The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) has announced that Kim Furlong will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 2, 2025, following a comprehensive executive search. Her appointment signals both a return to the organization and a renewed strategic vision as RCC prepares for its next phase of growth and advocacy on behalf of Canada’s retail sector.
Furlong currently serves as CEO of the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA), where she has made her mark as a powerful advocate for private capital and entrepreneurship. Her transition to RCC comes at a pivotal time for Canadian retail, amid challenges related to inflation, shifting consumer behaviours, and the evolving digital economy.
“Kim brings a deep expertise in public policy, stakeholder engagement, and crisis communications and we are delighted to welcome her to the organization,” said Anne Martin-Vachon, Chair of the Board of Directors at RCC. “Her leadership will drive impactful results and strengthen our mission in the years ahead.”
A Return to RCC, and a Career Built on Advocacy
Furlong is no stranger to RCC. More than 16 years ago, she served as Vice President of Federal Government Affairs, where she was credited with establishing the Council’s permanent presence in Ottawa. During her tenure, she became a respected and effective voice for retailers at the national level—skills that will once again come into focus in her new leadership role.
Her recent leadership at CVCA further underscores her capacity to shape public discourse and build coalitions. At CVCA, she successfully influenced public policy affecting the venture capital and private equity sectors in Canada, helping foster a healthier environment for innovation and investment. Prior to that, Furlong held senior roles in government relations and strategic policy.
A Thoughtful Transition After Three Decades of Leadership
The appointment follows the planned retirement of Diane J. Brisebois, who announced earlier this year that she would step down after leading RCC for over 30 years. Brisebois transformed the organization into the leading voice for Canada’s retail sector, guiding the industry through seismic shifts—from globalization and digitization to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent economic turbulence.
“Diane’s contributions to the association and the industry have been extraordinary,” added Martin-Vachon. “Her commitment to the team, the Board, and our members has enabled us to ensure that RCC is widely recognized as the ‘Voice of Retail’.”
Brisebois will remain in her role until September 2025, ensuring a smooth leadership transition as the organization continues to support its members through a volatile period for retail in Canada.
Executive Search Process Led by Odgers Berndtson
To ensure the right candidate was selected for this crucial leadership role, RCC engaged Odgers Berndtson, a global executive search firm with expertise in senior-level recruitment across sectors. The firm led a rigorous and consultative process, working closely with RCC’s board and stakeholders.
The search process included:
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with RCC board members and key industry leaders to understand current and future priorities for the organization.
- Candidate Profiling: Defining a leadership profile that included experience in strategic planning, public policy, retail sector knowledge, and stakeholder engagement.
- Talent Mapping: Evaluating candidates from a wide range of sectors, with particular attention to those with experience navigating complex regulatory and economic environments.
- Assessment: In-depth interviews, reference checks, and leadership assessments to determine the most qualified candidate.
The search concluded with the unanimous selection of Kim Furlong, whom the board believes possesses the vision and track record needed to steward RCC’s next chapter.
Strengthening the Voice of Retail in a Shifting Landscape
The appointment of Furlong comes as Canadian retailers face a fast-changing marketplace. From inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions to digital transformation and workforce challenges, the industry requires strong advocacy and agile leadership.
RCC has long served as the voice of the retail industry in Canada, representing a sector that employs over 2.3 million Canadians and accounts for a significant share of the country’s GDP. The organization supports its members—ranging from independent stores to large chains—through advocacy, research, policy development, and professional training.
Furlong’s deep understanding of public policy, combined with her experience across both private and public sectors, will likely position her as a key voice in national conversations surrounding the future of retail.
