McKay, MBA'92, named RBC president, CEO

By Jason Winders, MES'10

Western alumnus Dave McKay, MBA’92, will assume the role of president and chief executive officer of Royal Bank following the retirement of current president and CEO Gord Nixon on Aug. 1, 2014, the bank announced today. Nixon has served in the position for 13 years.

“I am honoured to be asked by the board to lead this remarkable institution and work with group executive to ensure we continue to invest in and grow our businesses,” said McKay, currently group head, personal and commercial banking. “I am energized about leading our 79,000 employees who serve our more than 15 million clients globally and embody our values and brand in all that they do.”

In line with RBC’s succession planning process, the Board of Directors said McKay will be appointed president at the Annual Meeting on Feb. 26, and then as president and CEO effective Aug. 1.

“The board is very confident in Dave’s leadership given his track record of driving performance and investing for the long term with a focus on innovation for sustainable growth,” said David O’Brien, board chair. “He has been recognized as one of the top retail bankers internationally and has a demonstrated commitment to clients, employees and communities, helping them succeed in an ever-changing world.