Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Ottawa Appoints New CEO for Export Development Canada
Leadership Change | Jan 2, 2025
Image: Freepik/jannoon028
Alison Nankivell Appointed as New President and CEO of Export Development Canada (EDC)
On December 23, 2024, Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, announced the appointment of Alison Nankivell as EDC's new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective February 5, 2025. Alison brings more than 25 years of experience in international investment, finance, and strategic leadership, and has spent the the last 12 months as the CEO of MaRS Discovery Distrct, making it into a leaner operation.
Global Leadership Experience
Alison Nankivell’s career with roles at Export Development Canada, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), and her most recent position as CEO of MaRS Discovery District. She has been key in helping businesses scale globally, driving innovation, and leading transformation initiatives. Her background includes a focus on sustainable investment and equitable business practices.
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Vivian Abdelmessih, Chair of EDC’s Board of Directors:
“Alison’s knowledge and passion for EDC’s mission make her the right person to lead the organization during this pivotal time. Her proven leadership and expertise in global trade finance and risk management will be invaluable as EDC continues evolving to meet Canadian businesses’ changing needs.”
EDC’s Impact
In 2023 alone, Crown corporation, EDC, facilitated more than $121 billion in exports and international investments while supporting 24,000 Canadian businesses of which almost 90%were small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
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- EDC's Inclusive Trade Strategy has helped over 1000 businesses seeking equity
- EDC's Sustainable Finance Program has allocated over $6 billion towards environmentally responsible projects.
- EDC has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Opportunities and Challenges
In the Liberal government’s Fall Economic Statement (overshadowed by the sudden resignation of Canada's Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland), EDC was given an expanded mandate to improve financing and insurance options for SMEs to close a persistent gap, where SMEs account for 41% of Canada’s GDP yet often face difficult hurdles in accessing international markets.
Global trade is also increasingly influenced by geopolitical tensions from the U.S. President elect's threat of applying 25% tariffs across the board to all of Canada's exports to global supply chain disruptions, and the need for sustainable practices.
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Alison Nankivell, In-coming EDC CEO:
“I’m truly honoured to lead EDC and excited to work with a dedicated team. The global trade environment is challenging, but it’s also full of opportunities. EDC’s role in supporting Canadian businesses is more important than ever.”
Outlook
Alison Nankivell’s appointment comes at a time when Canadian exporters are faced with changing global dynamics. Her leadership promises a continuation of EDC’s mission to empower businesses to thrive internationally while addressing sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. Best wishes to Alison who will be at the forefront of supporting Canada's export businesses on the global stage.
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