Press releases

Payments Canada Board Chair inducted into Women’s Executive Network Hall of Fame


OTTAWA, November 23, 2018 – On November 22, Eileen Mercier, Chair and Independent Director of the Payments Canada Board, was recognized by the Women’s Executive Network (WXN) as one of the 2018 Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100. This marks the fourth time she has received this honour, and this ongoing achievement has secured her a place in the hall of fame.

“I am humbled to be recognized again for this award,” said Eileen Mercier. “WXN brings together a remarkable group of women to create opportunities to learn from each other, enrich careers and make a difference. It is an honour to be among this talented group of women who serve as an inspiration for the next generation of leaders.”

Ms. Mercier has been Chair of the Payments Canada Board since 2015. She is chancellor of Wilfrid Laurier University and was the Chair of the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board from 2007 to 2014. In 2010, she also received an honorary LLD from York University and Wilfrid Laurier University and was named as one of Canada's Top 25 Women of Influence. In 2012, 2015 and 2017, Ms. Mercier was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women.

“Eileen has been invaluable as the leader of our board as we navigate the complex and exciting mission to modernize the payments system in Canada," said Gerry Gaetz, President & CEO of Payments Canada. “We are so pleased to see her recognized for all of her accomplishments and dedication. She is an inspiration for all of us.”

The WXN Top 100 winners come from a variety of industries and were announced at an awards gala on November 22.

“We are celebrating 100 of Canada’s highest achieving women in diverse fields,” said Sherri Stevens, CEO of WXN. “All 100 are role models for the generations who will follow – which is why it’s very important to recognize and celebrate their great achievements.”

The full list of WXN’s 2018 Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award winners can be found here.

For more information about Payments Canada, visit payments.ca.  

About the Women's Executive Network (WXN)

Women’s Executive Network (WXN), a member-based organization, exists for the advancement, development and recognition of professional women in Canada. WXN delivers this advancement through training, events, mentoring, networking, and award and recognition programs for members and partners. At WXN, equity, inclusion and the advancement of professional women make industry stronger and society better. Their passion is 100% centered on empowering women and creating positive social change. WXN currently operates in Canada and Ireland.

About Payments Canada

Payments Canada ensures that financial transactions in Canada are carried out safely and securely each day. The organization underpins the Canadian financial system and economy by owning and operating Canada’s payment clearing and settlement infrastructure, including associated systems, bylaws, rules and standards. The value of payments cleared by Payments Canada’s systems in 2017 was approximately $50 trillion or $200 billion every business day. These encompass a wide range of payments made by Canadians and businesses involving inter-bank transactions, including those made with debit cards, pre-authorized debits, direct deposits, bill payments, wire payments and cheques. Payments Canada is a proud supporter of the Catalyst Accord and the 30% Club.

For media inquiries, please visit the Media Centre.

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