NAF Modules 1&2: Governance & Finance
AGENDA
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
| 6:30 am – 3:00 pm | REGISTRATION |
| 7:00 am – 8:00 am | BREAKFAST |
| 8:00 am – 3:15 pm | MODULE 1 – GOVERNANCE In this Module participants explore the foundational responsibilities, accountabilities, and governance models that guide a public pension board. This module emphasizes the importance of a high-functioning board culture and addresses key questions about the proper level of board activity, the board’s role in setting strategy and direction, and best practices for attracting and retaining top board talent. By clarifying how board culture directly impacts governance outcomes, Module 1 empowers participants to navigate complex oversight challenges while steering their organizations toward long-term success. |
| 8:00 am – 8:45 am |
Introduction Brad Kelly, Global Governance Advisors |
| 8:45 am – 10:00 am |
Board Governance This session provides an essential overview of the fundamental roles and responsibilities of pension fund boards, focusing on effective governance strategies that enhance oversight and organizational performance. Participants will explore different board governance models and best practices for ethical leadership, risk management, and strategic planning. The session also offers practical guidance on aligning board structures and delegation based on fund size to ensure efficient and impactful governance. SPEAKERS Brad Kelly, Global Governance Advisors Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors |
| 10:00 am – 10:30 am |
Role of the Board (Part 1) This session offers a clear and practical overview of the Board’s role within a pension fund, emphasizing how effective governance supports organizational success. Key topics include the golden rules for board members, distinctions between board and executive responsibilities, and the specific roles and accountabilities of trustees. SPEAKER Nicole Giambarrese, Partner, Ice Miller |
| 10:30 am – 10:45 am |
REFRESHMENT BREAK |
| 10:45 am – 11:30 am |
Role of the Board (Part 2) Part 2 explores the characteristics of a healthy board culture, the dynamics between the board, CEO, and staff, and outlines key do’s and don’ts for board engagement. SPEAKER Nicole Giambarrese, Partner, Ice Miller |
| 11:30 pm – 12:15 pm |
Case Study Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors |
| 12:15 pm – 1:15 pm |
NETWORKING LUNCH |
| 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm | Board Performance This session explores the key elements of high-performing pension fund boards, with a focus on setting clear expectations, conducting effective meetings, and implementing evaluation processes for continuous improvement. Participants will learn best practices for trustee orientation, meeting management, and board assessments, as well as how to use skills matrices to strengthen governance. SPEAKER Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors |
| 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm | Case Study & Guest Speaker Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors |
| 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm | UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS NETWORKING RECEPTION |
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26
| 7:00 am – 1:00 pm | REGISTRATION |
| 7:00 am – 8:00 am | BREAKFAST |
| 8:00 am – 3:30 pm | MODULE 2 – FINANCE Building on these governance principles, Module 2 focuses on the financial expertise required for prudent fund management. Attendees learn how to access and interpret the essential information needed to make informed financial decisions, ensuring their funds remain compliant with investment policies, performance benchmarks, and disclosure standards. Participants also delve into the board’s responsibilities for setting investment policies, allocating assets, mitigating risk, and overseeing transparent financial reporting. Through these two modules, attendees develop a holistic view of how strong governance structures and strategic financial oversight work hand in hand, enabling them to serve confidently, protect stakeholders’ interests, and foster the growth and stability of their public pension funds. |
| 8:00 am – 8:15 am |
Introduction Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors David Sancewich, Meketa Investment Group |
| 8:15 am – 10:30 am |
Investment Approach & ESG Considerations This session explores foundational principles of pension fund investing, emphasizing the board’s fiduciary duty, investment policy development, and asset allocation strategy. Participants will learn how to align risk tolerance, time horizon, and performance objectives with long-term fund goals. The session also highlights the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations, covering best practices in ESG policy integration, proxy voting, manager oversight, and portfolio analysis. SPEAKERS David Sancewich, Meketa Investment Group Judy Chambers, Meketa Investment Group |
| 10:30 am – 10:45 am |
REFRESHMENT BREAK |
| 10:45 am – 11:30 am |
External Advisors This session examines the strategic use of external advisors to support the investment governance and oversight responsibilities of public pension boards. Attendees will gain insights into when and why to engage external consultants, how to evaluate different fee structures, and what defines an effective advisor relationship. The session will also highlight best practices for aligning advisor services with the fund’s mission, fostering transparency, and leveraging specialized expertise to enhance decision-making and resource efficiency. SPEAKERS David Sancewich, Meketa Investment Group Judy Chambers, Meketa Investment Group |
| 11:30 pm – 12:15 pm |
Case Study Brad Kelly, Global Governance Advisors |
| 12:15 pm – 1:15 pm |
NETWORKING LUNCH |
| 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm |
Financial Reporting and Disclosure This session focuses on the critical role of financial reporting and disclosure in public pension governance. Participants will explore best practices for delivering clear, accurate, and timely financial information to stakeholders, including plan sponsors, members, and the public. Topics include key reporting standards, transparency in investment performance and fees, and the importance of aligning disclosures with fiduciary responsibilities. The session will equip trustees with the knowledge to evaluate financial reports effectively and promote confidence in the fund’s oversight and accountability. SPEAKERS David Sancewich, Meketa Investment Group Judy Chambers, Meketa Investment Group |
| 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm |
Alternative Investing This session provides a comprehensive overview of alternative investments—including private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and hedge funds—and their role in enhancing portfolio diversification and long-term returns. Participants will learn how to define strategic goals for alternatives, conduct manager due diligence, and evaluate investment structures. The session also addresses key challenges such as illiquidity, fee transparency, regulatory risk, and stakeholder concerns. Trustees will gain practical tools for implementing and monitoring alternative investments in alignment with fiduciary obligations and risk management objectives. SPEAKERS David Sancewich, Meketa Investment Group Judy Chambers, Meketa Investment Group |
| 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm | Case Study & Guest Speaker Peter Landers, Global Governance Advisors |
CONTINUING EDUCATION (CE) CREDITS
By attending NAF Modules 1&2, you can earn up to 12.75 Continuing Education (CE) hours toward your Accredited Fiduciary (AF) recertification and/or state-mandated continuing education requirements. CE credits are automatically recorded in your NCPERS membership account after the conference, where you can log in to download your CE certificate.
NCPERS is an accredited Minimum Educational Training (MET) sponsor for Texas public retirement systems, as recognized by the State Pension Review Board. This accreditation does not imply an endorsement by the Board regarding the quality of the MET program.
Additionally, NCPERS is a recognized learning provider and continuing education sponsor in multiple states. Attendees are encouraged to check with their state’s requirements to confirm CE eligibility.