National Bank has brought General Rick Hillier (ret'd) on board as Strategic Defence Advisor, effective August 10, 2026, giving the Bank a direct line to one of Canada's most recognizable military minds as it deepens its footprint in the defence sector.
The move
Hillier will work alongside National Bank's partners and leaders to support the defence and security industry, along with the growing roster of dual-use companies operating across Canada. His mandate covers strategic advice on defence trends and insight into issues shaping Canada's resilience, security, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and the broader defence industrial base.
"General Hillier is one of Canada's most respected military leaders and strategic thinkers," said Laurent Ferreira, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Bank. "Throughout his distinguished career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of the issues that shape Canada's place in the world. His perspective will be invaluable as we continue to support our clients and navigate a rapidly evolving environment."
Who he is
Hillier served more than 35 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, capping his career as Chief of the Defence Staff from 2005 to 2008. He led major domestic and international operations, including NATO missions, and helped drive Canada's defence capabilities through a period of significant transformation.
Since leaving the military, Hillier has stayed active as a voice on leadership, defence policy and national resilience, advising organizations across sectors. He contributed to Ontario's COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force in 2020, and more recently sat on the board of the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank, announced at the NATO summit in July. He was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2011.
"Canada is entering a period of significant investment in defence, innovation and industrial capacity," Hillier said. "I look forward to working with National Bank's leadership team as the country continues to strengthen its resilience, competitiveness and strategic capabilities in an increasingly complex world."
Why it matters
The appointment lands as Canadian defence spending accelerates and banks compete for a piece of a fast-growing sector, from established primes to emerging dual-use technology companies that don't fit neatly into traditional financing models. A figure with Hillier's operational credibility and policy relationships gives National Bank a way to signal it understands the sector, not just its balance sheets.
It also fits a broader pattern of institutions recruiting senior former military and security officials to bridge the gap between government priorities and private capital, as Ottawa leans harder on industry to deliver on capability commitments.
