Karen leads financial management, strategic planning, procurement and corporate development for the Co-operators group of companies – building high-performing teams, lasting partnerships, and driving profitability in the P&C, Life and Wealth business areas. While helping the organization strike a balance between strong profits and the best interests of Canadians, she ensures that Co-operators can deliver on its co-operative promises, as well as its social and environmental initiatives.
Karen is the Co-Chair of the Canadian chapter of Accountants for Sustainability (A4S); a global organization of Chief Financial Officers whose purpose is to drive a fundamental shift towards resilient business models and a sustainable economy. The work done with A4S supported the development of Co-operators first-ever climate-related financial disclosure report.
Karen serves as a director and Audit Committee Chair for Aviso Wealth, and a director for CU CUMIS Wealth Holdings LP and Addenda Capital. In addition, Karen is the Chair of the Premier Canada Board.
Karen recently joined the Board and Audit Committee of Grand Challenges Canada, one of the world’s largest impact-first investors. Its innovation platform supports bold ideas that drive better health, equity, and resilience around the globe, particularly in underserved economies.
She is a former board member for St. Joseph’s Health Centre and St. Joseph’s Health Centre Foundation Guelph. Her professional designations include Chartered Director and Chartered Professional Accountant, and she has completed the Harvard Business School Leadership and the Wharton Business School Change Management programs.
She holds a BA (Hons.) and Business diploma from Wilfrid Laurier University.