8:15 - 9:15 Module 1: Pension Admin Overview

Demystifying Pension Administration: A Foundational Overview for Manitoba Plans

Looking to gain a solid understanding of how pension plans are administered? This session offers a clear and accessible overview of the core functions, from member enrollment and benefit calculations to regulatory compliance and ongoing operations. We'll cover the essential elements you need to know.

Presenter: Ashley Kapustiak - Canada Life

Communication and Education Manager, Group Retirement Services, Canada Life

Ashley joined the Canada Life team in 2021 and is bringing with her over 15 years of experie in the finance industry with a focus on wealth management and financial planning. In her role as Communication & Education Manager within our organization, Ashley is responsible for coordinating and conducting education sessions that are tailored to the plan member’s needs.

9:30 - 10:30 - Module 2: Actuarial Session – Lucas Szczepanski – Ellement Consulting Group

Actuarial Insights: Mastering Pension Administration and Compliance

Navigate the critical intersection of actuarial principles, administrative best practices, and regulatory compliance in pension plans. This session provides practical insights for actuaries and administrators to ensure smooth operations, accurate reporting, and adherence to all relevant requirements.

10:45 - 11:45 Module 3:  Member Communication 

Talking to Members About Their Pensions

Clear communication helps members feel confident about their retirement. This session shares tips on how to explain complex pension info in simple, understandable ways. Learn how to build trust, reach members effectively, and keep them engaged using visual identity and plain language.

Co-Presenters:

Marcia Lafantaisie – Manager, Member Services – CSSB
Marcia Lafantaisie is the Manager of the Member Services department at the Civil Service Superannuation Board (CSSB). With 25 years of experience, Marcia brings senior-level expertise in the administration of defined benefit plans. She holds the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation and the Pension Plan Administration Certification (PPAC). In addition to her professional achievements, Marcia is an active volunteer and serves as a council member with the CPBI.

Michelle Daniels – Member Service Specialist - CSSB
Michelle Daniels is a Member Services Specialist at the Civil Service Superannuation Board (CSSB), bringing nearly 13 years of expertise to the role. She graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2012 with a degree in Psychology and quickly transitioned into the pension industry. She holds the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) designation and the Pension Plan Administration Certification (PPAC). Most recently, she further improved her skills by completing courses in Plain Language Principles and Efficient Business and Professional Writing through Simon Fraser University. 

1:00 – 2:00 Module 4: Governance and Best Practices –TBA

Navigating the Future: Essential Pension Governance and Best Practices

This dynamic session dives into the core principles of effective pension governance, equipping you with actionable strategies and insights to navigate today's complex landscape.

We'll explore key elements of robust governance, from clearly defined roles and responsibilities to establishing effective risk management frameworks. Discover best practices in areas like investment oversight, member communication, and regulatory compliance. You'll gain a deeper understanding of how to foster transparency, accountability, and ultimately, stronger outcomes for your plan members.

2:15 - 3:15 Module 5: Legal Update and Cybersecurity

Navigating Change & Protecting Assets: Pension Legal Updates & Cybersecurity Essentials

Stay ahead of the curve with critical legal updates impacting Canadian pension plans and gain essential knowledge to safeguard plan assets and member data in today's evolving cyber landscape.

Presenter: Johanna Caithness - Partner, Fillmore Riley

Johanna is a partner who practises primarily in the area of taxation law. She provides advice to a wide variety of clients concerning the following: Estate planning, including planning for high net worth individuals and cross-border planning, Business succession planning, Corporate reorganizations, Trusts, Business structuring (including professional corporations), Complex estate administration, including post-mortem tax strategies, Provincial retail sales tax and GST.

Johanna understands that providing proper legal advice requires knowledge of and experience in many different areas of the law. She is able to draw on her experience involving real estate, corporate governance, transactional matters, and family law and engage other lawyers at Fillmore Riley so that her clients receive reliable and trusted advice in an efficient manner.

Johanna is a frequent presenter to lawyers and other professionals through the Law Society of Manitoba, the Manitoba Bar Association, the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, the Canadian Tax Foundation and CPA Manitoba.

3:30 - 4:15 Module 6: Panel discussion – TBA

Pension Administration Insights: A Panel Discussion

Join our expert panel for a dynamic discussion on key aspects of pension plan administration. Gain practical insights and perspectives on current challenges and best practices.