Meeting/Event Information

Stay informed and prepared with the latest insights on employment law, compliance, and workplace risk. This essential program features an opening keynote from Cory Jorbin of HUB International on the current state of the insurance and employee benefits landscape, including key compliance trends impacting employers today. Dive into a dynamic, scenario-based session that brings ADA and FMLA compliance to life - covering real-world challenges like intermittent leave, accommodation requests, medical documentation, and common employer pitfalls. Hear critical legal updates from McMahon Berger, and gain a broader perspective from closing keynote speaker, Heidi Sutherland of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce & Industry on legislative trends and business advocacy shaping Missouri's workplace environment. Join us for this practical, fast-paced program designed to help HR professionals navigate today's complex legal landscape with confidence.

Sessions
Employee Benefits Compliance with Cory Jorbin, HUB International
This session will tackle key Employee Benefits Compliance topics. Learn about the latest updates as we dive into:

Navigating ADA & FMLA: A Practical Case Study Approach with Melanie Renken, Ogletree Deakins & Sam Newman, Ogletree Deakins
Join us for an engaging and interactive presentation that brings ADA and FMLA compliance to life through a workplace scenario involving an employee navigating attendance challenges, anxiety disorder, and accommodation requests. This dynamic session follows a realistic case study featuring interactions between an employee, supervisor, HR manager, and physician as they work through common—and commonly mishandled—situations involving intermittent FMLA leave requests, the interactive process, medical documentation requirements, and progressive discipline. Attendees will gain practical insights into identifying FMLA and ADA triggers in employee communications, properly responding to accommodation requests (including those involving medical marijuana and service animals), understanding the documentation employers can and should require, and avoiding pitfalls that can lead to legal exposure.

Melanie Renken is an attorney in the Ogletree Deakins St. Louis Office. She is a seasoned employment litigator and business-minded counsel whose career spans the courtroom, the C suite, and high stakes crisis management. She has represented employers across the country in state and federal courts, defending claims under Title VII, the ADEA, ADA, FMLA, FLSA, OSHA retaliation, AIR21, workers’ compensation retaliation, and a range of contract and tort disputes. Melanie has particular expertise across the areas of Aerospace, Drug Testing, and Whistleblower and Retaliation. She is considered a go-to attorney for AIR21 retaliation complaints, and a significant portion of her practice is dedicated to defending a global aerospace company in their employment-related lawsuits.

Sam Newman represents management in a wide variety of employment issues, including single-plaintiff lawsuits involving discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wrongful termination, trade secrets, restrictive covenants, and other employment-related claims. He also represents employers in pre-litigation matters before administrative agencies and provides advice and counsel on employment and separation agreements, as well as personnel practices and policies. Sam is a dedicated advisor who works closely with clients to find efficient, effective solutions.

Lessons in Leave Laws with John Marino, McMahon Berger
Please join us for a discussion on the latest developments on leave laws at a state and federal level. We will be discussing recent legislative trends and anticipating potential changes for employers.

Keeping things in I.C.E. with John Marino, McMahon Berger
Please join us for a discussion on best practices if immigration officials visit your place of business. We will discuss strategies to remain compliant with the law while protecting employers from liability.  

John J. Marino, Jr. represents the interest of management in all facets of Labor & Employment Law. Mr. Marino received his juris doctorate from Saint Louis University School of Law where he earned a Certificate in Labor and Employment Law.

Mr. Marino’s employment practice includes all facets of employment law, including employment discrimination claims under Title VII and the Missouri Commission on Human Rights, the American with Disabilities Act, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Mr. Marino also represents management before the National Labor Relations Board in charges of unfair labor practices, challenges to elections and post-election conduct. In addition, he advises clients on employment-related matters such as employment contracts and daily
human resources issues.

Mr. Marino is very active in the human resource community. He has been on the Board of the St. Louis Chapter of SHRM and is Past President of the organization. HRMA has nearly 600 members and provides phenomenal networking and educational opportunities for human resources professionals.

Outside of his professional interests, Mr. Marino is currently serving an appointment with the City of Chesterfield Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. Marino and his wife are also very active in their communities through volunteer work with various organizations such as St. Patrick Center and St. Louis University High School.

Mr. Marino’s experience prior to joining McMahon Berger includes insurance defense litigation representing corporations in a variety of interests. Mr. Marino has argued both in trial and before the Missouri Appellate Court. He has also served as associate in-house counsel, handling a variety of employment and general business issues.

Missouri Legislative Update with Heidi Sutherland, Missouri Chamber of Commerce
Missouri’s legislative landscape is changing quickly, with direct implications for employers across the state. In this session, the Missouri Chamber’s Vice President of Policy will provide a timely update on key legislation moving through the General Assembly, including proposals related to workforce development, labor and employment law, tax policy, and regulatory issues that affect HR professionals.

Attendees will leave with a practical understanding of what has passed, what is still in play, and what to watch as the session progresses. The presentation will also highlight how policy changes may impact day-to-day HR operations, compliance responsibilities, and long-term workforce strategy for Missouri employers.

Presentation Objectives

Heidi Geisbuhler Sutherland is the Vice President of Policy for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She works closely with business leaders and policymakers to advance pro-growth policies that strengthen Missouri’s workforce and economic competitiveness. Prior to her role at the Chamber, Heidi was the lead lobbyist for the Missouri State Medical Association and previously served as a legislative staff member in the Missouri State Senate.

Schedule
8:00 am - Breakfast & Networking
8:30 am - 9:20 am - Opening Keynote
9:20 am - 9:30 am - Break
9:30 am - 10:30 am - Session with Ogletree Deakins
10:30 am - 10:35 am - Break
10:35 am - 11:30 am - Session with McMahon Berger
11:30 am - 11:40 am - Break
11:40 am - 12:30 pm - Closing Keynote

Fees
SHRM St. Louis Chapter Member - Included in Dues
Non-Chapter Member - $150