Colleen Johnston

Work together, be patient and be kind is the advice Colleen Johnston, Special Advisor to the CEO, TD Bank Group, shared with Kellogg-Schulich EMBA graduates at their recent convocation.

“A successful career is more than work and advancement,” Johnston said. “It’s about having the influence – and the means – to make an even bigger impact.”

Johnston was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws by York University for business leadership and championing the role of women in the financial services industry.

Johnston retired in April 2018 from TD Bank Group after 14 years with the company and a career spanning over 30 years. As chair of TD’s Women in Leadership Committee, she encouraged emerging female leaders to gain the confidence to strive for and reach positions of increased responsibility.

She has been recognized by Women’s Executive Network as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women, “Best Chief Financial Officer” by Canadian Business Magazine and Canada’s CFO of the Year among other numerous industry honours. Johnston currently sits on the boards of St. Michael’s Hospital, the Shaw Festival and is a member of the Schulich School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council. She also holds a BBA from the Schulich School of Business.

“Colleen Johnston has skillfully navigated her company through increasingly turbulent global markets,” said Schulich Dean Dezsö J. Horváth. “She is an inspirational role model for our students, a great friend and graduate of the Schulich School, and a great Canadian!”