Invest in Hamilton

What can you tell us about your previous role?

My last role was at the City of Markham as Commissioner of Development Services. I was responsible for Building, Culture, Economic Development, Engineering, Planning, and Tourism. For those who don’t know, Markham has a population of 350,000, and is the technology centre of the GTA, being home to IBM, AMD, and others. In fact, 10% of all residents in Markham work in the IT Sector!

What were your most significant achievements in that role?

I am most proud of the work we did on bringing the Yonge North Subway Extension to the City along with several TOD (transit oriented development) stops, as well a York University campus that supports 4,000 students, the Downtown Markham Secondary Plan, and for reforming the development process to lift Markham from last place to fifth overall in the annual BILD (Building Industry and Land Development) survey.

What attracted you to Hamilton?

I have always been attracted to Hamilton. Hamilton is one of the few historical cities in Canada where individuals in the planning and development professions, such as economic development, can really make a difference. Hamilton’s excellent transit system, the vision for a new waterfront, downtown revitalization, the presence of the fifth-largest University in Canada, the emerging life sciences sector, and, of course, the $3.4 billion LRT investment all contributed to my decision to come to Hamilton and make a difference in this community.

It was an easy decision for me.

What has surprised you about the city so far?

I understood some of the challenges with poverty and substance abuse, but I did not understand the deep need in the community. I think as civic leaders, it is our duty and responsibility to keep this in our line of sight as we work on city projects and support decision makers.

On a positive note, I am very surprised by the opportunities for development in Hamilton. There is a large supply of employment lands, and many sites for urban regeneration and greenfield development. The spin-off effects of the airport and the port are evident in their recent business investments. Hamilton is well poised, in my opinion, for significant economic growth.

I would also note that while I expected to work with a highly professionalized staff, I am almost overwhelmed at my colleagues’ high degree of commitment to the success of this city. It is refreshing and a clear cause for optimism for the future.

What are you looking forward to in this position?

I’m looking forward to making a difference through a number of paths.

First, getting to know my team and in doing so support a positive and productive environment that increases employees’ engagement.

Admittedly, the cyber incident was unfortunate, but I am looking forward to contributing to the City’s customer-focused rebuilding effort.

I’m also focused on supporting new and existing businesses, and contributing to economic growth, including major proposals such as Steelport and Pier 8 development.

Finally, I am looking forward to improving the Downtown by supporting development, the entertainment and tourism industries, and working to clean up this valuable asset so that it becomes a jewel in Ontario’s crown.

Hamilton’s Welcoming Week took place from September 12 to 21, 2025. This annual event is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places, and values that help everyone feel welcome in Hamilton.

To this end, the Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council (HIPC) hosted two Welcoming Week events that brought our community together in meaningful ways. On September 16th, the fourth floor of Hamilton’s Central Library was filled with community and conversation as more than 150 people visited the Hamilton Welcome Event and Information Fair. Local organizations offered resources, answered questions, and shared opportunities to support newcomers.

The following day, HIPC gathered at the Hamilton Visitor Experience Centre for a Stories of Migration and Belonging Writing Workshop, facilitated by Keetup Publishing.

Participants—both newcomers and long-term immigrants—were invited to reflect on their journeys through writing prompts. What emerged were powerful stories filled with growth, resilience, and hope. This workshop reminded us of the strength found in sharing our stories and listening to one another.

This year’s theme reminds us to celebrate differences and to identify what we have in common through the stories we share.