We have some sad news to share about a remarkable leader in the business world. Christine Bergeron, a trailblazer in B.C.'s business landscape, has passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Her impact and legacy will be felt for years to come.
Christine Bergeron, a name synonymous with excellence and innovation, has left us. She was not just a CEO; she was a force of nature, a leader who transformed industries and inspired countless others.
From September 2023 to September 2025, Bergeron led Concert Properties, one of B.C.'s largest real estate development companies, through a period of immense growth and change. The company itself described this era as 'transformative,' and it's easy to see why. Under her leadership, Concert Properties not only delivered exceptional results but also prioritized its values and the well-being of its people.
But here's where it gets controversial... Bergeron's approach to leadership was unique. She challenged the status quo, asking tough questions and encouraging her team to do the same. As John Dooling, interim CEO of Concert Properties, put it, 'She asked the hard questions, listened deeply, and challenged us to deliver results in a way that honored our values.'
Before her time at Concert Properties, Bergeron served as the CEO of Vancity Credit Union, Canada's largest credit union. During her decade-long career there, she held various senior leadership roles and set a direction that prioritized social and environmental responsibility. Under her watch, Vancity achieved record financial results in 2020 and 2021 while also advancing its commitment to climate action, equity, and building resilient communities.
And this is the part most people miss... Bergeron's leadership style was people-centric. As Vancity's statement reads, 'Under her leadership, serving our members and caring for each other was always top of mind.' She believed in a world where business and social responsibility went hand in hand, and her actions proved it.
Christine Bergeron's impact extended far beyond the business world. She was deeply involved in governance and public policy, serving on nearly 20 organizations' boards and advisory roles throughout her career. Most recently, she was a board member of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) and the Urban Development Institute (UDI).
Her colleagues and peers have nothing but praise for Bergeron. Bridgitte Anderson, president, and CEO of GVBOT, said, 'Christine left an indelible mark on all the work she embraced. She was curious, strategic, and smart. Our community has lost a real force.'
Anne McMullin, who recently left her role as the president and CEO of UDI, expressed her heartbreak, saying, 'I was so excited when she was named CEO of Concert Properties, and I would actually get to work alongside her.'
John Dooling added, 'Christine's passing has left a deep sense of loss across Concert Properties. She will be greatly missed by all of us who had the honor of knowing her.'
Christine Bergeron's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the positive changes she brought about.
So, what do you think? Was Christine Bergeron's leadership style ahead of its time? Do you believe business and social responsibility can go hand in hand? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
