Welcome

On behalf of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, I am honoured to extend a warm welcome to the 2024 Canadian Business Leader Awards.  

We are thrilled to have you with us as we celebrate the exceptional achievements of Canada’s business leaders. These individuals raise the standards of innovation and entrepreneurship and continually demonstrate their commitment to the success of our shared future. I know that the stories of purpose, passion and perseverance shared by this year’s award recipients will serve as a testament to the excellence of the Canadian business community.  

This evening, we recognize the remarkable contributions of Tracy Robinson and George Cope. Both honourees exemplify the values of excellence, innovation, collaboration and leadership. These values are also the foundation of the Canadian Chamber’s continued commitment to building thriving businesses, a strong economy and a better life for all Canadians.  

I would like to thank the Four Seasons Hotel, our esteemed sponsors and all those whose dedication have made tonight’s event possible. Please enjoy yourselves as you participate in what is sure to be a memorable evening!  

Hon. Perrin Beatty
President & CEO 
Canadian Chamber of Commerce 

Evening Program

About the Awards

Our Canadian Business Leader of the Year Award and Canadian Business Leader Lifetime Achievement Award were established to celebrate and recognize Canadian business executives at the top of their fields who have distinguished themselves through stellar corporate leadership and meaningful contributions to their communities. 

Past Recipients

Canadian Business Leader of the Year Award and Canadian Business Leader Lifetime Achievement Award. 

2024 Honourees | Montreal, QC 

Canadian Business Leader of the Year

Tracy Robinson
President and CEO
CN

Tracy Robinson was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of CN in February 2022 and is responsible for CN’s strategic direction and leadership. Ms. Robinson is a seasoned executive with a proven track record in the transportation industry. She is known for her ability to drive innovation and foster collaboration among diverse teams and stakeholders. Her passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders and her advocacy for inclusive leadership have further solidified her reputation as a forward-thinking leader. She is Vice-Chair of the Board of the Business Council of Canada and is also a member of the Campaign Committee and the Dean’s Advisory Council at the Edward’s School of Business of the University of Saskatchewan. 

Canadian Business Leader Lifetime Achievement Honouree

George Cope   
Retired President and CEO
BCE Inc.  

George Cope served as President and Chief Executive Officer for BCE Inc. and Bell Canada, the country’s largest communications company, from 2008 to 2020. During his more than 25 years in public-company chief executive roles within the Canadian communications industry, Mr. Cope earned a reputation as an innovative, operational, and financial strategist, known for leading high-performance teams. His remarkable leadership at BCE Inc. and Bell Canada established him as one of the country’s top executive leaders, evident from his induction into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2018 and appointment to the Order of Canada in 2014. He currently serves as Chair of the Board of Bank of Montreal and Lead Independent Director at CGI Inc. His long list of achievements speak to the profound impact he had on the Canadian business community during his tenure as one of the country’s top executive leaders. 

About The Directors Showband 

The Directors are an award-winning, electrifying, unparalleled and highly entertaining eleven-piece show band led by vocalists Tony Picciuto and Randi Katz. The Montréal-based showband is the recipient of Best Canadian Event Entertainer for live private and corporate events, galas and fundraisers. 

The Directors have earned their notable reputation by delivering high-calibre musical excellence and unwavering professionalism to their clients. Backed by seasoned and professional musicians, their full ensemble includes: three singers, a guitar, a bass, drums, two keyboards, a trumpet, two saxophones and a disc jockey. They have graced many stages and performed at a variety of venues in and around Montréal, Toronto, Ontario and New York City. 

Thank You to Our Sponsors