Chief Executive Officer - CentreVenture Development Corporation

CEO Information - CentreVenture - Winnipeg, MB

CentreVenture Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization in Winnipeg dedicated to fostering urban development and revitalization in the downtown area. In collaboration with the City of Winnipeg, they identify when incentives are needed to accelerate downtown development and work with the City and Province on program design and administration to maximize development potential.
Currently, CentreVenture utilizes TIF funds, heritage funds, and the Housing Accelerator Fund to engage the development community.
This marks an exciting new chapter for the organization following City Council's approval of a new mandate centered on residential building and development in the downtown area.

CentreVenture Development Corporation is an important collaborator in driving the revitalization and sustainable development of downtown Winnipeg, serving as a catalyst for urban transformation and economic growth.
The organization spearheads important projects that enhance the quality of life by providing guidance in the planning and development of private and public initiatives, increasing housing and utilizing underused downtown areas.
Through strategic leadership and collaboration, CentreVenture facilitates consensus among government, private sector, and community groups, ensuring that developments align with community needs and contribute to a growing urban environment.
CentreVenture also supports the long-term environmental health of the city, making it an essential contributor in shaping the future of Winnipeg's downtown as a thriving, active urban center.

The CEO of CentreVenture Development Corporation will help to spearhead the revitalization and development of a vibrant downtown Winnipeg, requiring a leader who is both visionary and highly operational.
This role requires a strategic and hands-on approach, with the ability to dive into the daily minutiae while steering long-term goals.
The ideal candidate will blend technical urban development expertise with political acumen and strong negotiating skills, ensuring effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Vision

• Strategic Alignment:
  Lead the development of CentreVenture's vision and strategic objectives, ensuring they meet stakeholder expectations and foster a vibrant downtown Winnipeg.
• Future Positioning:
  Craft forward-looking strategies to anticipate and capitalize on urban trends, positioning CentreVenture for success over the next decade.

Governance and Board Engagement

• Board Collaboration:
  Work closely with the Board Chair to set agendas, develop strategic goals, and keep the board informed and engaged through reports and briefings.
• Policy Development:
  Assist the Board in shaping policies and strategic initiatives that respond to evolving urban landscapes and organizational needs.

Stakeholder Relations and Community Engagement

• Relationship Building:
  Cultivate strong relationships with political leaders and public sector officials across all levels of government and the private sector development community (for profit and not-for-profit), ensuring productive exchanges and alignment on community goals.
• Public Presence:
  Enhance CentreVenture's visibility and community impact through strategic public relations efforts, including impactful presentations and active participation in key events.

Financial and Operational Oversight

• Financial Management:
  Provide oversight of financial management, ensuring comprehensive financial reporting, controls, cash flow management, and audit processes.
• Budget Management:
  Oversee the development and monitoring of annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring they align with organizational goals and board directives.
• Performance Management:
  Implement robust project management practices and performance metrics to monitor organizational effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.

Candidate Profile:

• Proven track record in or a deep understanding of city or urban development, with leadership experience in operations or business management.
• Specific experience in collaborating with public and private organizations.
• Proven experience in navigating complex political landscapes, maintaining strong relationships, and driving innovative urban development projects.
• A strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Must be deeply committed to the development of Winnipeg and possess the ability to manage diverse interests and objectives diplomatically.
• Comprehensive understanding of residential and commercial real estate projects, public policy environment, and financial acumen related to urban development.
• Demonstrates exceptional integrity and professionalism, prioritizing the greater good of downtown Winnipeg in all decisions.
• Maintains strong communication skills, effectively articulating complex ideas and comfortable with media relations.
• Fosters a visionary leadership approach, encouraging innovation and collaboration across various stakeholders.
• Exercises sound judgment, efficiently assessing situations and drawing informed conclusions.
• Solid financial acumen to manage development project financing, implementing robust budgeting and financial reporting processes.

About CentreVenture

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Established in 1999, CentreVenture Development Corporation is an independent agency of the City of Winnipeg and a key partner in the transformation of downtown Winnipeg,, functioning as a one-stop-shop for urban development projects.
Operating distinctly from traditional asset-specific development entities, CentreVenture embraces a broad, downtown-wide mandate, enabling strategic engagement across diverse sectors.
This approach not only facilitates the revitalization of underutilized properties but also allows for the rapid advancement of new redevelopment initiatives.
As the city's primary agent for downtown revitalization, CentreVenture offers a comprehensive concierge service to stakeholders, providing up-to-date market insights, expert guidance through the development process, and streamlined access to various support programs and initiatives.

With a robust network that spans property owners, businesses, developers, financial institutions, and construction professionals, CentreVenture excels in fostering strong relationships and facilitating strategic partnerships.