MAX CEO Panel Series

Date: Thursday February 6, 2025
Start Time: 5:00 pm
Location: Deloitte Canada - 8 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5H 0A9

Join us for the third iteration of the MAX CEO Panel Series, featuring distinguished leaders from diverse industries who have achieved remarkable success through dedication, perseverance, and innovative leadership. This event is more than just a panel; it’s an opportunity to explore the journeys of exceptional individuals from fields like Insurance, Public Service, Finance and Asset Management, uncovering the strategies and insights that have defined their careers.

Designed to inspire and educate, this session highlights four dynamic professionals whose unique experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to excel in their own field. Whether you’re a seasoned industry expert, an emerging entrepreneur, or simply curious about leadership and growth, this panel promises to provide invaluable perspectives on achieving professional excellence. Join us to celebrate the achievements of these accomplished leaders and empower your own journey to success.

Speakers:

1. Naveed Irshad - CEO & President, Manulife
2. Richard Rooney - Vice Chair & Co-Founder, Burgundy Asset Management
3. Moez Kassam - Co-Founder & Chief Investment Officer, Ansun Funds
4. Aisha Jahangir - Board Member & Chair of the Audit, Finance & Risk Committee, OPTrust

Moderator:

• Fatima Laher - Deputy Chair, Board Director and Adviser, Deloitte Canada

What to Expect:

Networking Opportunities:
Aligned with MAX's mission to connect and empower professionals, this event offers a unique chance to network with leaders and peers from diverse industries, including Insurance, Public Service, Finance, and Asset Management. Engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and build relationships that can drive your personal and professional growth. The networking session is an invaluable opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and connect with industry trailblazers.

Insightful Discussions:
Our esteemed panelists will share insights into their career journeys, industry challenges, and strategies for navigating leadership in their respective fields. From understanding the complexities of organizational growth to fostering innovation and resilience, attendees will gain practical knowledge and inspiration to apply to their own professional paths.

Exploring Leadership and Impact:
Leadership is not just about achieving success—it's about creating lasting impact. Our panelists will discuss the importance of visionary leadership, adaptability, and making meaningful contributions to their industries and communities. Through real-world examples, they’ll highlight the strategies that have propelled them to the top and the lessons learned along the way.

Diverse Perspectives:
Representing a range of industries—including Insurance, Public Service, Finance, and Asset Management — our panelists bring a wealth of experiences and viewpoints. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities across sectors and discover how these leaders are shaping the future through their work.

Whether you’re an aspiring professional, an established leader, or someone eager to learn from top industry figures, this event promises actionable insights, inspiring stories, and valuable connections.

About MAX

Muslim Achieving Excellence (MAX) was founded with the aim to recognize, reward, celebrate and motivate high achievement and encourage positive and productive contributions to society by Muslims in Canada. MAX fosters that through creating connections between senior level, mid level and early career professionals.

THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW SOME OF CANADA'S TOP LEADERS. DINNER WILL BE SERVED.

EVENT PANELISTS

Naveed Irshad - CEO & President, Manulife

Naveed leads the implementation of the company’s growth strategy across the Canadian market, where we’re focused on helping Canadians improve their financial, physical, and mental health.

Naveed is a member of Manulife’s Executive Leadership Team. He has over 30 years of industry experience and has a deep understanding of the global life insurance industry. Before becoming Manulife Canada’s CEO, Naveed was Global Head of Inforce Management and Head of our North American Legacy Business, where he led initiatives to improve the profitability and risk profile of the inforce business.

Naveed was also President & CEO of Manulife Singapore where he oversaw the overall development of Manulife & operations across all business segments and distribution platforms in Singapore. Prior to this role, he spent three years in a key leadership position at a major reinsurance company with a focus on global business and product development. Naveed is an avid supporter of Manulife’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts, and internal Employee Resource Groups. In 2022, Naveed was appointed to the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Business Council – a select group of Canadian business leaders who provide the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion advice and recommendations on workplace inclusivity.

Naveed holds a B.Sc. in Actuarial Math from Concordia University. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA) and of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (FCIA) and is a Member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA). Active within his community and industry, Naveed serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Life & Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) and Squash Ontario and is a member of the President’s Advisory Group at Concordia University.

Richard Rooney - CFA, FCPA, Vice Chair & Co-Founder at Burgundy Asset Managment

Richard Rooney is the Vice Chair and Co-Founder of Burgundy Asset Management. As Burgundy Asset Management’s Chief Investment Officer for over 20 years, Richard helped build an investment department that is supportive of thoughtful risk-taking. He gives back to the community by serving on various boards. His experience includes positions at Price Waterhouse, Sun Life and AMI Partners. Richard is a CFA charterholder and a fellow of CPA Ontario. He has an MBA from Richard Ivey School of Business, Western University, and has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Toronto.

Richard Rooney has served the following roles on different boards:

• Board Member, Burgundy Asset Management
• Chair of Board of Directors, Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation
• Member of Governance Committee and former Chair of Board of Governors, Stratford Shakespeare Festival
• Trustee Emeritus and former President, Art Gallery of Ontario Foundation
• Board Member (2002-2009) and Chair of Compensation Committee (2004-2009), Dominion of Canada General Insurance
• Board Member (2002-2016) and Chair of Compensation Committee (2004-2012), Empire Life Insurance

Moez Kassam - Co-founder & CIO, Ansun Funds

Moez is a hedge fund manager, venture capitalist and entrepreneur. As co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Anson Funds, he presides over $2 billion USD in assets with exceptional results, regularly earning him a spot among the globe’s top performers by both Bloomberg and Barron’s magazines.

An active philanthropist, Moez sits on the boards of the Toronto Library Foundation, the Canadian Olympic Foundation and Ryerson University’s Technology Innovation Circle. The Moez & Marissa Kassam Foundation—dedicated to strengthening the health and vibrancy of vulnerable communities—is a regular benefactor of Doctors Without Borders, Toronto Foundation for Student Success and Camp Oochigeas, a summer camp providing memorable experiences for children affected by cancer. The Foundation’s generous contribution to Michael Garron Hospital is commemorated by the state-of-the-art Moez & Marissa Kassam Food Court, designed to nourish a burgeoning community of underserved patients, frontline workers and medical staff.

It should come as no surprise, then, that Moez’s passion for the culinary arts runs deep. When he isn’t hosting one of his infamous dinner parties, he can be found moonlighting as the “Chief Food Officer” of storied international dining club Dîner en Blanc, a sitting judge for Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants or charting the future of casual dining as co-creator of Assembly Chef’s Hall, Toronto’s most expansive food hall.

Moez is an active member of the Young Presidents Organization and in 2018, was honored to be counted among Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. He holds an MBA from London Business School and a BA from Western University. He resides in Toronto, Canada.

Aisha Jahangir - Board Member & Chair of the Audit, Finance & Risk Committee, OPTrust

Aisha is a dedicated healthcare professional with extensive experience in clinical practice and governance. Currently serving as a Trustee on the OPTrust Board, Aisha plays a crucial role in overseeing the management and strategic direction of the pension plan for Ontario public sector employees, ensuring that it is aligned with the best interests of its members.

As a former Council Member with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), Aisha contributed to the regulation and oversight of nursing practice across the province. During her time with the CNO, she helped shape policies and initiatives that upheld the standards of nursing care and ensured public safety in Ontario’s healthcare system.

In addition, Aisha is an Elected Board Member of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), where she advocates for the rights and interests of union members, focusing on labor relations, workplace safety, and collective bargaining. Her leadership within OPSEU has been instrumental in advancing the needs of workers in the public sector.

Aisha also works as a Mental Health Nurse at the Hamilton-Wentworth Detention Centre, providing specialized care to individuals with mental health challenges in a correctional setting. This role requires a unique blend of clinical expertise, empathy, and advocacy to address the complex mental health needs of detainees.

With a strong commitment to healthcare excellence, public service, and the well-being of underserved populations, Aisha brings valuable insight and expertise to every panel discussion. Her diverse background in nursing, labor relations, and governance allows her to contribute meaningfully to conversations on policy, healthcare, and the intersection of mental health and justice.

MODERATOR

Fatima Laher - Deputy Chair, Board Director and Adviser, Deloitte Canada

Fatima Laher is the Deputy Chair, Board Director, and Adviser at Deloitte Canada and Chile, serving as the Global Lead Client Service Partner on multi-billion-dollar accounts. She chairs Deloitte's Governance and Succession Committee and focuses on CEO and Chair succession. With over 35 years of experience in tax, audit, and cross-border compensation consulting, Fatima is recognized as one of Canada’s Top 10 female tax partners for seven consecutive years. She also serves on the Board of the National Ballet of Canada, specializing in governance and board modernization.

Fatima holds a Corporate Governance designation from Harvard Business School and the Institute of Corporate Directors. Her global expertise spans South Africa, the U.S., and Canada, making her a trusted advisor to multinational clients. A frequent guest lecturer and speaker, she is known for her expertise in global mobility consulting and her passion for resourceful business solutions and motivational leadership.

Contact Us:

For any attendees who may have Financial Needs and Require a Sponsored Complimentary Ticket, or for any Questions or Comments Please Contact:

Muneeb Hassan | Lead, CEO Panel Series | muneeb.hassan@maxgala.com

Unaizah Abbas | General Volunteer, CEO Panel Series | zoya.abbas@maxgala.com

Saaniye Amin | Lead, CEO Panel Series | saaniye.amin@maxgala.com

Website: onemax.org | LinkedIn: MAX | Twitter: @max_gala | Instagram: @max.gala

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