October Career Development Dialogue with ATB Financial

This month, we hosted an engaging and thought-provoking Career Development Dialogue with Curtis Stange, CEO of ATB Financial, and Allison Comeau, VP of strategy and growth, ATB Advisory Services. The session offered deep insights into ATB’s ongoing journey to address systemic issues and create a culture where everyone can thrive. It was an inspiring look at how ATB Financial is committed to championing diversity and inclusion, not only through policies but by fostering a culture of allyship and accountability.

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Curtis Stange on breaking barriers and driving systemic change

As the CEO of ATB, Stange opened the discussion by sharing his experience leading change. He emphasized the importance of holding the organization accountable for equity initiatives, noting the progress made but also acknowledging there is still work to be done.

One of ATB’s most notable achievements is closing the compensation gap. ATB’s focus on equity is not just a box to tick under ESG goals; it’s about creating sustainable diversity of thought. Stange explained, “Diversity allows for better, albeit trickier, conversations, but the end result is always more impactful.” This diversity is reflected in the leadership team, where women now make up 50 per cent of senior leadership and board members. This is a significant jump from earlier years when only one in nine women were part of the executive team. He noted that when women are promoted into senior roles, it sends a powerful message to others in the organization that they too can achieve leadership positions.

Stange also discussed the practical steps ATB is taking to further inclusion. The company has revamped its recruitment practices using gender decoders to ensure job postings are not unconsciously skewed toward men. Additionally, 96 per cent of ATB’s business bankers have completed gender bias training, with plans to extend this training to wealth advisors and other areas of the bank.

Allison Comeau on wealth transfer and community empowerment

Comeau took the conversation in another exciting direction, discussing the shifting dynamics of wealth transfer in Canada. With economic challenges and rising costs, more and more families are opting to transfer their wealth earlier to assist the younger generation. “30 per cent of new home purchases in Canada have down payments that come from someone other than the homebuyer” she noted, illustrating a growing trend of intergenerational financial support.

This shift has positioned initiatives like W by ATB to play a critical role in empowering communities. W by ATB aims to help women business owners and their families navigate these changing financial landscapes, ensuring that wealth transfer is not just a transaction but a way to build stronger communities.

Stange didn’t shy away from acknowledging historical issues in the finance industry, stating, “Bankers have been jerks for a long time,” and emphasizing that ATB is working hard to change that by focusing on what women in finance actually need from a workplace for everyone to thrive. ATB is clearly working to create a more equitable financial future, setting a strong example for what it means to lead inclusively in today’s evolving world.

If you missed this event, keep an eye out for future Career Development Dialogues, or send us some suggestions to hello@axisconnects.com!

Axis Connects by the Numbers

Since 2019, we’ve been helping advance women professionally and championing gender equity in the workplace. In just five years, we’ve welcomed over 5,000 members, supporting women on their journey to fulfill their professional potential. Let’s take a look at some of the inspiring feedback and data we’ve received from our members over the past year.

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Who are our members?

According to the 2024 member survey, our membership reflects mid- to senior-level roles in different industries across Calgary. 40 per cent of members are aged 25-44, and 34 per cent are in the 45-54 range. And while most members identify as women, men and non-binary individuals also make up the membership. The conversation on gender diversity in the workplace involves everyone, especially those in positions to make change happen.

Our mission

In our 2024 focus group report, dozens of female professionals in Calgary expressed their views on the barriers women face in the workplace. With many women still facing hurdles in career advancement, our mission is to tackle these issues and work to address the underrepresentation of women in leadership. In Canada, women account for less than 34 per cent of leadership roles, and in Alberta, that number dips as low as 17 per cent. By identifying the specific challenges women face, we hope to implement strategies to create more equitable spaces.

      • 86 per cent of participants emphasized the importance of formal mentorship and informal socializing to grow networks and sponsorship opportunities. Yet, it’s been reported that many women are not invited to participate in such activities.
      • 41 per cent of participants expressed difficulty balancing their career and family obligations and felt women were at a disadvantage in this area.
      • 66 per cent of participants feel there’s a lack of flexibility in the workplace, a major factor women take into account when considering a position.

Participants also listed the difference in how male and female characteristics are valued, pay inequity, lack of female leaders and promotion bias as other factors that lessen the opportunities of professional potential for women.

Our impact

When asked why they joined Axis Connect, 47 per cent of members said it was to further develop as a professional and 35 per cent to expand their network.

Our work is making a difference — helping to address equity in the workplace, connecting women professionals and helping women advance their careers.

    • 90 per cent of members are very or somewhat likely to recommend Axis to others.
    • 84 per cent think Axis is fulfilling its mission well or very well.

Join thousands of other women accelerating their careers and become a member today.

3 Reasons Why the Leadership Forum is a Must-Attend

On November 13, 2024, the Axis Connects Leadership Forum will bring together 500 mid-to senior-level corporate professionals at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. Here’s what to expect.

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Hear from inspiring keynote speakers

Every year, the forum hosts some of Canada’s most prominent leaders to share insights, knowledge and experience to help inform and inspire attendees. This year, topics include the future of leadership, sports, politics and more.

Former Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper will discuss the impact the U.S. election will have on Canada, CEO and executive transition practice lead Dr. Ty Wiggins will share insights from his recent book, The New CEO, and Zabeen Hirji, executive advisor on the Future of Work, will explore leadership in a changing landscape. Meghan Donohoe and Sabrina Sullivan will also lead an interactive session on leadership for the future.

Russell Reimer, Alyson Walker and Olympic medalist Diana Matheson will discuss the business of women’s sports, and two trailblazing women in leadership, Dr. Martha Piper and Dr. Indira Samarasekera, will share their experiences breaking down barriers to become the first female presidents of two of Canada’s largest and most prestigious research universities.

Learn and interact at tailored workshops

Attendees can engage in breakout sessions where speakers take a deep dive into specific topics. The workshops offer intimate settings with opportunities to connect through individually tailored conversations.

Choose from an interactive session on negotiation and conflict types with Negotiations Collective CEO Joanna Shea, an insightful look at what’s next for Alberta with Cristina Lopez and Gitane De Silva or a discussion on the gender gap in data with Janine Rogan, author of The Pink Tax, and My Normative CEO Danika Kelly.

Network, network, network!

In a room of people looking to take their leadership to the next level, the forum is designed to make networking easy. Get to know people who have faced or are facing similar professional hurdles. Chat with professionals across the city during the networking cocktail hour, discover how other leaders have overcome barriers or catch up with colleagues between speakers.

Join hundreds of like-minded women on their journey to professional growth and leadership potential and expand your network at this year’s leadership forum.

If you can’t attend the whole day, remember that you can still join our networking event!

Learn more at axisconnects.com/axis-leadership-forum/.

Axis Connects Bookclub: October 2024

Join the Axis leadership team in our inaugural book club!

We’re excited to kick off our new digital book recommendations, straight from the Axis Connects group chat! Up first is Nerve: Lessons on Leadership from Two Women Who Went First by Indira Samarasekera and Martha Piper.

These inspiring leaders—former presidents and vice-chancellors of the University of Alberta and The University of British Columbia —will join us at the upcoming Leadership Forum, powered by ATB Financial! Their book shares powerful insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities women face in leadership. Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or already paving the way, Nerve offers valuable lessons from two trailblazers in academia and beyond.

Who knows? You might finish this weekend thinking, “This book changed my life.”

Happy reading! Comment below if you’re joining us for this inspiring read!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Nerve: Lessons on Leadership from Two Women Who Went First Hardcover 

Candid and insightful perspectives on the dilemmas and opportunities women confront as they take on leadership positions.

Martha Piper and Indira Samarasekera had vastly different career paths on their way to becoming the first (and so far only) female presidents of two of Canada’s largest and most respected research universities and directors of some of the nation’s largest market cap companies, but what they had in common was their gender, their willingness to take risks when leadership opportunities presented themselves, and a work ethic second to none. It was not always easy, pretty, or fair, but it was always the result of choosing to answer the call to lead. A call that in the authors’ view, too many women still turn away from.

In Nerve: Lessons on Leadership from Two Women Who Went First, Piper and Samarasekera share their personal and professional stories, offering guidance for women leaders of every age and at every stage of their career. Nerve is a must-read for any woman who is leading today, considering leading, or thinking about life after leading.

Community Achievement Award: Calgarian of the Year presented to Heather Culbert

Exciting News!

Axis Connects is thrilled to celebrate our incredible co-founder and board chair, Heather Culbert, who has been honoured with the prestigious Community Achievement Award: Calgarian of the Year!

Heather’s impact on Calgary is nothing short of extraordinary. After nearly three decades in the oil and gas sector, she dedicated herself to community service, leaving an indelible mark on our city. Her leadership and innovation have driven countless initiatives, enhancing the lives of Calgarians.

From her pivotal roles as chair of SAIT’s Board of Governors and co-chair of the Promising Futures Campaign to her relentless efforts with Board Ready Women and Axis Connects, Heather’s dedication to advancing women in business is unparalleled. She has also made significant contributions as a trustee for the Alberta Cancer Foundation and as past chair for United Way of Calgary and Area, among many other roles.

One of Heather’s most significant achievements is her leadership in the OWN.CANCER campaign, raising an astounding $225 million towards the new Arthur JE Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre. This centre, set to open this year, will revolutionize cancer treatment in North America, thanks to Heather’s tireless efforts and the support of many volunteers and donors.

Join us in congratulating Heather Culbert on this well-deserved recognition! Her passion, vision, and dedication are truly inspirational.

Global News Calgary: CIWB Highlight

Global News Calgary covers the 2024 Calgary Influential Women in Business Awards.

“The community should be very, very proud of the amazing role models we have in Calgary. Calgary is a true enabler, and that is why this is so exciting. Calgary corporations are getting behind this initiative, and it’s helping our community grow,” remarks Heather Culbert, Axis Connects Co-founder and board chair.

Reflecting on her achievement as the recipient of the Large Enterprise Award, Doreen Cole expresses, “Winning this award to me means that I am given the opportunity to represent the many successful women that are part of large business in the energy sector here in Calgary.”

Wendy Beauchesne, recipient of the Social Enterprise Award, shares her thoughts, stating, “As a winner, I do think it is a reflection of the project I get to be a part of, which is the new cancer centre opening in less than 6 months. It is truly going to be a cancer centre built for the community by the community, and if this is a reflection of that, then I am very, very proud.”

CTV News Calgary: CIWB Highlight

Coverage of the 2024 Calgary Influential Women in Business Awards by CTV News Calgary.

Hear from Doreen Cole, recipient of the Large Enterprise Award, as she shares her perspective on the promising future for women in Calgary. In Doreen’s words, “There are so many women who are accomplishing major deals, projects, investments, opportunities, and pursuing thoughts all across the province and very early in their careers“.

“The Awards are so important to profile exceptional women and male champions in our city,” says Heather Culbert, Co-founder and board chair of Axis Connects.”So people in our city can see it. If they can see it, they can be it!”

‘A slow-moving machine’: Calgary’s top businesswomen taking charge as gender gaps prevail

Axis Connects and two CIWB Award winners, Lorraine Mitchelmore and Jennifer Massig, had the opportunity to speak with Matt Scace Calgary Herald yesterday on gender parity in leadership. We are proud to be celebrating female leaders and male allies at the CIWB Awards, Presented by National Bank Financial and TransAlta who are committed to changing the status quo and advancing diversity in leadership roles.

“This year’s recipients have “set a tone and pace of strong leadership and haven’t backed away from challenges, and have addressed them head-on,” said Nuvyn Peters, CEO of Axis Connects”

Join us in congratulating this year’s winners, who will be honoured at the gala this evening: Lorraine Mitchelmore, Wendy Beauchesne, Jennifer Massig, Doreen Cole P.Eng. ICD.D, Alicia Quesnel and Bryan de Lottinville

CIWBAwards2024

READ HERE

Amplifying Diverse Voices: Advancing Women in Leadership

Today on Collisions YYCAmber Griffith had the pleasure of being back on the show to share the latest from Axis Connects! Join us in championing gender diversity and leadership equality at our flagship event of the year: the Calgary Influential Women in Business Awards, Presented by National Bank Financial and TransAlta! Last chance to grab your ticket for tomorrow: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2024-calgary-influential-women-in-business-ciwb-awards-tickets-872174416157?aff=Axiswebsite

Calgary Chamber: Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Forum

 

Last night, Axis Connects proudly supported the Calgary Chamber in presenting the sold-out Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Forum, a pivotal event sparking insightful dialogue and actionable strategies. As a supporting sponsor, we were thrilled to contribute to an evening dedicated to fostering positive change within corporate environments.

The forum featured an esteemed panel including Alex Gysen, TD Regional Manager of 2SLGBTQ+ Business Development in the Prairies, Daniel Monzon, Entrepreneur and Founder of Catapult Startups, and Rachel Wade, Director of DEI & Employee Experience at Alberta Investment Management Corporation. Guided by Brian Lanier, Founder & CEO of The Leaders Circle, these passionate panelists shared invaluable insights into cultivating diverse and inclusive workplaces.

Throughout the discussion, attendees gained a deeper understanding of the profound connection between diversity and organizational performance, the importance of intersectionality, and the transformative potential of inclusive hiring practices. Panelists underscored the significance of becoming employers of choice for immigrants and underrepresented communities, emphasizing the competitive advantage that diversity brings to businesses.

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