The NASPP Blog

Our popular “Meet the Speaker” series, featuring interviews with speakers at the 25th 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 Valerie Diamond of Baker McKenzie, who will lead the session “Around the World in 60 Minutes: Key International Updates.”  Here is what Valerie had to say:

NASPP: Why is it important for companies to stay current on the latest global developments impacting stock plans?

Valerie: There are a lot of changes in political administrations all around the globe these days.  As administrations change, so do their rules and regulations related to equity awards.  Companies need to stay on top of these issues, particularly the tax requirements, and change their process and procedures to fit any changes in the laws.

NASPP: What is one action should companies be taking now with respect to their global stock plans?

Valerie: Companies should review their existing grant documents to make sure that they are up to date and address the countries where equity awards are granted.  It would be helpful to take a look at existing agreements and compliance now before attending our session and to use our session as a means to find out what is new and what needs to be updated in the company’s grant documentation to fit changes in the laws.

NASPP: What is the most innovative solution/response you’ve seen for keeping track of local requirements?

Valerie: We have been using an online questionnaire process to collect information from local payroll and HR on tax withholding and reporting and local compliance.  This information is gathered in an excel spreadsheet and is easy to compare to the requirements in the local country.  This allows the company to do an easy clean up on any compliance issues that are incomplete or in need of a refresh.

NASPP: What is your favorite tourist attraction in DC?

Valerie: My first favorite is the Vietnam memorial.  My second favorite is the view of the White House from the deck at our Baker McKenzie DC office.  It’s really cool to sit on our roof deck and enjoy the view.

Don’t miss Valerie’s session, “Around the World in 60 Minutes: Key International Updates,” at the NASPP Conference!

About the NASPP Conference

The 25th Annual NASPP Conference will be held from October 17-20 in Washington DC. 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!