Meet the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient for Lifetime Achievement
Honouring Rick Duha’s leadership, innovation and community impact
Throughout his remarkable career, Rick Duha [BComm(Hons.)/82] exemplified what it means to lead with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to community. As a trailblazer in the manufacturing and colour technology industries, a dedicated advocate for education and economic development, and a passionate supporter of the University of Manitoba, Rick’s accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. His journey from a small family business to a global enterprise, combined with his dedicated service to his community and alma mater, makes him a deserving recipient of UM’s Distinguished Alumni Award in Lifetime Achievement.
Early foundations and entrepreneurial spirit
Rick’s story begins in Winnipeg, but it is rooted in a rich family legacy of resilience and ambition. His relatives, who emigrated from Hungary, started the family business in their garage, driven by hard work and a dream of building something lasting. This humble beginning laid the foundation for a family tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation. Rick first stepped into the family business as a student and became Duha Group’s Managing Director in 1991. Under his leadership, the company evolved from a modest local operation into a global powerhouse specializing in innovative colour marketing tools. Today, the Duha Group operates across eight countries on five continents, serving customers in more than 130 countries. With over 275 employees in Manitoba and more than 500 worldwide, Rick’s vision and strategic leadership have not only propelled the company’s sustained growth and success but also highlight the vital importance of maintaining a strong presence in Manitoba.
“I’m proud that we made the decision that Winnipeg was the best place to be in the Americas for our business.” Rick reflects. “You’re never more than one or two degrees of separation away from understanding or being able to access key decision makers in the community. You can ask questions, you can learn from your answers, you can understand them better.”
Innovation and industry leadership
Rick’s entrepreneurial achievements are complemented by his pioneering contributions to the colour manufacturing industry. Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, he established the Duha Center of Excellence, developing methodologies adopted globally to streamline processes and enhance efficiency. His insights into process improvement and quality management have set new standards in the industry, influencing organizations far beyond his own company.
“We grew organically through technology. We grew innovation. But we also grew with relationships and with partnerships.” Rick states, emphasizing the importance of the team behind the work. His leadership in this area has earned numerous accolades, including awards from the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and industry recognition for excellence in manufacturing and leadership.
Global impact and strategic direction
Rick’s influence extends well beyond Manitoba. Rick is an accredited Corporate Director (earned at Asper School in 2021) and serves in that capacity for companies in the UK, Australia, Germany, Singapore, US and China. His leadership in these diverse markets underscores his global reach and demonstrates his capacity to adapt, innovate, and inspire across cultures and industries.
His involvement with YPO, the world’s premier peer network of CEOs, further represents his leadership. As a longtime member, he served on their Global Board from 2015 to 2018. Following that service, he moved to YPO’s management side, serving as COO from 2020 to 2022, Rick directed teams in 34 countries and supported over 33,000 global CEOs. His tenure was marked by transformative initiatives, including the creation of the Global Concierge program, which enhanced member engagement worldwide. His dedication to fostering leadership excellence has made him a respected figure in the international business community.
Dedication to community and education
Despite his international success, Rick remains deeply rooted in his Manitoba origins. His service to the community is evident through his active participation in local initiatives and his support for educational causes. In 2016, he established the Duha Family Graduate Scholarship in Business at UM, helping to nurture future generations of business leaders. His involvement in the Rod Senft Family Business Conference and support for St. Paul’s High School and United Way of Winnipeg reflect his ongoing commitment to community development.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rick and the Duha Group pivoted their operations to produce large batches of hand sanitizer, donating proceeds to the Health Science Centre Foundation. “It was a moment to come together as a community and give back,” he recalls. In moments of crisis, his steadfast leadership powerfully demonstrates his deep dedication to service and the betterment of his community.
Rick’s long-standing relationship with UM exemplifies his commitment to giving back. As a member of the President’s Advisory Council and a former campaign team member for the Front and Centre campaign, which raised over $626 million, Rick has demonstrated his belief in the transformative power of education. His support for the Asper School of Business and the establishment of the Duha Family Graduate Scholarship highlight his dedication to fostering academic excellence.
A legacy of inspiration and impact
Rick Duha’s legacy is one of transformative leadership, innovation, and community service. His journey from a family business to a global enterprise, coupled with his unwavering dedication to Manitoba and UM, embodies the qualities celebrated by the Distinguished Alumni Award in Lifetime Achievement.
His story inspires current and future generations to pursue excellence, serve others, and lead with integrity. As Rick recently assumed the role of Chair of the Business Council of Manitoba, his influence continues to grow, shaping the economic and social fabric of the community.
As we celebrate Rick’s accomplishments at the 66th UM Distinguished Alumni Awards presented by TD Insurance on September 18, 2025, UM is proud to recognize him as a true leader and visionary. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Manitoba, Canada, and the world.
Learn more about this year’s inspiring 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.