Habitat for Humanity Toronto appoints Ene Underwood Chief Executive Officer

TORONTO, April 17, 2013 /CNW/ - Habitat for Humanity Toronto (HFHT), the foremost non-profit homebuilder building homes for low-income families in the GTA, today announced the appointment of Ene Underwood as Chief Executive Officer, effective April 29, 2013.

A strong business leader, Ene has an MBA from the Ivey School of Business and began her business career as a consultant with the internationally recognized firm, McKinsey and Company. In September 2012, Ene completed a three-year commitment to the Ontario government as Chair of a Commission that was charged with making changes to ensure the sustainability of child welfare services in the province. Ene's experience spans a variety of roles as a senior executive, strategy consultant, board member, and senior advisor to government.

"After a thorough and extensive search process, the Board is thrilled to have chosen the best of a very impressive and sizable group of candidates," says Martin Blake, Chair of the Board of Directors for HFHT. "Ene's extensive experience in not-for-profit governance will support Habitat to grow within Toronto and forge new relationships with industry partners and donors. The breadth and depth of Ene's professional experience impressed the search committee but it was the affinity of her values with those of Habitat that ultimately clinched her selection as our next CEO."

"I can't think of anyplace I'd rather be than Habitat for Humanity Toronto," says Underwood. "My years working in healthcare and child welfare have shown me how critically important housing is to the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities. Habitat is well-known as a quality homebuilder and notable charity, and I am very excited about the prospect of working with a great team of staff, volunteers and partner families to continue to deliver Habitat's mission. Habitat has a rich history and a solid foundation to build on, and its common sense approach to affordable homeownership is one of the many reasons for my enthusiasm. I cannot wait to get started."

Ene also comes to Habitat with strong operational leadership skills enhanced by: leading a large public-private laboratory services collaboration; managing hospital operational functions; and developing and implementing several organizational restructuring initiatives. A lifelong volunteer, Ene has served on the boards of two major community service providers in Toronto and as a frontline volunteer in multiple capacities across southwestern Ontario.

"Ene's commitment to partnership at all levels and her passion for social issues concerning families, children and communities will shape a strong commitment to Habitat's mission and continue to establish the organization as a reliable homebuilder for families living in need," Martin concluded.

About Habitat for Humanity Toronto:

Established in 1988, Habitat for Humanity Toronto is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian housing organization. The charity welcomes all people without discrimination to join them as they build simple, decent, affordable homes in partnership with low-income families. Habitat Toronto ReStores sell quality new and gently-used donated building materials. One hundred percent of all administrative and fundraising costs are paid for by the operation of the five ReStores. Marking their 25th anniversary, Habitat Toronto will have helped over 250 families find the safety and security of a home by the end of 2013. Every 5.5 minutes, Habitat for Humanity helps a family improve their housing situation somewhere in the world.

Visit www.torontohabitat.ca for more information on Habitat for Humanity Toronto

SOURCE: Habitat for Humanity Toronto

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