Celebrating Visionary Leadership at a Critical Moment for Canada

A company is not an island; it exists only in its relationship with the world. It is fundamentally anchored in the communities in which it operates. Its responsibility is to improve the lives not only of its shareholders, but also of all the stakeholders with whom it interacts. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to make a career for myself in companies driven by this conviction, and to have worked alongside wonderful colleagues who shared this ideal.

Sophie Brochu
Economist & Corporate Director, Former CEO, Hydro-Québec & Énergir

It is an honour to accept this award from the Canadian Chamber on behalf of the entire Suncor organization.  We have a tremendous team unified by the right structure, culture, and a vision to win. I am proud of the progress we’ve made but am even more excited about the future we are building. Thank you for believing in us – we’re just getting started.

Rich Kruger, President & CEO, Suncor Energy

The honour of receiving the 2025 Canadian Business Leader Award is something I share with the entire Desjardins team. This award celebrates the work of the thousands of people who serve our members and clients every day. It also recognizes the value of our cooperative model as a tool for socioeconomic development over the past 125 years.

Guy Cormier
President & CEO, Desjardins Group

Being recognized with the 2025 Canadian Business Leader Award is a true honour—one that is matched only by the privilege of working with such talented teams every day.  This recognition is a testament to the importance of their work and serves as a reminder of the crucial role infrastructure and innovation play in building strong and resilient businesses, communities, and economies.

Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO, Vancouver International Airport

I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. As an immigrant, Canada gave me the opportunity to build a life, a business, and a purpose. This country has shaped who I am, and for over 35 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside remarkable people and organizations committed to driving innovation, strengthening industries, and creating opportunity. Organizations like the Chamber reflect the spirit of Canadian business—the entrepreneurs, risk-takers, and builders who get out of bed every day to make a difference. I’m proud to be recognized among them. At a time when Canada faces both challenges and opportunities, we need leadership, collaboration, and the courage to build a thriving, competitive economy. I remain committed to contributing to our nations success for years to come.

Arlene Dickinson, Founder & General Partner, District Ventures Capital

This award is a profound honour, recognizing a lifetime of dedication to 45 years of building communities and shaping the future of homebuilding in Canada from entry homes to retirement and everything in between. It reflects the hard work of our incredible team, the trust of our over 31,000 customers, and the impact we’ve made in the industry. To be acknowledged by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce with the Canadian Business Leader Lifetime Achievement award is both humbling and inspiring, reinforcing my commitment to innovation, sustainability, and giving back to the communities is who we are.

Jay Westman
Chairman & CEO, Jayman BUILT

I’m honoured to be recognized for the leadership of Rogers and for Rogers significant investments in infrastructure, content and sports. We are a proud Canadian company that’s committed to investing for the long-term.

Edward S. Rogers, Executive Chair, Rogers Communications Inc.

I am very honoured to receive this prestigious recognition, and am humbled to be included among the many respected leaders in business who have been acknowledged before me. This award would not have been possible without the support of my colleagues and partners over the past five decades, including employees at both Concert Properties and Concert Infrastructure, as well as those in the industry, the not-for-profit sector and government. I am also truly grateful for the support I have received from my family throughout my career.

David Podmore
Co-Founder, Concert Properties; Founder, Concert Infrastructure; Chair Emeritus