Mr. Thom brings valuable experience in portfolio management, securities regulation and the business of investment management, as well as a history of volunteer roles with CFA Society Toronto and CFA Societies Canada.

Toronto, ON July 17, 2019 – CFA Societies Canada, a collaboration between CFA Institute and the 12 Canadian member societies, has named Michael Thom, CFA, as the new Managing Director, effective immediately.

“The introduction of CFA Societies Canada has proven to be beneficial in establishing a single national voice on advocacy and in building awareness of the CFA designation,” says Paul Smith, CFA, president and CEO of CFA Institute. “Michael brings a deep understanding of the regulatory and advocacy sides of the finance industry in addition to a strong working knowledge in portfolio management and the business of investment management. He’ll lead with a perspective that resonates with our members in Canada.” 

Strong Leadership, Unified Voice

In the role, Mr. Thom is responsible for leading staff and teams of volunteers in pursuit of national goals, and to serve the 12 Canadian member societies. He will provide strategic leadership and represent CFA charterholders in communications with regulators, policy makers, media, and industry groups at a national level. 

“I’m proud to be named Managing Director of CFA Societies Canada and am looking forward to taking on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead,” says Mr. Thom. “One of the biggest opportunities for CFA Societies Canada is leveraging our significant local volunteer efforts at a national scale. CFA charterholders across Canada hold a unique position of influence and knowledge, and are doing great things for investor protection, education, and ethics in the investment management profession. It’s time those stories were told nationally. In my past roles, I’ve led the building of strategic functions within entrepreneurial organizations and look forward to bringing that perspective to CFA Societies Canada as we scale up its efforts and activities.” 

Michael Thom, CFA
A charterholder since 2012, Mr. Thom moves into his new role following a multi-year volunteer relationship with CFA Societies Canada, most recently as a director at CFA Society Toronto and a past council member and former chair for The Canadian Advocacy Council, a committee of CFA Societies Canada. Mr. Thom has an extensive background in asset management, portfolio management and equities trading. 

Looking Ahead

In the coming months, Mr. Thom will lead CFA Societies Canada as it continues its work to further advocate for the highest standards of integrity and ethics for the ultimate benefit of Canadian investors. 

He’ll provide leadership in the execution of national projects and initiatives, building relationships and preparing for the future of the investment profession. 

About CFA Societies Canada
CFA Societies Canada is a collaboration of CFA Institute and the 12 Canadian member societies, whose mission is to build brand awareness of the CFA designation and to advocate for the highest standards of integrity and ethics for the ultimate benefit of Canadian investors. CFA Societies Canada represents CFA charterholders, the 12 societies, and the members of those societies in Canada to policymakers, the media, and the public. CFA Societies Canada aspires to lead the investment management profession in Canada by raising ethical and professional standards, promoting fair markets, protecting investors, and increasing brand awareness. For more information, visit www.cfacanada.org.

CFA® and Chartered Financial Analyst® are trademarks owned by CFA Institute.

Media Contact:
Sabrina Orlov: sabrina.orlov@gcicanada.com, 416-486-2611