Our People

What does your role? As the newly appointed Director of Leasing, I’ve been entrusted with leading a team of talented real estate professionals. Our focus is primarily on securing optimal leased spaces to meet the program requirements of our client ministries. Additionally, we ensure the efficient use of the GREP portfolio by leasing out owned spaces not currently in program use but not yet slated for disposition.

Over your 12 years at IO, how would you describe the evolution of your role(s)? In the words of a past CEO, Ehren Cory, I’d describe my evolution at IO as ‘Growing my Impact’ through multiple roles that increasingly focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the GREP portfolio.

I started as a Client Solution Manager where I developed realty-focused business plans to help ministries modernize and right-size their programs’ office and special-purpose spaces. After a few years, I transitioned to a Leasing Services Manager position where I was responsible for oversight of all ‘M’ lease transactions (i.e. GREP properties leased to private sector and other levels of government), completing roughly 200 agreements per year and generating significant revenue to reduce the financial burden of the portfolio.

Most recently, I worked as a Portfolio Planning Manager providing strategic oversight of the GREP portfolio to identify and value-enhance properties for disposition, providing even greater potential impact through both revenue generation and operational cost avoidance.

What is your career background? Since completing my MBA at The Schulich School of Business, most of my career has been in leasing, including working for a major retail developer and a large telecommunications provider before joining IO in early 2014.

Looking back, can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? There’s been several noteworthy accomplishments over the years related to my core work functions that I am proud of, but undoubtedly the most important to me was volunteering as a co-lead of IO’s Anti-Racism Working Group from 2020 to 2022.

It was a tremendous learning experience, an opportunity to create positive and lasting change for our organization, a chance to offer allyship to those who may face prejudice and discrimination, and a unique way to connect with many amazing people throughout IO whom I otherwise may never have met (especially given the backdrop of the pandemic). The positive effects of that initiative are still felt today in the form of our EDI team and Employ Resource Groups.

What does your role entail? As a manger in the Commercial Management team, my focus is on providing comprehensive financial and commercial analysis and advice for both the P3 (project finance) and non-P3 infrastructure projects across the IO portfolio. This includes financial modelling, transaction structuring, delivery model assessments, contract and financial provision analysis, and evaluation of major market trends. I also engage with service providers, capital markets and rating agencies to increase market visibility of projects, assess financial risk exposure across our portfolio, and support negotiations with the private sector. Ultimately, our objective is to help structure infrastructure transactions that maximize value for the Province.

What is your career background? I hold a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto and began my career in the Caribbean working in construction, energy and infrastructure in a small developing market. During this period, I witnessed the transformative effect of large-scale infrastructure on the daily lives of people (particularly rural communities), which inspired me to pursue a career in the commercial and financial side of the sector, particularly in project finance. I completed an MBA at the Schulich School of Business after which I joined the global infrastructure advisory desk at one of Canada’s Big Four consulting firms. I’m truly grateful and humbled to have experienced both developing-market infrastructure challenges in the Caribbean and, now at IO, the opportunity to contribute to some of the largest and most transformative infrastructure and project finance transactions in Canada.

What drew you to join IO? While working in consulting, I was lucky to work alongside and across a diverse section of Federal and Provincial infrastructure, but IO consistently stood out as a world class agency delivering some of Canada’s largest and most significant infrastructure projects across social infrastructure, highways, and transit. IO’s transactions are widely regarded as the “gold standard” in P3 delivery, and the opportunity to deepen my experience in P3s and mega-projects was incredibly compelling. A colleague from my MBA program who currently works at IO also spoke highly of the organization and its culture. When the opportunity arose to join IO in a financial and commercial role, it was an easy decision.

What’s the most unique part of working at IO? It’s getting to be part of history – to work on a daily basis on some of the largest, most important and transformative projects in the history of the Province, and Canada. Every day, I collaborate with a highly talented and experienced professionals from legal, financial, technical, and procurement backgrounds who share a commitment to improving life for the people of Ontario. Just as important, IO fosters a culture that truly values the unique personal and professional experience that everyone brings to the table – at IO I truly feel comfortable to be able to be my authentic self.

Is there someone at IO who inspires you, motivates you, or mentors you? It’s difficult to single out just one person at IO and within my team given the amount of support and encouragement I receive from each of my teammates. That said, I’d like to mention Chris Killer, Vice President in the Commercial Management Team. Early in my journey navigating the Canadian infrastructure space, while I was still completing my MBA, Chris took the time to speak with me and offered invaluable guidance on building an impactful career in infrastructure, well beyond traditional project finance. He continues to inspire me through his commitment to bold and innovative approaches that maximize value for money. I also enjoy our many conversations about camping and attending RV expos.

I also would like to recognize John Traianopoulos and Zaeem Ahmed for their ongoing strong support and professional guidance throughout my time at IO.

What does your role entail? As a Senior Project Manager, I serve as a central point for all project-related activities, while mentoring and supporting my team in reaching their career goals. From day-to-day inquiries to complex troubleshooting, I draw on my diverse project background to collaborate effectively with both our in-house experts and external partners. Currently, I’m leading our team through a critical P3 contract re-negotiation, ensuring we continue to deliver on scope, schedule, and budget.

Tell us what it’s like to work on your team. This is genuinely the best team I’ve worked with in my career. They are not only exceptional professionals but truly good people with a positive, solution-driven mindset. The collaboration is seamless—often, by the time I hit “send” in our team chat, all four of my colleagues have already jumped in with answers or support. Everyone is willing to help, whether it’s for the success of the project, the team, or one another.

How has your career grown since joining IO? My career has grown exponentially since joining IO. One example is the Macdonald Block Reconstruction Project (MBRP), a multi-billion-dollar P3 initiative that spans sustainability, heritage, lifecycle management, accessibility, and more. Work on projects of this scale has given me the privilege of working with some of IO’s brightest talent across all departments—including executive leadership—on industry-leading decisions that advance our mandate to serve the Crown and the taxpayer.

What would your advice be to a new employee? Dive in. You’re here because someone already believes in your potential—make sure you believe in it too. Ask questions, challenge outcomes, and offer solutions. IO is full of some of the smartest and most talented professionals in the industry. We’re an organization committed to results, and it shows in our everyday interactions. Don’t hesitate to seek support; people here genuinely want to help.

Is there someone at IO who inspires, motivates, or mentors you? I would like to recognize Ilke Ayan. We met about eight years ago while working at the Federal Government, where he took me under his wing. He has mentored me ever since and has been instrumental in my growth, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges. He is a true people leader, and I’m grateful for his guidance.

What is the most interesting project you’ve worked on for IO? What did you do on that project? Since joining IO in 2024, I’ve been working on the MBRP as the Senior Project Manager. This historical reconstruction of the government’s central administrative hub has faced unprecedented challenges. It is truly a once-in-a-career opportunity, giving me deep exposure to complex contracting, dispute resolution, and high-stake decision-making.

Over your 20+ years at IO, how would you describe the evolution of your role(s)? My career has shifted quite a bit. I began as an Operations Manager for a district school board, then joined the ORC in 2004 as an Area Manager delivering Real Estate Services for the government portfolio. Today, as Portfolio Real Estate Manager (PREM) with IO, I provide higher-level oversight and strategic advice role to government. 

Tell us what it’s like to work on your team? We’re a very cohesive, and although we’re regionally dispersed across the province, we are closely connected. We meet often, draw on each other’s experiences, and provide advice and support. IO is a great place to be on a team.

Looking back, can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? Working on P3 Projects is always a highlight, especially looking back at the first IO P3 that I was involved in – the Thunder Bay Courthouse. At the time, I was with ORC, but we collaborated with IO who was delivering this project.

It was rewarding to see aging facilities replaced with a new courthouse that consolidated two sites. It brought investment to community and delivered real value for Ontarians.

Just as today, we worked as one team, collaborating across government to provide high-quality real estate services that make a difference for citizens.

What makes IO a truly unique place to work, even after two decades? IO is constantly evolving. From self-performed services to outsourcing, the changes keep work fresh and challenging. No two days are alike, and every project ties back to government priorities, making the work meaningful.

What is your career background? I studied urban planning at Queen’s University, specializing in land use planning and real estate. Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked at both federal and provincial levels, based in Ottawa and now Toronto, on projects that span the entire province.

My work has focused on guiding government realty, such as former campuses, through master planning, transactions, and achieving targeted outcomes. These efforts have supported the creation of transit-oriented communities, long-term care facilities, community infrastructure, and a range of housing types, including market, affordable, and supportive housing.   

Outcomes are secured through various transaction mechanisms including purchase and sale agreements, easements, land use entitlements, long-term development agreements deals and so on.

Looking back, can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? [or milestone, etc.]  I led the open market sale of 328-acres of provincial lands in the Guelph Innovation District. This transaction successfully advanced multiple provincial objectives and marked a transformative city-building opportunity I was proud to be part of. Through this, IO implemented a secondary plan that re-designated the site for mixed-use residential and employment, significantly increasing its value.

The project exemplified the interdisciplinary and complex nature of our work at IO. I vividly recall reviewing a planning submission, negotiating a legal agreement, and running a financial proforma—all in the same day!

Its success was rooted in strong collaboration across IO’s technical teams, including experts in archaeology, heritage, land surveying, appraisal, legal services, environmental management, planning, and asset management.  We also maintained resilient and constructive relationships with external stakeholders throughout.

What makes IO a truly unique place to work, even after two decades? The work we do is impactful and delivers meaningful benefits to Ontarians. 

One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing tangible outcomes of past projects, such as the transformation of underutilized government campus sites into new communities, providing benefits such as housing and essential infrastructure.

I am also supported by leadership that encourages new and creative approaches, which ultimately adds value for government.  

Altogether, the work provides a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.   

Looking back on your career, who has inspired you professionally? (either within IO or outside IO) Professor David Gordon, Professor at the Queen’s University School of Urban and Regional Planning. I landed a summer job with Dr. Gordon after second year of undergrad and seemingly caught the planning ‘bug’. 

I was drawn to the discipline’s commitment to serving the public interest and its focus on improving the communities we live in. I also appreciate its multidisciplinary nature – and admittedly, its semblance to my favourite computer game of all-time, SimCity 2000.

What does your role entail? As Director of Real Estate Operations, I oversee IO’s Real Property Services across the northern and southwest region – covering nearly 18 million square feet of leased and owned buildings, plus 42,000 acres of land. This includes landbanks, the Parkway Belt along the Hwy 407/410/427, abandoned rail corridors, and heritage systems to farmlands, bridges, dams, and expropriated properties. Day-to-day, my team tackles everything from building operations, encampments, flooding, and land management to support ministry programs across the province.

What is your career background? I hold a degree in Mining Engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia (now Dalhousie University). I started out mining iron ore and then worked in an asbestos mine, then fulfilled a dream by serving as a Military Engineer in the Canadian Armed Forces maintaining base infrastructure and training in explosives and field operations. After 11 years of service, I transitioned to the private sector, joining Royal LePage Facility Management Services (now BGIS), where I managed Ontario’s first outsourced real estate pilot. In 2004, I was hired by the Ontario Realty Corporation (now IO) as a Program Manager, and my role has evolved ever since, with new responsibilities and the occasional promotion included.

What initially drew you to join IO, and what has made you stay? I was once the service provider working closely with the ORC/IO and managing the MOI General Real Estate Portfolio (GREP). ORC/IO saw the value I brought and hired me in 2004. I was drawn by the opportunity to manage the portfolio at a more strategic level. While outsourcing has become more challenging as the model continues to grow and change, IO remains the bridge between ministries and property management service providers.

I have stay for many reasons, but the two main ones are:

• I really like the IO people I work with through the organization, and
• We get to work on some incredibly unique projects and challenges.

Looking back, can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? I suppose I could probably say that I’m working on my biggest accomplishment, and I don’t know what it could be, but every time I resolve a challenge, it is an accomplishment.

Two recent milestones stand out:

• Audubon Blvd., Mississauga Encroachments: After years of negotiations, we resolved a decades-long land issue with eight homeowners, balancing legal, community, and political pressures
• Guelph Trestle Bridge: Led the safe demolition of a historic but structurally unsound bridge after years of public debate and engineering review.

We have so many accomplishment – big and small – that happen all the time, and it is just part of our everyday business routine. When a challenge is put in front of the REO team, we focus on it and see it through, whether it takes days, weeks, months, or years to resolve.

What would your advice be to a new employee? IO is a great place to work. It’s not perfect – no company is – but it is still a great place to work. The people here are highly intelligent, experienced, diverse, and supportive. All you have to do is ask. It’s a place where you can expand your knowledge, gain experience, meet some incredible people, and grow your career.

I have work with mining companies, the Canadian Armed Forces, the private sector, and now IO. IO will be the last stop, and it is ranked top two. To grow your career and standout, you need to build a strong personal business brand, shaped by three elements:

• Expertise – 10%
• Professional image and reputation – 30%
• Networking – 60%

You can thrive with IO and be successful! It is up to you!

What does your role entail? My role as a Senior Administrative Assistant plays crucial part in supporting executives, managers, or other high-level professionals within our organization.

Core responsibilities traditionally include calendar and schedule management, communication management, travel coordination, meeting preparation and follow-up, document and file management, project support and team support.

Moreover, I have shaped my role to support my executives to be one that also manages capacity for the leaders I support, anticipate needs or obstacles to help make decisions and achieve goals sooner, connect the right people at the right time and forge the kind of efficiency that makes my teams business work optimally.

What is your career background? I am a graduate of the TMU Hospitality and Tourism Management program with a minor in Human Resources and Hotel Management. Professionally, I have worked in hotels, municipal chambers of commerce, and more recently within the last 12 years, at provincial government agencies.

What would your advice be to a new employee?

• Be Curious and Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or context, especially all with all our acronyms. It shows initiative and helps you learn faster.
• Listen and Observe: Pay attention to how things are done, both formally and informally. Absorb as much of IO’s culture, communication styles, and team dynamics as you possibly can.
• Build Relationships: Introduce yourself to colleagues across departments.
• Developing strong professional relationships will make collaboration easier and more enjoyable.
• Take Notes: Keep track of processes, tools, and key contacts. It’ll save you time and help you become independent more quickly!
• Be Proactive: Look for other ways to contribute, even in small ways. Volunteer for tasks or offer help when you have capacity.
• Embrace Feedback: View feedback as a tool for growth, not criticism. Don’ t be afraid to ask for it regularly and apply it constructively.
• Be Patient with Yourself: It takes time to get up to speed. Celebrate small wins and give yourself grace as you learn. Embrace the concept of “life long learning”.

What’s the most unique part of working at IO? The most unique part of working at IO is its flexible and skill-diverse environment. We are fortunate to work among skill-rich colleagues, have incredible autonomy and ownership of our work, and the best part is that we are making a large impact on building a better Ontario everyday! If our work impact each of us and our families and friends everyday, so be PROUD!

IO’s vision is to create a modern, connected and competitive Ontario – how do you connect with this vision? IO’s vision of creating a modern, connected, and competitive Ontario deeply resonates with me because it aligns with my own values of innovation, collaboration, and impact. I’m inspired by the idea of contributing to projects that not only improve infrastructure but also enhance the quality of life for communities across the province.

I see my role as an opportunity to help bridge gaps—whether that be arranging stakeholder meetings, collaborating with ministry colleagues, nurturing relationships with internal and external stakeholders on behalf of my executives, managing logistics such as facilitating payment of invoices, coordinating lessons learned sessions and even as simple as ensuring collaboration among my teams so that we are effective, efficient and present the best possible outcome for our clients is what makes me connect to IO’s vison.

Who has inspired you professionally? (either within IO or outside IO)? My mentor has inspired me in ways that go far beyond professional guidance. Still very much part of my current development, they’ve shown me what it means to lead with integrity, to stay curious, and to never stop learning. They encouraged me to take risks, trust my instincts, and believe in my potential even when I doubt myself. Their feedback is not always what I want to hear, but it is honest, constructive, and rooted in a genuine desire to see me grow. Most importantly, they listen—really listen—and make me feel seen and valued.

Whether it’s through their calm confidence in high-pressure situations or their willingness to share both successes and failures, they model the kind of professional—and person—I aspire to be. Thanks to their ongoing mentorship, I’ve grown not just in skill, but in confidence, resilience, and purpose

What is your career background? I began my career in the construction industry, where I was responsible for quality assurance on construction projects. Over time, I transitioned into broader construction management roles. I’ve had the opportunity to work on residential, commercial, and heavy civil projects. After six years in the construction industry, I attended MBA program from Schulich School of Business. After graduation, I joined Infrastructure Ontario (IO), bringing that hands-on experience into the P3 projects.

What drew you to join IO? A former colleague from the construction industry, Fahad Rizwan, joined IO a few years before I did and spoke highly of the organization. After researching further, I was impressed by IO’s involvement in large-scale and complex infrastructure projects by providing project management and commercial advisory, which aligned with my career goals. I also had conversations with several IO employees, all of whom shared positive experiences. It felt like the right environment to expand my skills and grow as a project management professional.

Can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? One of my most rewarding accomplishments at IO has been working on the Highway 401 Expansion Project—a $640 million highway extension project from Credit River to Regional Road 25. As someone who lives near this highway, it was especially meaningful to contribute to a project that benefits my own community by improving traffic flow and reducing commute times. Being involved from the early stages of construction to Final Completion was a fulfilling experience.

What’s one thing IO does to make you feel empowered or supported? IO fosters a supportive and collaborative environment. Colleagues across all departments are always willing to lend their time and expertise. Whether it’s guidance, knowledge sharing, or assistance with project challenges, the sense of teamwork and openness makes it easy to reach out and feel supported.

Is there someone at IO who inspires, motivates, or mentors you? I’ve been fortunate to work with excellent mentors throughout my time at IO. My former manager and director, Kelvin Chu, played a significant role in guiding me through complex P3 projects. Currently, on the LRT team, my director Laura Uribe continues to provide valuable support, particularly in managing the commercial aspects of our projects.

Who has inspired you professionally (inside or outside of IO)? My inspiration comes from both within and outside IO. Internally, my past and current team members - Roads and LRT—consistently encourage knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. Externally, I draw inspiration from clients and partners such as MTO, Metrolinx, and Technical Advisors, who demonstrate commitment and collaboration in resolving project challenges.

What does your role entail? As a Senior Project Coordinator for Eglinton Crosstown (ECLRT), my role is to provide support to the Project Director during the final phase of the project leading up to Substantial Completion.

What is your career background? I graduated from University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Science and a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, and I started my career in an engineering consulting company specialized in building performance analysis. During my time in the private sector, I was fortunate to work on diverse infrastructure projects around the world, including the Sustainability Pavilion at Dubai 2020 EXPO, Nashville MLS Stadium, LA Metro Purple Line Extension, and The Well in Toronto.

What drew you to join IO? I’m motivated to contribute to projects that directly benefit Ontario—the place I proudly call home. I believe IO shares this commitment to meaningful work, delivering impactful projects that leave a lasting legacy in communities across the province.

What would your advice be to a new employee? Never hesitate to ask questions—you’ll be surprised by how much you can learn from the incredible people working at IO.

IO’s vision is to create a modern, connected and competitive Ontario – how do you connect with this vision? I’ve lived in Ontario since university and have seen firsthand its growth and potential. I truly believe this province has so much to offer, and even more to achieve. That’s why I’m proud to be part of IO—where every project we take on contributes to building a more modern, connected, and competitive future for Ontario.

What is the most interesting project you’ve worked on for IO? What did you do on that project? Since joining IO, I’ve been working on the ECLRT project—a project that’s both interesting, challenging and deeply meaningful, especially to those living in Toronto. My role involves managing work related to topics including key individuals, the independent certifier, and property handbacks. I also coordinate various commercial meetings and support the team by reviewing and drafting documents and correspondence as needed.

What does your role entail? As Budget and Planning Director on the Capital Planning Team, I work across divisions to ensure our capital programs have the right financial structure, are tied to long-term priorities, and are supported by transparent reporting. Our team leads the development of budgeting tools, funding strategies, and governance processes that help bring clarity and consistency to major projects. Whether it’s supporting Treasury Board submissions, managing funding transitions, or building financial frameworks, our focus is on enabling IO teams to do their work with confidence and coordination.

Can you share your biggest accomplishment at IO? One of the most impactful accomplishments has been leading the funding transition of the Transit-Oriented Communities program from Metrolinx to the Ministry of Infrastructure. This included securing in-year and multi-year Treasury Board approvals, developing cost-sharing frameworks, and leading the funding strategy for a complex program in real time. The transition also kicked off the need to partially novate Technical Advisory contracts moving the TOC responsibilities from Mx to IO. This process realigned tens of millions of dollars in contracts across multiple subway lines while ensuring operational, financial, and legal continuity. These efforts are supporting the TOC commercial teams with greater ownership and financial control over their program, removing barriers and enabling faster, more accountable decision-making.

How has your career grown since joining IO? IO has pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. I joined here with a background in data science focused on program-level analysis, but over time I’ve stepped into roles that influence how we approach funding, reporting, and planning across the organization. I’ve been lucky to take on complex challenges like pioneering IO’s internal cost control function, building land valuation models, and more recently supporting the negotiation of commercial agreements and MOUs, which has really forced me to stretch my thinking and communication style. Each of those experiences helped build confidence, perspective, and a stronger understanding of how to lead within this organization.

What’s the most unique part of working at IO? What makes IO truly unique is the scale of its mandate combined with the opportunity to directly influence how public dollars are spent. We’re not just overseeing infrastructure we’re helping shape how Ontario grows. The collaboration with ministries, municipalities, and the private sector creates a working environment where no two days are the same. You can be in a meeting about project forecasting in the morning and helping navigate ministry policy in the afternoon. It’s fast-paced, a little chaotic, but always purpose-driven and deeply rewarding.

IO’s vision is to create a modern, connected and competitive Ontario – how do you connect with this vision? IO’s vision resonates with me because so much of the work is about helping turn big, bold ideas into something real and achievable. It’s all about removing roadblocks so Ontario’s most important projects can move forward with confidence. We leave a real and lasting impact on the province the residents who live here.

Who has inspired you professionally? Martina Di Gioacchino, Director of Capital Program Budgeting and Planning (who by the way would make an excellent spotlight candidate), has been a major influence, both at IO and back when we worked together at MOHLTC. She has a rare talent for breaking down incredibly complex problems into manageable pieces and then explaining them in a way that truly resonates with people. One standout example was when she transformed what was once a chaotic budget development process into a clear, accessible set of Budget Development Guidelines. It brought structure and clarity to a major pillar of IO’s projects. It set the tone for the standardization and discipline we bring to budgeting today.

What does your role entail? As Director of Land Use Planning at IO, I am responsible for overseeing a team of planning and design professionals. Our mandate is to identify land use opportunities to protect and enhance the portfolio, provide planning technical support to other IO teams to realize innovative public initiatives, and support provincial real estate undertakings, development, and transactions.

What is your career background? I studied urban planning at the University of McGill. Over the last 19 years, I’ve collected invaluable experience and relationships in both the private and public sectors working for consulting firms, developers, a municipality and most recently IO.

Fun fact: my first industry experiences was with ORC. Shout out to Joseph Lin, Director, Surveys and Geomatics for giving this woman her first industry job!

What’s the most unique part of working at IO? Knowing that me and my team’s technical advice results in the opportunity to directly serve the public and contribute to the creation a better Ontario is a truly unique feeling. To drive past a hospital, or a mixed used development with an affordable housing component and know that we had direct contributions to its realization never gets old.

What would your advice be to a new employee? IO is a large organization that delivers one of the widest arrays of programs I’ve seen in my 19-year career. My advice to a new employee is to focus on understanding the organization’s structure, objectives, policies, and processes. Take advantage of the opportunities IO offers in building relationships outside of your direct team and meet the diverse talent that makes up IO. This will build satisfaction and understanding on the impact your role and team has on the overall success of the IO and the Province.