Robert Bhatia has been a practicing Executive Coach for the past eight years helping dozens of senior executives to achieve their goals.
Robert currently serves on the boards of the Local Authorities Pension Plan, Credit Union Central of Alberta and the Alberta General Insurance Council. He has chaired boards, audit committees and governance committees.
Robert served ten years as a Deputy Minister with the Province of Alberta responsible for four major portfolios: Finance, Revenue, Seniors and Government Services. Robert is an experienced senior executive with over 30 years of management and leadership experience.
Robert holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Alberta and a Master’s degree in Economics from Queen’s University.
Before becoming a Deputy Minister, Mr. Bhatia held a wide range of positions in Finance (known as Alberta Treasury). This included work in economic and policy analysis, financial sector regulation. treasury operations, tax administration and corporate finance.
Robert’s responsibilities have included stewardship of the Province’s budget and the Alberta Heritage Fund and direct accountability for operating budgets up to $2 billion.
He has had significant responsibility for execution of multiple major corporate and financing transactions including the creation of TELUS and divestiture of an interest in Syncrude.
Robert has had extensive experience leading small and large organizations (up to 2000 staff) in finance, strategy and policy, operations and regulation. He has a strong track record of identifying, developing and mentoring high potential employees. He is widely respected for his collaborative style and commitment to excellence.
Robert is experienced in addressing a wide range of governance issues. He has overseen the creation and structuring of a major Crown corporation including recruitment of the initial board of directors. He has served on several major boards and has delivered workshops on governance for others.
He holds the Institute of Corporate Directors ICD.D certification and is a regular examiner for the Institute.