Just a Glimpse of What's Ahead.



With new measures, shifting tariff policies, and political changes underway in Canada, 2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for the middle market. These developments are influencing how businesses approach growth, investment, and cross-border M&A - creating both complexity for dealmakers and entrepreneurs alike.

 

The 2025 WestConnect Middle Market Growth Conference will bring together leaders from across the deal community to share insights, celebrate successful M&A transactions, and explore what's next. Featuring a macroeconomic outlook from a top Canadian economist, the agenda highlights key trends shaping private M&A, candid stories from entrepreneurs, and strategies to elevate performance in today's market.

Whether you're driving deals, growing a business, or advising clients, this is your opportunity to gain clarity and build relationships with peers across the deal community. Join us for a day of meaningful conversation, expert perspectives, and high-impact networking.

 

How is the Agenda Shaping Up?

 

Our program will introduce fresh perspectives and actionable strategies tailored to today's market. Stay tuned—session details, speaker line-up, and full agenda will be announced in the coming weeks!

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Keynote
Join us for an insightful fireside chat with Judith Menard, Executive Vice President at National Bank, as she shares her perspective on the landmark acquisition of Canadian Western Bank. This session will explore National Bank’s strategic vision behind the transaction, expected operational synergies, and integration priorities as the two institutions come together. Judith will share the collaborative approach developed by teams at National Bank and CWB, offering insight into how strategy and execution were aligned through cross-functional teamwork and thoughtful leadership. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from one of Canada’s top banking executives on a deal that’s reshaping the financial landscape.

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Dealmaking in the Resources Sector: Charting a Course Through Uncertainty

Canada's rich natural resources have long been a focal point for dealmaking activity. However, investors face challenges in today's volatile policy environment. Join us for an engaging discussion on the latest dealmaking trends in the resource sectors, including how dealmakers are navigating geopolitical uncertainty and the energy transition and catalyzing Indigenous investment in natural resource projects. 

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Macroeconomic Update: Robert Kavcic, Director and Senior Economist at BMO Capital Markets, returns to provide a timely and insightful macroeconomic update. With continued uncertainty around interest rates, inflation trends, and global trade dynamics, Robert will break down what these developments mean for Canada's economic outlook and the broader business environment. Known for his clear and practical insights, Robert will also touch on regional trends and how market sentiment is shifting as we move through 2025. This session is a must-attend for anyone navigating strategic decisions in today's evolving economy.

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Private M&A Update: Join Sven O. Milelli (Partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP) and Samantha Thompson (Managing Director & Partner, Deals - PwC Canada) for an insightful discussion on the state of the private M&A in Western Canada. The presentation will begin with an overview of global M&A trends affecting the market, then they will share key observations on local deal flow, valuations, and the evolving buyer landscape. Learn how sellers are adjusting to current market conditions and what strategic and financial buyers are prioritizing in today's environment. The session will also touch on legal and regulatory considerations, and what to watch for in the months ahead.

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M&A Practice Points - "The People Process"

Our panelists are going to dig into and share their specific perspectives on the importance of “The People Process” in an M&A transaction. Specifically, the group will discuss the critical nature of ensuring that the people dynamics of a transaction are not overlooked (i.e. succession planning, management involvement, transparency, alignment, etc.). 
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​From Vision to Value | Insights from the Deal Table
Seasoned dealmakers share their stories behind headline transactions. From navigating negotiations and overcoming unexpected roadblocks, they’ll unpack the biggest surprises encountered in M&A, post-close realities, and how those lessons shaped their approach. Expect hard-won wisdom, practical takeaways, and fresh perspectives on leadership under pressure, managing risk, and the role trusted deal advisors played in helping bring these transactions across the finish line. Speakers include Jaclyn McPhadden, Tamsin Plaxton, Sarah Bundy, and Kristi Miller, moderated by Elaine Tham.

 

High Performance—Lessons From the Ice to the Boardroom: From the ice of the Winter Olympics to the challenges of the boardroom, this unique session delivers an inspiring journey of resilience, perspective, and the power of choice. Drawing on the unforgettable experience of representing Canada at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, Cheryl shares transformative lessons on performing under pressure, embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, and valuing relationships as the true currency of achievement. With heartfelt storytelling, humour, and wisdom, this talk will leave you empowered to take control of your narrative, redefine failure, and lead with integrity and impact—whether you're chasing gold on the ice or tackling challenges in your career. Get ready to be inspired to pick up the pen and write your own story!

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