Canada’s effort to accelerate affordable housing construction has reached another milestone with the appointment of Evan Siddall as the inaugural Chair of the Board of Directors for Build Canada Homes.
Announced by the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, the appointment places one of Canada’s most experienced housing and finance leaders at the helm of the federal agency as it transitions from early project development to full operations as a Crown corporation.
Siddall brings extensive expertise to the role, having previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Vice-Chair of BMO Capital Markets. His background in housing, institutional finance and governance is expected to help guide Build Canada Homes as it expands its national mandate.
Build Canada Homes was created to increase the supply of affordable housing by financing projects, supporting builders and encouraging innovative construction methods that rely on Canadian technology, workers, lumber and sustainable building practices. With a primary focus on non-market housing that serves a range of income levels, the agency forms part of the federal government’s broader strategy to increase housing construction, improve affordability and reduce homelessness.
Highlighting the importance of the appointment, Minister Robertson said, “Every Canadian deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. By reducing barriers and speeding up delivery, Build Canada Homes is helping build stronger, more affordable communities across the country. The appointment of Evan Siddall, with his experience and credentials, as inaugural Board Chair will help advance this important work and deliver real results for Canadians.”
Since launching earlier this year, Build Canada Homes has committed to nearly 17,000 housing units through 17 partnerships, with more than 1,900 homes already under construction. The agency’s leadership team views the appointment as an important step in strengthening governance as projects continue to expand across the country.
Ana Bailão, CEO of Build Canada Homes, emphasized the significance of the new leadership, stating, “Build Canada Homes is advancing a new, more effective approach to scaling up housing supply across the country. Evan Siddall’s appointment will provide Build Canada Homes the governance foundations needed to advance its mandate. I look forward to working with Mr. Siddall who brings deep expertise and a shared commitment to improving housing outcomes for Canadians.”
With governance now firmly in place, Build Canada Homes is positioned to continue advancing affordable housing projects while supporting Canadian builders and modernizing the way new homes are delivered nationwide.
