Future Proofing Public Sector Finance – Leading Through Uncertainty

Dr. Wendy Cukier is a professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Ted Rogers School of Management, Founder and Academic Director of the Diversity Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University, Academic Director of the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) and Academic Research Director of the Future Skills Centre. She is the former Vice President of Research and Innovation. She co-authored the bestseller “Innovation Nation: Canadian Leadership from Java to Jurassic Park” and is a leader in disruptive technologies and innovation with more than 200 publications. Launched in 1999, the Diversity Institute now has 80 full time research staff, 10 hubs across the country, and 300 partners, undertaking research and programs to advance growth, sustainability, innovation and inclusion. DI has led EDI strategy development and projects across sectors – clients include government departments and agencies including Fed Dev, the Superclusters, Finance Canada, ISED, ESDC and OSFI, as well as the cities of Markham, Mississauga and Vaughan, large corporations such as Rogers Communications, Starbucks and MLSE, as well as non profits and more than 400 Small and Medium Enterprises. Wendy has received many academic, industry and community awards for her work and was named one of the “100 alumni who shaped the century” by the University of Toronto. She holds an MA, MBA (Toronto), a PhD in Information Systems (Schulich, York) and two honorary doctorates (Concordia, Laval).

David-Alexandre Brassard is the Chief Economist at CPA Canada and a sought-after commentator on economic issues. With a strong grasp of public policy and a deep understanding of Canada’s role in the global economy, he provides timely, data-driven insights that inform decision-makers across sectors. He regularly contributes to national conversations on inflation, fiscal policy, and economic resilience, helping Canadians make sense of complex economic trends. His bilingual expertise and clear communication style make him a trusted voice in media, government, and business circles alike.

Alex Coleman is the Chief Information Officer and Assistant Deputy Minister for the Children, Youth and Social Services I+IT Cluster in the Ontario Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement. He is a global award-winning technology and business executive with 25 years of strategic leadership experience. Alex has a robust track record of implementing complex multi-disciplinary statewide, national, and international technology solutions with various stakeholders for a diverse range of industries. These industries include consulting, healthcare, insurance, financial and public sectors. His approach to navigating complex changes is by emphasizing the human aspect to ensure smooth transitions and sustainable growth. With multiple degrees in Architecture, Technology plus various other certifications, Alex has demonstrated the ability to balance the science of management with the art of leadership and organizational culture with a focus on belonging and innovation. Alex is a respected steward leader and speaker whose work has earned multiple accolades, including Global CIO Top 100 and BPTN Technology Executive of the Year.