Meet our new Executive Director: Sarah Van Exan

GreenPAC’s Board of Directors is delighted to announce that after a national, competitive search, Sarah Van Exan has been appointed as our new Executive Director, starting on July 13, 2020.

Sarah is a lifelong environmentalist, holds a master’s degree in Economic Development and has held senior roles in public service, non-profit management, and community organizing. Her expertise includes development and delivery of public policy, particularly in climate change and sustainability, as well as government relations, social innovation, and community organizing.

Sarah’s early career included positions with the federal and Ontario governments, where she held Senior Policy Advisor and Management positions in various ministries. Her work focused on environment, conservation, and justice, including renewable energy and circular economy transitions and Indigenous treaty rights. She also led the policy team behind Ontario’s municipal ranked-ballot election system.

Sarah then served as Managing Director of Green Economy Canada, where she steered the organization through a period of transition and expansion. Her next move was to GreenPAC! Some of you may know her from her exceptional leadership during our 100 Debates on the Environment initiative. She was an integral part in recruiting and training local organizers, and facilitating cross-country communications for the project. Her passion and initiative helped make 100 Debates on the Environment a success.

Over the last five years, GreenPAC has seen rapid growth. We helped elect environmental champions to federal and provincial legislatures across the country, and piloted innovative programs like our Parliamentary Internship for the Environment and 100 Debates on the Environment. We are poised to make an even greater impact in our next phase under Sarah’s leadership.

Sarah will take over the position from Sabrina Bowman, who oversaw new initiatives and skillfully managed our team during an unprecedented time of growth. We are extremely grateful for Sabrina’s leadership as our first Executive Director and look forward to seeing her in her next role.

Aaron Freeman, Founder

Margo Welch, Chair, Board of Directors

GreenPAC