William (Bill) G. Sembo, CM

Calgary, AB

Bill Sembo brings deep expertise in finance, strategic advisory and corporate governance with a focus on Canada’s energy sector and economic infrastructure. As a senior advisor with Lazard, Bill advises global organizations on strategic decisions, activist fund activity, and navigating complex regulatory and market dynamics.

Throughout an extensive career, Bill played a central role at RBC Capital Markets as vice-chairman and managing director, leading landmark transactions such as the creation of Cenovus Energy and Nexen, which shaped Canada’s energy landscape. His previous roles at Toronto-Dominion Bank and Asamera Inc. included senior responsibilities in corporate finance, economic analysis and international project development.

Bill has a strong commitment to public policy and governance, having served on the Alberta government’s Competitiveness Review Committee, Oil Sands Advisory Group and as chair of the Amazon HQ2 Leadership Team. His governance expertise extends across both corporate boards, including ARC Resources and Canadian Utilities Limited, and non-profit boards such as the Palix Foundation, where he addresses key community issues like healthcare innovation and social infrastructure.

A graduate in economics from the University of Calgary, Bill was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2022 and awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for significant contributions to both business and public service.