Lorrie has been working in the public sector for about 25 years and believes government finance officers play a crucial role in providing trust, credibility and transparency to our stakeholders through excellence in budgeting, reporting, financial management and through the assurance/audit functions. She has been with the board of GFOA of Western Canada, now CAGFO, since 2010. She has been on the Public Financial Management Advisory Committee and is currently vice-chair of the Public Sector Accounting Discussion Group. With the upcoming changes and opportunities related to emerging PSAS and issues, she facilitates a committee to discuss these issues and to encourage members to have a voice in the future of the industry.

Relevant, engaging, and interactive, Ron Tite exceeds expectations every time he takes the stage. Named one of the “Top 10 Creative Canadians” by Marketing Magazine, he’s an award winning advertising writer and creative director. Addressing a variety of topics surrounding leadership, strategy, motivation, and creativity, Tite’s presentations are not only information packed but also infused with his unique humour.

Michael’s role is to be the champion for improving public sector accounting practices across Canada by sharing knowledge, encouraging collaboration and leading the development of standards. Michael has a broad base of experience based on 20 years working in public, private and not-for-profit sector organizations.
His is a member of the special advisory committee to the Auditor General of Canada that provides advise and consultation on financial accounting and auditing matters. Michael is a Chartered Professional Accountant holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto Canada.

Dr. Bill Howatt, Founder and CEO of Howatt HR, refers to himself as a behavioural scientist with a keen curiosity for how employees and employers can work together to reduce mental harm and promote mental health in the workplace. He is known internationally and is one of Canada’s top experts in workplace psychological health and safety. Dr. Bill is on the CSA OHS Standards Steering Committee and the Chair of CSA Standard Z1008: Management of Substance-Related Impairment in the Workplace. He is the co-creator of the Psychologically Safe Workplace Awards.

First Vice-President, CFA, Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor, CIBC Wood Gundy

CIBC Wood Gundy Chairman's Council member – the highest honor bestowed upon the firm's Investment Advisors.

Charet is a University of Calgary graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. With over 14 years of experience, Charet is a registered IIROC Portfolio Manager and oversees both transactional and discretionary portfolios for clients. He is a CFA® Charterholder and maintains memberships with the CFA Institute and Calgary CFA Society. Charet also holds the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation, along with a Certificate in Derivative Market Strategies. Prior to joining CIBC Wood Gundy, Charet worked in the Oil and Gas sector, developing a wealth of experience in energy markets. Charet also managed and led a start-up business venture to be listed on the public exchange. Charet is an avid supporter of the Calgary Children's Hospital.

First Vice-President, CFA, Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor, CIBC Wood Gundy

CIBC Wood Gundy Chairman's Council member – the highest honor bestowed upon the firm's Investment Advisors.

James is a graduate of the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance. With over 14 years of experience at CIBC, James focuses on identifying major market themes, analyzing equity and fixed income securities, and monitoring client portfolios to ensure investment policy compliance. James is a CFA Charterholder and maintains memberships with the CFA Institute and Calgary CFA Society. James is a registered IIROC Portfolio Manager and oversees both transactional and discretionary portfolios for clients. Having completed the Derivatives Fundamentals & Options Licensing course, James is fully licensed for trading. Among the numerous charities he assists, James is long-time supporter and donor for Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta.