Jennifer Keesmaat
Chief Executive Officer, The Keesmaat Group
Sector: Public Sector
Discipline: Planning/Urban Design
Year: 2015
Magic Moment: One of my magic moments was back when I first started my company and we had just signed the lease for our first office on Mercer Street. It was a “this is really happening moment” for me. Another magic moment was when we won the contract for the Union Station Master Plan. It was such an honour to work on this important destination and landmark in Toronto.
Key Influence: Jane Pepino, Aird and Berlis LLP – Her presence and magnitude is something I really admire. She is a role model for any woman who wants to excel in her career and have a strong family.
Next Big Challenge As An Industry:
- We need to build out our transit network, aggressively.
- We need to build practical housing that can be affordable for all
- We need to establish sustainable sources of funding for city building and increase access for revenue tools to build strong designs that work for the city.
Secret Talent: I love to bake and I make the best cookie. You name the cookie, I will make it!
On Championing Others… I strongly believe that one should give credit where credit is due and recognize people who may not otherwise be recognized on a project. At the City, I created a mentorship program that seeks to provide opportunities for women to rise into leadership roles.
One word that captures you: Passionate