André Bérard Inducted Into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame

MONTREAL, May 5, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - National Bank is proud to announce that André Bérard was inducted as a Companion of the Order of the Canadian Business Hall of Fame during the 37th annual Gala Dinner and Induction Ceremony held Monday evening in Toronto. The event honours Canadian business leaders for their enduring contributions to the country's economy and society.

Mr. Bérard dedicated his entire career to National Bank, rising through the ranks to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank from 1989 to 2002, and Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1990 to 2003. Leading up to his years at the Bank's helm, he held several senior management positions, including Senior Vice-President and General Manager – International; Executive Vice-President – National Accounts; and Senior Executive Vice-President – Banking. Mr. Bérard serves on numerous boards of directors and is deeply involved with the community. In recent years, he has presided over many fundraising campaigns, such as the one for the Montreal Heart Institute Research Fund.

"Mr. Bérard was a pioneer in terms of social involvement and a proud supporter of entrepreneurship. He played a key role in building one of the greatest generations of entrepreneurs in Canadian history," said Louis Vachon, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Bank. "He was at the forefront of a cultural shift for philanthropy in Quebec, instilling a strong tradition at National Bank."

The title of Companion of the Order of the Business Hall of Fame is the highest honour of its kind in Canadian business. Each year, business leaders are nominated by their peers and chosen by an independent selection committee representing Canada's foremost business and academic institutions.

National Bank would also like to congratulate N. Murray Edwards, Chairman of Canadian Natural Resources Limited, Walter Hachborn, founder of Home Hardware, and Heather Reisman, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Indigo Books & Music Inc. on their induction.

About National Bank of Canada
With $214 billion in assets as at January 31, 2015, National Bank of Canada (www.nbc.ca), together with its subsidiaries, forms one of Canada's leading integrated financial groups. The Bank has more than 20,000 employees and is widely recognized as a top employer. Its securities are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA). Follow the Bank's activities via social media and learn more about its extensive community involvement at clearfacts.ca and commitment.nationalbank.ca.

SOURCE National Bank of Canada

(The telephone number provided below is for the exclusive use of journalists and other media representatives.): Claude Breton, Vice-President - Public Affairs and Investor Relations, National Bank of Canada, Tel.: [phone]