Industry leader named first female executive-in-residence at Edwards

With more than three decades of leadership experience, Lowe is returning to her alma mater to inspire and mentor future leaders as the first female to hold this position since its inception in 2013.

“I’m deeply honoured to take on this role,” said Lowe. “As the first female executive-in-residence, this is not only a meaningful way to give back but also an opportunity to support and inspire others to achieve success in business.”

Lowe’s career at IBM spanned over 30 years. Predominantly anchored in sales leadership roles across software, hardware and services, and spanning a diverse number of industries, she gained broad functional expertise by leading organizations in operations, strategy, and marketing and communications, as the chief marketing officer for IBM Canada. She went on to serve as vice-president of enterprise and commercial business for Canada and the Caribbean. She later became vice-president of global markets for Australia and New Zealand, leading teams in the Asia-Pacific region until her retirement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Shelly Lowe as the first female executive-in-residence at the Edwards School of Business,” said Dr. Marjorie Delbaere (PhD), acting dean of Edwards. “Her leadership and experience will be an incredible asset to our students, faculty and the broader business community.”

Beyond her corporate success, Lowe is equally committed to community and board service. She currently serves as chair of the Toronto Children’s Chorus and vice-chair of Special Olympics Ontario, in addition to serving on several board committees. In 2024, she earned her Institute of Corporate Directors, Director (ICD.D) designation from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, further enhancing both her governance and leadership credentials.

As executive-in-residence, Lowe is focused on bridging the gap between the classroom and the business world. By leveraging her skills and experience, she aims to not only support faculty and students but also enhance the broader business community’s connection to academia. As a facilitator in Edwards Executive Education, she looks forward to engaging with various professionals across the business landscape. 

“The role of an executive-in-residence is about how we create value—bringing together students, faculty, and the broader business community in a meaningful way,” Lowe said. “It’s about preparing students for business leadership and corporate governance, while also fostering collaboration that benefits everyone involved. Through executive education, we’re also reaching leaders already in the field, extending our impact well beyond the classroom.”

Ultimately, Lowe sees her role as executive-in-residence as an opportunity to create lasting value for students, faculty, and the business community alike, preparing future leaders in business and effective stewards in the boardroom.

“My goal has always been to make a difference, and in this role, it’s about creating value for students, faculty, and the business community,” said Lowe. “Success for me is measured by how well I help these groups achieve their goals and prepare for future success.”

Shelly Lowe joins Marvin Romanow, former CEO of Nexen, and Scott McCreath, former senior investment advisor at BMO Nesbitt Burns, as an Edwards executive-in-residence.