Kirk Muise, a proud Cape Breton University alumni from the Class of 1997, grew up in Chéticamp, along the world-famous Cabot Trail. Reflecting on his journey, he says, “Growing up in Chéticamp taught me the value of community and hard work. Those lessons shaped not only my career but the way I lead teams today.”

His early professional path was shaped by CBU’s work-integrated learning programs, which introduced him to RBC. He completed his first work term at the local Credit Union in Chéticamp and then two placements at RBC in Sydney. “Those work terms were eye-opening,” Kirk recalls. “They gave me a real sense of the business and introduced me to an opportunity to build my career.”

Kirk earned his business degree in Business Technology with a management option from CBU (then UCCB), then achieved his Personal Financial Planner designation through the Canadian Securities Institute. He spent 20 years involved with Atlantic Canada’s athletic community, gaining leadership experience before relocating to Alberta in 2020.

Leaving behind decades of a built and sustained network was challenging, but Kirk saw the move as a turning point. “Some of the impacts of COVID were a blessing in disguise,” he explains. “It allowed me to dive deep into the business, learn, and adapt before returning to in-person leadership.”

Today, Kirk serves as RBC’s Regional President for Alberta and the Territories, leading more than 2,500 employees in delivering financial advice and services to RBC’s Personal Banking clients. With 25+ years of experience at RBC, he has held senior leadership roles in Human Resources, Retail Banking, Financial Planning and Commercial Banking. He is known for his collaborative style, innovative thinking, and client-first approach. “I have always believed that strong teams and listening to clients first are the keys to success,” Kirk says.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kirk is a dedicated community leader. He has served on the Board of Directors for Volunteer Canada and currently contributes to the Werklund Centre Board of Directors, the Calgary Petroleum Club Board of Governors, and the SAIT Real Futures Fundraising Cabinet. “Community involvement has always been important to me,” he reflects. “It reminds me that success is not just what we do at work, but the impact we leave behind.”