Monday, April 24, 2023 - Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kim Gavine as Chief Executive Officer, effective May 8, 2023.

Kim is a dynamic leader with more than 30 years of experience in the conservation sector, having worked for both government and non-government organizations. Kim started her career with the Federation of Ontario Naturalists where she worked as an environmentalist to protect and preserve Ontario’s environment.  Shortly after she moved on to work for the Ministry of Natural Resources where she worked as an urban wildlife biologist, followed by a research position with the Severn Sound Remedial Action Plan to look at the effects of lead poisoning on Trumpeter Swans.  Much of her earlier career was with the Ontario Heritage Foundation where she worked as a natural heritage coordinator.  In this capacity, she was responsible for numerous land securement, stewardship and trail development projects across the Province.  From 2003 to 2013, Kim worked first as a Program Manager and then Executive Director for the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation.  Responsible for the administration and distribution of $15 million, Kim’s leadership resulted in significant on-the-ground land protection, restoration, and educational projects as well as extension and enhancement to the Oak Ridges Trail.  More recently, Kim was the General Manager for Conservation Ontario, a membership-based network that represents Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities.

“The PRO Board is excited to welcome Kim to the organization,” said Shari Lichterman, Chair of the PRO Board of Directors. ”Her experience and skillsets will undoubtedly support the growth of the organization.”

“I’m thrilled to be taking on this new role,” said Kim Gavine. “I am committed to leading the charge in ensuring that our members, partners, and the broader sector is well-positioned to provide high quality services and amenities that are equitable, accessible, and sustainable for all Ontarians.”

Kim has also served on several boards and committees including the Couchiching Conservancy, Ontario Land Trust Alliance, Natural Spaces Committee, Ontario’s Biodiversity Committee, Ontario Trillium Foundation grant committee, Latornell Symposium Committee and Forests Ontario. 

She is a graduate of Brock University with a degree in Geography.  Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with her husband and son biking, hiking, and exploring the beauty of Ontario.