Sherry Cooper made history as the first woman to serve as chief economist of a major Canadian bank when she joined BMO in the 1980s. Currently, she holds the position of chief economist at Dominion Lending Centres, Canada’s leading mortgage originator. Here’s a summary of her insights and milestones:
Key Insights
- Background: Sherry grew up with a mother who was a typical 1950s housewife and a grandmother who owned a grocery store, which she found more inspiring.
- Career Start: She was initially unfamiliar with economics but fell in love with the subject while studying at Goucher College in Baltimore.
- Experience at the Fed: She worked during a tumultuous economic time in the late 1970s, under Paul Volcker at the Federal Reserve, who later became a mentor.
- Move to Toronto: After relocating to Toronto, she adjusted to the Canadian economy and the high-interest rate environment.
- Jump to Burns Fry: Her position at Burns Fry involved a dynamic and exciting work environment, unlike the more bureaucratic structure of BMO.
- Views on Gender and Career: Sherry highlights the challenges women face in the corporate world and emphasizes the importance of balancing career ambitions with personal priorities.
- Emphasis on AI: She is deeply engaged in the implications of AI in the economy and the need for better commercialization of Canadian tech innovations.
Career Milestones
- 1972: Graduated with a B.A. in economics from Goucher College.
- 1977-1982: Worked as an economist at the Federal Reserve, serving under Paul Volcker.
- 1983: Became a senior financial economist at Burns Fry in Toronto.
- 1985: Became chief economist at Burns Fry and the first woman director at a major Bay Street brokerage.
- 2006-2012: Served as chief economist at BMO, retiring at age 62.
- 2015: Took on the role of chief economist at Dominion Lending Centres.
Sherry Cooper’s story highlights her journey through a predominantly male-dominated industry and her commitment to making economics accessible to everyone.
