Leadership Team

Michael provides leadership to World Vision Canada’s relief, development and advocacy work, supporting the world’s most vulnerable children. His keen interest in the most fragile regions has taken him to countries such as South Sudan, Central African Republic and Afghanistan, where he has met children and families who were living on the margins. Michael first joined World Vision in 1990 and was involved in early advocacy efforts in Canada and Geneva. In 1995, Michael moved to attend law school and then practiced law for nine years in Halifax. As a partner at Cox & Palmer, he developed a broad litigation practice and served as chief counsel to a high-profile public inquiry on issues of youth justice. During this time, Michael was a member of the Board of Directors of World Vision Canada. He returned to a staff leadership role at World Vision in 2007, serving as Vice President for Public Affairs and Executive Vice President before assuming the role of President and CEO in 2015.  As President, Michael supports strategy realization, leadership development, and external engagement with key partners and stakeholders like media, churches, donors, other humanitarian organizations and government. Beyond his role in Canada, Michael plays a significant role in supporting international strategic initiatives with the World Vision Partnership.

Michael holds an undergraduate degree in economics from Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts, a J.D. in law from the University of Toronto, and an MBA from the Ivey Business School at Western University. He has been involved with numerous non-profit and church boards. He and his wife, Yvonne, have two adult children and live near Toronto. They attend Trinity Church Streetsville. In his spare time, Michael runs marathons with Team World Vision, raising awareness and funds for children so they can reach their God-given potential.

Follow Michael on Twitter (@mjmessenger)