The Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) announced Susan Wiggins as its new executive director. She begins her new role with OPPI on June 15, 2020, allowing for a smooth transition between her and Mary Ann Rangam, the outgoing executive director of OPPI.
Wiggins brings a wealth of experience in association management, most recently as senior strategic advisor and chief operating officer for the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).
“I’m excited to join OPPI with an understanding that my immediate priority will be to ensure that the planning profession is well positioned as communities evaluate, plan and prepare for life beyond the current pandemic crisis. The solid leadership provided by OPPI Council and Mary Ann will allow me to strategically position the Institute for the benefit of our members and the planning profession,” says Wiggins. “Our members inform choices and inspire communities to positively impact the human experience – where we live, work, play, heal and learn – and I look forward to leading the organization and serving the OPPI member community.”
In her new role, Wiggins reports to OPPI’s 11-person Council comprised of volunteer members from across Ontario. “Susan has significant experience across the board, is an exceptional motivator and brings out the best in those she works with,” says Justine Giancola, president of OPPI. “Her experience in the world of associations and, in particular, with associations in the built environment will fit well with the Institute, our membership and staff, and I have no doubt she will position OPPI for greater success now and into the future.”
Susan Wiggins, OPPI Executive Director
OPPI is the recognized voice of the province’s planning profession. More than 4,000 members work in government, private practice, universities, and not-for-profit agencies in the fields of urban and rural development, community design, environmental planning, transportation, health, social services, heritage conservation, housing, and economic development. Our over 500 student members attend undergraduate and graduate programs in six accredited planning programs across Ontario. Members meet quality practice requirements and are accountable to OPPI and the public to practice ethically and to abide by a Professional Code of Practice.
Featured images from OPPI.