Dear members and student affiliates,
I am writing to let you know about changes at the national office.
On Thursday, July 21, Patrick Banville called to tell me that he is resigning as executive director of the Editors’ Association of Canada (Editors Canada). He is sorry to be leaving the association, but has been offered his dream job at York University and felt it was too good an opportunity to pass up. His last day with us will be Friday, August 12.
We are sad to see him go, but are grateful to have had him as executive director for the past 14 months. He has done an outstanding job, handling challenge after challenge with creativity and patience. He has made some very positive and lasting changes to how things work at the office and has supported us in various new initiatives, and we wish him all the best in his new role.
Now, I also have some good news!
Our communications manager extraordinaire, Michelle Ou, has agreed to serve as interim executive director from early August until November 1, when the new executive director should be in place.
The national executive council (NEC) will provide Michelle with a clear set of expectations and deliverables so she can work on the various priorities after Patrick’s departure, in addition to doing her regular communications work. Carolyn Brown, as NEC treasurer, will provide support on the financial side of things.
Michelle joined the national office team as communications coordinator in 2005. She has served as our communications manager since 2009, participating in and overseeing numerous projects and campaigns. She is also a trusted advisor to our national committees and to the NEC. The HR committee is thrilled that Michelle will take on this additional role, ensuring continuity and stability in the office as we begin the search for a new executive director for the association.
Anne Louise Mahoney
President