JONATHAN DAVEY

Vice President, Indigenous Financial Services SCOTIABANK

BIO: Jon Davey is of mixed Haudenosaunee and non-indigenous descent. He shares his Lower Cayuga heritage, Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, with his father. Jon believes it is his responsibility, as an Indigenous person, to make things better for the current and subsequent generations in his community. Jon received a law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School and spent 10 years as a crown counsel with the Department of Justice Canada. During that time, he worked extensively on matters involving the Indian residential school settlement agreement as well as land management on reserve. He was subsequently appointed as special advisor and counsel to the assistant deputy minister of Aboriginal Affairs. Four years ago, Jon made a radical career move when he joined Scotiabank. In his current role he is developing the bank’s Indigenous market through community and business partnerships. Jon believes the synergy between his former and current career paths enables him to bring his vast experience of Indigenous law to bear as he works to improve the financial well-being of Indigenous communities, businesses and individuals today and into the future. Jon is also a captain in the Canadian Armed Forces (Primary Reserve) and holds the appointment of aide de camp to the lieutenant governor of Ontario. Being a reservist has taught him leadership, as well as the value of failure and self-reflection. He acknowledges that it is often difficult to look at one’s own mistakes, yet it is a key to adapting, demonstrating accountability, and building trust and confidence with colleagues and clients. His ultimate goal is to fulfill a deep-felt responsibility to make the Indigenous community stronger through positive actions that bring lasting impact.

BEST CAREER ADVICE: Before I started university, my dad told me that if I had something of substance to say I would always have an audience willing to listen. It was his way of encouraging me to work hard in school, but I see it being just as applicable to my career.

IF I HAD CHOSEN A DIFFERENT CAREER PATH:

Without a doubt I would have been a regular force officer in the Canadian Armed Forces had I not attended law school. It’s a vocation that brings together diverse groups of people toward a common goal while demanding accountability. I find that very appealing.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A TOP 40 HONOUREE?

A sense of humility along with respect for those who came before you and a commitment to making things better for those who come after you.