On October 23, members of Canada’s business community and international partners gathered at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto to celebrate visionary leadership and global impact at our annual International Business Leader of the Year Awards Dinner.
This year, we were proud to honour Kevin Strain, President & CEO of Sun Life, as our 2025 International Business Leader of the Year. Kevin’s thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration and community exemplify the values that drive Canadian business forward on the world stage.
Our International Business Leader of the Year award honours those whose global leadership and strategic vision strengthen Canadian business in international markets, while driving meaningful contributions to their organizations, communities and the broader economy.
The evening featured a captivating keynote from renowned political commentator David Frum, who shared insights on the current geopolitical landscape and its implications for global business. His remarks set the tone for a night that celebrated not only individual achievement but also the resilience and influence of Canadian leadership in an increasingly complex world.
“If we can get through the crisis of today, it will teach us to appreciate a little bit better the nations we inherited, and maybe recommit ourselves to enhancing them, preserving them and making them last forever.” – David Frum
Guests enjoyed an elegant evening of recognition and connection — from meaningful conversations over dinner to Kevin’s inspiring acceptance of the award, where he reflected on the importance of purpose-driven leadership and the responsibility of business to build a better future for all.
Kevin Strain, International Business Leader of the Year
Kevin was appointed President and CEO in August 2021. He joined Sun Life in 2002 and held several senior roles, including Vice-President of Investor Relations for Sun Life’s Corporate Office, and Senior Vice-President of Sun Life’s Individual Insurance and Investments division in Canada.
In 2012, Kevin assumed the role of President, Sun Life Asia where he was responsible for Sun Life’s interests in Asia, including identifying opportunities for growth in the region and managing the company’s relationships with its partners.
In 2017, Kevin was appointed Chief Financial Officer, responsible for Sun Life’s worldwide Finance, Taxation, Capital and Investor Relations, Enterprise Services and Corporate Development business groups.
Kevin is a Chartered Accountant and holds a Master of Accounting degree from the University of Waterloo in Canada. He currently sits on the Board of Directors for Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and was previously on the Board of Governors for the University of Waterloo. Kevin is a member of the Asia Business Leaders Advisory Council.
Adding to the atmosphere, the Supersonic Hearts Band joined us as for the evening to provide smooth jazz entertainment, capping off a night filled with energy, celebration and community spirit. We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto for their exceptional hospitality and partnership in hosting this special occasion.
We would like to extend a special thanks to all of our event sponsors.
