Ontario Construction News staff writer
After six years as the president of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), Mary Van Buren has announced she will be stepping down next spring.
As the first female president in the association’s more than century long history, her focus on modernization was critical in CCA’s ability to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, while advocating on behalf of the industry in the face of a global crisis.
Under her leadership, CCA has developed an expanded focus on innovation and best practices, and is currently piloting a digital contract service which will roll out in early 2024.
One of the most significant achievements of her tenure has been the review of CCA’s governance model and restructuring that resulted in a governance award from the Governance Professionals of Canada in 2023.
“The construction industry is essential to Canada’s economic success and quality of life, yet it doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. I am so proud to have brought more attention to an industry that has such a profound impact on our country and affects positive change in our communities every day,” Van Buren said.
In early November, she participated in the largest Hill Day the industry has ever held, leading more than100 members participating in meetings with Parliamentarians and staffers from all parties.
“To see the growth in member engagement in advocacy and the resulting effects that a strong, unified voice for the industry has, is especially rewarding,” she said. “I am so fortunate to have an excellent team who are committed to advancing the industry’s interests across the services we provide.”
A search process is underway to find a replacement.
“The Board of Directors sincerely thanks Mary for her stewardship of the association over the last few years,” said Brendan Nobes, CCA chair. “Through her commitment to advancing member issues, she has raised the industry’s profile, and her legacy of leadership will be long lasting.
“While we are sad to see her move on, we understand she is interested in taking on new challenges and wish her all the best in this next stage of her career.”