When you think science? You think labs, not banks. But you should think again. Sandra Odendahl might have a Masters of Science in chemical engineering and be a licensed professional engineer, but she’s also a Chartered Financial Analyst and has served as a senior executive at some of our biggest banks. Indeed, Sandra has spent her life blending science and finance. As the former President and CEO of CMC Research Institutes, she led one of the largest engineering firms, helping develop innovative technologies to benefit the market and the environment. At Royal Bank, she headed their Corporate Sustainability, Social Finance and Social Innovation teams. At Scotiabank and the Buisness Development Bank of Canada – BDC for short – she’s served as vice president and is now the Senior Vice President and Head, Sustainability and Diversity & Partnerships of BDC. Sandra has also served her community, advising government agencies, assisting industry working groups and championing non-profit start-ups on how to use science and economics to create a better society.
In the hustle of downtown Toronto, Sandra took the time to sit down with Nature Labs to share her story, explain the value of science in innovation and the importance of good stewardship in all that you do.
What do you think?
- What will you take from Sandra’s story?
- Do we need to do a better job of breaking down silos between skills and careers to foster innovation?
- Do you think you understand Canada well? What more could you do to learn about the places and peoples that make up this land?
- Do you agree with Sandra that the environment needs to factor into business decisions?
- How will you help nature through your career? And how will you use science to further your dreams?