Colin George, Chief Risk Officer at McMaster University, has been awarded the 2025 CAUBO Emerging Leader Award, presented at the Canadian Association of University Business Officers (CAUBO) annual conference and awards gala.
The Emerging Leader Award recognizes early-career professionals in Canadian higher education whose leadership and contributions are already having a transformative impact. Since joining McMaster, George has led a major evolution in enterprise risk management (ERM), positioning the university as a sector leader in proactive, collaborative risk practices.
Under George’s leadership, McMaster has strengthened its approach to risk management by revamping the University’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework, creating practical risk assessment tools, implementing clearer processes, and enhancing a shared understanding of how to identify, prioritize and respond to risk. His work has helped embed a strong, transparent risk culture across the university – one that empowers staff, faculty, and leaders to make well-informed decisions and navigate uncertainty with confidence.
“Colin brings a rare combination of strategic vision, operational insight, and emotional intelligence to his role,” says?Saher Fazilat, Vice-President (Operations and Finance). “He has not only strengthened how McMaster approaches risk, but also how we build trust, make decisions, and plan for the future. This recognition from CAUBO is a testament to the impact he’s had – not just at McMaster, but across the sector.”
George’s approach to leadership has earned praise for being both inclusive and engaging. Through risk workshops, cross-functional tools, and collaborative partnerships, he has fostered a culture of shared risk ownership and continuous improvement. His work with McMaster’s finance team, including joint presentations to the Board of Governors, has deepened institutional understanding of financial risk and enhanced strategic decision-making.
Colleagues also point to George’s approachable and supportive leadership style. He is known as a mentor who empowers his team, encourages innovation, and leads with both professionalism and warmth.
The CAUBO Emerging Leader Award celebrates innovation, resilience, and excellence in post-secondary administration – qualities George continues to demonstrate in advancing risk management at McMaster and beyond.