We are pleased to bring back our popular “Meet the Speaker” series, featuring interviews with speakers at the 24th Annual NASPP Conference. These interviews are 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 our first “Meet the Speaker” interview, we feature Deborah Walker of Cherry Bekaert, who will lead the session “The IRS and Treasury Speak.” Here is what Deborah had to say:
NASPP: Why is your topic particularly timely right now?
Deborah: Our presentation features IRS and Treasury speakers involved in regulatory and legislative initiatives involving equity compensation. This is a chance to hear the government’s enforcement focus and new guidance that could affect your equity plans and programs. In prior years, the session has been interactive, giving you a chance to question the government officials about an issue that concerns you and discuss their response, often giving the government ideas for ways to approach various issues that are less obtrusive than what the government may think about. We look forward to another interactive session this year in Houston.
NASPP:What is one best practice companies should implement?
Deborah: The IRS is implementing new computer audit procedures, enabling them to determine that withholding taxes are unpaid in a matter of days rather than in a matter of months. To avoid unnecessary intrusions in the form of “soft letters” from the IRS, you should review your payroll tax withholding and deposits for equity compensation, focusing particularly on the timeliness of deposits for the vesting of restricted stock and the exercise of non-qualified stock options. This should be done on a regular basis. Correction of failure to deposit amounts should be done as soon as possible.
NASPP:What is something companies should know about penalty assessments from the IRS?
Deborah: As the IRS computer systems are becoming more modern, there is an increase in penalty assessments. If you are assessed an IRS penalty, the IRS has a program allowing for the waiver of penalties when a penalty notice is a first time assessment. The program is only available to those who have had no penalties in the prior three years. There is no limit on the amount that can be waived. If this program is not available to someone when a penalty has been assessed, the taxpayer or their representative should always ask for waiver of the penalty for reasonable cause.
NASPP:What is something people don’t know about you?
Deborah: I had a speaking part as a terrified nun in the Three Stooges movie produced in 2012 by 20th Century Fox and directed by the Farrelly brothers.
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!
It’s once again time to play the Hot or Not game. I have a list of possible topics for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference; your job is to tell me if each topic is “hot” (or not). Some quick guidelines:
Sizzling hot means you’d definitely want to attend a session the topic
Warm means you might be interested in this topic
Ice cold means that you have no interest in this topic
No opinion means you don’t really know what the topic is or otherwise don’t have an opinion on it
The survey should appear below. If you don’t see it or can’t access it, click here to participate.
Tip #4 to Submit a Success Speaking Proposal: Be Timely
My last tip for submitting a winning speaking proposal is to submit your proposal on time. I’ll be honest; we look at this as a test. If you can’t submit your speaking proposal on time, it indicates to us that you probably aren’t going to meet any of the other speaker deadlines either. We have close to 200 speakers at the Conference, so it’s critical that our speakers be responsible about meeting their deadlines with minimal prompting from us. Don’t bother asking for an extension; if you can’t get your speaking proposal in on time, this probably isn’t the year for you to speak.
Speaking proposals for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference can be submitted online and will be accepted through Friday, February 26. Check out my podcast of other tips for submitting a successful proposal.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Save on the Online Fundamentals
Taught by the industry’s leading experts, the NASPP’s acclaimed online program, “Stock Plan Fundamentals,” is the definitive training program for stock plan professionals, covering both the regulatory framework and day-to-day administrative procedures key to overseeing stock plans. Don’t wait to register—the early-bird rate is only available through this Friday, February 26.
NASPP To Do List
Here’s your NASPP To Do List for the week:
Tip #3 to Submit a Success Speaking Proposal: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Things always go wrong at the worst possible moment—like when you are rushing to submit your speaking proposal at the last possible minute before heading out for your Friday evening plans. Give yourself a little extra time; submit your proposals before the last day, so that you have time to address any unexpected hiccups before the deadline.
The NASPP is now accepting speaking proposals for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference. Proposals can be submitted online and will be accepted through Friday, February 26. Check out ten more tips for submitting a successful proposal.
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Save on the Online Fundamentals
Taught by the industry’s leading experts, the NASPP’s acclaimed online program, “Stock Plan Fundamentals,” is the definitive training program for stock plan professionals, covering both the regulatory framework and day-to-day administrative procedures key to overseeing stock plans. Don’t wait to register—the early-bird rate is only available until February 26.
NASPP To Do List
Here’s your NASPP To Do List for the week:
Register for the NASPP’s acclaimed online course, “Stock Plan Fundamentals”—early-bird rate available until February 26.
Submit a speaking proposal for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference. We are accepting proposals through February 26.
Submit a Speaking Proposal for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference
The NASPP is now accepting speaking proposals for the 24th Annual NASPP Conference. Proposals can be submitted online and will be accepted through Friday, February 26.
Tip #2 to Submit a Success Speaking Proposal: Many Egg and Many Baskets
Don’t underestimate your competition. We get around 150 proposals for about 40 sessions—the odds are against you. They are especially against you if you leave it to the last minute and submit a half-completed idea. The submitters of winning proposals have already started thinking about speaking topics, are asking their colleagues to help refine their ideas and join their panel, and are looking for clients to serve as case studies. Make sure you submit a well thought out proposal that succinctly but clearly describes (and sells) your idea, that includes a well-rounded panel of speakers, and that stands out from the competition. Look for topics that are unique—that haven’t been presented before or that provide a new perspective.
The 23rd Annual NASPP Conference is in full swing! For today’s blog entry, I have a few scenes from the first full day of the Conference.
The Conference began with a rousing round of Family Feud–NASPP Style.
Attendees consult with experts in the Ask the Experts booth.
A moment of levity on the panel, “Navigating ISS & Glass Lewis.”
Sara Shoaf, president of the Phoenix chapter, and Kimberly Steele, officer of the Austin chapter, share tips on running an NASPP chapter during the Chapter Presidents’ Luncheon.
Jon Doyle of International Law Solutions, Bob Hartley of Square, and Wendy Jennings of AppDynamics discuss strategies for extending stock compensation to overseas employees.
The 23rd Annual NASPP Conference is in full swing! For today’s blog entry, I have a few pics from the Gala Opening Reception on Tuesday.
The talk of the reception was the entertainment provided by Phat Strad. Direct from the Las Vegas strip, Phat Strad is America’s original female rock electric string quartet.
Has it really been 40 years? Yes it has; the first issue of The Corporate Counsel premiered in 1975. In celebration of its 40th anniversary, The Corporate Counsel sponsored the reception.
Aon Hewitt’s pig races are always a popular attraction at the NASPP Conference. Heidi Thomerson of Alaska Communications Systems demonstrates that cheering for your pig is a key strategy for winning.
Charles Schwab is giving away t-shirts, screen-printed while you wait in their booth. Wend Jennings of AppDynamics waits for her shirt.
The CEP Institute says “Don’t monkey around with equity compensation.” Win their raffle and you go home with a larger than life-sized stuffed monkey (you might have to buy it its own seat on the plane).
It’s not all fun and games. Jon Doyle of International Law Solutions discusses the complexities of global stock plans with a Conference attendee.
The opening reception also include a green screen photo opp, with props and your choice of backdrops. Jenn Namazi, Kathleen Cleary, Barbara Baksa, and Brian Stovall of the NASPP take a moment out of networking to pose for a fun photo.
Next week kicks off our 23rd Annual Conference in San Diego, and we’ve got sunny Southern California on the brain. Earlier this week, Barbara Baksa blogged about important “Be in the Know Before You Go” information and a “To Do” list for Conference attendees. There are so many exciting things planned for this year’s Conference, we don’t want you to miss any of them! So in today’s blog I won’t rehash all that has already been said, but I do want to make sure everyone is taking full advantage of all the tips and information available.
Planes, Trains, Automobiles and Podcasts
Okay, I’m guessing that most people are not traveling to the Conference via train, but many will be coming by plane and automobile. What is the best way to pass the time on a trip? Listening to something! Music Playlist? Check. Work to-do-list? Check. NASPP Podcast from your laptop or mobile device? Don’t forget that one! I’m going to give you the steps right now to ensure you have all of the relevant Conference podcasts at your fingertips.
The NASPP has published three Conference themed podcasts this year:
Know Before You Go: This is a must-listen before the Conference kicks off! NASPP Executive Director, Barbara Baksa, talks everything you need to know about this year’s Conference. It’s 15 minutes short and loaded with inside scoop on the Conference.
Tips and Logistics for Speaking at the NASPP Conference: If you are speaking at the Conference this year, you’ll want to to download this episode. NASPP Programs Director Bernice Toy walks speakers through what they need to know to have a smooth experience on presentation day, including tips on what to wear and where you can practice before your presentation.
10 Tips for Exhibiting at the NASPP Conference: If you are exhibiting at this year’s Conference, it’s not too late to digest some tips! NASPP Client Relationship Director, Brian Stovall, discusses the components of a successful exhibit. It’s not too late to implement some of these strategies!
How Do I Listen to These Podcasts on the Go?
One great thing about podcasts is that they are portable. You can bring them with you! Our podcasts are audio-only, and easy to access. I’m going to give you the step by step on how to download podcast episodes. You’ve got multiple listening choices:
Listen from your computer or mobile device without downloading. If you don’t want to download the episode or listen to it through a podcast app, you can simply go to the Equity Expert page on our website (www.naspp.com/equityexpert) and “play” the episode. You’ll need an Internet connection to listen, since you’ll be streaming the episode from our site instead of saving it to your computer or device.
Download the episode to your computer for listening later. If you want to save a podcast episode to your computer for listening later, you can do it direct from our website (www.naspp.com/equityexpert). Next to each episode is a “download” link. Depending on your browser settings, you can download by left or right clicking on the link. If you click on the link and the episode starts playing, try right-clicking and select “save link as.”
Download the episode to your mobile device or computer via iTunes or Apple Podcast app. If you are an iTunes or iPhone/iPad user, you can find the Equity Expert podcast in iTunes or via the purple “podcast” app on your iPhone/iPad. In iTunes or the podcast app, search for “Equity Expert” to find the podcast. You can then choose to “download” episodes. Be sure you have actually tapped on the cloud to download the episode to your device; otherwise you may not be able to listen to it without an Internet connection.
Download the episode to your non-Apple mobile device using a podcast app. Android and other smartphone users can find the Equity Expert podcast using a variety of podcast apps available for those devices. Once you have a podcast app on your device, search for “Equity Expert.”
These instructions apply to all NASPP podcasts, not just Conference related podcasts. We’ve got lots of great podcast content available, so check out our other episodes as well.
I’m going to finish today’s blog with a fun quiz, to see just how ready you are for the Conference! I look forward to seeing everyone next week in San Diego. Safe travels to all.
Q. Which of the following will be offered at the NASPP Conference this year?
a. Shoe shine station
b. Cafe
c. Selfie wall
d. Photo booth
e. Trick-or-treating
f. All of the above
-Jenn
p.s. If you answered “f. all of the above” you are right! Be sure to check out the “Know Before You Go” podcast to find out all the details!
Every year the NASPP Conference gets bigger, with more bells and whistles for you to take advantage of while you are there. There is so much happening, it can be a little overwhelming. To make sure you get the most out of this year’s Conference, take a moment before you get to San Diego to familiarize yourself with all of the great programs we are offering this year and make a note of those you want to be sure to participate in.
Listen to the Know Before You Go Podcast: Looking for something to do on the flight to San Diego? Take a moment now to download my “Know Before You Go” podcast and listen to it on the plane. You can find the podcast in iTunes or your favorite podcast source by searching for “Equity Expert” and downloading episode 22.
It’s Not Too Late to Register: The 23rd Annual NASPP Conference will be in San Diego next week, from October 27-30. We are taking online registrations through this Thursday, October 22, and we are happy to accept walk-in registrations onsite.
Here are a few things to “Know Before You Go” to the NASPP Conference:
Conference App: Your digital guide to the NASPP Conference, the app includes the attendee list, the agenda, session materials, speaker bios, and maps. But it’s more than that–we’ll use the app to push out important announcements about happenings at the Conference. Download and log into the app by this Friday and you’ll be entered in a drawing for a $200 Amazon.com gift certificate. You can also get started on the PhotoPlay game in the app, which will earn you another shot at a $200 gift certificate.
Ask the Experts: The NASPP is the largest gathering of subject matter experts in the industry—if you have questions, our Conference is a great place to get answers. Consult an expert in the Ask the Experts booth or visit one of the nearly 40 other subject matter experts who have volunteered to be available for questions in their booths. These are not sales people; it’s an impressive list of subject matter experts who can answer technical and practical questions on stock compensation. There’s no reason to leave the Conference with unanswered questions.
Connect with Fellow Attendees: Our small group discussions and luncheon roundtable discussions are a great way to connect with other attendees on the challenges you are struggling with today. We have seven small group discussions that are offered during the break-out sessions. The roundtable discussions will be held during lunch on Thursday. Topics include employee education, performance awards, M&A, global stock plans, tax topics, and more. Come prepared to share your own questions and experiences—no panelists, no presentation, and no PowerPoint.
Presentation Arena: This is a stage in the exhibit hall where we will host fast-paced presentations (only 20 minutes each) and chats with government speakers and industry luminaries during the refreshment breaks and lunch. It’s a great opportunity to come away with a little more knowledge.
Take the Question of the Week Live Challenge: This game is a fun way to learn a little and win a $200 Amazon.com gift certificate. Your game card will be included in your Conference bag. Figure out the answers to the questions and have the appropriate exhibitors stamp your card. All of the completed cards turned in by 2:00 PM on Thursday, October 29, will be entered in a raffle for a $200 Amazon.com gift card.
PhotoPlay: This game is included in the Conference App. You earn points by taking pictures to complete a list of challenges. For every 50 points that you earn by 2:00 PM on Thursday, you are entered in a raffle to win a $200 Amazon.com gift certificate. Some of the challenges are worth up to ten points—you could earn a raffle entry by completing as few as five challenges. And some of the challenges can be completed before you even get to the Conference—download the app and get started today!
Are you looking for something different out of your NASPP Conference experience this year? Consider attending one of the small group discussion sessions. These highly interactive, audience-driven sessions allow attendees to share ideas, challenges and solutions. Small group discussion sessions at past NASPP Conferences have been rated highly; some attendees comment that they are the best part of the Conference.
What to Expect
These sessions will be completely different from the typical conference session: no speaker panel, no canned presentation, no PowerPoint. Instead, facilitators lead the audience in a lively discussion. Come with a list of questions you want to ask other attendees and be prepared to share your own experiences and tips. Attendance is limited to 45 to encourage a fully interactive and engaging discussion among attendees.
Update Workshop Selections These sessions are an alternative to the standard panel-style sessions. Attendees that have already registered for the Conference who would like to change their workshop selections to one of these sessions can click here to do so.
Don’t wait—space in these sessions is limited and we expect them to be completely full.
