MONTREAL, July 8, 2025 – The board of directors of the Trottier Family Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Karel Mayrand as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 18, 2025.
Mayrand brings 25 years of leadership in the philanthropic and environmental sectors in Montreal, Canada and internationally. A recognized leader within the Montreal community, he is distinguished by his strong commitment to the environment, social justice, and public service. His appointment marks a strategic step forward as the Trottier Family Foundation enters an important new phase of growth and impact in the areas of climate action, health, science, and education.
Karel Mayrand. Credit: Florian Leroy (2022)
Mayrand joins the Trottier Family Foundation from the Foundation of Greater Montreal, where he served as President and CEO since 2020. During his tenure, Mayrand led a significant strategic transformation of the organization, increasing its public profile and impact. He positioned the FMG as one of Canada’s most dynamic community foundations by embedding the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion across its operations—earning recognition as the 11th most equitable foundation in the country, according to Future of Good. Under his leadership, the Foundation also shifted toward responsible and impact investing and cut the carbon footprint of its $500 million in assets by 50% over three years.
From 2008 to 2020, Mayrand served as Director General for Quebec and Atlantic Canada at the David Suzuki Foundation, where he led the organization’s expansion into Quebec and its engagement with francophone audiences. He also chaired the Climate Reality Project Canada and provided strategic counsel on sustainable development to governments and United Nations agencies from 1997 to 2008. Currently, he serves as President of the Board of Directors for Société du Parc Jean-Drapeau and is a committee director with Le Partenariat Climat Montréal. He is the author of several books and a respected commentator on environmental and social issues.
"Karel is well-positioned to lead the Foundation’s next chapter," said Lorne Trottier, Board Chair of the Trottier Family Foundation. "His collaborative leadership style, strategic mindset, and public voice will help elevate the Foundation’s role as a catalyst for change in Canada. Karel's extensive experience and proven track record in fostering collaboration, shaping public policy and driving innovation align perfectly with our Foundation’s commitment to advancing science, education, health, and the environment. We are excited to welcome him and look forward to the leadership and fresh perspectives he will bring to our ongoing mission.”
“I am honoured to join the Trottier Family Foundation—one of Canada’s most impactful philanthropic organizations—and to help advance its mission and vision of transformative philanthropy rooted in science, collaboration, and innovation,” said Mayrand. "The Foundation’s vision resonates deeply with me, and I look forward to collaborating with its brilliant team, as well as with our partners to further enhance the Foundation’s impact."
Established in 2000, the Trottier Family Foundation is dedicated to advancing scientific inquiry, promoting education, fostering better health, protecting the environment, and mitigating climate change. Its distinctive approach blends proactive project development with reactive grantmaking, and working closely with community, national, and international partners to drive systemic change.
–
Media Contact:
Carrie Croft
Senior Director, Temple Scott Associates
ccroft@tsa.ca