Communitech announces Sheldon McCormick as new CEO

McCormick named CEO; Jennifer Gruber resumes position as CFO

Communitech announced today the appointment of Sheldon McCormick as its new CEO, effective April 14.

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Sheldon McCormick, joins Communitech as CEO effective April 14.

McCormick is a seasoned entrepreneur and leader with extensive experience in scaling businesses, raising capital and navigating markets. With a strong founder-first mindset, he’s set to build on Communitech’s mission to support tech leaders and their teams, and strengthen Waterloo Region’s innovation ecosystem.

"I’m honoured to join Communitech at such an important time for the tech industry,” said McCormick. "As a founder, I know how important it is to have trusted partners in your corner. I’m looking forward to working with this talented team and community to take on challenges, explore new ideas and stay ahead of what founders need most.”

McCormick co-founded and served as COO of Properly, one of Canada’s leading proptech companies, and helped grow Uber Canada during its early years. McCormick’s appointment follows a comprehensive search led by Communitech’s Board of Directors and executive search firm Korn Ferry. He was chosen for his leadership experience, entrepreneurial background and clear alignment with Communitech’s mission to help tech leaders start, grow and succeed.

“Sheldon brings exactly the kind of leadership Communitech needs. His deep understanding of the founder journey will help strengthen Communitech’s role in supporting the growth and success of tech leaders and their companies. We’re excited for the future under his leadership,” said Catherine Graham, Chair of the Communitech Board of Directors. “I also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jennifer Gruber for her steady interim leadership, and to our leadership team and all Communitechers for keeping the momentum going during this transition."

“Sheldon’s experience in both startup ecosystems and large-scale business operations stood out as the ideal fit to help guide Communitech’s next chapter,” said Michael Doughty, Communitech Board Member and Chair of the Selection Committee. “The board is confident that his leadership is a strong fit for where Communitech and Waterloo Region’s tech ecosystem are headed next.”

In his first weeks as CEO, McCormick will engage with founders, partners, community members and the Communitech team to shape what’s next for Communitech as it stays focused on supporting tech leaders in Waterloo Region. Jennifer Gruber, who has served as interim CEO during the transition, will resume her position as CFO.

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"As a founder, I know how important it is to have trusted partners in your corner. I’m looking forward to working with this talented team and community to take on challenges, explore new ideas and stay ahead of what founders need most.”