Following an extensive search, Omer Ahmed has been appointed as McMaster University’s Associate Vice-President (AVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Ahmed will begin his role on March 1, 2024.

Ahmed brings extensive experience in strategic financial management across large complex organizations, including leadership roles at CPP investments and CIBC.

At CPP Investments, Ahmed led systems and analytics, procurement and vendor management, financial planning and analysis, corporate accounting and the management reporting team for private assets throughout his career there. In addition he had a leadership role in the Internal Audit team.

He also had a varied career at CIBC, leading various finance teams across Capital Markets businesses, entailing financial accounting, reporting and valuation aspects.

“I am thrilled to have Omer join the team and take on such a critical leadership role that is pivotal to the university’s success,” says Saher Fazilat, Vice-President, Operations and Finance.

“With his unique blend of private and public sector experience, strong accreditations and experience, and values that align with the university, we are confident that we will have the right leadership to support our financial plans into the future.”

Ahmed holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto, Chartered Accountant (CA) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designations, and a Master’s certification in conjunction with York University’s Schulich School of Business.

Ahmed will build on the strong foundation Lilian Scime, Interim CFO, has established.

“We are so grateful to Lilian for her commitment, dedication and expertise. She is a highly respected leader and has been instrumental in overseeing and executing the university’s financial plans and strategies this past year,” Fazilat says.

The AVP and CFO, reporting to the Vice-President of Operations and Finance, takes an enterprise-wide approach to the university’s finances. They ensure that the university’s resources are considered when making financial decisions and that its finances can support the institution’s strategic direction.

Ahmed will lead the university’s Financial Affairs department. He has successfully managed multi-functional operations and finance teams, as a strong collaborator and results-driven leader, operating with integrity and respect.

“Like all universities, McMaster is facing a critical time for our financial future,” says Fazilat. “I have all the confidence that Omer and his team in Financial Affairs, along with our many knowledgeable employees across the university, will continue to make the best decisions they can to keep McMaster financially healthy.”

The search for a successful candidate began in June 2023, with a selection committee consisting of a diverse group of university leaders, board members, and student representatives selecting Ahmed as the preferred candidate for the role.