Aayaz Pira

AAYAZ PIRA is a “C-Suite” executive with deep experience in scaling and transforming traditional businesses utilizing digital, data and technology. As EVP & CIO, Aayaz leads the overall strategy, development and execution of Co-operators Technology function, aligning the technology vision to Co-operators’ business objectives and strategic plan, with a focus on modernizing the technology, digital and data strategy to create competitive differentiation. Aayaz has spent over a decade in executive leadership roles in banking and has been at the forefront of technology and digital disruption in financial services. Most recently, Aayaz was the President and CEO of Canadian Tire Bank and President of Canadian Tire financial where he was responsible for the overall strategic direction and growth of the organization’s Financial Services division. During his tenure as President and CEO, Aayaz implemented new technology and digital platforms which led to an increase in revenue and customer acquisition. As, Senior Vice-President, Digital Banking and Enterprise Innovation at CIBC, Aayaz oversaw digital for the bank, including the digital channels, innovation, and direct banking. His work at CIBC has been recognized by industry experts, receiving several accolades, including “Top Mobile Bank in Canada” by JD Power, and “Top Consumer Digital Bank in North America” by Consumer Finance. Aayaz was also responsible for building and operating CIBC's direct banking businesses across North America, including Simplii Financial – recognized as one of the world’s best banks by Forbes magazine and CIBC Agility in the U.S. Aayaz has been recognized as the “Digital Banker of the Year” by American Banker and was awarded the Ted Rogers School of Management Alumni Trailblazer award for his contribution to the school and community, the G. Raymond Chang Outstanding Volunteer award from Ryerson University, and was profiled as a “Next Gen” leader in Toronto. Aayaz also dedicates time to giving back to various organizations and currently sits on several Boards including North York General Hospital, Ted Rogers School of Management’s MBA Program and the investment committee of the Aga Khan Museum. Aayaz graduated with an MBA from Queen’s University and holds a Bachelor of Commerce with Honours, Information Technology Management (Systems Design & Application Development), from TMU (formerly Ryerson University).