LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO
Today I wanted to convey three messages:
First, I wanted to start by saying, that as of June 1, I have formally transitioned into my role as OMERS President and CEO. It is truly a privilege for me to lead this purpose-driven organization and I appreciate the support of so many of you leading to this opportunity. I am also blessed to be surrounded by an outstanding, world-class team of deeply committed colleagues. In my work alongside them, I know we are all unified around the goal of putting the best interests of our members above all else during these difficult times, but as importantly, in the years and decades ahead.
Second, when I last wrote to you it was the beginning of April, and we were just beginning to navigate very uncertain times with the rapid acceleration of the global pandemic. We know that this has resulted in an extremely challenging time for so many of our members directly and I can assure you that this is not lost on us. However, I am pleased to report that during this time, our global OMERS team has found new ways to adapt and support each other – and to do whatever we can to come through this period with strength. Like everyone, our returns will suffer in 2020, but please know that your pensions will be paid on time and as usual. OMERS is here for the long-term and our approach and resolve remains the same, to keep the Plan sustainable, affordable and meaningful for all of our members.
Third, like you, we have been following the recent events in the U.S. and the ripple effects that have followed around the world. We are an organization who puts people first and we will continue to come together to listen, learn and act in support of our team and our communities against racism. Inclusion and Diversity is a key element of our culture at OMERS, and we are accelerating our efforts to support and educate our employees to ensure a safe and inclusive work space for everyone.
And finally, though this economic crisis, what we have been seeing from our governments, and our central banks globally, is a collective effort to ensure the fabric of our global economy stays intact. By working together as a strong international team, we are encouraged by our future prospects and the opportunities that lie ahead.
The abolitionist, historian and clergyman Edward Everett Hale once said, “Together - one of the most inspiring words in the English language. Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
I want to assure all of our members that your team at OMERS is embodying that spirit of togetherness and teamwork in all aspects of our work in service of you.
All the best,
Blake Hutcheson