The Investment Funds Institute of Canada today announced the appointment of Joanne De Laurentiis as president and CEO, effective Jan. 16, 2006.

De Laurentiis replaces Tom Hockin, who previously announced his intention to retire in early 2006.

“I am delighted to welcome Joanne to our organization,” said Brenda Vince, chairwoman of the IFIC board. “The selection of Joanne De Laurentiis as our CEO represents another positive step forward for our organization.”

De Laurentiis is currently President & CEO of Credit Union Central of Canada. She brings nearly 25 years of financial services experience to her new position, including executive leadership roles with other financial services industry associations.

“While we had many high calibre and quality candidates, the board unanimously agreed that Joanne was the right person to lead IFIC at this time. Her proven track record in working with multiple stakeholders and regulators and her commitment to communication and dialogue will serve our board, our members and the investing public very well in the years ahead,” Vince added.

De Laurentiis brings nearly 25 years of experience leading financial services organizations in achieving results for members.

Her career has focused on managing and guiding multi-stakeholder organizations, including Credit Union Central of Canada, Mondex Canada and the Interac Association.

As the first CEO of Interac, Joanne led that organization to become the world’s most efficient and successful debit card network. She also served as vice president, public affairs, for the Canadian Bankers Association.

De Laurentiis also represents the Credit Union system on the boards of the Canadian Payments Association and the Interac Association and is a member of the Equifax Advisory Council.

As a volunteer, she has served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Toronto Board of Trade. She is currently Chairwoman of the Southdown Institute.

She holds a master’s degree in political science from the University of Western Ontario.