Victor G. Dodig

Victor Dodig is a leader and visionary within Canada's financial services industry. As the President and CEO of CIBC since 2014, Victor has led the transformation of CIBC into a client-focused bank with a connected, inclusive culture. His journey to the leadership of one of Canada's largest banks is a story of persistence, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.

Victor was born to immigrant parents in Toronto's inner-city Parkdale neighbourhood. His upbringing was influenced by the values of hard work, respect, and community, which were instilled in him by his parents. His father escaped communist Yugoslavia to Canada, with his mother arriving four years later – both sharing the same dream of a better life. Victor’s early experiences, including watching his parents work multiple jobs to provide for their family, profoundly influenced his outlook on life and business.

CAREER

Victor’s first job in an office environment was as a customer service representative at his local CIBC branch, a role that provided him with a unique perspective on the banking industry and has shaped his leadership style throughout his career. He went on to earn global business experience, having worked in cities like Boston, New York, and London, enriching his understanding of the diverse communities CIBC serves and reinforcing his commitment to fostering connections across the regions where the bank operates. Victor places a high value on client engagement, frequently meeting with clients globally to hear directly about how the bank is helping them to achieve their ambitions, and what more they can do.

“And that, to me, reflects what banking is all about, knowing clients at a very human level and having those memories that are enduring.”

Victor’s dedication extends to the community. He is deeply involved in advocacy and community initiatives, including serving as the 2024 Chair of the United Way campaign in Greater Toronto, to help address local poverty. He has played a leadership role with Catalyst Canada to create more opportunities for women in executive roles, and with initiatives like the BlackNorth Initiative along with efforts to support economic reconciliation with Indigenous communities, to enable a more inclusive future for underserved communities in Canada.

“Some people get the opportunity to be in roles where they get to help shape positive outcomes for society. And you feel this sense of accountability and responsibility for that, which I deeply believe in.”

WHAT I’VE LEARNED

In 2002, Victor returned to Toronto to raise his family with his wife Maureen. They are the proud parents of four children, and they take great pride in instilling in them the value of giving back to the community.

Victor’s love for his family, heritage, and community are central to his life. His upbringing and his family have all played a significant role in shaping his character. Whether participating in community activities, advocating for inclusion, or simply enjoying family trips to Croatia, he remains grounded in the values that have guided his journey. He enjoys nothing more than spending time together with his family. That, to him, is, “a dividend that has more value than dollars.”

Victor Dodig’s story is one of overcoming adversity, leading with integrity, and fostering a culture of inclusion and connection. His leadership at CIBC and his commitment to giving back has left a lasting impact on the bank's culture and the broader community, making him a deserving inductee into the Horatio Alger Association.