Paul Desmarais III

Paul Desmarais III is the chairman and CEO of Sagard, an alternative asset management firm with a global presence across North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Under Desmarais's leadership, Sagard has expanded its assets under management to more than $25 billion and developed a portfolio that includes technology and financial services companies such as Wealthsimple, Koho, nesto, and Dialogue. Desmarais also serves as executive chairman and co-founder of Portage Ventures and Diagram, with a focus on entrepreneurial transformation and innovation in the investment sector.

Desmarais began his career at Goldman Sachs, Imerys, and Great-West Lifeco before joining Power Corporation of Canada as senior vice president. In addition to his executive roles, Desmarais has founded and supported initiatives including the Black Wealth Club (now the Afrodescendant Leadership Alliance), Young Canadians in Finance, and the Indigenous Leadership Circle, all of which aim to empower emerging leaders and promote inclusive economic growth. Sagard’s commitment to responsible investing is demonstrated through its alignment with the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment and its pursuit of carbon neutrality.

Desmarais is a graduate of Harvard College and INSEAD. He has served as co-chair for philanthropic campaigns such as Centraide of Greater Montreal and sits on the boards of companies including Empower and Novisto. His honors include the Arnold Edinborough Award for impact on the arts and recognition as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. Through leadership, public speaking, and advocacy for sustainable finance, Desmarais contributes to the advancement of global investment and community development.