Naveed Irshad, BSc 93, serves as president and CEO of Canada’s largest insurance company, Manulife Canada.
With more than three decades of industry experience, the actuarial mathematics graduate has risen through the ranks to become a respected leader with a profound understanding of the global life insurance industry.
Born in Pakistan, Irshad immigrated to Canada when he was three and grew up in Brossard, on Montreal’s South Shore. At Champlain College Saint-Lambert, he discovered his talent for actuarial mathematics through an aptitude test.
Despite being accepted into larger universities in Ontario, Irshad chose Concordia for its diversity, specialized program and smaller class sizes. The latter allowed for direct interaction with professors — a factor he credits for his strong education.
Irshad first joined Manulife in 1995 and has spent the majority of his career with the company. Prior to his current role, he was Manulife’s global head of Inforce Management and head of North American Legacy Business, where he led initiatives to improve the profitability and risk profile of the inforce business.
Irshad also spent about four years as president and CEO of Manulife Singapore, where he oversaw the development of Manulife’s operations across all business segments and distribution platforms in Singapore. Under his leadership, Manulife Singapore’s market share grew from two to 20 per cent.
As president and CEO of Manulife Canada, Irshad is based in Toronto and responsible for leading the implementation of Manulife’s growth strategy across the Canadian market, with a focus on helping Canadians improve their financial, physical and mental health.
“My leadership style revolves around building exceptional teams and giving them the freedom to move forward,” says the Great Concordian.
“I believe in delegating effectively and focusing on strategic priorities that add value to our stakeholders. It’s about constantly pushing boundaries, embracing challenges and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.”
Outside of his corporate responsibilities, Irshad remains committed to empowering the next generation at his alma mater, most notably through the establishment of the Irshad Family Entrance Bursary in Actuarial Mathematics.
When you reflect on your time as a Concordia student, what stands out?
Naveed Irshad: I look back very fondly on those years. The professors, in particular, had a significant impact on me.
There was José Garrido, of course, who built the actuarial mathematics program at Concordia. He was passionate about the subject matter and had an ability to make even the most complex material very interesting. Yogendra Chaubey is another professor who was just amazing, and who is still teaching to this day.
What are some of the factors that have enabled your success?
NI: A big one is having a learning mindset and not being complacent. Throughout my early professional journey, I typically held a job for a couple of years and then moved on. So I have always sought to challenge myself. That approach has greatly contributed to where I am today.
What advice do you have for students who may want to follow in your footsteps?
NI: Try different things, especially early in your career. Explore different businesses, departments and types of work. Experiment with roles in business, finance and risk to understand what brings you job satisfaction and motivation.
It’s crucial to discover your passion through diverse experiences rather than focusing narrowly. Always prioritize learning — if you ever get into a position where you’re not learning new things, it’s time to change.
Don’t shy away from pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. As an actuary, you always have a strong technical foundation, but obtaining your professional designation is just the beginning.
I encourage exploring broader management roles while keeping your technical skills as a solid base. The goal is to see how far you can grow in various aspects of your career.
How does it feel to be a Great Concordian?
NI: It’s truly incredible. I’m honoured and privileged to be recognized as one of the 50 Great Concordians. Looking back, I have such fond memories of my time at the university. I recall when the library was being built while I was a student. I cherish the wonderful experiences I had with faculty and friends. Montreal is truly my hometown, and returning there always fills me with joy, despite not living there now. Being part of this cohort of extraordinary alumni is very meaningful to me.