In a time when leadership is often defined by bottom lines and fleeting trends, Naveed Irshad Manulife Canada stands apart. His journey isn’t just a corporate success story—it’s a blueprint of what purposeful leadership looks like in the 21st century.
Born in Pakistan and raised in Brossard, Quebec, Naveed Irshad’s life is a testament to the immigrant spirit, academic determination, and relentless ambition. From discovering his love for actuarial mathematics at Champlain College to becoming the President and CEO of Canada’s largest insurance company, Naveed Irshad’s path has been paved with courage, innovation, and unwavering commitment to people.
But behind the titles and accolades lies a man driven by a profound mission—to help Canadians live healthier, longer, and more financially secure lives.
A Humble Beginning, A Towering Legacy in the Making
When his family immigrated to Canada, young Naveed was just three years old. Growing up in Montreal’s South Shore, Naveed Irshad absorbed the values of hard work, inclusion, and ambition. It was at Champlain College Saint-Lambert that he unearthed a natural aptitude for actuarial science—a discovery that set the tone for the rest of his life. Despite offers from larger Ontario universities, he chose Concordia University, drawn by its diversity, tailored programs, and smaller classes that allowed genuine mentorship from professors.
That decision would become one of many that reflected Naveed Irshad’s long-term thinking, clarity of purpose, and quiet defiance of convention. Years later, he continues to champion that same vision at Manulife Canada.
The Rise Through the Ranks – Driven by Passion, Guided by Learning
“Having a learning mindset and never being complacent has been key to my success,” Irshad once shared. This simple yet profound philosophy defines his career trajectory.
Since first joining Manulife in 1995, Naveed Irshad has steadily ascended through the organization’s ranks by staying true to his values and welcoming challenge. Whether it was steering global product development at a major reinsurance firm or expanding Manulife’s presence in Asia as CEO of Manulife Singapore, Irshad always found ways to grow the business while empowering his people.
In Singapore, he did the seemingly impossible—elevating Manulife’s market share from just 2% to an astounding 20% within a few years. It was leadership through boldness, through vision, through results.
Naveed Irshad: Championing Canadian Wellness and Inclusivity
Now at the helm of Manulife Canada, Naveed Irshad brings his rich global experience home. Based in Toronto, he is spearheading a growth strategy that puts people at the heart of financial services. For Irshad, helping Canadians isn’t just about policies or premiums. It’s about delivering solutions that address physical, mental, and financial health—because true wellness is holistic.
Under his leadership, Manulife isn’t just a financial institution; it’s a wellness partner.
And his influence doesn’t stop at the corporate level. In 2022, Naveed Irshad was appointed to the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Business Council, where he advises on creating more inclusive and accessible workplaces nationwide. As a vocal supporter of Manulife’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives and Employee Resource Groups, Irshad continues to shape an industry where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
Leading With Heart: A Legacy Beyond Business
While his professional achievements are remarkable, it’s Irshad’s commitment to the next generation that speaks volumes about his character. Through the Irshad Family Entrance Bursary in Actuarial Mathematics at Concordia, he is creating opportunities for future trailblazers who may not have had the same chances.
“I encourage young professionals to experiment early,” he advises. “Explore different departments. Discover what drives you. Always prioritize learning. When you’re no longer growing, it’s time for a change.”
His advice isn’t just theory—it’s practice. Irshad’s own career has been marked by transitions that expanded his perspective, sharpened his skills, and deepened his impact. From technical roles to executive leadership, he never stopped learning.
Building Teams That Dream Big
Ask Irshad about his leadership style, and he’ll tell you it’s all about people.
“I believe in building exceptional teams and giving them the freedom to move forward,” he says. His focus is on creating an environment where innovation thrives, where accountability is encouraged, and where every individual has the chance to make a difference.
It’s not micromanagement—it’s mission-driven delegation. By trusting his teams and staying focused on strategic priorities, Irshad ensures Manulife Canada doesn’t just keep pace with the industry—it leads it.
Coming Full Circle – Honoured, Humbled, Home
Being named one of Concordia’s 50 Great Concordians is more than a recognition—it’s a full-circle moment for Naveed Irshad. From sitting in classrooms taught by legends like Professor José Garrido to now shaping the future of Canadian finance, Irshad’s journey has come with a powerful sense of gratitude.
“Montreal is truly my hometown,” he reflects. “And returning always fills me with joy.”
And though his work now spans national strategy, international collaboration, and public policy, Irshad’s heart remains with the communities and classrooms that shaped him.
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