April 9, 2025 – ParticipACTION, a Canadian non-profit promoting active living since 1971, announces that President and CEO Elio Antunes plans to retire in September 2025. Antunes began with the organization in 2007 as Chief Operating Officer and VP Partnerships before becoming President and CEO in 2014.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Elio for his significant leadership in advancing ParticipACTION’s mission and the broader sport, physical activity, and recreation sector in Canada,” said Laura Richard, Board Chair. “Elio has played an instrumental role in securing, defining, and strengthening ParticipACTION’s relationships with government, private sector sponsors, and other sport and physical activity partners. He has also created notable opportunities for impact and collaboration between organizations and sectors from coast-to-coast-to-coast.”
“It has been an honour to work with ParticipACTION’s talented team members, Board, and Advisory Groups throughout my tenure as COO and CEO,” said Elio Antunes. “Together, we’ve helped millions of Canadians get active, advanced public policy, and conducted and elevated critical research on physical activity. With a comprehensive, results-driven strategic plan in place, now is the right time to begin the transition to the next phase of leadership at ParticipACTION. I am confident in our ability to keep Canadians moving and achieve our vision of creating a Canada where physical activity is a part of everyday life for everyone.”
Having recently secured renewed funding from the Government of Canada, ParticipACTION is at a pivotal moment of transformation and growth, fueled by over 50 years of positively impacting the lives of people in Canada and moving towards a healthier, more active nation.
The Board has initiated a search for ParticipACTION’s next President and CEO and has engaged Odgers Berndtson, a leading executive search firm, to assist in the process. Elio will continue to work closely with the Board to support a smooth transition.
Ms. Richard continued, “The Board and management team are committed to ensuring a thoughtful, strategic transition. We are grateful to continue benefiting from Elio’s expertise throughout this process. As the Board conducts its search for ParticipACTION’s next President and CEO, we are focused on identifying a strong leader with an entrepreneurial mindset and proven ability to inspire and connect with internal and external stakeholders.”