Meet Richard Liu

Richard Liu  | July 2023

Richard is an accomplished Executive Compensation Consultant and Board Advisor known for his expertise in aligning compensation strategies with organizational goals.

In the latest edition of our 'Insights in Action' video series Richard talks about his role as an executive compensation consultant, emphasizing a client-centric approach, the growth and impact of his work, and the challenges of balancing executive compensation in today's environment.

Meet Kevin Zhu

Kevin Zhu  | July 2023

Kevin, a Manager at Hugessen, brings extensive experience advising companies in finance, real estate, and industrials. His background includes valuable insights gained from one of Canada’s largest independent asset management firm, contributing to strategic growth and industry expertise.

In the latest edition of our 'Insights in Action' video series, Kevin talks about his four-year tenure at Hugessen, where he specializes in helping companies optimize their compensation and governance programs.

Webinar: Trends and Insights from the 2023 Proxy Season: TSX60 Executive Compensation

Hugessen has completed its annual review of the 2023 TSX60 proxy circulars, and we are pleased to share key findings on executive pay levels, incentive design, Say-on-Pay results, and other governance topics.

In addition to delivering our TSX60 proxy takeaways, we have provided additional commentary on emerging topics such as the use of one-time CEO awards and the impacts of the current macroeconomic uncertainty on setting executive pay targets.

Please click above for the webinar recording, download the TSX60 slides here and the briefing document here.

 

Meet Brian Lees

Brian Lees  | June 2023

As a Principal based in the Calgary office, Brian is a leading advisor on compensation and governance, driving excellence at Hugessen for over a decade. With extensive experience in aligning pay outcomes with strategic execution, Brian's expertise has been instrumental in guiding boards and management teams across Canada.

In the latest edition of our "Insight in Action" video series, Brian talks about how he bridges the gap between management and the board, to create optimal solutions in both pay quantum and design perspectives.

ESG in Compensation Series 5 of 6: Weighting: Considerations to Determine How to Weight E&S Metrics in Incentive Programs

Reanna Dorscher, Andena Xhiku  | June 2023

Part 4 of our series outlined different considerations for determining whether ESG metrics are more appropriate in a short-term or long-term incentive plan. This article focuses on the key considerations for incorporating metrics and determining the desired overall impact of ESG metrics on incentive plan outcomes.

ESG IN COMPENSATION SERIES 4 OF 6: Short-Term or Long-Term: Considerations for Metric Selection

Julie Bourdon-Leblanc  | June 2023

The decision of whether a performance metric should be used in the short-term incentive plan or long-term incentive plan may impact its efficacy and ability to motivate plan participants. This article outlines considerations in determining whether the selected ESG metrics may be more appropriate for the short-term or long-term incentive program. The preceding article of our series addressed the different considerations when selecting what ESG metrics could be included in a compensation program, and the following article will discuss key considerations when determining the weightings of the selected metrics. While the focus of this series is on ESG metrics, we note that many of these principles can be applied to other types of metrics that companies may wish to implement in their incentive programs.

Promotion of Reanna Dorscher to Partner

Hugessen  | June 2023

Hugessen Consulting, a leading provider of advice to public and private boards on executive compensation, performance measurement and assessment, board effectiveness and related governance, is pleased to announce the promotion of Reanna Dorscher to the position of Partner. This promotion is a testament to Reanna Dorscher's exceptional skills, dedication, and valuable contributions to the firm's success.

Webinar: Trends and Insights from the 2023 Proxy Season: TSX60 Board Governance & ESG

Hugessen's June 6th webinar featured topics including: Board effectiveness and EDI insights; Learnings from ESG metrics in incentive programs; Shareholder perspectives; Anticipated trends going forward; and a US perspective from our affiliates at Semler Brossy Consulting Group.

Meet Emily Parsons

Emily Parsons  | June 2023

As a Manager based in the Toronto office, Emily focuses on important moments in a company's growth, such as going public through IPOs or RTOs, and handling mergers and strategic reviews.  In these special situations, companies need to take a deep dive to figure out if their incentive programs are set up to achieve their goals.

In the latest edition of our “Insights in Action” video series, Emily talks about the vital role of tailored approaches in guiding compensation decisions and fostering collaboration with clients. She emphasizes the significance of understanding unique business needs and principles as the foundation for crafting creative solutions, particularly in complex situations. Emily highlights the value of early and open communication and the strategic use of guiding principles to achieve alignment and facilitate effective decision-making.

Meet Ken Hugessen

Ken Hugessen  | June 2023

Ken founded Hugessen Consulting in 2006 to meet the growing demand from boards for direct access to independent advice on executive compensation and related performance and governance matters.

In the latest edition of our 'Insights in Action' video series, Ken talks about the fundamental factors contributing to the firm's success. He highlights the unwavering belief in the quality of their team and the diligent processes in selecting and developing individuals. This belief has led to the formation of a team he considers as exceptional contributors. Ken also delves into the critical role of fostering strong client relationships, emphasizing the firm's commitment to excellence and innovation. He shares insights on the evolving role of boards in enhancing their performance and navigating shareholder expectations. Ken's perspective underscores the significance of accountability, particularly in the context of say on pay and majority voting mechanisms, and acknowledges the essential role of the people who have chosen to be a part of the firm's journey.