United for Boardroom Diversity in Canada: Business and Government Leaders, Regulators and Advocates Come Together to Accelerate Pace of Change (Media Release)

“Collaboration is key to driving results,” says Catalyst Canada’s Alex Johnston

Toronto (November 13, 2014)—Today, marking a significant milestone for Canadian business, Catalyst Canada and partners EY, the International Women’s Forum and the 30% Club gathered a prominent group of CEOs, board chairs, government leaders, regulators and advocates to address the importance of accelerating change on boards and outline steps that leaders can take to diversify their boards, executive committees and talent pipelines.

Prominent panelists and speakers at the event included:

• Kathleen Taylor, Chair of the Board, RBC
• Trent Henry, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, EY Canada
• J. Robert S. Prichard, Chairman of the Board, BMO Financial Group, and Chair of Metrolinx
• David Leith, Chairman of the Board, MTS Allstream
• The Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women

“We are so excited to see important collaboration and momentum on this issue in Canada, highlighted by the overwhelming interest in this event as well as the recent finalization of the Canadian Securities Regulators’ rule amendments requiring disclosure of women on boards and in senior management,” said Alex Johnston, Executive Director, Catalyst Canada. “These are important, positive signs that change is underway. Business leaders, governments, regulators and advocates understand that gender diversity on boards benefits corporate decision-making, helps drive better business results and strengthens Canada’s economic competitiveness. Only through visible, intentional leadership can we continue to move the numbers and drive change.”

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY
Alex Johnston and other members of Catalyst and its partners are available to further comment on the importance of board diversity and what leaders can do to effect change.

CONTACTS
For English-speaking Canada:
Francine Beck, +1 416 725 3710

ABOUT CATALYST
Founded in 1962, Catalyst is the leading nonprofit membership organization expanding opportunities for women and business. With offices in the United States, Canada, Europe, India, Australia, and Japan and more than 700 member organizations, Catalyst is the trusted resource for research, information, and advice about women at work. Catalyst annually honors exemplary organizational initiatives that promote women’s advancement with the Catalyst Award.