Sam Ishak serves as Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Teranet, where he is responsible for leading the organization’s technology strategy and leveraging innovation to support existing and emerging business objectives. Sam oversees end-to-end IT solutions across the full delivery lifecycle and is accountable for all strategic and operational aspects of technology, including enterprise architecture, application development, information security, infrastructure, business intelligence, and technical services. His focus is on enabling innovation, supporting business growth, and delivering technology solutions that help advance Teranet’s strategic priorities. 

Sam brings more than two decades of experience across technology and business leadership roles. Throughout his career, he has played a critical role in leading complex initiatives by combining deep technical expertise with a strong understanding of business needs. He is recognized for his collaborative leadership style and ability to align technology strategy with business outcomes, making him a valued member of executive leadership teams. 

Prior to joining Teranet, Sam served as Chief Information Officer at FCT, where he was responsible for leading technology strategy and overseeing enterprise-wide technology initiatives that supported business growth and transformation. 

Before joining FCT, Sam served as Enterprise Architect at Insurance Bureau of Canada. Sam has diverse experience across multiple industries, including financial services, insurance, and government sectors, supported by a strong technical background and broad business experience. 

Sam holds a Bachelor of Computer Science degree and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Ontario (P.Eng.). He was awarded the title of Distinguished Certified IT – Chief Architect from The Open Group and is a member of The Open Group Certification Authority. In 2025, Sam was recognized with the 2025 Futurist Toronto CTO Award from CXO INC. He also served as a member of the Seneca Polytechnic Financial Technology (Fintech) Program Advisory Committee (PAC). Earlier in his career, Sam served as a board member at SyncBase Inc. prior to the company’s acquisition. 

A passionate technology and business leader, former gymnast, and proud family man with four grown children, Sam enjoys spending time beyond the boardroom as a choir conductor, avid soccer and tennis enthusiast, and frequent public speaker and panelist at CIO and CXO conferences. He is known for sharing practical leadership insights and forward-thinking perspectives on technology, transformation, and organizational growth.