A Note from Derek Neldner: Coming Together as a Community
By Derek Neldner
Published June 2, 2020 | 1 min read
At RBC, we passionately support diversity and seek to create an environment of inclusion for all people. Derek Neldner, CEO and Group Head of RBC Capital Markets, shares a note condemning the recent acts of injustice and racism, and calls us to come together as a community to make a difference.
The events of the past few days in the U.S. have stirred a number of emotions in us all – everything from shock and sadness to frustration and anger. The tragic death of George Floyd along with other recent instances of injustice and racism, and the ensuing protests, have hit a collective nerve and have left us searching for answers. What is clear is that these ongoing instances of racism and discrimination against people of color within our communities demonstrate how much work remains to eliminate inequality in our society.
I would like to acknowledge and recognize the significant distress, anxiety, and concern that these evolving events are creating for everyone, and especially for the black community. While my colleagues and I are fortunate to work for an open organization like RBC that truly values diversity, inclusion and what makes each of us unique, it is times like these that remind us there is so much more that we can, and must, do as individuals and organizations.
Now is a time where we must come together as a community to support each other, foster greater empathy and understanding, and show leadership in driving lasting change. I encourage you to check in on people who may be struggling to provide your support and solidarity. I also encourage you to take action by speaking up and calling out instances of injustice when you see them and by championing inclusion and respect. It is important for us to have open, candid conversations – to listen, share perspectives and understand the experiences of others. In this regard, I would strongly encourage you to read this post from RBC Capital Market’s Natasha Holiday, Managing Director, Municipal Finance as well as a recent article from Sandye Taylor, Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion. They share highly valuable perspectives on recent events and the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Together, we can and must make a difference.
Derek Neldner
Global Head, Investment Banking
Derek Neldner is CEO and Group Head of RBC Capital Markets and is a member of RBC’s Group Executive. Derek has global oversight of the firm and, along with the Capital Markets Operating Committee, sets the growth strategy for RBC’s Corporate & Investment Banking and Global Markets business activities worldwide. Together with other members of Group Executive, Derek is also responsible for setting the overall strategic direction of RBC.
Derek joined RBC in 1995 and has held a broad array of responsibilities across the firm, and served as Global Head of Investment Banking prior to his current role. He has significant experience across all aspects of investment banking including mergers and acquisitions, debt and equity financing, and he continues to provide senior coverage and advice to a number of the firm’s most significant clients. Derek has also been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, including having co-chaired RBC Capital Markets’ Canadian Diversity Leadership Council.
Derek has an active and longstanding commitment to philanthropy and giving back to the community. He has volunteered with a variety of charitable organizations and is currently a board member of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Foundation and is a member of the Major Individual Giving campaign cabinet for the United Way of Toronto & York Region.
Derek holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance from the University of Alberta and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), as designated by the CFA Institute. Derek is married with four children and lives in Toronto, Canada.
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