The NASPP Blog

Our popular “Meet the Speaker” series, featuring interviews with speakers at the 22nd Annual NASPP Conference, is a great way to get to know our many distinguished speakers and find out a little more about their sessions in advance of the Conference.

For today’s “Meet the Speaker” interview, we feature an interview with Christine Zwerling, CEP of Stock & Option Solutions, Inc., who will lead the session “Extreme Makeover:  ESPP Edition.”  Here is what Christine had to say:

NASPP:  What is a common misperception about ESPPs?

Christine: Many companies believe that ESPP participants sell their shares within days or weeks of the purchase date.  Fidelity has provided statistics from a recent survey proving this misconception is wrong. We have lots of survey data on perceptions of ESPPs and program trends to share.

NASPP:  What actions should companies be taking now with their equity programs?

Christine: Companies should be evaluating the ROI on their equity plans; many will find that an ESPP provides ROI with engagement and cost savings over other traditional programs.  ESPP programs are a cost-effective way to encourage company ownership at all ranks through a program where employees actively decide to purchase shares (as opposed to being given shares), providing employees with a sense of empowerment and engagement.

NASPP:  What is the silver lining to ESPPs?

Christine: ESPPs virtually pay for themselves.  Remember, participants are paying for the shares—so these programs bring in money.  If an employee does sell the shares early, the company receives a tax deduction; plus, ISS voting guidelines generally automatically recommend voting FOR IRC§ 423-compliant plans.

NASPP:  Tell us three things people don’t know about you.

Christine:

1. I hate pickles and anything pickled (why do delis insist on pressing a pickle right up against a perfectly good sandwich!?);
2. I attended 12 different schools; and
3. Both of my sons joined our family through domestic open adoption.

Don’t miss Christine’s session “Extreme Makeover:  ESPP Edition” at the NASPP Conference!

About the NASPP Conference
The 22^nd Annual NASPP Conference will be held from September 29-October 2 in Las Vegas. This year’s program features 60+ sessions on today’s most timely topics in stock compensation; check out the full agenda and register today!