Few issues in Canadian history have ignited both panic and unity quite like Trump’s 25 per cent tariffs. The decision sent shockwaves through the nation, fueling fears about job losses, economic instability, and Canada’s deep reliance on its largest trading partner. But beyond the headlines, what’s truly at stake for Canadian business?
At Trade on trial: What’s at stake for Canadian business, Ivey Dean Julian Birkinshaw moderates a panel of top Ivey experts in a timely discussion on tariffs. Cutting through the noise, they’ll unpack the current trade landscape, highlight the real risks for Canadian businesses, and share actionable strategies to navigate this evolving economic reality.
About the speakers
Mary Crossan | Panelist
Professor, Strategy, Ivey Business School
Mary Crossan, MBA ’85, PhD ’91, is a Distinguished University Professor, Western’s highest academic honour, recognizing excellence in teaching, research, and service. A globally recognized scholar, she was named among the top two per cent of most-cited scientists in her field in 2021. As a Professor of Strategy at Ivey, she teaches undergraduate, MBA, PhD, and executive programs. Her research on organizational learning, strategy, leadership character, and improvisation is widely published in top journals. She has co-authored multiple books, developed leadership assessments, and co-hosts the Question of Character podcast. A renowned expert in her field, Mary also collaborates with global organizations to advance leader character development.
Romel Mostafa | Panelist
Assistant Professor, Business, Economics, and Public Policy, Ivey Business School | Director, Lawrence National Centre for Policy & Management, Ivey Business School
Romel Mostafa is an Assistant Professor of Business, Economics, and Public Policy at Ivey. His research and commentary on strategy, innovation, competitive dynamics, industrial policy, and behavioural decision-making are published in top academic journals and featured in global media, including CNN, NPR, and The New York Times. A recipient of multiple teaching awards, he has taught at both graduate and undergraduate levels. As Director of Ivey’s Lawrence National Centre for Policy & Management, he leads research and outreach on digital, trade, and social infrastructure policy. Romel holds a PhD and MSc from Carnegie Mellon University and a BA from Lawrence University.
Andreas Schotter | Panelist
Professor, International Business, Ivey Business School
Andreas Schotter, EMBA ’04, PhD ’09, is a Professor of International Business at Ivey, a John H. Dunning Fellow at Henley Business School (University of Reading, U.K.), and a Professor at Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU). A dual Canadian-German citizen with Hong Kong permanent residence, he brings nearly two decades of international executive experience in luxury goods, automotive, and industrial machinery. Twice named WSJ Distinguished Professor of the Year, his research explores strategies for success in an era of rapid change, business disruption, digital firm internationalization, and the Future of Work. His insights are featured in global media.
Julian Birkinshaw | Moderator
Dean, Ivey Business School
Julian Birkinshaw, MBA ’91, PhD ’95, became Dean of Ivey on August 1, 2024. He is a globally recognized expert in innovation, digital transformation, and strategic agility. Before returning to Ivey, he spent 25 years at London Business School, serving as Vice Dean (2022–2024) and leading major innovations in graduate and executive education. A Thinkers50-ranked thought leader, he has authored 15 books, over 90 articles, and 40 cases. A sought-after speaker and consultant, he advises companies like Pepsico, RBC, and Ericsson and is frequently cited in global media, including CNN, BBC, The Economist, and Sloan Management Review.
