B.A.Sc in Chemical and Biological Engineering, UBC (1981)
President and Chief Executive Officer, Mercer International Inc. (1992–2015)
Executive Chair of the Board, Mercer International Inc. (2015–present)
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to both the department and profession of chemical and biological engineering as a leader in sustainability. As the founder of Mercer International Inc., Jimmy Lee’s role in developing and securing Canada’s forest products sector has been ground-breaking, thanks to his aptitude for business development and understanding of forest products manufacturing. Through his work, Jimmy provided important contributions to the relevance of Canada’s kraft pulp industry as well as establishing the kraft pulp industry in Germany, highlighting the sustainable operations of the industry on a global scale. With this honour, we also recognize his support of our university’s efforts in the research of bio-based alternatives to fossil fuel-based products, the CHBE department, its students and alumni, including engagement with the Bioproducts Institute (BPI) and its growing research enterprise.