The Ottawa Coalition of Business Improvement Areas (OCOBIA) is eliminating its executive director position in order to reallocate its financial resources elsewhere, the organization told OBJ Friday.
The Ottawa Coalition of Business Improvement Areas (OCOBIA) is eliminating its executive director position in order to reallocate its financial resources elsewhere, the organization told OBJ Friday.
The decision comes after the organization, which represents 18 BIAs across urban, suburban and rural Ottawa, undertook a “comprehensive review” of its operations and finances, chair Darrell Cox said in an email.
“Though this decision was a very difficult one to make, we know this will make OCOBIA stronger, better positioned to serve our members and allow us to fully contribute as economic partners in the City of Ottawa,” he wrote.
He added that resources that currently support the executive director position will instead be used to directly support members, through investments in services and programs.
OCOBIA board members will be meeting next month to discuss details.
“In March we will be meeting with our members to validate our plan to return to the roots of OCOBIA, to better collaborate with our economic partners and to help Ottawa BIAs and our 6,400 businesses thrive,” wrote Cox.
In a post on LinkedIn, current executive director Brad Fougere, who joined the organization nine months ago, announced that Friday would be his last day in the role.
“Sincere thanks to the leaders across the BIA community in Ottawa, across Ontario, and throughout Canada who provided thoughtful input on the priorities of BIAs in these challenging economic times,” Fougere wrote. “I look forward to leveraging the experience I gleaned directing a non-profit incorporation and economic development agency in my next opportunity.”
Fougere stepped into the role last May, replacing Michelle Groulx, who spent three years as executive director before leaving OCOBIA in January 2024.
"The Board and all members of OCOBIA wish to extend thanks to Brad Fougere for his service in the last 9 months. We wish him well on his next endeavour," wrote Cox.
OCOBIA represents Ottawa’s 18 business improvement areas, which collectively include more than 6,400 businesses across the city. The organization has become a key voice on key issues and policies affecting local businesses and the city’s economic development. 
