Charles Brindamour: Visionary CEO Behind Intact Financial’s Global Expansion
How Charles Joseph Gaston Brindamour Reinvented Canadian Insurance for the Global Market

Full Name and Personal Background
Charles Brindamour, fully named Charles Joseph Gaston Brindamour, was born in 1970, making him approximately 55 years old as of 2025. He holds Canadian nationality and is presumed to have Franco-Canadian heritage, given his strong academic and professional ties to Quebec. Despite his high-profile role in the business world, Brindamour maintains a reserved public presence, with limited information available about his early life and upbringing.
Information about his personal life is scarce. This discretion has likely allowed him to maintain a strong professional image while separating personal affairs from his corporate leadership.
Education and Early Career Foundations
Charles Brindamour earned his Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science from Université Laval, a university known for producing leading professionals in finance and mathematics. His rigorous academic background laid the foundation for his future success in the insurance and financial services industries.
In 1994, Brindamour became an Associate of the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS), further proving his expertise in evaluating insurance risks. His contributions to the field were recognised with an Honorary Ph.D. from HEC Montréal in May 2019—an honour reserved for leaders who have significantly impacted Canadian business and society.
Career Trajectory and Key Accomplishments
Charles Brindamour’s journey with Intact Financial Corporation began in 1992, where he took on various roles in operations and leadership. He climbed the corporate ladder by serving as Senior Vice President of Personal Lines, then as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, before being named President and CEO on January 1, 2008.
His appointment as CEO marked a turning point for Intact. One of his first significant achievements was guiding the company through its 2009 transition into a publicly traded entity. This pivotal moment allowed Intact to attract investment capital and build a foundation for international growth and innovation.
Transformational Acquisitions
Brindamour is widely recognized for his role in transforming Intact from a national company into a global insurance powerhouse. In 2011, he led the acquisition of AXA Canada, then the largest-ever property and casualty insurance acquisition in Canadian history. This bold move helped Intact secure its dominant position in the domestic market.
His success continued with the 2017 acquisition of OneBeacon Insurance Group, expanding Intact’s presence into the U.S. specialty insurance sector. In 2021, Brindamour orchestrated the takeover of RSA Insurance plc, which elevated the company’s total annual premiums from CAD $12 billion to $20 billion and solidified its presence in the UK and Ireland.
Roles, Boards, and Leadership Influence
As the CEO and Director of Intact Financial Corporation, Charles Brindamour holds one of the most influential roles in the Canadian business landscape. He also sits on the Board of Directors at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), a position he has held since February 2020.
He chairs The Geneva Association, a global insurance think tank, and is a key contributor to the Finance Council of the Business Council of Canada. Beyond financial circles, he co-founded Gibraltar Ventures, an investment firm focused on emerging tech, and serves on the boards of Branksome Hall and CHU Sainte-Justine, underscoring his commitment to community and education.
Awards, Recognition, and Strategic Focus
In February 2022, Charles Brindamour was named Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year, one of the highest accolades for executive leadership in the country. This award validated his long-term vision, acquisition strategy, and responsible corporate governance.
Under his leadership, Intact has expanded significantly beyond Canadian borders and developed a strong presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. Brindamour’s commitment to sustainable practices and digital transformation continues to shape the company’s path forward.
Sustainability and Climate Leadership
Brindamour is a well-known advocate for climate resilience and adaptation. He helped establish the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, which provides research and tools to protect Canadians from the increasing risks of floods, wildfires, and extreme weather events.
His dedication to environmental sustainability also extends to promoting net-zero emissions and supporting green innovation across the insurance industry. Brindamour’s approach balances profitability with long-term environmental stewardship, making him a respected voice in responsible business.
Strategic Goals and Recent Developments
Charles Brindamour envisions Intact Financial Corporation as a global leader in digital insurance, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. His leadership philosophy includes investing in people, encouraging ethical decision-making, and aligning corporate goals with public interests.
In May 2025, Intact reported strong Q1 financial results, alongside dividend announcements and leadership changes in its Global Specialty Lines division. Brindamour’s steady hand during times of economic uncertainty has helped Intact remain competitive, resilient, and forward-looking.
FAQs About Charles Brindamour
What is Charles Brindamour’s full name?
Charles Joseph Gaston Brindamour.
When was Charles Brindamour born?
He was born in 1970 and is currently 55 years old.
What is his current role?
He is the CEO and Director of Intact Financial Corporation.
What are his most notable achievements?
Major acquisitions (AXA Canada, OneBeacon, RSA), launching climate adaptation programs, and being named Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year in 2022.