Jean-Guy Desjardins, chairman and CEO of Fiera Capital, is among the 95 Canadians appointed to the Order of Canada.
He’s been appointed as a member for his contributions to the financial sector as a portfolio management entrepreneur.
“I am delighted and honoured by this great distinction, which I share with all the people who have supported me throughout my career,” Desjardins says. “As my experience shows, everything depends on the team. Success is a question not only of sound business decisions, but also of the quality of the individuals who share the same values and the same goals.”
Desjardins began his career as a financial analyst and portfolio manager. He co-founded TAL Global Asset Management and was its principal shareholder until the company was purchased by CIBC.
In 2003, he acquired 70% of Elantis Investment Management’s assets under management and recruited most of its key professionals to create Fiera Capital. Since then, the company has made more than 10 acquisitions in a decade and now has nearly $85 billion in assets under management.
The Member of the Order of Canada recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or field of activity.
The new appointees include three companions, 13 officers and 79 members. These appointments were made on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.
The Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.
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