The NASPP Blog

Our popular “Meet the Speaker” series, featuring interviews with speakers at the 24th Annual NASPP Conference, is 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 Renee Trotta of Charles Schwab*, who will lead the session “Mind your Ds & Ts: Death, Divorce, Disability and Terminations”

Here is what Renee had to say:

NASPP: What is the most critical thing NASPP Conference attendees need to know about your topic?

Renee: Life events create administrative challenges for your stock plans and can significantly impact your employees emotionally and financially.  Yet some of the toughest events we cover in our session are sensitive topics for some—and, therefore, rarely discussed.  “Mind your Ds & Ts” addresses the difficult questions, including administrative and legal considerations with a diverse panel that brings multiple perspectives to the discussion.

NASPP: What is one best practice companies should implement?

Renee: Start talking and don’t shy away from these important topics.  Review all your stock plans for how life events (death, disability, retirement, divorce) are handled and proactively communicate this to employees. Encourage them to think about equity in terms of life events and to plan for them.

NASPP: What is the silver lining to your topic?

Renee:  Companies are better prepared to deal with life-changing, sometimes traumatic events for employees as it pertains to their equity programs.  By thinking beyond the plan mechanics and using equity as a spring board to overall financial wellness, companies also are helping their employees be better prepared to navigate life’s unexpected turns.

NASPP: What is something people don’t know about you?

Renee: I like to play in the dirt—in my perennial gardens.

Don’t miss Renee’s session “Mind your Ds & Ts: Death, Divorce, Disability and Terminations” at the NASPP Conference!

About the NASPP Conference

The 24th Annual NASPP Conference will be held from October 24-27 in Houston. This year’s program features close to 100 sessions on today’s most timely topics in stock and executive compensation; check out the full agenda and register today!

* Schwab Stock Plan Services provides equity compensation plan services and other financial services to corporations and employees through Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”). Schwab, a registered broker-dealer, offers brokerage and custody services to its customers.  Member SIPC. 0716-2730.