Douglas R. Arends
Chairman of Canadian Bank Note Company Limited.

​Douglas R. Arends is a prominent Canadian entrepreneur and business leader, best known for his transformative role as Chairman of the Board at Canadian Bank Note Company, Limited (CBN). Assuming leadership in 1976, Arends spearheaded the company's evolution from a modest security printing firm into a diversified global enterprise.

Under Arends' guidance, CBN expanded its portfolio beyond traditional security printing to include sophisticated systems integration. This strategic diversification led to the establishment of multiple business units, now totaling seven, encompassing areas such as currency production, border management, civil identity, excise control, and lottery systems. Today, CBN operates in over 70 countries and employs more than 2,300 individuals worldwide.

Arends' entrepreneurial vision was particularly evident in the early 1990s when CBN secured a pivotal contract to design and print the inaugural series of banknotes for an independent Ukraine, delivering two billion banknotes in under two years. This achievement marked CBN's emergence as a significant player in the international banknote market.

Beyond his corporate endeavors, Arends is recognized for fostering a corporate culture that emphasizes diversification, innovation, and a commitment to people. His leadership has positioned CBN as a trusted partner to governments and institutions worldwide, providing secure, high-quality products and integrated solutions.