Mary Ritchie FCPA, FCA
With deep expertise in corporate management, acquisition, divestiture, and finance in multiple sectors, Mary is both well-known and highly respected for her insightful analysis, dynamic teamwork, and polished communication skills. Mary holds a BCom from the University of Alberta and a BA from the University of Western Ontario. She was awarded Fellowship in 1997, at the time one of the youngest women to ever receive that honour. Her achievements in the almost 30 years since have only strengthened her well-deserved reputation for excellence and service.
During that time, Mary has served as Audit Committee Chair for many public companies and Chair of Canada Hibernia, Canada’s offshore drilling operation. She is currently the Chair of the Audit Committee for Morien Resources and recently joined the newly formed board of the Heritage Fund Opportunity Corporation as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. Additionally, Mary has held governance positions including Vice Chair of the board of EPCOR and board member of Alaris Royalty Corporation, RBC Funds and RBC Global Advisor Funds, Axcan Pharmaceutical, Industrial Alliance Insurance, and IPL Plastics, among many others.
Mary has also been very active at the governance level in the public sector, where she has served as Chair of the Audit Committee or Senior Advisor for: Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd., Department of National Resources Canada, and the Privy Council of Canada.
In addition to Fellowship, Mary has received a number of other awards and accolades in recognition of her contributions. These include the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (Alberta), the University of Alberta’s Alumni Honour Award, and the YWCA Tribute to Women Award for Community Service.
Beyond these achievements, Mary is widely respected as a mentor and role model—particularly for women seeking leadership roles in finance, governance, and entrepreneurship. Her dedication to developing future leaders, combined with her willingness to share her experience generously, has enriched her community and strengthened the professional capacity of countless individuals.
Honouring Mary with the LAA in 2026 is a recognition of her more than four decades exemplifying the highest standard of leadership, integrity, and professional excellence.
What surprises did the CPA designation bring to your life?
I have been fortunate to work with many wonderful people and organizations in both the for profit and not for profit sectors. I have also been fortunate to contribute to strategic issues in Ottawa and in Alberta.
How do you think CPAs have and can impact the province?
I have recently joined the Heritage Fund Opportunities Corp. This fund will benefit future Albertans in all aspects of life. As CPAs we are often invited to join organizations that help all of Alberta.
What accomplishments have made you feel the most alive and why?
My family is my greatest blessing. I am proud of my brave and resilient daughter. As well my support of not for profit organizations has given me great joy, whether as a member of a Board of Directors or donating to worthy causes.
What is one of the greatest things you’ve learned about leadership?
Courage and speaking up when something is wrong takes deep resourcefulness and is a rare thing.
What advice would you give to others looking to succeed?
Be willing to do something that takes you our of your comfort zone whether in work or life. Be willing to say yes to new opportunities.
What’s your personal motto?
Do maximum good and minimum harm.
What has been an eye-opening realization you’ve made throughout your career?
I am always reminded that common sense is very uncommon. Being able to understand how successful strategy translates to financial results is a skill not many people have and our CPA designation gives us an edge.
What values do you live by?
Give back to others Be prepared to give your time to help others. Donate and support causes that touch your heart.
Thank you quote
I have been blessed with a wonderful family of three brothers who are always there to support me. My daughter is the strongest, smartest and most resourceful woman I know and I am forever grateful for her support. I am also grateful for Ron Triffo, my partner in fun and adventure. Thank you to my oldest and dearest friend, Mary Moreau, for her a constant support and wisdom.
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