Join Sarah Keyes, Partner at PwC in Sustainability Strategy & Transformation, and James Temple, PwC's Chief Sustainability Officer, for an dynamic conversation on how businesses are adapting their ESG commitments amid a rapidly changing political landscape. Discover how leading organizations are not just keeping pace, but are re-shaping their strategies to thrive in this environment while maintaining authenticity and credibility in their communications.
Key Highlights:
- Navigating Political Change: Learn how the latest political shifts and legislative agendas focused on climate change, social equity, and corporate governance are transforming the ESG landscape. Sarah and James will explore strategies for organizations operating across multiple jurisdictions to ensure their commitments remain relevant and impactful.
- Building Trust and Meeting Stakeholder Expectations: Discover how political sentiment is influencing investor and consumer expectations. Gain practical insights into how businesses are communicating their ESG responses authentically, while also navigating missteps that can erode trust.
- Real-World Adaptation Strategies: This session will showcase success stories of companies effectively pivoting their ESG strategies in response to political dynamics, providing a roadmap for participants to follow.
Bring your popcorn, because this session promises to inspire you as you support your leadership teams in building organizational resilience.
James Temple, Chief Sustainability Officer, PwC Canada
Sarah Keyes, Partner, Sustainability Strategy & Transformation, PwC Canada

Navigating ESG Skepticism: Strategies for Effective Communication
In this session, Lauren will explore the growing skepticism surrounding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives and how organizations can effectively address it. With increasing scrutiny on ESG claims, it’s crucial for communicators to craft transparent, data-backed narratives that build trust with stakeholders. Lauren will discuss strategies for managing stakeholder expectations, combating misinformation, and ensuring that ESG efforts are perceived as authentic and impactful. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on how to strengthen their ESG messaging, gain stakeholder buy-in, and turn skepticism into opportunity.
Lauren O'Malley, Senior Advisor, Sustainability, Aecon Group Inc.,

Engaging Stakeholders through Effective ESG Communication Strategies
With political shifts and regulatory changes reshaping the ESG landscape, organizations must adapt their communication strategies to effectively engage stakeholders. From investors and policymakers to employees and consumers, clear and credible ESG messaging is essential for building trust and demonstrating corporate responsibility.
In this session, Tania will discuss key stakeholder engagement strategies, how to navigate evolving ESG expectations, and the impact of political and regulatory developments on ESG communications. Attendees will gain practical insights on fostering stakeholder alignment, managing reputational risks, and ensuring ESG commitments are effectively communicated in an increasingly complex environment.
Tania Ferlin, Director of Sustainability Advocacy, Husky Technologies™

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It's Not About You: Leveraging Impact and Purpose to Advance Government Relations
Governments represent a unique and powerful stakeholder group. In this session, we will explore the key drivers that influence government stakeholders and how organizations can align their impact and purpose with government priorities. Moving beyond traditional political divides, we will discuss how tangible, sustained collaboration between organizations and governments can create win-win scenarios for both parties.
This session will provide actionable insights into building and maintaining effective government relations by understanding the broader context and aligning strategic objectives with public policy goals.
Tom Chervinsky, Director, Government Relations, TELUS Health

 Navigating the Latest ESG Regulations: What You Need to Know and How to Communicate Your Efforts
Stay informed and equipped to navigate the latest updates in ESG regulations, crucial for effective communication. In this session, we’ll provide an overview of the newest ESG regulations and their direct impact on communications. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing, ensuring that your ESG messaging is both authentic and transparent. We’ll also cover key strategies for communicating your ESG efforts in light of regulatory changes, including how to stay compliant while effectively engaging stakeholders. This session will help you understand what’s required to meet the evolving expectations and regulations, and how to communicate your organization’s ESG commitments in a way that builds trust and credibility.
Lauren Forrest, Senior Consultant, ESG Legal Risk & Disclosure, KPMG Canada

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A Bad Communication Strategy Around Sustainability Can Leave You Legally Exposed
A poorly executed sustainability communication strategy can do more than harm a company’s reputation—it can lead to legal consequences. With climate litigation on the rise and increasing regulatory scrutiny, organizations must navigate the complexities of transparency while mitigating legal and reputational risks. In this session, Shannon, will explore the evolving risks of sustainability communications, the impact of greenwashing and greenhushing, and strategies to communicate with authenticity and accountability. Attendees will gain practical insights on how to align legal and communications teams, manage stakeholder expectations, and develop a credible, risk-aware sustainability narrative.

Best Practices for ESG Reporting and Disclosure
In today’s business environment, stakeholders expect clear, honest, and effective communication around sustainability efforts. In this session, Brooke Tucker-Reid, Global Head of Sustainability Strategy and Reporting at Manulife, will guide you through the best practices for ESG reporting and disclosure. Learn how to structure and communicate your ESG data in a way that builds trust with investors, consumers, and other key stakeholders. Discover how to navigate the complex landscape of global regulations and frameworks, while maintaining transparency and authenticity in your reporting. This session will provide practical tips and tools for managing ESG data, ensuring compliance, and positioning your organization as a leader in responsible, sustainable business practices.
Brooke Tucker-Reid, Global Head, Sustainability Strategy and Reporting (AVP), Manulife

Realistic Road to Net-Zero: Balancing Ambition with Action
As pressure mounts from regulators, investors, and consumers, organizations are making bold commitments to net-zero emissions. But achieving these goals requires more than just ambition—it demands realistic, measurable, and transparent strategies.
This session will explore how companies can align sustainability targets with operational realities, effectively communicate progress, and navigate the challenges of balancing corporate responsibility with business growth. Learn from industry leaders about practical pathways to net-zero, and the shared responsibility between industry, governments and consumers in a just transition to net-zero.
Raseeka Rahumathulla, Government and Regulatory Affairs Manager, Volkswagen Group Canada Inc

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