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Meet Dave Angus, bridgebuilder and UM’s newest addition

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This article was published 07/06/2025 (311 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When you meet Dave Angus, three things are clear: he’s energized by bold ideas, thrives on building strong partnerships, and believes deeply in Manitoba’s future.

We caught up with the former CEO of The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and current President of Johnston Group as he sits in a boardroom at UM, learning about the duties he’ll assume this June as the 15th Chancellor of the University of Manitoba.

Angus grew up in Transcona, listening to Queen, and running family businesses out of basements. He never imagined he’d be the ceremonial head of the province’s most impactful university but he’s always been at the centre of so much—he’s worked on more than 15 boards and advisory committees that span the arts, business, philanthropy, even city zoning.

In May, Angus [BComm/82] was a guest on UM’s award-winning podcast, What’s the Big Idea?, discussing our economy’s future. Here now is a Q&A with the man who dislikes negativity, prefers to lead from behind, and trusts in community.

What made you want to take on the role of Chancellor?

[UM] is a big part of my history. You don’t fully appreciate it when you first graduate as much as you do later in life. You reflect back on all the tools that you were given through your education, and all the people that you met. And so, a big part of it is I want to pay back.

But also, through my involvement in the community, particularly the [Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce], I saw how impactful the University of Manitoba is and its stature within universities across Canada, even internationally. And there’s one aspect that really struck me, and that is the values that drive this place—especially around inclusion and the focus and priority that this university places on partnerships with Indigenous peoples. There’s a value set here that I think is really being showcased. But the other aspect is: The economic impact of this university is often understated. And I remember when the Chamber hosted what may have been the first State of the University address, and I was blown away by the many layers to the impact of this university. So, I’m all in on what this university is and does. And if I can play a role in spreading that word and bringing people to the University through partnerships, then that’s a role I am honoured to play.

What guidance do you hope to provide UM in building relationships with Manitoba’s business community?

First of all, it is about learning more about the nature of how companies can partner with the University. So, whether it’s a research partnership, an employment co-op, a funding partnership, I really want to get a sense of how a business can partner with UM and how can we take it to the next level. Are there tables the University should be at that I can help facilitate?

What advice would you have for your younger, student self?

Enjoy the journey and not be so focused on the end result. I think that’s a good message for students overall. It’s a privilege to be a student. Really enjoy this experience. Too many people are just rushing ahead.

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Dave takes over from Anne Mahon and was installed at UM’s 146th convocation ceremony on June 4. We are proud to welcome Dave and award 3058 degrees to UM’s newest alumni, many who will stay in Manitoba, supplying high-demand skills to the labour market and contributing to UM’s $7.3 billion economic impact on our community. 

Read the full interview online on UM Today The Magazine.