The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Jan. 8, edition that former Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce chief executive officer John Hunkin passed away on Monday at the age of 79. The Globe's Andrew Willis and James Bradshaw write that according to several sources, he died from a heart attack. In a message to CIBC employees, current CEO Victor Dodig expressed, "John was an inspiring leader at our bank, emphasizing our potential for growth and firmly believing in our ability to lead." During his 36-year career at CIBC, Mr. Hunkin played a crucial role in the bank's expansion into the U.S. market and directed the integration of investment dealer Wood Gundy, which was acquired following the 1987 stock market crash, with CIBC's traditional corporate lending operations. As CEO from 1999 to 2005, Mr. Hunkin oversaw a profitable effort to finance technology companies. He also managed the repercussions of the Enron Corporation collapse, which resulted in CIBC paying billions to settle lawsuits from investors in the failed energy trader. Former CIBC executive Richard Venn said Mr. Hunkin was innovative and made bold moves in capital markets, contributing to CIBC's strong franchise today.