Athar Sheikh

Strategic, people-focused financial services leader with over 25 years of progressive leadership experience across banking, lending, and insurance. Proven ability to drive organizational growth, financial performance, and operational excellence while fostering high-performing, engaged teams. Brings deep expertise in the Canadian financial services landscape, including retail banking, credit, and insurance, with a strong foundation in risk management, governance, and regulatory compliance.

Recognized for aligning business strategy with execution, enhancing customer experience, and leading sustainable growth initiatives. A collaborative and purpose-driven leader committed to building organizations that deliver long-term value to clients, employees, and stakeholders.

Principal Broker, Director & Financial Services Leader - INFINIX Lending Ltd. - Oshawa, ON

(2005-01)

• Built and led a full-service lending business, driving sustained growth in client base and loan portfolio
• Developed and executed strategic initiatives to enhance market positioning, profitability, and client experience
• Directed all aspects of operations including financial performance, compliance, underwriting, and client engagement
• Implemented process improvements that reduced turnaround times and increased operational efficiency
• Led comprehensive risk assessment and credit evaluation frameworks, ensuring regulatory compliance and portfolio quality
• Recruited, trained, and mentored brokers and staff, fostering a culture of performance, accountability, and collaboration
• Established strong partnerships and referral networks to expand business reach and revenue opportunities

Managing General Agent (Executive Leadership Role) - Legacy Life Insurance & Financial Services - Oshawa, ON

(2005-01)

• Directed agency strategy and operations, including sales performance, compliance, and talent development
• Built and scaled advisor teams through recruitment, onboarding, and structured coaching programs
• Increased policy sales and client retention through targeted growth strategies and client-centric solutions
• Strengthened operational performance through data-driven decision-making and market analysis
• Led advisor development initiatives, improving productivity, engagement, and retention

Branch Manager - TD Bank & Bank of Montreal (BMO) - Ontario

(2022-01 - 2024-12)

• Led branch operations with accountability for financial performance, sales growth, and regulatory compliance
• Managed and coached teams of financial advisors to achieve revenue targets and service excellence
• Strengthened customer relationships, improving client satisfaction and retention
• Ensured adherence to risk management policies, audits, and regulatory requirements
• Contributed to regional performance through strategic execution and operational leadership

Sales Manager - Sun Life Financial - Ontario

(2015-01 - 2017-12)

• Led advisor teams to achieve consistent sales growth and improved performance outcomes
• Developed and delivered training programs to enhance advisor capability and productivity
• Implemented strategic initiatives to expand market reach and client acquisition

Managing General Agent / Agency Director - American Income Life

Investment Consultant - Investors Group

General Manager / Owner - NU Look Laboratories

Lab Manager - LensCrafters

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery - Medicine

Occupational Health & Safety Law - Toronto Metropolitan University