Leadership Transition at OPPI: Susan Wiggins Announces Retirement
Date: February 27, 2026
After six impactful years as Executive Director of OPPI, Susan Wiggins has announced her plans to retire, closing a distinguished chapter of more than 30 years in association management.
From the moment she joined the organization, Susan understood the responsibility ahead of her. She knew OPPI’s role was to elevate and support members whose work shapes the places where Ontarians live, work, and play, and she was clear about her commitment to strengthening OPPI’s voice and the RPP brand.
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Over the past six years, she has translated that vision into action.
Together with Council and the OPPI staff team, Susan led the delivery of the Strategic Plan 2025 and strengthened the organization’s foundation for the future. Reflecting on Susan’s leadership, Andria Leigh, OPPI Council Chair, shared:
“She has strengthened OPPI’s voice through a focused government relations and advocacy portfolio, cultivating meaningful partnerships with organizations such as the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA). She has championed solutions to address Ontario’s shortage of planning professionals, enhanced OPPI’s education portfolio, supported membership growth, and led key strategic initiatives, including OPPI’s rebrand and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion-Reconciliation and Social Justice work.”
These accomplishments matter – and they will shape OPPI for years to come.
But what Susan will be remembered for most is how she led.
She has brought presence and intention to her role for staff, for Council, and for Ontario’s planning community. She listened carefully, encouraged others to step forward, and created space for growth and shared success. She built trust where it mattered most.
Susan will leave behind a talented, confident team and an organization well-positioned for its next chapter—a testament not only to her vision but also to her deep belief in people and the power of community.
Looking ahead to her next chapter, Susan shared:
“While I am excited about spending more time with family and exploring new paths both near and far, I will face one of the most challenging days of my career, saying goodbye to more than 30 years in association management. It has been my privilege and honour to serve Ontario’s planning community. The work achieved during my time at OPPI was made possible by a dedicated Council, passionate volunteers, and an incredibly talented staff team. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and confident that OPPI’s work to advocate, educate, and build community will continue to thrive.”
Susan will remain in her role until a successor has been hired. The search for a successor is being managed by OPPI’s Executive Committee, working with Jack Shand, Principal of The Portage Group. We will share the job posting as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please reach out to Andria Leigh, Chair of OPPI Council.