TORONTO, ON, Sept. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) announces the appointment of Peter Dinsdale as incoming President and CEO effective Nov. 16, 2026. His values-driven, strategic leadership will be an invaluable asset to the organization as CCIB continues to advance its mission to promote, strengthen and enhance a prosperous Indigenous economy and to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, businesses and communities.
“I am honoured to join Canadian Council for Indigenous Business at such an important time for Indigenous economic growth in Canada,” says Dinsdale. “Indigenous businesses are creating jobs, building communities, strengthening supply chains, and shaping the future of this country. CCIB has earned a trusted place with Indigenous entrepreneurs, corporate Canada, and governments, and I look forward to working with the Board, staff, members, and partners to build on that foundation. Economic reconciliation requires practical action, strong relationships, and measurable results, and I am excited to help advance that work.”
A member of Curve Lake First Nation, Dinsdale’s leadership experience spans Indigenous organizations, the charitable sector, public policy and governance. He joins CCIB following a decade as President and CEO of YMCA Canada, where he led a national federation serving communities across the country. Earlier in his career, he served as CEO of the Assembly of First Nations and Executive Director of the National Association of Friendship Centres.
In addition to his executive leadership experience, he has served on several corporate and community boards. He currently serves on the boards of Wawanesa Insurance, CSA Group and Oshkiigmong Economic Development Corporation.
“After an extensive national search, the Board is delighted to welcome Peter Dinsdale as the incoming President and CEO of CCIB,” says Desiree Norwegian, Co-chair, CCIB Board of Directors. “Peter is a proven leader with over two decades of executive experience across Indigenous community networks and national organizations. He brings a deep commitment to governance and partnership, making him exceptionally well-suited to lead CCIB.”
Dinsdale’s experience will be a tremendous asset as CCIB continues its work to help ensure Indigenous business perspectives are prioritized and that Indigenous businesses have equitable access to economic opportunities.
“Peter’s track record of strategic leadership and bridge-building with corporate Canada will be invaluable in maintaining strong momentum as the Indigenous economy continues to expand and reshape Canada’s future,” says Robert Brant, CCIB Board of Directors Co-chair. “We are excited to welcome Peter to help guide the important work ahead.
“The Board of Directors, on behalf of our entire staff and membership, also extends its deep gratitude to outgoing President and CEO Tabatha Bull for her transformative and exemplary leadership throughout the past six years, which helped establish the strong foundation and momentum CCIB enjoys today.”
Dinsdale’s first day at CCIB will be Nov. 16, 2026. Bull’s last day will be Oct. 9, 2026. Dinsdale will make his first public appearance as incoming CCIB President and CEO during CCIB’s Indigenous Relations Forum & PAIR Awards on Oct. 14 and the West Coast Business Forum & Awards Dinner on Oct. 15 in Vancouver.
The CCIB Board Co-chairs can be available for media comment regarding the leadership transition. Introductory interviews with incoming President and CEO Peter Dinsdale may also be available, as his schedule permits, offering an opportunity to learn more about him, his background and experience ahead of his Nov. 16 start date. Media inquiries regarding CCIB’s ongoing work and priorities will continue to be supported by CCIB’s current leadership team. To request an interview, please reach out to Shannon Sutherland using the contact information below.
—30—
About Canadian Council for Indigenous Business
CCIB is committed to the full participation of Indigenous Peoples in Canada’s economy. As a national, non-partisan association, its mission is to promote, strengthen and enhance a prosperous Indigenous economy through the fostering of business relationships, opportunities, and awareness. CCIB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to its members to cultivate economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and businesses across Canada. For more information, visit www.ccib.ca.
Attachment
