Michael Lee-Chin

Early Life

Michael Lee-Chin was born in Port Antonio, Jamaica, on January 3, 1951. His parents were of mixed African and Chinese heritage. When he was seven years old, his mother married Vincent Chen, and they had seven children together. Lee-Chin attended Titchfield High School from 1962 to 1969. He immigrated to Canada in 1970 to study civil engineering at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario.

Rise to Success

Lee-Chin's career began in the financial services sector. At the age of 26, he became a financial advisor, quickly progressing to the position of branch manager. In 1983, he secured a loan to purchase stock in Mackenzie Financial Corporation. He then acquired AIC Limited in 1987, growing it into a fund with billions in assets. He sold AIC Limited to Manulife in 2009. He also invested in the Caribbean, including a significant stake in the National Commercial Bank of Jamaica.

Key Business Strategies

Key strategies included acquiring and growing AIC Limited. He expanded the Berkshire group of companies. Strategic investments in financial companies, particularly in Jamaica, were also key to his success.

Philanthropy

Lee-Chin is known for his philanthropy, donating to the Royal Ontario Museum and the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. He has donated over $60 million to various hospitals and universities.