Chris Rickett (He/Him)

Chris Rickett is a nationally recognized leader in community economic development, known for building cross-sector partnerships that deliver measurable, lasting impact. His public service journey began early—with his election to Stratford City Council while still in university. 
 
For more than two decades, Chris has worked at the intersection of economic development, arts and culture, government relations, and environmental sustainability. He brings a systems-level lens to addressing complex urban challenges, grounded in inclusive, community-first solutions. 
 
He has led the design and delivery of award-winning initiatives such as Digital Main Street and My Main Street, supporting thousands of small businesses while helping communities build more resilient and equitable local economies. During the pandemic, he was named one of Toronto Life’s Most Influential Torontonians for his leadership in revitalizing main streets. 
 
Chris’s work is rooted in a belief in the power of place—and a commitment to building communities where people and economies thrive.