(MONTREAL) The Institute for Research on Public Policy announced today that Jennifer Ditchburn has decided to conclude her role as President and CEO on January 31, 2027. The IRPP will conduct a national executive search for her successor.

Ditchburn was appointed President and CEO in May 2021, following a five-year term as editor-in-chief of the IRPP’s award-winning digital magazine, Policy Options. Since her appointment, the Institute has substantially grown its revenues, staff size, research output and overall impact on Canadian public policy. The Institute has heightened its reputation as a valuable resource for governments and a trusted collaborator for partners in the academic, nonprofit and private sectors.

The Board of Directors would like to express its gratitude for Ditchburn’s ambitious and collaborative leadership, which has left the Institute in an excellent position for the future.

“The IRPP is a unique source of thought and policy leadership that helps shape the decisions that impact the lives of millions of Canadians,” said Elizabeth Roscoe, chair of the IRPP’s board of directors. “Through her unwavering dedication and commitment, Jennifer has left the Institute well-positioned to pursue its mission going forward with more impact and relevance than ever before.”

Key initiatives from Ditchburn’s tenure include:

• Fellowships to support racialized and Indigenous policy scholars and a journalism fellowship dedicated to covering the federal public service
• In-depth national research initiatives on the COVID-19 pandemic, immigration policy, affordability and supporting Canadian communities facing economic transitions
• The “Capacity for Change” research project examining how to improve state capacity through meaningful public service reform

“It has been the honour of a lifetime to lead such a venerable Canadian institution,” said Ditchburn. “I have infinite respect and admiration for the exceptional IRPP staff and board, past and present, who have worked to make a lasting impact on Canada.”

Following Ditchburn’s departure in the new year, senior members of the IRPP executive team will ensure continuity as the IRPP seeks her successor.

The IRPP has retained Boyden to perform the national executive search for its next President and CEO. Interested applicants should contact Eric Lathrop to learn more about the role.

For further information:

Joseph Leger, vice-president of communications and external relations: jleger@nullirpp.org

Eric Lathrop, managing partner, Boyden: elathrop@nullboyden.com