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 Bob Grayson of Tapestry Compliance, who will lead the session “Take a Trip with TripAdvisor: A Journey of Discovery.”  Here is what Bob had to say:

NASPP: Why do you feel strongly about global stock plan compliance?

Bob: Any company which operates an incentive plan outside its own home jurisdiction needs to avoid risks overseas.  There are lots of potential risks—some relate to tax but others relate to a whole range of other regulations—for example foreign exchange; securities law; data protection and labor law.  Companies want to manage their risk and they want to do it in an efficient, value for money way.  I feel strongly that companies need advice which makes the process as simple as possible and which reduces risk at a reasonable cost.

NASPP: What is a common mistake companies make with their global stock plans and how can they avoid this?

Bob: The most common mistake companies make is to assume that if they act in accordance with US practice then that will work in other countries.  Sometimes it will—but sometimes it won’t!  Although all countries in the world have companies and incentive plans there are lots of things which are different—in some countries you can “hire and fire” in other countries you can’t.  In some countries you have to withhold—in some counties you don’t.  Mistakes are usually made because your assumption is wrong.  Companies need to systematically check their assumptions so that they comply with all tax and regulatory rules globally.

NASPP: Is administering a global stock plan as impossible as it looks?

Bob: Operating a global plan may look like an impossible task—there is so much information and so many differences between countries.  However—don’t worry!  Companies have been doing global plans since about 1980—so we are very experienced and know which are the important points.  A lot of the advice is customized on our databases so that it is presented in a cost-effective and efficient way.  Of course there are still difficulties—but, with the right advice, you can do it!

NASPP: What is your superpower?

Bob: Keeping it short and simple!

However complicated a problem is I believe it can be explained in less than a page.  Clients are not generally interested in all the detail—they want sound, clear, risk based advice based on experience.  We can provide all the detail if you want it—but we can also give you a clear and simple choice and will support you all the way!

Don’t miss Bob’s session, “Take a Trip with TripAdvisor: A Journey of Discovery,” 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!