Compensation for key tech jobs has increased at unprecedented rates year over year and has started to cool. What happens when the hiring environment changes? As Canada’s tech industry continues to mature we are experiencing economic cycles, government policies and shifting landscapes that challenge how we compensate and incent our employees.  All in the midst of a new transparent environment that pressure tests our internal structures, processes and programs. In this session, Mercer’s Liz Elliott and Jennifer Kwong contrast the current state of tech against other industries that have precedent undergoing significant shifts. We will highlight examples of resilience, hard decisions and innovation that drive strength through change and discuss unintended consequences that we only saw in hindsight. The discussion will be fueled by data, including Mercer’s salary planning forecasts going into 2026 and a summary of this year’s hottest jobs.

You'll Learn How To: 

  • Balance competitive pay with sustainable compensation strategies

  • Understand how total rewards impact attraction and retention

  • Best practice approach to pay transparency and communication for current and prospective hires

  • Canada wide salary increase forecasts for 2026