OMERS Executive and Leadership Team

Blake Hutcheson, the President & Chief Executive Officer, Incoming Ac at OMERS, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. This leadership role involves guiding OMERS' investment and pension administration activities across its global portfolio, encompassing public markets, private equity, infrastructure, and real estate. Hutcheson oversees the alignment of all business units with the company's core mission of investing and administering pensions for its members. The scope of this position includes fostering relationships with key stakeholders, driving innovation in investment strategies, and ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of the pension fund. By setting the executive direction, Blake Hutcheson ensures OMERS maintains its commitment to delivering secure retirement benefits through prudent management and strategic growth initiatives across its diverse asset classes and geographic regions.

Robert Aziz, the Chief Operating Officer at OMERS, manages the day-to-day operational functions and ensures the efficient administration of the pension plan. This executive oversees the integration of investment activities with pension services, optimizing processes across all departments. Aziz's responsibilities include enhancing operational efficiency, implementing best practices in service delivery, and ensuring seamless coordination between OMERS' global offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and the UK. The Chief Operating Officer drives initiatives to improve member experience and operational scalability, directly supporting the company's mission of investing and administering pensions. By focusing on operational excellence, Robert Aziz ensures that OMERS can effectively manage its diversified portfolio and deliver on its commitments to members across its extensive geographic footprint.

Deb Barnes, the Chief Risk Officer & Chief Revenue Officer at OMERS, holds dual responsibility for safeguarding the organization's assets and driving revenue generation through strategic financial management. This executive oversees the comprehensive risk management framework, identifying and mitigating potential threats across OMERS' diverse investment portfolio and operational activities. Concurrently, Barnes directs revenue-generating strategies, ensuring the financial viability and growth of the pension fund. The role involves close collaboration with investment teams and the leadership to balance risk appetite with return objectives. By managing financial exposures and optimizing revenue streams, Deb Barnes directly contributes to OMERS' ability to invest and administer pensions effectively, ensuring the long-term security and prosperity of its members across its global operations.

Nancy Nazer, the Chief Human Resources Officer & Leadership Team Executive I & D Council Co-Chair at OMERS, leads the strategic direction for human capital management and fosters an inclusive organizational culture. This executive oversees talent acquisition, development, and retention initiatives, ensuring OMERS attracts and retains top talent across its global operations. Nazer's role also involves championing diversity and inclusion efforts, aligning HR practices with the company's mission to invest and administer pensions for its members. By cultivating a supportive and equitable work environment, Nancy Nazer enhances employee engagement and productivity, which is critical for managing complex investment portfolios and delivering exceptional member services. The leadership in I&D further strengthens OMERS' commitment to its diverse membership and workforce.

James Aw, the Chief Medical Officer at OMERS, provides critical health and wellness expertise to support the organization's members and employees. This executive role focuses on integrating health considerations into OMERS' broader mission of investing and administering pensions, particularly concerning the well-being of its member base. Aw's responsibilities include advising on health-related aspects of pension benefits and ensuring that health and safety protocols are maintained across all OMERS operations, including its offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and the UK. By offering specialized medical insights, James Aw contributes to the holistic support provided to OMERS members, reinforcing the organization's commitment to their long-term security and welfare beyond financial investments.

Michael Kelly, the Chief Legal & Sustainability Officer at OMERS, directs the legal affairs and champions the organization's sustainability initiatives. This executive ensures that all OMERS' investment and administrative activities comply with global legal and regulatory frameworks, safeguarding the company's interests. Kelly also spearheads the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into OMERS' operations and investment strategies, aligning with its long-term mission. The role involves managing legal risks, advising on corporate governance, and driving sustainable business practices across its diverse portfolio and international offices. By overseeing legal compliance and advancing sustainability, Michael Kelly reinforces OMERS' commitment to responsible investing and ethical operations, ensuring long-term value creation for its members.

Jonathan Simmons, the Chief Financial & Strategy Officer at OMERS, oversees the financial health and strategic planning for the organization's investment and pension administration functions. This executive directs financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation, ensuring robust financial management across OMERS' global portfolio. Simmons also plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's long-term strategy, identifying growth opportunities in public markets, private equity, infrastructure, and real estate. The Chief Financial & Strategy Officer ensures that financial decisions support the core mission of providing secure pensions for members. By aligning financial resources with strategic objectives, Jonathan Simmons drives OMERS' capacity to invest prudently and effectively manage its diverse assets across North America, Europe, Australia, and the UK.