CAUBO provides a wide variety of professional development offerings for the benefit of its members, including our annual conference, online courses, trend talks, workshops, and webinars. We also produce a Guide to Communications in a University Context, available online in its entirety. Click here to view a list of on-demand webinars.
Upcoming Events
FREE Webinar: Rethinking the Future of HR in Higher Education: Part 3 – Compensation Insights and AI Innovation - May 19, 2026, 1:00-2:30 PM ET
* Please note that this session will be delivered in English only
Date and Time: Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 1:00-2:30 PM ET
This session will explore the latest key findings from Mercer’s recent Post-Secondary Institution policy and compensation survey, featuring insights on faculty leadership compensation, total rewards offerings, and pay-for-performance approaches. All of which are key components for driving a compelling Employee Value Proposition.
The session will also dive into the transformative power of AI and automation, and spotlight real-world examples of how these technologies are revolutionizing performance management and reshaping HR processes. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how AI-driven innovation is unlocking new possibilities for talent management in higher education!
There will be opportunities for interaction and focused discussions during a Q&A segment following the presentation.
This webinar is only open to authorized contacts of institutions that are members of FBS/ CAUBO.
This CAUBO PD activity may count towards credits for accreditation programs and designations in your field. Visit the CAUBO website for more details.
Our Panelists include:
![]() | Mohamad Bizri Senior Principal, Toronto Mercer Mohamad has over 12 years of compensation and talent management consulting experience across a variety of industries and sectors. He regularly partners with universities across Canada to design and implement rewards programs. |
![]() | Michael Petrucco Partner, Career Toronto Practice Leader, and Client Relationship Manager Mercer Michael is responsible for Mercer’s Career consulting practice in Toronto, with over 18 years of advising clients around Rewards, Talent, HR Transformation, Change & Communication, and Digital enablement. He oversees the service delivery on a variety of strategic accounts, ensuring proactive support that links the organizations talent management strategy to their business objectives. Michael’s overall focus is to drive a compelling Employee Value Proposition through a Total Rewards offering that supports the attraction & retention goals for each one of his clients. Over the last 15 years at Mercer he’s worked with dynamic organizations to optimize talent and realize cost efficiencies. Michael’s technical knowledge extends to managing benefit plans, as well as strategic involvement with HR management, broad based and sales compensation plans, and pension design engagements. Michael holds a B.A. with a major in economics, and a certification in marketing management. He has also completed the Group Benefits Associate (GBA) designation along with being Life licensed. |
![]() | Jessica Williamson Senior Principal, Ottawa Mercer Jessica has over 12 years of compensation and talent management experience, focused on the broader public sector. She recently returned to Mercer after leading a compensation team in industry. Jessica leads our Canadian public sector vertical and spearheaded our new Canadian post-secondary institution survey. |
Moderator:
![]() | Geoff Williams Field representative, Faculty Bargaining Services FBS/CAUBO Geoff brings a diverse background in human resources and academic labour relations experience to FBS transitioning from Director of Faculty Relations at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN). As Director, Geoff led the collective bargaining process with the respective academic unions. Geoff also has in excess of 30 years' experience representing employers in rights and interest arbitration. He is a regular per course instructor at MUN’s Faculty of Business Administration in the areas of labour relations, collective agreement administration and arbitration, and collective bargaining. |
FREE Webinar: CAUBO Student Housing – Webinar Series: Part 4 – From Vision to Reality: Design, Construction & Operations - May 26, 2026, 1:00-2:00 PM ET
*Please note that this webinar will be offered in English and is open only to employees of Canadian universities and colleges.
Date and Time: Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 1:00-2:00 PM ET
This final webinar in the series shifts focus from planning and procurement to delivery and long-term success. It explores how design, construction, and operations decisions shape student experience, financial performance, and institutional outcomes over the life of a residence.
The session will examine how institutions engage students and stakeholders in the design process, balance cost with sustainability and accessibility, and manage construction risks such as delays and cost escalation. Panelists will also discuss operational models—self-managed, contracted, or hybrid—and the metrics used to assess performance, service quality, and affordability.
This concluding webinar provides practical insights for institutions moving from concept to occupancy, ensuring that student housing projects deliver lasting value for both students and institutions.
This CAUBO PD activity may count towards credits for accreditation programs and designations in your field. Visit the CAUBO website for more details.
Presenters:
![]() | Tariq Al-idrissi Vice-President, Finance and Administration Trent University Tariq Al-idrissi is the Vice-President, Finance and Administration at Trent University. We was the former Associate Vice President of IT. In addition to his role at Trent, Tariq is a member of the CUCCIO Cybersecurity Benchmarking Committee and is a member of the Ontario Education Collaborative Marketplace (OECM) Customer Council. Tariq has served as; a member of the CANARIE CIO Advisory Group, the Chair of the Canadian University Council of Chief Information Officers (CUCCIO), a member of the Compute Canada Cybersecurity Task Force and as Chair of the Ontario University Council of Chief Information Officers (OUCCIO). In 2019, Tariq was the only Canadian CIO selected to the Educause IT Issues Panel. Tariq’s career has spanned the last twenty years in higher education. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree and a Master of Science in Management Degree from Lakehead University. While for the past twenty years, Tariq's experience has been primarily based in IT and educational technologies, he has also taught as a Sessional Lecturer for the Faculty of Business at Lakehead University for over ten years. |
![]() | Salman Hirani Associate Vice-President, Real Estate & Partnerships McMaster University Salman Hirani is Associate Vice-President, Real Estate and Partnerships at McMaster University, where he leads strategic real estate development and partnership initiatives that support the university’s long-term growth and community impact. He brings more than 20 years of experience in commercial real estate, asset management, development, and strategic partnerships across the institutional and private sectors. Prior to joining McMaster, Salman held senior leadership roles at Choice Properties REIT, where he was part of the leadership team responsible for the company’s largest income producing portfolio. He joined Choice after several years at a pension fund advisor, making strategic investments in commercial real estate. Throughout his career, he has led mixed-use developments, public-private partnerships, and complex real estate initiatives that bring together institutions, governments, and private-sector partners. His work focuses on creating vibrant, sustainable spaces that foster innovation, collaboration, and economic development. |
![]() | Brad MacIsaac Vice-President, Administration Ontario Tech University Brad MacIsaac is the Vice President Administration at Ontario Tech University where he is responsible for oversight and accountability for a broad range of institutional services, among them: finance, information technology, facilities and ancillary services. Prior to that MacIsaac served as Assistant Vice-President, Planning and Analysis since 2008, overseeing a period of substantial growth at the university, including development of Ontario Tech’s Strategic Plan, Strategic Mandate Agreement and joint Campus Master Plan outlining the vision of the university’s physical footprint. |
Moderator:
![]() | Edward Ng Partner, Infrastructure Advisory, Transactions & Corporate Finance Ernst & Young, LLP As a Partner in the Infrastructure Advisory practice at EY, Edward focuses on providing transaction support and lead advisory services in the execution of infrastructure financing and public-private partnerships (P3s). He has over 20 years of related experience and has been involved in all aspects of transactions, including development of business cases and feasibility studies, procurement design, conducting commercial and financial evaluations, constructing complex financial models, risk assessment, and financial structuring. Edward has been involved in over 40 infrastructure projects with a combined value of more than $50.0 billion. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Toronto. He is also a CFA charter holder. |
CAUBO 2026 in St. John’s!
Join us for CAUBO’s Annual Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Registration for in-person attendance Is Now Closed
On-Demand Pass Still Available (Institutional Members Only)
From June 15-17, 2026, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador is the place to be for the 2026 CAUBO Annual Conference!
Connect with colleagues from across Canada, hear from inspiring keynote speakers, dive into timely functional and concurrent sessions, and build meaningful connections with peers and sector partners.
Whether you’re looking to solve challenges, share best practices, or gain new perspectives, there’s something for everyone.
One of North America’s oldest cities, St. John’s wears its history proudly—but it’s the city’s vibrant personality that truly stands out. From the brightly coloured row houses to the lively locals, every corner bursts with character and charm. Located on the easternmost edge of the continent, St. John’s is your urban launchpad to explore dramatic coastlines, iconic landmarks, and a city as curious as it is captivating. Steeped in tradition and fuelled by creativity, St. John’s is Newfoundland and Labrador’s cultural heartbeat. Here, a rich past meets a thriving present—where music, art, architecture, and cuisine collide in unforgettable ways. For more than 500 years, visitors have been greeted with warmth and wit. Don’t be surprised if a casual chat turns into a legendary story—because in St. John’s, hospitality isn’t just a custom, it’s an art form.
Visit the CAUBO 2026 website for the full conference program, information about this year’s functional seminars, details about social events, accommodations, travel options, and tourism.
We can’t wait to see you in St. John’s from June 15-17, 2026, for CAUBO 2026!
CAUBO Leader Program: Mid-October 2025 to mid-June 2026
Thank you for your interest in CAUBO Leader. Registration for this course offering is now closed as we have filled all available spaces.
Click here to add your name to a waiting list now. Please be sure to include your full name, title, institution, and contact information. You will receive an email extending you priority registration for the next offering of this course.
We are pleased to announce that applications are now open for CAUBO Leader, a purpose-built leadership development initiative tailored for mid- to senior-level administrators in key operational and administrative areas across Canadian universities.
Now more than ever, strong, collaborative leadership is needed to navigate the complexity and change facing the higher education sector. CAUBO Leader is designed to empower participants to lead with purpose, confidence, and impact – supporting them in driving positive change within their institutions.
Spanning eight months, the program brings together a dynamic, supportive cohort of peers. Through shared learning, reflection, and practice-based exploration, participants will deepen their leadership capabilities and grow as confident, adaptive leaders.
Apply now to take part in a transformative journey that will elevate your individual leadership potential and contribute to the advancement of HE in Canada.
Applicants will be subject to a selection process. Space will be limited to 20 participants.
Program Highlights
This eight-month program features a range of components; each designed to enrich the participant experience and address key dimensions of leadership development:
Core Modules
- Leadership in HE and Beyond: Examines global trends, their impact on higher education, and the sector’s unique leadership context
- The Authentic and Engaged Leader: Explores how leaders foster meaningful dialogue, build influence, and grow self-awareness
Online Learning & Peer Exchanges
- Participant Provocations: Individuals share leadership insights and experiences from their own context
- Strategic Impact Groups (SIGs): Small cohorts tackle complex, real-world challenges facing the sector
- Leadership Exchange: Participants observe and engage with peers locally or virtually to explore leadership in practice
- Reconnects: Between-module sessions that deepen cohort connections and support ongoing collaboration within SIGs
Applicant Selection Criteria
Participants will be selected based on the following:
- Professional Experience and Role: Mid- to senior-level administrators (e.g., AVP, Senior Director, Controller) with significant institutional responsibilities in operational or administrative areas.
- Motivation, Learning Readiness, and Commitment: Strong personal motivation, openness to reflection and growth, and full availability to engage in all program components.
- Contribution to Peer Learning: Willingness to engage actively, share experiences, and learn alongside others in a collaborative, cohort-based environment.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Representation from diverse roles, regions, institutions, and lived experiences to enrich learning and build sector-wide capacity.
Applicants must include an endorsement to participate in the program from their supervisor as part of the application process.
We encourage all eligible CAUBO members to apply and take advantage of this exciting opportunity to grow as a leader and contribute meaningfully to your institution and the sector.
Please refer to the CAUBO Leader application page for full details and submission instructions.
Application deadline: September 15, 2025
If you have any questions or need additional clarification, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at events@caubo.ca.
Other Events of Interest
As events become available, CAUBO will provide updated listing of professional development events hosted by other organizations that CAUBO members may find to be of interest. These listings are submitted by the hosting organization and are not endorsed by CAUBO. If you are hosting an event that you would like to see listed here please contact CAUBO’s Professional Development Coordinator Kristine Serjak at kserjak@caubo.ca.
In an effort to expand professional development opportunities, CAUBO has partnered with NACUBO and its Eastern chapter, EACUBO, to offer reciprocal member pricing on events. Visit www.nacubo.org and https://www.eacubo.org/ for a list of upcoming events. If you see an activity that you would like to participate in, click here for details on the discount codes and registration instructions.
Earn Accreditation Credits from CAUBO Professional Development
Members who participate in CAUBO’s professional development offerings can now ask to have them applied as credits towards some accreditation programs and designations in their respective fields. We have engaged with a number of accrediting organizations who have acknowledged CAUBO as an offeror of professional development that may be eligible for their programs.
How do I acquire my credits?
Each individual member will be responsible for assessing whether or not the PD activities you take part in are relevant to your work and/or education requirements. If you believe they are, you must file directly with the specific accreditation body to earn your credits. Generally, the receipt or email confirmation originally provided by CAUBO can serve as proof of registration. Please contact the respective organizations directly to find out more about how to receive your credits.
Which accreditation bodies are participating?
The list of accreditation programs and organizations that may provide continuing education credit for CAUBO professional development activities is below. This list may be incomplete, so if you know of others that should be added, please let us know by emailing kserjak@caubo.ca.
- Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
- American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
- Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA)
- Association For Supply Chain Management
- Board of Canadian Registered Safety Professionals (BCRSP)
- Board of Certified Safety Professionals
- Canada’s Association of I.T. Professionals (CIPS)
- Canadian Institute of Traffic & Transportation (CITT)
- Canadian Payroll Association
- CFA Institute
- Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR)
- CIM Chartered Managers Canada
- CPA Canada
- The Institute of Internal Auditors Canada
- ISACA
- Institute for Supply Management in the US
- LEED Green Associate/LEED AP
- National Institute of Government Procurement (NIGP)
- Ontario Public Buyers Association (OPBA)
- Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc. (RIMS)
- Supply Chain Canada
If you have questions about this accreditation initiative, please contact Kris Serjak at events@caubo.ca.










