AFP DEI Programming

A Focus on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

When diverse voices come together, the treasury and finance profession becomes stronger. Learn how you can align your work with the principles of DEI with programming at AFP 2024.

Take part in these featured events and sessions:

AFP DEI Roundtable
Sunday 2:15–3:30 PM

AFP DEI Reception
Sunday 3:30–4:30 PM


The AFP DEI Initiative is Supported By:

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AFP 2024 Grant Program:

The AFP 2024 Grant Program helps students and professionals, who might not otherwise be able to attend AFP 2024, participate in the conference through complimentary registration. Learn more about the AFP 2024 Grant Program


AFP DEI Roundtable

Fostering Inclusion to Support Engagement, Retention & Performance

Creating and fostering an inclusive work environment has been shown to yield multiple benefits, including increased productivity, improved engagement and reduced turnover—factors essential for treasury and finance teams to thrive. This session explores practical examples and tools needed to support the growth and development of all employees. Attendees gain insights into building and supporting a forward-thinking culture that empowers everyone to excel while feeling valued and respected.

Moderator:

May Vang, CTP
Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Inc.

Panelists:

Laurie Brignac, CFA
Head of Global Liquidity, Invesco

Lisa Davis 
Managing Director, Head of Digital Channels, J.P. Morgan

Sassan Parandeh, CTP
Global Treasurer, ChildFund International


Sessions Supporting DEI Efforts

Capital Markets & Investments Sessions:

Driving Impact: Aligning Corporate Sustainability into Treasury
Corporate treasury practitioners are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, encompassing ESG investing and DE&I initiatives. Recently, many have shifted to implementing and aligning their treasury practice with their company’s overall sustainability strategy and philosophy. Some have deployed strategies voluntarily while others have responded to pressure from stakeholders– in both situations, sustainability continues to be a focal point for Treasury teams in the US and beyond. This discussion examines the various approaches to move from philosophy to implementation.

Navigating Sustainability from Financing to Investment Opportunities
As companies increase their sustainability commitments, practitioners can play a crucial role in advancing sustainability goals, securing funding, navigating regulatory frameworks, and reducing potential environmental, social, and governance risks. This session offers insights from the investor, corporate practitioner and sustainable debt issuer presents perspectives on sustainability financing and investment opportunities. Discussion topics include sustainable bond market evolution, how and when green bonds are considered in a portfolio, and best practices for issuing sustainable debt. Real-world challenges are explored, providing actionable perspectives along the value chain of the sustainable debt market.

Driving Impact: Aligning Corporate Sustainability into Treasury
Corporate treasury practitioners are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, encompassing ESG investing and DE&I initiatives. Recently, many have shifted to implementing and aligning their treasury practice with their company’s overall sustainability strategy and philosophy. Some have deployed strategies voluntarily while others have responded to pressure from stakeholders– in both situations, sustainability continues to be a focal point for Treasury teams in the US and beyond. This discussion examines the various approaches to move from philosophy to implementation.

Career Development Session:

The ROI of DEI: Harnessing Data Analytics to Create Inclusion
Utilizing data analytics to foster inclusivity offers many benefits, including enhancing decision-making by providing insights into diversity and inclusion metrics such as representation, employee engagement, and leadership effectiveness. It enables organizations to identify gaps in talent management, improve retention, and promotion practices, and address biases in hiring, promoting fairness and equity. Inclusive workplaces are also better attuned to diverse customer needs, as data analytics provides insights for tailored products and services. This session emphasizes the impact of leveraging data analytics and industry-best practices to cultivate inclusive leadership and a positive workplace culture.