Two New Brunswickers on “The Power 50”
TORONTO–Canadian Business magazine released its The Power 50, a list of the top “executives, entrepreneurs, politicos, and thinkers who are changing the way Canada does business.”
Two New Brunswickers made the list.
At number 21 is Sarah Irving, who the magazine calls a “scion in the making.” She is the EVP and chief brand officer of Saint John-based Irving Oil, owner of Canada’s largest oil refinery. As Canadian Business notes, “It’s been five years since Irving Oil had a member of the founding family in a senior role. The company went through two CEOs in that time.”
Sarah Irving, daughter of Arthur Irving, formally joined the family business in June. Since then, she’s taken a very visible role including helping announce the launch of Operation Falcon, the refinery’s $200 million upgrade.
The magazine argues that her “ascent and public-facing role may mark the start of a succession plan.”
Coming in at number 28 is former New Brunswick premier Frank McKenna, now deputy chair of the TD Bank Group.
According to the magazine, “Frank McKenna has built an impressive array of contacts owing to his tenure as premier of New Brunswick and Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. It’s no wonder he was tapped to serve on the Liberal Party of Canada’s economic advisory panel, helping to craft a soon-to-be implemented agenda.”
McKenna’s insights and connections have led to roles as chair of Brookfield Asset Management and a board seat at Canadian Natural Resources. “Few are as adept at moving between public and private sectors.”
While McKenna is more Bay Street than Miramichi these days, he still keeps a close eye on his home province. Earlier this month he gave a provocative speech in Saint John arguing that the Maritimes are heading for “extinction” unless things turn around.
The Canadian Business list also includes a mix of established corporate and political players, along with a strong showing of tech leaders from companies like Shopify, Hootsuite, Slack and Twitter.