The Honourable Graydon Nicholas has been an important part of GIO’s governance for almost a decade. He joined the Board in 2017 as the Independent Director representing Atlantic Canada and went on to serve as both Chair and Vice Chair. Beyond GIO, he has had a remarkable career. He was a lawyer and a Provincial Court Judge, was appointed the 30th Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick, and has been a trailblazer as the first Indigenous person in Atlantic Canada to obtain a law degree, the first appointed as a provincial court judge, and the first to serve as Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick.
As he prepared to step away from the Board this October, we sat down with him to look back on his time with GIO.
Why did you decide to join GIO’s Board of Directors?
I did not expect the invitation. It came around the same time I received the Order of Canada in 2017. I have always enjoyed insurance law and how it can benefit consumers, so I was interested.
What stands out from your time on the Board?
The people. I had the chance to learn from every Board member I worked with. Each of them brought unique perspectives from their own regions and experiences. I also valued hearing from the industry representatives on the Board. Their insights about what companies were facing added balance to our discussions.
I enjoyed being part of committees and later stepping into the roles of Vice Chair and Chair.
Any highlights from your time as Chair?
Every Chair has a different way of leading. My approach was to make sure everyone’s voice was heard and that we worked toward consensus. That comes from my Elders and my community, where decisions are made together. I believe it makes decisions stronger when you bring in different areas of expertise.
One highlight for me was GIO creating its Land Acknowledgement. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called on the corporate community to recognize Indigenous Peoples, and I was glad to see GIO do that. Our acknowledgement was modeled on the one used in Toronto, where GIO’s head office is located.
What changes did you see during your time on the Board?
The Board evolved with new voices, new skills, and fresh perspectives. We also worked with the Institute of Corporate Directors to build on our governance practices. It is important for Board members and the CEO to continue learning, and that has made the Board stronger.
Any final reflections?
I leave the Board with good memories. I learned just as much as I contributed. What stands out to me is how well the team works together. In sports, teams win championships. At GIO, teamwork is what makes the organization stronger and more effective.
We thank the Honourable Graydon Nicholas for everything he has brought to GIO. His leadership and wisdom have left a lasting impact, and we wish him the very best as he completes his term in October 2025.