Michael Rousseau, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of Air Canada, has been named Canada's CFO of the Year™ for 2017. Now in its 15th year, Canada's CFO of the Year™ (CFOY) Award honors senior financial leaders who have made significant contributions to business in Canada with demonstrated quality, insight and integrity. The award is presented annually by Financial Executives International Canada (FEI Canada), PwC Canada and Robert Half.
"Hats off to Michael Rousseau, for being named Canada's CFO of the Year for 2017. His critical role in the development and execution of the strategy that transformed Air Canada led to the strengthening of its finances, significant shareholder value growth and the complete turnaround and stabilization of Air Canada's pension fund," said Michael Conway, President & CEO of FEI Canada.
"Michael epitomizes Leadership beyond Finance, and as such it is fitting that he should join the illustrious group of 15 business leaders who have previously been recognized by this award for their outstanding contributions to Canadian business."
"Congratulations to Michael Rousseau for his contribution to Air Canada through vision and leadership. This award is a testament to the significant value brought by not only the CFO but also by the accounting profession to businesses of all sizes across Canada," said Tahir Ayub, Managing Partner, Markets and Industries at PwC Canada.
Michael Rousseau joined Air Canada as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer in October 2007. He leads Air Canada's overall financial strategic direction, including all aspects of financial reporting and planning, investor relations, treasury and controller's operations, taxation, pension administration, internal audit and fleet planning, as well as procurement and corporate real estate.
Michael holds a BBA degree from York University and he has been a member of CPA Canada since 1983.
Canada's CFO of the Year™ Award is judged in context with various CFO functions, including: transparency of financial reporting, highest standards of corporate behaviour, nature of accounting practices, and a commitment to good corporate governance consistent with current standards and evolving guidelines. Candidates are also assessed on their vision and leadership, external reporting and stakeholder relations, social responsibility, innovation, business performance and mentoring/development.
"With this award, we highlight the achievements of Canada's financial executives and their commitment to guiding the financial success of Canadian companies," added David King, Canadian Director at Robert Half. "As a proud sponsor of CFOY, Robert Half is thrilled to congratulate Michael Rousseau, whose exemplary contributions at Air Canada have been pivotal to the innovative growth of this historic brand. We are very happy to celebrate Michael's exceptional leadership with this distinctive recognition as Canada's CFO of the Year for 2017."
Canada's CFO of the Year™ Award Selection Committee is also pleased to recognize Benita Warmbold, Senior Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, in the areas of social responsibility and mentoring. Benita has made significant contributions to her community, her profession, and mentoring staff, especially in advancing and supporting women in their careers.
In addition to its presenting sponsors, Canada's CFO of the Year Award 2017 is also sponsored by American Express, Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA Canada) and Lerners LLP. The Globe and Mail is the program's media sponsor. Michael Rousseau will be honored at Canada's CFO of the Year™ Award gala on May 17, 2017 at The Ritz Carlton in Toronto.
For more information, including information on award criteria and eligibility requirements, please visit www.cfoy.ca.