Canadian Business Leader Award
The Canadian Business Leader Award (CBLA), established and developed by the Alberta School of Business and now presented by the University of Alberta, recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership, business acumen, entrepreneurial spirit, integrity and a commitment to community.
Why We Celebrate
Celebrating the CBLA recipient recognizes the power of imagination, initiative and persistence in business and community. By bringing together visionary thinkers and bold innovators, the University of Alberta fosters a network that inspires the next generation of business leaders.
2026 Recipient
Gord Johnston
President and CEO, Stantec
He stayed close — and went far.
Gord Johnston began his career in Edmonton with a BSc in Civil Engineering and Masters of Engineering, both from the University of Alberta. Today, he leads Stantec, the homegrown firm he has guided to global success while keeping its roots firmly in Edmonton.
As president and CEO, Johnston is known for his integrity, humility and commitment to people-centred leadership. Since 2018, he has strengthened Stantec’s focus on professional services, empowered leaders across a distributed global team and maintained the company’s deep community roots. Under his guidance, Stantec’s market capitalization has grown by more than 300 per cent, and the firm now ranks among the world’s top 10 design consultancies.
Johnston’s leadership philosophy is a commitment: build trust, invest in people and cultivate the conditions for others to thrive. His career — like the company he leads — reflects the strength of Alberta ingenuity and the global reach of a U of A education.
Gord Johnston
President and CEO, Stantec
He stayed close — and went far.
Gord Johnston began his career in Edmonton with a BSc in Civil Engineering and Masters of Engineering, both from the University of Alberta. Today, he leads Stantec, the homegrown firm he has guided to global success while keeping its roots firmly in Edmonton.
As president and CEO, Johnston is known for his integrity, humility and commitment to people-centred leadership. Since 2018, he has strengthened Stantec’s focus on professional services, empowered leaders across a distributed global team and maintained the company’s deep community roots. Under his guidance, Stantec’s market capitalization has grown by more than 300 per cent, and the firm now ranks among the world’s top 10 design consultancies.
Johnston’s leadership philosophy is a commitment: build trust, invest in people and cultivate the conditions for others to thrive. His career — like the company he leads — reflects the strength of Alberta ingenuity and the global reach of a U of A education.
SOLD OUT
The Canadian Business Leader Award Dinner at the University of Alberta is now sold out.
Thank you to our guests and sponsors whose continued support makes this the event to be at. Your commitment to celebrating leadership and excellence is what keeps this tradition strong.
We look forward to an unforgettable evening together.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
5 – 9:00 p.m.
Edmonton Convention Centre, Hall D
Past Recipients
Since 1982, CBLA recipients have demonstrated leadership, business acumen and success, an entrepreneurial spirit, integrity, and a commitment to the community. Get to know them all »
Presenting Partner
We’re delighted to welcome National Bank as our presenting partner for this year’s CBLA Dinner. Their generous support helps make this special evening possible — and we’re grateful for their commitment to recognizing and celebrating bold business leadership.
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“National Bank is proud to present the Canadian Business Leader Award, recognizing business leaders who exemplify and set the bar for operational excellence, continuous improvement, and innovation. The insights they bring forward everyday translate into tangible results and ultimately inspire the continued success of the private sector and the next generation of leaders. Their impact can not be understated, and National Bank believes partnerships with leaders, such as those considered for the esteemed award, are at the core of what makes us different.
Jamie Comstock, VP and head of Commercial for Alberta, National Bank of Canada,
2026 Sponsorship
Interested in sponsoring the 2026 event? Reach out to Adam Watt, Event Partnerships at awatt
Gold Sponsor
VIP Reception Sponsor
Green Sponsors
Supporting Sponsors
Contributing Sponsors
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Contact Us
For more information on the Canadian Business Leader Award.
Email: eventuab@ualberta.ca
The net proceeds from this year's CBLA event will be used to support CBLA endowed awards.