20 Under 40: Geoffrey Sheeler

Meet Geoffrey Sheeler, 33, director, national accounts at Desjardins, and one of our 20 Under 40 Class of 2023 recipients

WORKING IN A sector that often values profits over all else, Geoffrey Sheeler, national accounts director at Desjardins, has made it his mission to put personal relationships and community impact first, with the faith that by doing the right thing, financial results will follow. Helping numerous commercial banking clients across the region through meticulously researched financial advice and investment and expansion financing, he is a continuous advocate for the City of London, working tirelessly to demonstrate you do not need to be in the GTA to progress in the world of finance.

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Who, or what, was your biggest influence in business?

Without question, my wife Ali has had the most significant influence on my business approach. Anyone who knows me is well aware that I am a very competitive person. The desire to excel has kept me laser-focused and been an important driver professionally. However, being ultra-competitive is not always a successful business approach. My wife consistently emphasizes the importance of simply doing what is right, with the belief that positive outcomes will follow. Over the years, I have adopted this philosophy and it has become the foundation of how I conduct myself professionally: to try to focus on doing the right thing rather than simply winning at the next opportunity. This change in outlook has resulted in a more balanced and ­long-term decision-making view, led to more consistent success and provided much-needed perspective.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self?

Aside from perhaps passing along a few stock tips, I wish I could go back to 2012 to tell my younger self to calm down and realize that you belong in the business community. Joining TD Commercial Banking at 22 and not being from a family of bankers or entrepreneurs, I initially lacked confidence in a professional setting. With experience, I was able to branch out and find my voice, but it would have saved so much time and anxiety if I had learned this lesson sooner.

An old friend is coming to visit London — where are you taking them out to eat?

I just discovered Pizza Madre and have become a bit obsessed. We would likely be making a stop for pizza, followed by a tour down to Milos’ Craft Beer Emporium or London Wine Bar for a few beverages.

What’s the best movie or show you’ve watched this year?

I am really enjoying Ted Lasso: “Be curious, not judgmental.” Interview by Kieran Delamont