Universities Canada welcomes interim president Philip Landon to lead national association

OTTAWA—Universities Canada is pleased to announce that, effective July 1, 2023, Philip Landon will assume the role of interim president and CEO.

Current president and CEO, Paul Davidson, informed the membership earlier this year that he would be leaving the role June 30, after leading the organization for fourteen years.

“Canada’s universities have benefitted tremendously from Paul’s exceptional vision, leadership and drive,” said Meric Gertler, president of the University of Toronto and Universities Canada’s board chair. “Paul leaves behind an outstanding record of accomplishment that will benefit students, researchers and Canadians for years to come.”

As Universities Canada engages in a national search for a successor, the organization is pleased to have Philip Landon take the helm. Having served as chief operating officer for the organization since 2020, and with over 30 years’ experience in the education, international development and post-secondary sectors, Landon is well-suited to lead the organization with the support of its strong, diverse and dynamic senior leadership team.

“Paul and Philip have worked closely together for many years, and the Board’s appointment of Philip as interim president and CEO will ensure a smooth transition,” continued Gertler. “We couldn’t be more pleased to have Philip Landon take on this leadership role. I am confident there will be no loss in momentum in the important work being done to strengthen Canada’s universities and amplify their impact in Canada and beyond.”