He attended Trinity College at the University of Toronto, where he studied Honours Political Science and Economics.

The following year he pushed the bank into discount brokerage with its $715 million acquisition of Waterhouse Investor Services.

[4] During his tenure as CEO, Baillie lead a failed attempt to merge with CIBC, but was later successful in acquiring Canada Trust.

[8] Baillie is noted as an avid birdwatcher, outdoorsman, and history buff, who enjoys travelling and collecting antiquarian books.

In addition to his work with these educational and cultural organizations, Charles currently serves on the Board of Directors of Telus, Dana Holding Corporation, Ballard Power Systems, Canadian National Railway Company and George Weston Limited.