The ByWard Market District Authority has named Michelle Groulx as its interim CEO, the organization confirmed on Tuesday.
A spokesperson for the BMDA told OBJ in an email that Groulx will “continue to advance the BMDA’s ongoing work to support the economic vitality of the ByWard Market District, strengthen relationships with businesses and community partners, enhance the experience of the district for residents and visitors and contribute to its continued revitalization.”
In a statement provided to OBJ, the authority’s board of directors said Groulx assumed her new role on Sept. 14.
“Michelle brings extensive leadership experience and a strong understanding of Ottawa’s business and economic development landscape. She will lead the organization during this transition while the Board continues its search for a permanent CEO,” the statement said.
In March, Groulx, who at that time was serving as chief advocate for the Ottawa Coalition of Business Improvement Areas, announced her intention to run for city council in Kitchissippi Ward. But last month Groulx announced that she was withdrawing her candidacy “due to recent unforeseen circumstances.” Groulx had served as executive director of OCOBIA from 2021 to 2024.
OBJ reached out to OCOBIA to find out more about its leadership structure, but did not hear back in time for publication.
The appointment comes as the BMDA goes through a period of transition. Last month, the organization terminated executive director Victoria Williston after seven months in the role. About a week after that announcement, the BMDA said Mayan Gilly, its manager of people and executive operations, would step in as acting executive director.
On Tuesday, the BMDA confirmed that Gilly would return to her primary role as manager of people and executive operations.
At the same time, businesses in the area have called for reform to the BMDA and expressed concern over the City of Ottawa’s plans for the ByWard Market.
In March, council approved a plan to “reimagine” the ByWard Market Building at 55 ByWard Market Square, as well as the parking garage at 70 Clarence St. and the York Street Plaza, in an effort to revitalize the area. Last month, 16 of the 17 businesses currently in the ByWard Market Building, calling themselves the ByWard Market Building Tenants Alliance, wrote a letter asking the mayor and council to repeal the plan.
With files from Mia Jensen and Charlie Senack
