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 landscape and beyond. But here's where it gets even more inspiring: Bergeron's impact wasn't just about profits; it was about people and the planet.
Bergeron's tenure as CEO of Concert Properties from September 2023 to September 2025 was nothing short of transformative. During her leadership, the company, one of B.C.'s largest real estate developers, underwent significant changes that reshaped its trajectory. She took a leave of absence in October 2025, leaving behind a legacy of bold vision and unwavering commitment to values-driven leadership.
“Christine was a rare and exceptional leader,” said John Dooling, interim CEO and CFO of Concert Properties. “Her professional brilliance was matched only by her depth of character and belief in people. She challenged us to ask the hard questions, listen deeply, and deliver results in a way that honored our values.”
Before her time at Concert Properties, Bergeron served as president and CEO of Vancity, Canada’s largest credit union. Her 12-year career at Vancity was marked by a steadfast focus on social and environmental responsibility. Under her leadership, the credit union achieved record financial results in 2020 and 2021, all while advancing initiatives in climate action, equity, and community resilience.
Vancity’s statement captures her essence: “Christine steered us through the pandemic with a people-first approach. She was a kind, compassionate leader who not only saw the promise of a better world but took action to make it a reality. Her commitment to a cleaner, fairer world for all will forever inspire us.”
But here’s the part most people miss: Bergeron’s journey began long before her high-profile roles. She spent years in sustainable finance and impact investing, co-founding Shoreline West Asset Management and helping launch the cleantech venture firm Chrysalix Energy Ventures. Her career was a testament to the power of aligning profit with purpose.
Bergeron’s influence extended beyond the corporate world. She was a governance and public policy powerhouse, serving on the boards of nearly 20 organizations, including the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) and the Urban Development Institute (UDI). Her strategic thinking and curiosity left an indelible mark on every organization she touched.
“Christine was a real force,” said Bridgitte Anderson, CEO of GVBOT. “Her contributions will be dearly missed. She was smart, strategic, and always curious. My heart goes out to her family and friends.”
Anne McMullin, former CEO of UDI, shared her grief: “I’m beyond heartbroken. Christine was a friend, a colleague, and a role model. She navigated careers, motherhood, and friendship with grace and authenticity. I was so excited to work alongside her at Concert Properties. Her passing is a profound loss.”
Dooling added, “Christine’s absence is deeply felt across Concert Properties. She will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.”
But here’s the controversial question: Can businesses truly prioritize people and the planet without sacrificing profitability? Bergeron’s life and career suggest they can—and must. Her legacy challenges us to rethink the role of business in society. What do you think? Is it possible to balance profit with purpose, or is this an idealistic dream? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
As we mourn the loss of Christine Bergeron, let’s also celebrate her vision and the impact she had on so many lives. Her story reminds us that leadership isn’t just about results—it’s about how we achieve them and the values we uphold along the way.
