Laura Reid, a distinguished financial executive and dedicated philanthropist, passed away on March 16, 2025, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the financial sector and charitable organizations. As the Chief Financial Officer of Imperial Capital Limited, Laura was widely respected for her expertise, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to ethical financial practices. Her passing has profoundly impacted her colleagues, friends, and family, all of whom deeply admired her professionalism, generosity, and compassionate spirit.
Over nearly two decades, Laura built an exceptional career, holding leadership roles at some of the most prestigious financial institutions. At Imperial Capital Limited, she played a crucial role in shaping financial strategies and ensuring the firm’s continued success. Prior to this, she served as CFO of Worldsource Wealth Management, where she oversaw financial, tax, diligence, and audit functions for Guardian Capital Group’s advisory channels. Her career also included more than a decade at KPMG, where she ascended to the position of Partner in the financial services audit practice. Laura’s expertise in asset management, investment regulation, and financial compliance earned her widespread recognition across the industry.
Her strong academic foundation was instrumental in her success. Laura earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) degree from Queen’s University, known for its rigorous business programs. She further expanded her knowledge by completing an international business and leadership program at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland. These experiences helped shape her global perspective on finance, leadership, and corporate responsibility.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Laura was deeply committed to philanthropy. She was an active board member of Hedge Funds Care – Help for Children (Canada Chapter) for over a decade, working tirelessly to support children affected by abuse and neglect. She also made significant contributions to the Alternative Investment Management Association of Canada, where she served as Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors. Her dedication to these causes reflected her belief in using her professional success to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Despite her demanding career, Laura was first and foremost a devoted wife and mother. She cherished spending time with her family and found joy in outdoor activities, particularly skiing. Known for her warmth, kindness, and ability to uplift those around her, she was not only a mentor to many in the financial sector but also a beloved friend and confidante. Her ability to balance professional excellence with personal fulfillment made her a role model to many.
Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from colleagues, industry leaders, and charitable organizations, all recognizing the profound impact she had on both the financial world and her community. To honor her memory, discussions are underway to establish a scholarship in her name, aimed at supporting aspiring financial professionals who demonstrate the same dedication to excellence and ethical leadership that defined Laura’s career.
While Laura Reid’s loss is deeply felt, her influence will endure through the institutions she strengthened, the charitable initiatives she championed, and the countless individuals she mentored and inspired. Her remarkable legacy will continue to shape the financial industry and philanthropy for years to come.
