V. Peter Harder

Mr. Harder, age 67, brings to the Board a Canadian-centred, globally aware perspective which draws upon his extensive experience in public policy, foreign affairs and international trade. In particular, he possesses a valuable understanding of the workings of both the Canadian and Chinese political establishments, as well as economic, trade and investment issues. Mr. Harder also brings demonstrated expertise regarding compensation issues and compensation governance.

Mr. Harder serves as a member of the Senate of Canada and was the first independent Government Representative in the Senate (2016 – 2019). He was appointed to the role by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in April 2016 and was responsible for shepherding legislation through the Senate, as well as leading efforts on reform towards a more independent, accountable and transparent institution. Prior to his appointment to the Senate, Mr. Harder worked for nearly 30 years in Canada’s federal public service, including lengthy service at the level of Deputy Minister (from 1991 – 2007), serving as the most senior public servant in a number of federal departments including Treasury Board, Solicitor General, Citizenship and Immigration, Industry, as well as Foreign Affairs and International Trade. As Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Harder served as the first co-chair of the Canada-China Strategic Working Group which had been established by the Canadian and Chinese governments to make recommendations on improving trade and investment flows between Canada and China. Mr. Harder has a B.A. (Waterloo), as well as an M.A. (Queen’s) and has received an honorary doctorate in law (Waterloo). He previously served as the President of the Canada-China Business Council (2008 – 2016) and on a number of corporate boards, including Magna International (2012 – 2016), as well as Power Financial Corporation, IGM Financial Corporation, Northland Power Corporation and Energizer Resources Corporation.