Ivey Executive Education Presents: Learning In Action

The Cost of Saying Nothing: How Avoiding Conflict Undermines Teams

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:36:57 -0500

This episode explores the hidden costs of silence in leadership and how avoiding difficult conversations can undermine trust, alignment, and engagement. Led by Ivey Professors Kanina Blanchard and Cameron McAlpine, the discussion unpacks the psychology behind avoidance and offers practical tools for leading courageous conversations that strengthen accountability, relationships, and team performance.

Oversight to Insight: Elevating the Board-to-Executive Dynamic

Ivey Executive Education — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:27:04 -0500

Presented in partnership with the Ivey Alumni Network Toronto Chapter and Governance Professionals of Canada, this episode features a panel discussion on how the evolving board–executive dynamic is transforming governance, strategy, and leadership at the highest levels. Moderated by Ivey Dean Julian Birkinshaw, the conversation draws on perspectives from Michelle Banik, Larry Lau, Wendy Kei, and Lynn Beauregard.

The Ripple Effect

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:39:53 -0400

In this episode of Learning in Action, host Brian Benjamin speaks with John Lounds, Wren Montgomery, and Sean Drygas about purpose-driven leadership—what it really means to lead with intent, integrity, and persistence. Through stories from business, sustainability, and academia, they explore how purpose can shape culture, guide decision-making, and sustain momentum over time. Featuring insights on authenticity, community, and long-term impact, The Ripple Effect is a conversation about leading change that lasts.

In Conversation with Guy Holburn: Leading to Transform the Energy Sector

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:34:00 -0400

As the global energy sector undergoes fundamental change, leaders are being called to make bold, future-shaping decisions—often in the face of policy uncertainty, rising public scrutiny, and accelerating innovation.

In this session, we sit down with Ivey Professor Guy Holburn to explore what it means to lead in an era of energy transition. Holburn offers a candid look at how senior leaders can navigate regulatory complexity, align strategy with shifting societal demands, and drive meaningful transformation across the industry.

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education
Guest: Christian Dippel, Professor, Business, Economics and Public Policy

For more insights and information on our programming, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

In Conversation with Christian Dippel: Developing Competitive Edge with AI

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:42:18 -0400

Over the past few years, AI technology has exploded into the mainstream, with new platforms and applications emerging at an exponential pace. As organizations rush to adopt these tools, many are grappling with deeper questions around how to approach AI strategically—beyond experimentation and surface-level implementation.

In this session, we sit down with Ivey Professor Christian Dippel to explore what it means for leaders to think critically and act decisively in an AI-enabled world. Dippel shares insights on how to identify meaningful opportunities for impact, understand the broader organizational implications of AI, and navigate the gap between hype and real-world application.

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education
Guest: Christian Dippel, Associate Professor of Business, Economics, and Public Policy, Ivey Business School

For more insights and information on our programming, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

In Conversation with Adam Fremeth: Strategic Foresight for Uncertainty

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 12:15:58 -0400

Successful organizations plan to drive sustainable, long-term performance, but with the world moving faster and major disruptions, such as geopolitical turmoil, weather disasters, and digital innovation, occurring at an escalating frequency, the practice of strategic planning has become increasingly challenging for leaders across all sectors. Wracked with uncertainty for what the next ten, five, or even one year ahead will look like, how can leaders plan for future success?

In this episode, we discuss how leaders can develop organizational strategy for foresight and decision-making, emphasizing the importance for building for adaptability. Gain practical insights for developing strategies under pressure that support organizational resilience, fostering team dynamics that are able to thrive and adapt effectively through disruption, and building skills for mapping possible outcomes and pursuing the right opportunities.

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education
Guest: Adam Fremeth, Associate Professor, Business, Economics, and Public Policy, Ivey Business School

Leading Resilience and Managing Risk

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 15:26:51 -0400

In this episode of Learning In Action, host Bryan Benjamin sits down with Dr. Laurel Austin, Associate Professor of Management Science at Ivey Business School, to explore how organizations can effectively build business resilience, identify and manage risks, and develop strategies for sustainable, long-term success.

Listeners will gain practical insights on how to build an organizational culture that embraces business resilience, including the importance prioritizing long-term outcomes over short-term financial metrics. Further, she explores the psychology of risk preparation, decision-making in crisis, and how leaders can effectively navigate new forms of disruption.

For more information and insights, visit https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education
Guest: Laurel Austin, Associate Professor of Management Science, Ivey Business School

Innovation and Creativity in the Digital Age

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 20 May 2025 17:08:38 -0400

In this episode of Learning In Action, host Bryan Benjamin sits down with Dr. Shane Wang, Associate Professor of Marketing at Ivey Business School, to explore the role of innovation and creativity in leadership within the digital age. They delve into how leaders can unlock innovation within their teams and leverage cutting-edge technologies and data-driven strategies to maintain a competitive edge.

For more insights, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Resilient Leadership: Strengthening Teams in Times of Uncertainty

Ivey Executive Education — Sun, 11 May 2025 16:26:08 -0400

In a world of constant disruption, resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about adapting, leading, and sustaining high performance under pressure. In this livestream for Global Ivey Day 2025, we'll explore psychology of resilience at both the personal and team levels, focusing on how leaders can foster a culture of adaptability, psychological safety, and sustained well-being.

Drawing on cutting-edge research in organizational behaviour and leadership, our expert panel will share practical strategies to help leaders navigate uncertainty, build trust, and empower teams to thrive—even in the face of adversity. Whether you’re leading through economic shifts, industry upheaval, or everyday challenges, this conversation will provide actionable insights to strengthen your leadership and the resilience of those around you.

For more insights, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education

Guests:

Zoe Kinias, Associate Professor, Organizational Behaviour, Ivey Business School
Hayden Woodley, Assistant Professor, Organizational Behaviour, Ivey Business School
Dusya Vera, Professor, Strategy, Ivey Business School & Executive Director, Ian O. Ihnatowycz Institute for Leadership

Mastering Communication for Leadership Impact

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:50:53 -0400

Effective communication is both an art and a science—a fundamental skill that drives success in business, leadership, and life. In this episode, Bryan Benjamin sits down with Dr. Kanina Blanchard, Assistant Professor in Management Communications and General Management at Ivey Business School, to explore what sets great communicators apart, emphasizing that authenticity and genuine connection are the cornerstones of impactful leadership communication.

Kanina unpacks the science behind effective messaging, from decoding your audience’s needs and crafting persuasive narratives to overcoming common communication challenges and refining your delivery for maximum impact. The conversation also examines the evolution of 'leadership presence', moving beyond traditional 'executive presence' to a more inclusive, authentic approach with practical tips that enable leaders to connect, engage, and inspire with confidence.

For more insights, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy
Guest: Dr. Kanina Blanchard, Assistant Professor, Management Communications & General Management

Leading Responsibly: Towards a Global Community

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:08:05 -0400

In today’s volatile business landscape, leaders must navigate uncertainty with agility, integrity, and resilience. In this episode developed in collaboration with NOVA School of Business and Economics, we bring together top faculty from both institutions explore key themes, including ethical decision-making, leader character, and sustainable business strategies. Whether you're an executive, manager, or aspiring leader, this discussion offers valuable insights into leading with impact during times of change.

Guests:

Kanina Blanchard, Assistant Professor of Management Communication and General Management at Ivey Business School
Dusya Vera, Professor of Strategy at Ivey Business School and Executive Director of the Ian O. Ihnatowycz Institute for Leadership
Ricardo Zozimo, Assistant Professor of Management and Organizations at NOVA School of Business and Economics

For more information and insights, visit https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Advancing Neuroinclusion: Strategies for Workplace Inclusion

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:00:14 -0400

Neurodiversity in the workplace isn’t just about inclusion—it’s about tapping into a wellspring of talent that remains overlooked. In this episode, we revisit a compelling panel conversation hosted by Rob Austin, Professor of Information Systems at Ivey Business School at the 2024 Ivey Talent Leaders Forum. From reshaping hiring practices to breaking down cultural stigmas, our speakers share firsthand experiences and bold strategies for creating environments where neurodivergent employees don’t just survive but thrive.

For more insights, visit: https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/

Host: Rob Austin, Professor of Information Systems at Ivey Business School

Guests:

Nyamusi Lee, Director of Neuroinclusion Strategies and Global Head of Autism At Work at JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Moish Tov, CEO of JoyDew

Making Strategic Decisions In Times Of Uncertainty

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 15:14:00 -0500

In this episode of Learning In Action, host Bryan Benjamin sits down with Dr. Andreas Schotter, Associate Professor of General Management and International Business at Ivey Business School, to discuss the challenges leaders face when making strategic decisions in times of uncertainty.

Throughout their conversation, Andreas offers valuable insights on how leaders can navigate ambiguity and strengthen their decision-making confidence. He emphasizes the importance of leaders staying close to their teams, highlighting the need for authenticity, visibility, and open communication during times of change. The conversation also explores the importance of leaders remaining proactive and the value of embracing curiosity to uncover opportunities for innovation, rather than solely reacting to challenges during times of uncertainty.

Listeners will gain actionable strategies for building organizational resilience, adapting to rapidly changing environments, and making decisions with greater confidence and clarity. Whether you're leading through transformation or dealing with the unpredictability of today's world, this conversation offers valuable perspectives for staying agile and focused.

For more insights or for information on our learning and development opportunities, visit https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/executive-education/.

Leading Change & Transformation

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 13:47:34 -0500

In this episode of Learning In Action, host Bryan Benjamin sits down with Dr. Gerard Seijts, Professor of Organizational Behaviour at Ivey Business School, to tackle one of the biggest leadership challenges: managing organizational change and overcoming resistance.

They explore how to navigate uncertainty, build trust, and break down the barriers that often stand in the way of successful change initiatives. Gerard highlights why introspection, renewal, and humility are essential for leaders, underscoring how self-awareness and emotional intelligence can drive real, lasting impact. He shares practical strategies for overcoming resistance, stressing the power of clear communication and a deep understanding of what truly motivates people within an organization.

Listeners will gain actionable insights into the dynamics of leading teams through transformational change, including the foundational role of leadership character, and the significance of celebrating small wins to support continuous forward momentum.
For more learning resources and information on our learning and development opportunities, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Cross-cultural Communication Skills for Global Business

Ivey Executive Education — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:16:59 -0500

In this episode of Learning in Action, we delve into the importance of cross-cultural communication in global business, highlighting the need for humility, openness to learning, and intentionality in communication. Moderated by Bryan Benjamin and featuring insights from Mohamed Satti, Sandra Cushnie, and Kwafo Ofori-Boateng, we discuss real-life experiences and valuable lessons learned. The conversation also emphasizes the role of both formal and informal training in fostering cultural awareness.

Tune in to discover how to manage diverse teams across borders, build an organizational culture that embraces diversity, and leverage inclusive leadership strategies to foster collaboration. Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice for leaders operating in an interconnected world.

Host: Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy

Guests: Mohamed Satti, Associate Professor of Management Communications at Ivey Business School; Sandra Cushnie, Global Leader in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, McCain Food; Kwafo Ofori-Boateng, Vice President and Senior Partner, IBM Consulting

From Passion to Profit: Mastering Business Development as a Coach

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 16:33:26 -0500

In this episode of Learning in Action, we partner with the International Coaching Federation (Toronto Chapter) to explore the tools needed to build a successful coaching business. Hosted by Zen Tharani, this episode features inspiring stories and actionable insights from three expert leadership coaches: Chantelle Courtney, Ernie Gross, and Tony Latimer.

Whether you're launching your practice or looking to elevate it, the conversation offers invaluable strategies to refine your marketing, create scalable coaching models, and diversify your revenue streams. Gain practical tips and inspiration from seasoned coaches with decades of collective experience and take the next step in turning your coaching passion into a profitable business.

Host:

Zen Tharani, CEO & Founder, Xenex Consulting Inc.

Guests:

Chantelle Courtney, Founder, Inflection Point Coaching & Consulting Inc.
Ernie Gross, Founder, Dare2Soar Inc.
Tony Latimer, Master Certified Coach, Profitable Leadership Pte Ltd.

Challenging the Agri-Food Paradigm: Voices of the Farmer

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:44:32 -0500

In this insightful discussion, three Canadian farmers share their journeys of transitioning to regenerative agriculture. They delve into the motivations behind their shifts, the challenges and opportunities encountered, and the pivotal role of sustainable practices in enhancing ecosystems and soil health. The conversation also explores how policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders can support farmers in adopting regenerative methods, aiming to balance increased production demands with environmental stewardship.

Gender and Family Dynamics in Leadership

Ivey Executive Education — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 14:06:24 -0500

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of balancing professional ambitions with personal and family responsibilities, particularly for women and caregivers. Our guests, Eva Salem, Senior Vice-President of Marketing and Brand at Canadian Tire Corporation, and Sabrina Kumar Ceccarelli, Vice-President and Assistant General Counsel at Lightspeed Commerce, share their personal experiences and insights. They discuss the mental load, societal expectations, and the often invisible work that contributes to burnout. The conversation also explores strategies for setting boundaries and managing the pressure to be perfect, offering valuable perspectives for anyone navigating these challenges.

Lessons for purpose-driven leadership through crisis: the war in Ukraine

Ivey Executive Education — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 22:17:26 -0400

In this episode, we dive into leadership lessons from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Featuring an expert panel including Ukraine's Ambassador to Canada, business leaders, and leading academics, the discussion focuses on how purpose-driven leadership builds resilience through extreme adversity. Explore how Ukrainian leaders are navigating the challenges of war and the role of education in preparing for the nation's future. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of purpose, leadership, and rebuilding in crisis.

Managing Risk and Leading Business Resilience

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 18 Sep 2024 12:54:08 -0400

In this episode, we explore how businesses can take a proactive approach to resilience in an increasingly uncertain future. Moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy, and featuring Laurel Austin, Associate Professor of Management Science, we delve into real-world examples of disruptive threats—ranging from cyberattacks to natural disasters—and discuss innovative strategies organizations have used to weather these challenges. Tune in to learn how companies can shift their priorities toward long-term resilience and thrive despite unpredictability.

Circular Food Economy: Canada's $50 Billion Opportunity

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:56:55 -0400

Currently, 60 percent of the food produced in Canada is wasted, representing an extraordinary $50 billion in avoidable economic losses. This extreme level of waste coincides with the reality that six million Canadians live in food-insecure households. This systemic problem requires a system solution: the circular economy. The circular economy is a new paradigm of production and consumption where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated through processes like reuse, recycling, and composting.

In this episode produced in partnership with the Ivey Centre for Building Sustainable Value and moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director at The Ivey Academy, we’re joined by guests: Jury Gualandris, Associate Professor, Operations Management & Sustainability and Faculty Director, Ivey Centre for Building Sustainable Value; Denise Philippe, Senior Policy Advisor Metro Vancouver and National Zero Waste Council; and Julie Poitras Saulnier, CEO & Cofounder at LOOP Mission. In this session, our panelists explore emerging innovation for reducing, and ultimately eliminating, food waste and examine opportunities to increase the scale on practices that support the circular economy through finance and policy.

For more information on The Ivey Academy events or to gain more learning and development insights, visit IveyAcademy.com

Developing Personal & Team Resilience

Ivey Executive Education — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 15:27:00 -0400

In today’s unpredictable and disruptive business environment, resilience is an increasingly important skill for leaders at all levels, but what does developing resilience look like in practice? How can an individual leader work to develop their personal resilience while also empowering their teams to do the same?

For this discussion moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we’re joined by three Ivey Coaches: Alicia Saint, Nancy Dewar, and Shakeel Bharmal. Together, our panelists discuss the complex challenges involved in building resilience as individuals and within teams and share advice for how to overcome them, drawing upon their collective experiences working with diverse leaders.

For more information on The Ivey Academy events or to gain more learning and development insights, visit IveyAcademy.com

Reimagining Talent with a Neurodiversity Lens

Ivey Executive Education — Mon, 13 May 2024 12:45:59 -0400

In a landmark live stream for Global Ivey Day 2024, we celebrated two decades of neurodiversity hiring programs, initiated by pioneering organizations like Specialisterne and global leaders such as SAP and Microsoft. This event, developed in partnership with the Neurodiversity Employment Research Project at Ivey Business School, delved into the challenges and barriers that hinder the full integration of neurodistinct individuals in the workforce.

Our panel of experts, including Rob Austin, Denise Arnold, Thorkil Sonne, and Moish Tov, led by host Bryan Benjamin of the Ivey Academy, engaged in a thought-provoking discussion. They unpacked common misconceptions correlating support needs with skill levels and debated how insights from neurodiversity employment initiatives are prompting a reevaluation of traditional work paradigms. The conversation also highlighted ways leaders can reimagine job roles and structures to foster more inclusive and effective organizations.

Throughout the session, our panelists explored the historical successes and ongoing challenges of neurodiversity employment programs and shared visionary strategies to advance neuroinclusion in the workplace.

For more information on The Ivey Academy events or to gain more learning and development insights, visit IveyAcademy.com

Building System Resilience to Future Risk

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 10:56:57 -0400

The current model for how we often approach crisis events is unsustainable, and better system resilience is necessary for preparation and risk mitigation for catastrophic events in future. In this episode, our guests explore the importance of building resilience on organizational, community, and societal levels and consider the impacts of collaborative relationship-building and future-oriented policy across multiple sectors to create a more resilient system where organizations and communities are better prepared to withstand future risks.

For this discussion moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director at The Ivey Academy, we're joined by guests: Jennifer Lynch, President & Founder, Lynch & Associates; Doug Westlund, Senior Vice President, Principal Consultant, Acumen; and Laurel Austin, Associate Professor of Management Science at Ivey Business School.

For more information on The Ivey Academy events or to gain more learning and development insights, visit IveyAcademy.com

Adoption and Application of Generative AI at Work

Ivey Executive Education — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 16:17:29 -0400

It's been just over a year since ChatGPT first captivated the public's attention pushing many to consider the possibilities and implications of generative AI. There's been a lot of buzz about how emerging AI tools will revolutionize the working world, but how much has actually changed? What are adoption rates looking like so far? And what can practitioners expect moving into the future?

For this discussion hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy, we’re joined by Fredrik Odegaard, Associate Professor of Management Science at Ivey Business School. Listen in as we gauge the impact ChatGPT has had on organizations, explore what changes need to be made to create a culture that adopts new AI technologies, and project what the future of AI at work will look like.

Responsible Leadership in the Future of Business

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 14:58:22 -0400

Responsible leadership prioritizes the well-being of society and the environment and strategically planning for long-term outcomes that benefit the collective. However, the pursuit of responsible leadership can often conflict with individual and organizational economic interests, and it requires the courage to challenge conventional business practices and the skills to generate organizational buy-in.

For this episode hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we’re joined by guests: Kanina Blanchard, Assistant Professor of Management Communications & General Management at Ivey Business School; Zen Tharani, Ivey Executive Coach; and Corrie Stone-Johnson, Professor of Educational Leadership & Policy at University at Buffalo. Together, our panelists explore the importance and implications of practicing responsible leadership and share tips on navigating the challenges leaders face when embodying responsible leadership at work.

For more information on our events, programming, and insights, visit IveyAcademy.com

Regenerative Agriculture: The Role of Finance & the Value Chain

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 13:48:59 -0500

In this episode, we explore the role that regenerative agriculture can play in the transition to a more sustainable food system, and how the food industry and the financial sector can help incentivize and scale the adoption of more sustainable practices by producers.

For this discussion moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy, we are joined by guests: John Uhren, Managing Director, Sustainable Finance at BMO Capital Markets; Charlie Angelakos, Vice President, Global External Affairs & Sustainability at McCain Foods Ltd.; and Diane-Laure Arjaliès, Associate Professor, Managerial Accounting and Control, General Management & Sustainability at Ivey Business School. Together, our panelists share their expertise on incentivizing and supporting farm suppliers to adopt regenerative practices and investing in sustainable agriculture, as well as unpack insights from a new Ivey Centre for Building Sustainable Value Report – Advancing Regenerative Agriculture in Canada: Barriers & Enablers.

For more insights and events from the Ivey Academy, visit us at IveyAcademy.com

Designing the Workplace for Neurodiversity

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:30:18 -0500

Traditional work conditions were developed with a narrow vision of what kind of worker should succeed. Many organizations still operate with the approach that individuals who fall outside of these traditional ideals must seek individualized accommodations to help them adapt to the traditional work environment. However, when we design work environments specifically to support Neurodiversity, we not only foster a better sense of belonging for everyone on the team, but the design changes often benefit all employees. Together, our panelists explore how universal design elements that support neurodiversity at work often benefit all employees, delve into personal experiences on how design integrations can succeed, and share insights on boosting inclusivity in operations.

For this episode, produced in collaboration with the Neurodiversity Employment Research Project, we’re joined by guests:

Jamell Mitchell, EY Global Neuro-Diverse Centers of Excellence Ecosystems Leader
Patrick Poljan, Board President of Arc of the Capital and Former Senior Vice-President, Finance & Executive Sponsor, Neurodiversity at Dell
Chloe Cameron, Ivey HBA '12, Ivey MBA '21, PhD candidate in Organizational Behaviour at Ivey Business School

For more information on our programming and upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

The Future of Agri-food: Canada's Leadership Opportunity

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 12:14:45 -0400

In this episode produced in partnership with the Centre for Building Sustainable Value at Ivey Business School and the Institute for Sustainable Finance, our panelists explore the large-scale opportunity for Canada to be a leader in agri-food, examining facets such as sustainability, technological innovation, and competing within a global market. For this discussion moderated by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of The Ivey Academy, we’re joined by guests: Scott Ross, Executive Director, Canadian Federation of Agriculture; Alison Sunstrum, Founder & CEO, CNSRV-X & General Partner, The51; and Tyler McCann, Managing Director, Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute. Together, our panelists unpack Canada’s position in the global agri-food market, identify key opportunities – and challenges – facing Canadian agri-businesses, and explore how Canada can be a leader in the future of agri-food.

For more information on the Ivey Academy and our insights, events, and programming, visit us at IveyAcademy.com

Global Ivey Day 2023: Empowering People in the New World of Work

Ivey Executive Education — Sun, 14 May 2023 17:56:59 -0400

The evolution of work is accelerating faster than organizations are adapting. Transformative technological change, shifting personal priorities, troubling economic trends, and fluid approaches to career growth have put many leaders on the defensive as they attempt to reinforce a more traditional employee value proposition. As with any disruption, this uncertainty presents unique opportunities for organizations to create competitive advantage through creativity and innovation. Together, our panelists explore how organizations can reinvent their approach to work.

For this episode hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we’re joined by Ivey faculty members: Martha Maznevski, Professor, Organizational Behaviour; Janice Byrne, Assistant Professor, Entrepreneurship; and Romel Mostafa, Assistant Professor, Business, Economics, and Public Policy.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Note: the views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this multimedia content do not necessarily represent those of Western University, Ivey Business School, or The Ivey Academy and its affiliates. This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes, and its appearance on the Site does not constitute an endorsement.

Leading People as Individuals: Unlocking the Potential of Neurodiversity

Ivey Executive Education — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 10:38:56 -0400

In our second episode on neurodiversity in the workplace, we explore how to lead by creating an inclusive work environment that matches the individual needs and preferences of your employees and empowers each member of your team to embrace their differences. During this episode, our guests explore the benefits of neurodiversity at work and unpack the deficits in traditional managerial structures that limit neurodivergent individuals.

For this discussion hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director at the Ivey Academy, we're joined by guests: Rob Austin, Professor of Information Systems at Ivey Business School; Charlotte Valeur, Chief Executive, Global Governance Group; and Neil Barnett, Director, Inclusive Hiring and Accessibility, Microsoft.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Has ChatGPT Applied for my Job? The Future of AI at Work

Ivey Executive Education — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 13:21:02 -0500

ChatGPT, as a language AI program, has captured the public’s attention with its ability to respond to user queries by creating unique generated answers. It’s a highly valuable tool for professionals in knowledge industries, but it also raised questions around what could become automated in certain industries and how it will impact the role of humans in organizations. We discuss ChatGPT in contrast to past AI applications at work while considering its limitations, look at examples of how this technology can ⁠— and already is ⁠— being used in the workplace, and explore how ChatGPT has the potential to change the way we work in the future.

For this episode hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we're joined by Fredrik Odegaard, Associate Professor of Management Science at Ivey Business School.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Agentic and Communal Leadership Traits: Redefining the ‘Complete’ Leader

Ivey Executive Education — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 15:09:47 -0500

In this episode, we discuss Agentic and Communal traits and how leaders can apply aspects of both to motivate employees and create a positive work atmosphere within their organizations. We explore how we understand leadership, shifting social norms around the concept of leadership, the importance of empowering and coaching your employees, and key principles that can help guide our decision-making when in leadership roles.

For this episode hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we're joined by Hayden Woodley, Assistant Professor of Organizational Behaviour at Ivey Business School.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

How Blockchain Technology is Already Shaping the Future of Business

The Ivey Academy — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 08:43:50 -0500

As a leader, it’s critical to think ahead, especially when it comes to technology. Digital disruption provides an array of challenges but also offers many unique opportunities across almost all industries. Blockchain technology — while initially associated with bitcoin and cryptocurrency — has the potential to be applied to databases and information management across many sectors, but what exactly does that mean and how will that affect leaders and their organizations moving into the future?

During this podcast episode hosted by Bryan Benjamin, Executive Director of the Ivey Academy, we’re joined by guests: Hubert Pun, Associate Professor of Management Science at Ivey Business School; and Carrie Song, Executive Vice President at ViewFin™, Ivey EMBA ‘23 Candidate. In this discussion, we unpack the basics of blockchain technology, explore how this technology can transform organizations on a global scale, and examine real-world examples of how blockchain is providing new opportunities for organizations to reach consumers.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Building Resilience in Canadian Healthcare Through Cross-Sector Collaboration

The Ivey Academy — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 10:48:55 -0500

Canadians are confronted daily by reports that their health system teeters on the brink of collapse. Leaders from across the country insist the status quo is untenable, and that this is a time for innovation, with potential for new processes and models of care. A commitment to novel approaches creates an opportunity for cross-sector collaboration as a means to improve the health and welfare of all Canadians.

For this episode, we're joined by guests: Janet M. Davidson, O.C., BScN, MHSA, LLD (Hon), Health Care Consultant; Sarah Hutchison, MHSc, LL.M, ICD.D, LL.M, Program Director, Medical Innovation Fellowship Program, WORLDiscoveries, Western University; and Matthew Lister, MBA ‘06, MHSA, Health System Consultant and Operations Strategist. Our panelists bring a valuable depth and breadth of experience in the private, public, and regulatory sectors and together will discuss opportunities to innovate areas such as workforce planning, governance, digitization and the role of technology, and system financing, and further explore what these approaches could mean for our shared prosperity.

For more information about the Ivey Academy or to learn more about our upcoming events, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Corporate Strategies for Net-Zero: The Strategic Dimensions of Ambitious Climate Leadership

The Ivey Academy — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 14:49:15 -0500

A growing number of Canadian companies are making major commitments to reduce their climate emissions through setting “science-based” targets, with some pledging to more than halve their emissions in the next decade. A new Ivey research initiative – Corporate Strategies for Net-Zero – is engaging with these leading companies across key sectors of the economy, exploring the firm-level strategic dimensions and implications of such ambitious action.

In the third part of the Ivey Net-Zero Event Series – we explore initial insights emerging from this research, discussing key questions that many executive leaders are now grappling with: How can an ambitious approach to climate action shape your organization’s strategy for success in the emerging net zero economy? What are the key factors and critical capabilities your company needs to consider in setting ambitious climate targets? How do you avoid “greenwashing”? We tackle these questions and their implications for managers across all organizations with our high-level panel.

Guests: Teanne von der Porten, MBA '05, Executive Director, ESG, KPMG Canada; David Huck, Director Sustainability, CP Rail; and Rob Klassen, Professor, Ivey Business School. This session is co-hosted by The Ivey Academy and the Centre for Building Sustainable Value and will be moderated by Mazi Raz, Assistant Professor, Ivey Business School.

Recognizing Opportunity: Learning Value in the Unexpected

The Ivey Academy — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:20:31 -0400

While we might initially have a vision of a final destination in our career, the actual journey to get there often isn’t as straightforward as initially planned. However, there is great value in the unforeseen routes you might stumble upon along the way. In this episode, Ivey alum Erik Mikkelsen, HBA '06, shares his journey through entrepreneurship and the detours within his career where he found new avenues for opportunity.

For this episode produced in collaboration with the Morrissette Institute for Entrepreneurship, Mikkelsen is joined by guest host Eric Morse, Professor of Entrepreneurship, Executive Director of the Morrissette Institute, to discuss his journey across industries in New York, L.A., Toronto, and Dallas, Texas, the leadership lessons he learned along the way, and how he honed his ability to recognize opportunity in unexpected places.

Guests: Erik Mikkelsen, HBA '06, co-founder and Managing Partner of Auxo Management LP, and the President and Chief Revenue Officer of Stealth Monitoring Inc., a leading North American video monitoring and security company.

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Our Global Future: What leaders can learn from defining moments

The Ivey Academy — Wed, 25 May 2022 10:26:20 -0400

Leaders at all levels will face tests of character and resilience – defining moments that shape us as individuals and contribute to our shared global future. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy serves as a paradigm of leader character, whose example can guide individuals across all areas of leadership to step up, leverage their influence, and create positive change. Our panelists explore key leadership lessons from the crisis in Ukraine, discuss the ways leaders impact their communities, and find direct takeaways for all leaders across the public and private sectors

For this episode hosted by Gerard Seijts, director of the Ian O. Ihnatowycz Institute for Leadership, we're joined by guests: Daniel Bilak, Senior Counsel, Kinstellar; Lenna Koszarny, Founding Partner and CEO, Horizon Capital; and Major-General (Ret.) David Fraser, President, AEGIS Six Corporation.

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Balancing the System: Designing for Work-Life Alignment

The Ivey Academy — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 15:23:08 -0500

Work-life balance has been a growing area of concern for decades, but today we seem to struggle more than ever in achieving a healthy equilibrium. The increasing frequency of work-from-home during the pandemic has now worsened the blurred boundaries between employees' professional and personal lives. While most professionals have personally suffered the impact of a work-life imbalance, the path to individual and organizational solutions remains unclear. In this episode, host Mazi Raz, Director of Learning Design and Strategy at the Ivey Academy, and our panelists examine this phenomenon from different perspectives.

Guests: Shakeel Bharmal, Leadership Coach and Founder, Oceanblue Strategic Advisors, Ivey MBA ‘00; and Jodi Ohama, Leadership Coach

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Innovating Together: Connecting as a global organization

The Ivey Academy — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 15:00:00 -0500

While Canada is a hub for creative potential and innovation, we're also known for exporting our best business ideas. Is there more to that story? What will it mean for all companies to become more 'global' in the future? In this episode recorded for Global Ivey Day 2021, host Mazi Raz, MBA ’05, PhD ’14, Assistant Professor and Director of Learning Design & Strategy at The Ivey Academy, and guests panelists examine the phenomenon of 'being global,' and what it really means for Canadian innovation to scale up on the global market.

Guests: Michael Tamblyn, EMBA ‘08, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Fenton Jagdeo, HBA ‘16, Co-Founder of Faculty, and Nicole Haggerty, HBA ’89, PhD ‘04, Associate Professor at Ivey Business School.

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com

The Frontiers of Purpose: Reimagining your organization's role in society

The Ivey Academy — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500

We live in a time defined by large-scale environmental and societal challenges. The climate emergency, rising levels of inequality, agriculture and food security, and growing unemployment rates are among many trends affecting all societies and sectors. In light of these, what role can organizations play to help tackle these challenges? How can organizations—whether in the public or private sector—reconstitute their ‘purpose’? How can they reimagine innovation to create shared solutions and build towards a more prosperous society?

In this episode hosted by Mazi Raz, MBA ’05, PhD ’14, Assistant Professor and Director of Learning Design & Strategy at The Ivey Academy, our panelists discuss how organizations can create a future where businesses and society thrive. Using examples from the Innovation North community of practice, our panel explores the implications of reconstituting purpose on innovation and models of collaboration.

Guests: Tima Bansal, Professor, Ivey Business School and Founder of Innovation North; Barb Steele, HBA '85, Executive Director, Ashoka Canada; and Bradley Wamboldt, EMBA '10, General Manager, Enterprise Technology, Suncor Energy,

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Note: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this multimedia content do not necessarily represent those of Western University, Ivey Business School, or The Ivey Academy and its affiliates. This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes, and its appearance on the Site does not constitute an endorsement.

An Inclusive Recovery: Building back better with employee ownership

The Ivey Academy — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 14:15:00 -0500

While the full economic impact of COVID clearly has yet to be felt, the way economic fallout is disproportionately affecting women, low-wage workers, young people, racialized Canadians, people with disabilities and living with mental illness, and rural communities without reliable internet access. While we’re in the same storm, Canadians are not all in the same boat. This rapid acceleration of wealth and social inequality poses critical questions for policymakers as the country plans for recovery. How do we set the stage for a more inclusive economy, that helps build more resilient communities and businesses?

Guests: Jon Shell, MBA ‘03, Managing Director of Social Capital Partners (SCP); Mark Healy (guest host); and Sean Acklin Grant, Marketing Manager at Ivey Academy.

Originally recorded in March 2021. For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

The Ivey Net-Zero Series: Your organization's net-zero future is closer than you think

The Ivey Academy — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 14:15:00 -0500

The transition to a “net-zero” climate emissions economy will have profound implications for all organizations, not just those in heavy-emitting sectors. Many leaders are making long-term commitments to climate action and the forces driving this transition are already building compelling momentum: investors are changing perspectives on future value; technologies are maturing; policies are shifting; and consumer pressure is on the rise. Consequently, marginal efforts by organizations and delayed leadership action are becoming increasingly risky strategies.

But just as important, transformative opportunities could shift or fundamentally restructure key aspects of a firm’s business model, value chain and competitive positioning. In the first episode of the Ivey Net-Zero series, our panelists explore the strategic implications of the net-zero agenda for business and how firms can develop and navigate a successful path forward.

Guests: Sarah Chapman, Global Chief Sustainability Officer, Manulife and Laura Zizzo, Founder & CEO, Manifest Climate – along with Robert Klassen, Director, Centre for Building Sustainable Value, Ivey Business School.

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Neurodiversity in the workplace: Building towards inclusion

The Ivey Academy — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:30:00 -0400

As our shared recognition of neurodiversity continues to expand, progressive organizations around the world are finding new ways of being inclusive. From hiring processes to wellness programs, it is becoming increasingly clear that supporting neurodiversity at work has a transformative impact on organizations. In today’s discussion, host Mazi Raz from the Ivey Academy and our guests explore neurodiversity within the workplace. Drawing on contemporary research and examples, our panel examines pioneering workplace programs, the competitive advantage of inclusion, and changing ideals of leadership through a more inclusive lens.

Guests: Jose Velasco, Business Process Intelligence Program Director and Autism at Work Ambassador, SAP; Erin Huner, Director, Culture & Inclusion, Ivey Business School; and Professor Rob Austin, Ivey Business School.

For more information, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Why cybersecurity matters to all leaders – including you

The Ivey Academy — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:00:00 -0400

As the world grows to become more digital, organizations and governments continue to spend billions of dollars on Cybersecurity. Yet, as their investment has grown, the frequency and the consequences of cyber breaches have increased noticeably. Stories of data breaches and ransomware attacks are appearing more regularly in the news, impacting organizations of all sizes in every sector.

Guests: Dr. Laurel Austin, Adjunct Research Professor in Management Science; Mark Segal, Chief Information Officer at CBI Health; Dr. Jeff Curtis, Chief Privacy Officer at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

Originally recorded live in June 2021. To learn more, visit IveyAcademy.com.

Taking risks in your career — A chat with author Sukhinder Singh Cassidy

The Ivey Academy — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0400

For most people, there is lot of anxiety tied to taking risks: What if you make a big move only for it not to pan out? What if you end up regretting it? People often end up getting paralyzed by fear when it comes to taking risks in their careers, instead opting to play it safe. However, Sukhinder Singh Cassidy, HBA ’92, a leading digital CEO and entrepreneur, argues that taking bold risks might be the best thing for your career trajectory.

For this episode produced in collaboration with the Morrissette Institute for Entrepreneurship, Sukhinder Singh Cassidy joined us on October 5th for a live virtual chat to share her personal experience on taking risks in her career and deliver insights from her book Choose Possibility: Take Risks and Thrive (Even When You Fail) in a virtual fireside chat. Sukhinder and Eric Morse, Professor of Entrepreneurship, Executive Director of the Morrissette Institute, discuss the secrets behind successful risk-taking, unexpected forces involved in shaping one’s career path, and the surprising ways risk-taking can shape your leadership journey.

To learn more, visit: IveyAcademy.com.

Debunking myths about generations in organizations: From Boomers to Gen Zs

Joanna Shepherd — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:13:08 -0400

Ageism, or generational prejudice, in the workplace is often overlooked compared to other issues in equity, diversity, and inclusion. Discussion on the topic is often focused on generalizations and stereotypes of perceived differences, and as a result, generations and generational differences have been blamed for many things, from declining levels of work ethics or higher rates of job-hopping. In this episode, we unpack the myths about generations in organizations, discuss the characteristics of generational diversity, and explore what it means to design age-inclusive workplaces.

Guests: Nikolina Gelmanovska, MBA '20, VP Strategy at Montana Steele Group, and Research and Intelligence Advisor for the Government of Canada; Dalal Atta, HBA '16, MBA '21, Manager at Deloitte Consulting; Santos Lee, MBA '05, Head of Organizational Design & Effectiveness at BMO.

To learn more, visit IveyAcademy.com.