Federated Press and Bank of Nova Scotia today congratulated Alberta Cefis, executive vp and group head, global transaction banking at Scotiabank on being named Canadian Woman Leader of the Year at the third annual Federated Press Women & Leadership Summit.

“The Canadian Woman Leader of the Year Award salutes the best in women: it is meant to shine a light on excellence as well as recognize exemplary leadership shown by a Canadian woman,” said Ellie Tenis, senior editorial developer, Federated Press. “Alberta was carefully selected by Federated Press’ Award Committee, of which I am honoured to have been a member.”

“It is a pleasure to congratulate Alberta on this honour,” said Rick Waugh, president and CEO, Scotiabank. “Encouraging and developing leadership is a key priority at Scotiabank. Throughout her career at Scotiabank, Alberta has achieved great business success and inspired her colleagues to excel.”

“I am humbled but very pleased to accept this award,” said Cefis. “I have been fortunate to work with many exceptional people throughout my career and have taken every opportunity to learn from my experiences and to support those around me in their efforts to succeed.”

As group head of global transaction banking, Cefis is responsible for leading the evolution of trade finance, correspondent banking, cash management, payments, e-commerce and e-banking at Scotiabank in order to provide global business solutions to customers in the corporate, commercial and retail segments. She has 26 years of financial services experience across many sectors, sits on several Boards and industry committees, and is actively involved in supporting the performing arts, community endeavours and the advancement of women.

Past recipients of the award include: Janet Yale, executive vp, corporate affairs of Telus (2006) and Maureen Kempston Darkes, group vp & president (Latin America, Africa & Middle East) of General Motors (2005).

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