Canada has all the ingredients it needs to become a 21st century economic giant, including world-class talent, abundant natural resources and innovative businesses. And yet, in an uncertain world, the country needs leadership, partnership and a clear vision for the future if it is to meet its full potential.
Join Canadian Club Toronto on October 18 for an insightful and timely discussion on how Canada can harness its strengths to benefit all Canadians. The event begins with Goldy Hyder, President and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, who will highlight the top priorities the federal government should address in the Fall Economic Statement. The discussion continues with Annette Verschuren, Chair and CEO of NRStor Inc., who will join Mr. Hyder in a conversation focused on solutions aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of Canadians through sustainable economic growth.
*For virtual attendees, please note that the live stream will begin at approximately 12:40pm ET & the link will be provided closer to the event date*
Goldy Hyder
President and Chief Executive Officer, Business Council of Canada
Goldy Hyder is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Business Council of Canada. Founded in 1976, the Council is a non-profit, non-partisan organization composed of the chief executives and entrepreneurs of Canada’s leading companies. Members collectively employ 1.7 million Canadians across the country in every major industry.
From July 2014 to October 2018, Mr. Hyder was President and Chief Executive Officer of Hill+Knowlton Strategies (Canada), providing strategic communications counsel to the firm’s extensive and diverse client base. Prior to joining Hill+Knowlton in 2001, he served as Director of Policy and Chief of Staff to The Right Honourable Joe Clark, former prime minister and former leader of the federal Progressive Conservative Party.
In addition to his achievements in business and public policy, Mr. Hyder has a long track record of service on behalf of several charities and non-profit organizations. He is a member of the advisory council of the Coalition for a Better Future, a board member of the Business + Higher Education Roundtable, an executive committee member of the Century Initiative and co-chair of Canada’s World Trade Organization Business Advisory Council. In addition, he sits on the advisory boards of two leading organizations promoting advancement of women leaders: Catalyst Canada and the 30% Club (Canada). Mr. Hyder is also a member of the selection board for A Seat At The Table, an initiative to encourage greater representation of people with disabilities on corporate boards. He is a past co-chair of the United Way of Ottawa’s Campaign Cabinet.
Mr. Hyder is a regular commentator in the Canadian media on business, politics and leadership. He is also the host of the “Speaking of Business” podcast, which features interviews with Canadian innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders. In 2013, he received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of his contributions to Canada. He holds a Master of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Calgary.
Annette Verschuren O.C.
Founder, Chair, Chief Executive Officer and principle, NRStor Inc
Annette Verschuren is the founder, Chair, Chief Executive Officer and principle of NRStor Inc. The company develops and manages energy storage projects. Prior to this, Ms. Verschuren was president of The Home Depot Canada. She oversaw the growth of the company’s Canadian operations from 19 to 179 stores from 1996-2011 and led its entry into China. Ms. Verschuren was President and co-owner of Michaels of Canada, a chain of arts and crafts stores. Previously, Ms. Verschuren was Vice President, Corporate Development of Imasco Ltd. and Executive Vice President of Canada Development Investment Corporation.
Annette Verschuren is the Chair of the Ontario Energy Association and member of the IESO Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC). Ms. Verschuren sits on the corporate boards of Liberty Mutual, CNRL, Air Canada and Saputo. She is Chair of Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) and of the MaRS Discovery District Board.
Ms. Verschuren is the Chancellor of Cape Breton University and is on the Board of the Verschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment, (VCSEE).
Annette Verschuren has received numerus Honourary Doctorates from Canadian universities including her alma mater, St. Francis Xavier University. She is a founding member of the Rideau Hall Foundation.
Annette Verschuren is a Companion of the Canadian Business Hall of Fame. She was named as on Officer to the Order of Canada for her contributions to the retail industry and corporate social responsibility.
Ms. Verschuren wrote the book Bet On Me, about succeeding in business and in life.
