June 8, 2012, Toronto — Dan Kelly will replace Catherine Swift as president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).
Swift will remain on with the CFIB as chair of the board.
"For 25 years, Catherine has worked tirelessly to move the issues of small business owners to the forefront of public policy,” said Jim Ball on behalf of CFIB’s board.
“From leading the fight against bank mergers to highlighting the significant challenges facing political and public sector pensions, Canada thinks differently about these issues because of Catherine. Her mark is real – and will be long-lasting. Her ongoing role as board chair ensures her passion and creativity will continue to benefit the organization, its members and inspire employees.”
Kelly joined CFIB in 1994 as policy analyst for the prairies and soon after became director of provincial affairs in Manitoba. In 1999, Kelly became CFIB’s western vice-president and was named one of Alberta’s most influential people. After a decade in that role, he moved to Ottawa to become senior vice-president legislative affairs, leading CFIB’s national advocacy efforts.
During his three years in Ottawa, Kelly led files including immigration, training, and the shortage of labour. Recently, Kelly was at the forefront of CFIB's successful campaign to establish a code of conduct for the credit and debit card industry in Canada.
“The board has complete confidence that Dan is the right person to lead CFIB,” said Ball. “Dan’s 18 years of service have been marked by outstanding performance and persistence. Dan personifies CFIB’s hallmarks of being ‘vocal, committed, and effective’ and we are certain he will continue to grow CFIB’s influence.”
Kelly begins his new role immediately.
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