Peter B. Gustavson is a trailblazing business leader and philanthropist with an unparalleled vision. He significantly impacted the financial landscape as a Forex entrepreneur. We looked into how Gustavson’s impactful career resulted in a name change for the University of Victoria’s business school.
The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business is part of the University of Victoria (UVic) in British Columbia, Canada. The school’s emphasis on experiential learning, entrepreneurial thinking, ethical leadership, and global engagement set it apart from other business schools.
A highlight of the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business is the Master of Global Business. This master’s program has a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses a diverse range of business disciplines.
In 2010, UVic changed the name of the Faculty of Business to Peter B. Gustavson School of Business following a $10,000,000 contribution.
But who is the man behind the school’s name? Let’s learn about Peter Gustavson and delve into his exceptional achievements.
Peter B. Gustavson is an innovator, a CEO, and an accomplished entrepreneur. He showed entrepreneurial tenacity early on. As a young boy, he sold wooden coat hangers. Then while in university, he resold The Winnipeg Tribune and The Globe and Mail newspapers.
One of Gustavson’s notable achievements is establishing the currency exchange Custom House.
Founded in 1992, Custom House started in a 600-square-foot kiosk. Soon, it grew into a powerhouse brand handling $15 billion a year in transactions across 80 countries, employing 630 people. Global success in the Forex (foreign exchange) industry cemented Gustavson’s name as synonymous with entrepreneurial triumph.
For 17 years, Gustavson led Custom House, guiding its growth and success. Eventually, the company caught the attention of Western Union, which acquired it in September 2009 for a substantial sum of $370 million.
Gustavson’s exceptional leadership led to substantial wealth, yet he has remained consistently humble throughout his journey. Reflecting on his success, Peter Gustavson once shared the following insight:
In 2014, Gustavson founded the Forex company EncoreFX, returning to his field of excellence. He is also the President and CEO of Gustavson Capital Corporation (GCC). For this reason, the Times Colonist crowned him the Currency King.
Gustavson lives a life motivated by his desire to give back and make a positive difference.
Beyond his remarkable professional accomplishments, Gustavson has significantly contributed to various initiatives. He served as a member of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and provided input for anti-money laundering legislation.
Gustavson also participated in Federal Trade missions to China, Russia, and Germany.
The Canadian entrepreneur’s commitment to philanthropy is evident through active involvement in community and board memberships.
The ethos of Gustavson’s mindset is noticeable at the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, where the entrepreneurial focus extends beyond financial gains to nurturing ethical leaders.
Peter B. Gustavson School of Business has produced a roster of notable alums who have significantly contributed to the business world. These accomplished alums have emerged as leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators in various industries.
Janet Bonaguro is a graduate of the MBA class of 2004 and the CEO of ThinkSpace.
Under Janet Bonaguro’s guidance, ThinkSpace provides individuals and organizations with the tools they need to unleash their full potential. Her visionary approach and unwavering commitment to excellence have positioned her as a driving force in shaping the future of the business world.
In 2015, she was honored with the prestigious UVic Business’ Luminary Award, presented by the Gustavson School of Business. This award celebrates Janet as an inspirational figure, a role model, and a community leader.
Wilson Fong, a Master of Global Business program alumnus from the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business is making his mark in the intricate field of carbon markets.
As an analyst at ClimeCo, a leading environmental advisory firm, Wilson dedicates his expertise to guiding heavy-industry clients through the maze of emissions-reduction targets and compliance markets. His work involves innovative projects like clean cookstove initiatives in Sudan and forest protection in British Columbia. His journey from a business graduate to a sustainability champion in the global arena exemplifies the transformative impact of the school’s alumni.
Nathan Fielder is a comedian, writer, and entrepreneur. He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from UVic before pursuing a comedy career.
Nathan is known for his Comedy Central show Nathan For You, where he combined comedy with offering unconventional business advice to struggling entrepreneurs.
Outside of television, Nathan co-founded Summit Ice Apparel, a brand that sells outdoor clothing and supports Holocaust education.
Rooted in the values and inspiration set forth by Gustavson, the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business looks ahead to a successful future. Alumni will leave their mark, carrying forward Gustavson’s torch of innovation, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Do you want to learn more about pursuing a master’s degree? Check out our ambassador’s page to gain valuable, first-hand experiences and insights.
