The business world has lost a true visionary. Christine Bergeron, a trailblazing leader who championed social responsibility and innovation, has passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Her death on February 13, 2026, leaves a void in British Columbia’s business community and beyond. But here's where it gets truly inspiring: Bergeron’s legacy is not just about her impressive titles—former CEO of Concert Properties and Vancity Credit Union—but about the transformative impact she had on every organization she touched.
From September 2023 to September 2025, Bergeron helmed Concert Properties, one of B.C.’s largest real estate development firms, during what the company describes as a transformative period. Her tenure was marked by bold leadership and a commitment to aligning business success with core values. She took a leave of absence in October 2025, leaving behind a team that admired her deeply. “Christine was a rare and exceptional leader,” said John Dooling, interim CEO of Concert Properties. “She asked the hard questions, listened deeply, and challenged us to deliver results in a way that honored our values.” This is the part most people miss: her ability to balance profitability with purpose.
Before Concert Properties, Bergeron spent over a decade at Vancity, Canada’s largest credit union, culminating in her role as president and CEO. Her leadership there was nothing short of remarkable. During her tenure, Vancity achieved record financial results in 2020 and 2021, all while prioritizing social and environmental responsibility. “Christine steered Vancity through the pandemic with a people-first lens,” the credit union stated. “She advanced our commitment to climate action, equity, and building resilient communities.” But here’s where it gets controversial: Can businesses truly thrive while putting people and planet before profits? Bergeron’s career suggests they can—and should.
Her journey didn’t start at the top. Before Vancity, Bergeron worked in sustainable finance and impact investing, co-founding Shoreline West Asset Management and helping launch cleantech venture firm Chrysalix Energy Ventures. She also served on nearly 20 boards and advisory roles, including the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) and the Urban Development Institute (UDI). Her contributions earned her numerous awards, but it’s her personal qualities that resonate most deeply. “Christine was kind, compassionate, and a beloved leader,” Vancity noted. “She saw the promise of a better world and took action to make it a reality.”
Her passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and admiration. Bridgitte Anderson, CEO of GVBOT, called her “a real force whose contributions will be dearly missed.” Anne McMullin, former CEO of UDI, shared, “I’m beyond heartbroken. Christine was a friend, a mentor, and a grounding presence in my life.” Dooling added, “Her passing has left a deep sense of loss across Concert Properties. She will be greatly missed.”
Bergeron’s story raises a thought-provoking question: How can we, as individuals and organizations, emulate her commitment to purpose-driven leadership? Her life reminds us that success isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about lifting others up and leaving the world better than we found it. What’s your take? Do you believe businesses can thrive while prioritizing social and environmental responsibility? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep Christine’s legacy alive through this conversation.
