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Jennifer van der Valk is Senior Vice President, Communications and Marketing with the Toronto Region Board of Trade where she leads an integrated team of communications, marketing, digital and public affairs specialists. Jennifer’s mandate is to build the voice and brand of the Board, driving public affairs strategies to advance economic growth on behalf of the region’s business community. A seasoned executive with experience leading large, multi-functional teams in private sector, government and agency environments, Jennifer’s expertise spans brand, marketing and digital strategy through to government relations, community engagement and crisis communications.
Prior to joining the Toronto Region Board of Trade, Jennifer’s passion for city building was fueled through seven years with Metrolinx, the agency responsible for the province’s $70B transit expansion program and operator of UP Express, PRESTO and GO Transit services. Her recognized ability to lead people and drive change moved her through multiple executive roles for the business including Brand, and Marketing, Principal Sponsor, Chief Planning Officer and Chief Communications Officer. Prior to Metrolinx, Jennifer held critical senior Cabinet Office roles with the Government of Ontario, working closely with Premier’s Office on brand, marketing, communications strategy, issues management, and market research. During this time she successfully delivered dozens of award-winning campaigns in partnership with over 20 ministries across government.
A graduate of McMaster University, Jennifer sits on the Board of Michael Garron Hospital, volunteers as a mentor for the American Marketing Association, and a Contributing Visionary with the Prosperity Project, and has served as an Advisory Committee Member with the Salvation Army, and the Canadian Marketing Association.
