Impact Live - Trade on trial: What’s at stake for Canadian business

Few issues in Canadian history have ignited both panic and unity like the potential for a sweeping 25 per cent U.S. tariff. While the possibility has sent shockwaves through industries, raising concerns about jobs, economic stability, and Canada’s reliance on its largest trading partner, the reality remains uncertain. With shifting negotiations and political back-and-forth, it’s unclear if these tariffs will materialize – or if they’re just another chapter in the ongoing trade drama.

At Trade on Trial: What’s at stake for Canadian business, Ivey Dean Julian Birkinshaw moderates a panel of leading Ivey experts in a timely discussion that cuts through the tariff noise. They’ll break down the current trade climate, the real risks facing Canadian businesses, and strategies to stay agile amid ongoing uncertainty. Complimentary and open to the public, this virtual Impact Live event delivers essential insights for anyone looking to navigate today’s complex and ever-changing trade environment.

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Meet the panelists

Mary Crossan, MBA '85, PhD '91
Professor, Strategy, Ivey Business School

Mary Crossan, MBA ’85, PhD ’91, is a Professor of Strategy at Ivey where she teaches undergraduate, MBA, PhD, and executive programs. A globally recognized scholar, she was named among the top two per cent of most-cited scientists in her field in 2021. 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
Assistant Professor, Business, Economics, and Public Policy, 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, EMBA '04, PhD '09
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.

Meet the moderator

Julian Birkinshaw, MBA '91, PhD '95
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.