tea, snacks and lunch provided):
8:30am-5:00pm*

*WATSON will provide a more detailed agenda closer to the course date.

Take advantage of 2021 rates**

**2022 Rates: $2,400/pp (early-bird $2,200/pp, groups of 4 or more $2000/pp)

WATSON - COVID-19 Workshop Protocols

Proof of Vaccination

Proof of Covid-10 vaccine is required to attend workshops. All WATSON facilitators and staff are fully vaccinated. Participants must arrive at least 15 minutes early for screening protocols and to show proof of vaccination.

During the Workshop

• Registration will be limited to ensure adequate spacing is possible
• As much as possible, physical distancing should be maintained
• Hand sanitizer will be made available
• Food/refreshments will be individually packed i.e., no buffet style plating
• Masks are optional while seated at desks
• Masks are mandatory for any group work that requires closer proximity to other participants and in public areas

In Case of Illness

If any participant is sick or showing symptoms (fever/chills, loss of sense of smell or taste, difficulty breathing, cough, sore throat), has been exposed to someone who tested positive, or is feeling unwell in any way, they are NOT to attend the workshop. They may transfer their registration/spot to someone else or will have a credit to attend a future session. They should contact Academy Coordinator, Taylor Mebs as soon as possible at taylor@watsoninc.ca.

Things Can Change

WATSON reserves the right to cancel any workshop if there is a rise in cases, new Provincial health orders/restrictions are suggested/implemented, or if the facilitator is sick/shows symptom or has been exposed to someone who tested positive. The workshop will be rescheduled, and all participants will have priority registration for the rescheduled workshop or a future one. WATSON is not responsible for any costs participants have incurred e.g., flights, hotel etc.