TORONTO, April 6, 2020 /CNW/ - It is with great sadness
that countless across Scotiabank mourn the loss of Thomas O'Neill, former Chairman of the Bank.
"Tom's legacy extends beyond his own family, and our Bank. It's
greater than his integrity, generosity and tremendous business
acumen," said Scotiabank President & CEO Brian Porter. "Tom's legacy is every person he
mentored, coached, and encouraged. Tom was a father figure to many
of us at the Bank. He will be sorely missed by those who were
fortunate to know him. He was a remarkable man."
Mr. O'Neill's contributions to corporate Canada earned him accolades and high regard
across the business community. With a rich career spanning roles as
CEO and Chair of PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting, Chair of BCE
Inc., and a director of Loblaw Companies Limited, Nexen Inc., and
Adecco, S.A, Mr. O'Neill stands as one this country's most
accomplished business and corporate governance leaders.
Mr. O'Neill was Board Chairman from 2014 to 2019 and was
appointed to the Scotiabank Board in 2008. He was a powerful force
for change in corporate Canada and
leaves a tremendous legacy in this country. Under his stewardship,
Scotiabank underwent significant transformation to strategically
reposition its businesses and made significant investments in
technology and leadership development.
Mr. O'Neill will be remembered fondly through the quieter, human
acts of leadership he demonstrated every day. Many across the Bank
have benefitted from his keen interest, advice and the efforts he
took to bring out the best in those around him. He was a tireless
advocate for women's representation on corporate boards and during
his tenure as Chairman, the Bank increased its representation of
women directors to 40%.
Mr. O'Neill received several recognitions in corporate
governance throughout his career and was honored by the Institute
of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and Catalyst Canada. He gave his time
and expertise to strengthen the community as Chair of St. Michael's Hospital, on the Advisory Board
of Queen's University School of Business, and as a Fellow of the
Institute of Corporate Directors.
Even after his retirement from the Board, Mr. O'Neill remained
an incredibly supportive presence to the Bank's senior leaders,
offering advice and mentorship to many. Our deepest condolences go
to his wife Susan and his family. He will be deeply missed by all
who were fortunate to know him.
SOURCE Scotiabank