Find out the visionaries recognized on BPM's 'Hot List 2024' for their outstanding contributions to the industry
Canada’s top financial professionals continue to make their mark in shaping the benefits, pensions, and institutional investment landscape.
Benefits and Pensions Monitor proudly presents its ‘Hot List 2024,’ honouring individuals whose vision, influence, and dedication have driven exceptional growth and innovation across the industry. Here are some of the exceptional leaders who have made impressive contributions this year:
Simunac, with nearly 25 years of private debt portfolio management across North America, leads Stonebridge Financial’s portfolio management team.
Throughout his career, Simunac has underwritten $15bn in loans, contributing significantly to sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, healthcare, real estate, and corporate finance.
He previously led two new Canadian banks to top 25 commercial lender status. Simunac’s influence extends beyond his direct work, as he chairs and participates in several key industry organizations, including Realpac and the Association for Corporate Growth.
His contributions have earned him the ACG Canada’s ‘Lifetime Achievement Award,’ recognizing his substantial impact on the industry.
Simunac notes, “Building a strong foundation in private debt management has allowed me to contribute to key sectors that are vital for Canada's economic growth. My focus has always been on creating sustainable, long-term value for investors and the community.”
As vice-president of VUMI Canada, Stirpe has revolutionized the international private medical insurance (IPMI) market in Canada. Under Stirpe’s leadership, VUMI has quickly become the leading provider of IPMI in the country.
Stirpe has earned recognition for expanding healthcare access through VUMI’s Prestige VIP healthcare insurance plan, which offers Canadians access to world-class medical care without the constraints of the national system.
“Our VIP products are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals, families, and employees,” Stirpe says. “We’re not just providing healthcare insurance — we’re offering peace of mind, knowing that our clients have access to the best care worldwide.”
Stirpe has also emphasized the importance of personal service, stating, “Our strategy focuses on client-centric solutions, because when people need healthcare, they want convenience, personalized care, and options that prioritize their well-being.”
Rohan’s nearly two decades at SHARE have cemented her role as a trailblazer in Canada’s responsible investment movement.
As chief strategy officer, Rohan has expanded SHARE’s client base, guiding Indigenous trusts, universities, pension funds, and more towards socially responsible investment strategies.
Rohan’s work has focused on uniting asset owners with a common purpose, empowering them to effect meaningful change.
“We’ve done our part in making the case, and climate change is an undeniable reality,” Rohan says. “But investors — like all of us — have the power to respond.”
She also speaks about the challenges in the sector, she says “It’s not optimism, necessarily, but pragmatism. There are important and manageable steps that pension funds of all sizes can take today to address climate-related risks and opportunities.”
Since joining CIBC Asset Management in 2024, Hornung has been pivotal in strengthening the firm’s institutional relationships.
His role focuses on building consultant partnerships that are critical to expanding CIBC’s presence in the global market. Hornung’s extensive experience in fixed income, equities, and alternative assets, coupled with his background advising institutional clients, positions him as a key figure in driving CIBC’s growth.
“It’s about creating partnerships built on trust and understanding,” Hornung explains. “Consultants are at the heart of institutional investment, and by focusing on these relationships, we can deliver the strategies that our clients need to succeed.”
Hornung’s dedication to building relationships is also reflected in his personal life. “Whether in business or family life, making sure everyone feels heard and valued is my top priority,” he said.
Gory, with 25 years of experience, leads Orchard Benefits and has been recognized for his contributions to Canada’s employee benefits landscape.
Gory’s expertise in group insurance has earned him multiple nominations as Life & Health Advisor of the Year and the 2024 Benefits Alliance Fast Start Award for his innovative member engagement strategies.
His leadership continues to drive the company forward, empowering clients to navigate complex benefits systems while delivering customized solutions tailored to their team’s specific needs.
“Helping organizations navigate the complexities of group insurance is my passion,” Gory says. “I’ve always believed in providing solutions that are tailored to each client’s unique needs — and that approach has allowed us to build strong, lasting partnerships.”
On his achievements, Gory adds, “It’s an honour to receive the Fast Start Award, but it’s really a recognition of our team’s dedication to providing exceptional service to our clients.”
Pouliot, executive vice-president at iA Financial Group, is recognized for his visionary leadership and dedication to social responsibility.
An actuary by training, Pouliot’s impact on iA includes spearheading strategic projects and implementing transformative changes such as the Lean culture. His focus on supporting Canadians through group insurance and retirement solutions reflects his belief in the company’s social mission.
“By providing group insurance and retirement savings solutions, we actively support the overall wellbeing of millions of Canadians,” Pouliot says. “We are there for them when the unexpected happens and along their journey to long-term financial health.”
Outside of his professional work, Pouliot is an advocate for wellness, participating in the Grand Defi Pierre Lavoie to promote healthy lifestyles. “Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is critical, and I encourage my team to take time for their own well-being,” he says.
To explore the full list of exceptional leaders making a difference in the financial sector, visit the complete ‘Hot List 2024.’
