“I had experienced acquisitions, conflict situations, just about everything that you could do in business. In my corporate career I got tremendous experience, but when that ended, I wanted to feel that I could make a difference by working more closely with senior leaders”.

Yet his path to TEC was an unexpected one, stemming from a chance encounter with TEC Chair Bruce Harbinson, who recognized something unique in Brian—a blend of financial expertise and sales acumen —which Brian didn’t initially see as remarkable.  Although unfamiliar with TEC at the time, Bruce was persistent, and convinced Brian that his skills and genuine nature would make him an exceptional TEC Chair. His natural curiosity led him to attend a meeting, revealing that the organization’s mission and the role aligned with his own values. Although he candidly admits it took time to find his footing and succeed by making it his own.

“While at the gym, I started talking to a man named John—someone I’ll always remember. At one point, he asked, ‘What do you think I do?’ I guessed he was a financial planner. He smiled and said, ‘I help people achieve their dreams.’ As it turned out, he knew Bruce Harbinson.”

Brian’s relatability and humility are immediately evident, as he recalls his own experience in dealing with imposter syndrome over the years, including when first becoming a Chair. “It was intimidating to walk into a room and talk to a CEO of a company, a self-made millionaire, if you will” he admits, yet he quickly turned that vulnerability into strength, becoming more relatable to his members and a confident Chair.

His commitment to helping others grow is clear in his encouragement for members to explore new perspectives and embrace their vulnerability, tackling business and personal challenges head on and with the support of the group. Brian takes great pride in working with a diverse range of C-suite leaders, from Advancing Leaders and KEY Executives to CEOs. In this trusted community, he views his role as both mentor and what he calls “guardrail” for his members, providing guidance and stepping in when needed.  “I’ll be the guardrails for you. If you need me, just look and I’ll jump in, you’re safe” he shares. This approach has not only earned him respect but has also deeply impacted his members’ lives.

“I was really taken by the fact that I was able to help them. I got this warm glow”.

Brian’s warmth is infectious from the moment you meet him, there’s an unmistakable energy—a genuine interest to get to know you, a real curiosity, and a sense of kindness that instantly makes you feel at ease. A family man, Brian has been married for over 40 years, with three children and five grandchildren.

“I honestly believe the answers are always there. I think part of my job is to help people find the answers and implement them. That’s just a skill you develop as a Chair”.

Each year, TEC Canada acknowledges a distinguished TEC Chair for their exceptional contributions to their groups, fellow Chairs, and the TEC community with the Robert Nourse Award. Named after the man who initially established “The Executive Committee” in 1957, which is now known as Vistage in the U.S. and internationally, the Robert Nourse Award is the most prestigious award a Chair can receive. This award celebrates individuals who not only embody TEC’s core values, but also see the transformation of the lives of CEOs, KEY Executives, business owners, and emerging leaders as an intrinsic reward, reflecting the true character of the individual.