Friesen, who studied economics with an international trade specialization, is currently president and chief executive officer of Friesens Corporation in Altona, Manitoba. In 2005, the Globe and Mail and Caldwell Partners recognized him as one of the Top 40 Canadians under the age of 40.
"At Waterloo I was inspired by great teachers, challenged by wonderful co-op employers, and rewarded by student life," says Friesen. "At Waterloo I was fortunate to make lasting friendships that remain to this day."
After graduating, Friesen joined a trade finance company in Toronto where he conducted business in countries such as Cuba, Brazil, Columbia and Kazakhstan. In 1996, he joined the Friesens Corporation (no relation) and by the time he was 33 years old, he was president and chief operating officer. Friesen completed the general manager program at the Harvard Business School in 2001.
Friesen was an active University of Waterloo student, taking part in the Conrad Grebel University College residence program, and the University of Waterloo Federation of Students executive. Upon graduation, he was awarded the Governor General's Silver Medal for achieving the highest undergraduate academic average at the University of Waterloo.
Today, he maintains his University of Waterloo connection as an external advisory member for the International Trade Specialization Council at the University of Waterloo. He has made regular donations to Conrad Grebel and has helped secure financial support from Friesens Corporation.
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