Expert Panel Talks: A Friend with Benefits

Description

Join Michael Carss and Danielle Roberge-Soke from Wiegers Financial & Benefits for “A Friend with Benefits”, a practical and engaging session on how to make group benefits and retirement plans work for your employees — and your business.  You’ll learn how aligning health and retirement strategies can protect your team today, secure their future, and strengthen your company culture.  Using real-world examples and a few pop culture analogies, Michael and Danielle will show how the right “friends” can save money, reduce risk, and make your plans feel organized and predictable.
Attendees will walk away with actionable insights to improve plan design, manage costs, and position their business as an employer of choice — all in a relatable, approachable format that goes beyond the usual insurance talk.

Key Themes: 

• The Value of Trusted Advisors
• Benefits = Today, Retirement = Tomorrow
• Wellness and Employee Engagement
• Business Owner Perspective
• Finance & Risk Management
• Culture & Fit
• Talent Attraction & Retention
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Michael Carss, B. Comm.
Director, Innovation & Growth

Michael Carss is Director, Innovation & Growth in the Benefits division at Wiegers Financial & Benefits.  He joined the firm in 2022 following a 14-year career with Saskatchewan Blue Cross, where he served as a Senior Account Executive.  

Michael partners with organizations ranging from 3 to 1,000 employees to design group benefits plans that are practical, sustainable, and aligned with today’s evolving workforce.  Known for his strategic mindset and approachable style, he helps Saskatchewan employers navigate an increasingly complex benefits landscape with confidence. 

He currently serves on the Saskatchewan Council of the Canadian Pension & Benefits Institute and recent Chair of the Saskatchewan Regional Conference.  Michael holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, with a focus in Human Resources. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, curling, and spending time along the river with family and friends.

Danielle Roberge-Soke, B. Comm.
Group Retirement Consultant

Danielle Roberge-Soke is a Group Retirement Consultant at Wiegers Financial & Benefits, where she specializes in designing and advising on tailored retirement solutions for businesses across Saskatchewan and beyond.  Since joining the firm in 2016, she has built a reputation for her technical expertise, strategic insight, and ability to make complex retirement and pension plans easy to understand for both employers and employees.

Danielle works closely with employers to implement and manage group retirement programs that align with business objectives while supporting employee financial wellness.  Her client-focused approach has made her a trusted advisor to a diverse range of organizations.

She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the Edwards School of Business, is life licensed, and is currently pursuing her Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) designation. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys time at the lake, golfing, and spending time with her husband and their dog.