Agenda

Check back for more details as we continue to add sessions and speakers!

The Hub for Sustainability Integration Conference agenda features important keynote and panel discussions to explore how sustainability implementation is changing all areas of business.

Leading experts will address changing aspects including regulatory needs, specific best practices and implementation guides, and how weaving sustainability into business's strategy and bottom line will impact people, business, and the planet for the better.

Monday, October 27, 2025

8:00 a.m. | Breakfast and Networking

8:30 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks

Conference host: Jennifer Lynes

Remarks by: Melissa Ireland, Nenone Donaldson, and Jennifer Livingstone

9:00 a.m. | Keynote Presentation — The Future of Sustainability: Integrating Purpose with Profit in a Changing World

Matt Giffen
Founder, Bench Brewing Company

We'll kick off the Sustainability Integration Conference with an inspiring keynote that explores the transformative power of sustainability in today’s business landscape. In a world where the climate crisis, resource scarcity, and shifting consumer values are reshaping industries, businesses must evolve.

Our distinguished speaker will share insights on how organizations can successfully integrate sustainable practices into their core strategies, driving long-term value while addressing the urgent global challenges we face. From evolving consumer expectations to regulatory shifts, discover how to align purpose with profit and position your organization as a leader in the sustainability movement. Don’t miss this compelling opening session that will set the stage for a forward-thinking, solutions-oriented conference experience.

9:30 a.m. | Fireside Chat

Moderated by: Adam Vitalis

An intimate conversation with our keynote speaker to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perspectives.

10:00 a.m. | Networking Break

10:15 a.m. | Panel Discussion — Investing for Impact vs. Divesting: Shaping the Future of Sustainable Finance

Moderated by: Ethan Fraser

Patrick Taylor
Managing Partner and CFO, Renewable Power & Transition, Brookfield Asset Management

Sarah Thompson
Managing Director, Global Head of Sustainable Finance, RBC Capital Markets

Barbara Zvan
President and CEO, University Pension Plan (UPP)

The future of sustainability in business hinges on the choices investors make today. Should companies and investors focus on investing to influence and drive change from within, or is divesting from unsustainable industries the key to creating a more responsible economy?

Our expert panel will explore these critical questions, diving into the strategies that can reshape industries, generate positive environmental impact, and deliver long-term financial returns. Our panelists—leaders in sustainable finance, corporate governance, and environmental strategy—will discuss the pros, cons, and potential of both approaches, providing invaluable insights for investors, businesses, and organizations looking to align profit with purpose.

Whether you’re navigating the complexities of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria or seeking innovative ways to catalyze change, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make smarter, more impactful investment decisions.

11:10 a.m. | Panel Discussion — Navigating the Crossroads: Geopolitics, Legislation, and Public Perception in the Future of Sustainability

Moderated by: Tim Hutzul

Dilhari Fernando
Chief Sustainability Strategy Officer, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Manasi Koushik
VP, Sustainability & Quality, Dexterra Group

Andrew McLaughlin
VP Legal Affairs, General Counsel and ESG Lead; Major Drilling Group International

This thought-provoking panel discussion will explore the evolving landscape of sustainability, where experts will delve into the state of the geopolitical environment, emerging legislation, and evolving reporting standards.

Learn how shifting global policies, regulatory frameworks, and public perceptions are reshaping the way businesses approach sustainability. Gain valuable insights into navigating this complex terrain, and discover how to stay ahead in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether you’re looking to understand the latest policy developments, adapt your business strategy, or better engage with stakeholders, this panel is a must-attend for anyone committed to sustainable progress.

12:15 p.m. | Lunch and Networking

1:00 p.m. | Keynote Presentation — Sustainable Reconciliation: Integrating Indigenous Leadership into Education and Business

Mallory Rose
Vice President, Communications, Marketing and Student Success, Indspire

True innovation begins with reconciliation in action. In this session, Mallory Rose, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Indspire, shares how Indigenous leadership principles, rooted in story, sustainability, and All our Relations, are reshaping how we learn and lead. She unpacks relational accountability, collective success, and storytelling as knowledge transfer to drive sustainable innovation across classrooms, boardrooms, communities and businesses.

1:25 p.m. | Fireside Chat

Moderated by: Amanda St Marie

An intimate conversation with our speaker to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perspectives.

1:50 p.m. | Panel Discussion — Biodiversity and Business: Protecting Nature for a Sustainable Future

Moderated by: Claire Purvis

Renée Bowler
Assistant Deputy Minister, Food Safety and Environment Division, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness

Josh Hasdell
Senior Manager, Strategy & ESG Advisory, KPMG Canada

Mike Morrice
Founder, Sustainable Waterloo Region and Green Economy Canada

Biodiversity is no longer just an environmental concern—it’s a business imperative. This expert panel will explore the critical role biodiversity plays in the future of business. From ecosystems that support supply chains to the growing risks associated with biodiversity loss, this session will help you understand why businesses can no longer afford to ignore the natural world.

What is biodiversity? Why does it matter to your business? And how can companies take actionable steps to protect it while driving growth? Our panel of industry leaders will address these questions and more, providing insights into the impacts of biodiversity loss on business operations, reputation, and long-term sustainability.

Whether you're navigating new regulations, striving to meet consumer demand for responsible practices, or looking for ways to reduce your company’s ecological footprint, this panel will equip you with the knowledge and tools to integrate biodiversity into your business strategy.

2:50 p.m. | Networking Break

3:10 p.m. | Panel Discussion — Tackling Physical Risks: Strategies for Mitigation in a Changing Climate

Moderated by: Jason Thistlethwaite

Joshua Goodman
Head of Corporate Sustainability, Sobeys

Tori Rooney
Sustainability Analyst, Blue Mountain Resorts

Kevan Thompson
National Senior Vice President, Construction, Contractors & Real Estate, Axis Insurance

As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, understanding and mitigating physical risks is crucial for businesses and communities alike. This session will explore the latest strategies for identifying, assessing, and addressing physical risks—ranging from extreme weather events to long-term environmental shifts. Discover best practices, innovative solutions, and real-world examples on how organizations are adapting their operations, infrastructure, and risk management frameworks to build resilience in an unpredictable future. Join us to learn how proactive risk mitigation can safeguard your organization, enhance sustainability efforts, and create long-term value in the face of a changing climate.

4:10 p.m. | Keynote Presentation — Leading Through Uncharted Territory

Danièle Sauvageau
General Manager, Montréal Victoire; Professional Women’s Hockey League

True leadership reveals itself in moments of uncertainty—when the path forward is unclear, and the pressure to act is high. As a pioneering female executive and coach in the world of professional sports, Danièle has led diverse, high-performing teams through uncharted territory, balancing short-term demands with the long-term vision required for lasting success.

In this inspiring closing keynote, she will share real-world lessons on leading through complexity with resilience, integrity, and sustainability at the core. Drawing from her experience building inclusive cultures and fostering mental and organizational endurance, Danièle challenges leaders to rethink what it means to succeed—not just today, but for the future.

With insights that transcend industry, this session will leave you equipped to lead with purpose, empower those around you, and steer confidently through the unknown.

4:40 p.m. | Fireside Chat

Moderated by: Vivek Goel