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 Ask an Expert on Equity Compensation

Christina Paulson's profile image
Christina Paulson posted 06-12-2024 10:47

Hello @Barbara Baksa,

Thank you for taking the time to share your expertise and wealth of knowledge with us! I am currently working as a Payroll Manager at a startup and have expressed interest in managing our equity compensation plans. In my previous roles, I have handled the administrative aspects of stock options, including new hires, terminations, and departmental changes.

Given my background and interest in expanding my knowledge in this area, could you recommend any courses, certifications, or resources that would be beneficial for someone looking to deepen their understanding of equity compensation management?

Thank you!

CP

Barbara Baksa's profile image
Barbara Baksa

Hi Christina,

The NASPP has a full curriculum of courses that I recommend--this probably goes without saying but I'm saying it anyway ;)

For administrators at private companies, I recommend our "Equity Compensation Fundamentals - Private Companies" course. It would give you a broader understanding of equity plans at private companies, beyond just stock options and transaction processing. 

If you feel you are beyond the fundamentals level, we have a number of more advanced programs that look at either specific awards types or specific aspects of plan administration (such as tax withholding and reporting). 

In terms of certifications, I recommend the Certified Equity Professional program, which is specifically for equity plan professionals. It is a self-study program offered by the Silicon Valley Executive Center of Santa Clara University (the exams are administered remotely, so you don't need to travel to Santa Clara). That is the only certification program for equity plan professionals.