Bijan Ahmadi named new Executive Director and COO of the Canada China Business Council
Toronto, ON (January 1, 2025) – The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is pleased to announce Bijan Ahmadi will assume the role of Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2025. He succeeds Sarah Kutulakos, who has led the Council since 2007 and stepped down on December 31, 2024, to pursue a new role at another organization.
“We are delighted to welcome Bijan during this critical moment for Canada-China relations,” says Olivier Desmarais, Chair of the CCBC Board of Directors. “Bijan’s leadership comes at a time when navigating complex economic, diplomatic, and geopolitical challenges between the two countries is more important than ever. With his extensive experience in diplomacy, strategic management, and Canada-China engagement, Bijan is exceptionally well-equipped to further CCBC’s mission of helping Canada do ‘more and better business’ with China. We are confident his leadership will open new avenues for growth and success.”
Mr. Ahmadi was most recently the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024, where he spearheaded efforts to promote constructive engagement in international relations. He was instrumental in launching IPD’s Asia research program and establishing its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), which has since become Canada’s leading event for Indo-Pacific dialogue.
As head of the non-partisan think tank, Mr. Ahmadi advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He also led numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and directed Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Prior to founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi held strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto.
“I am honoured to build on the outstanding work Sarah and the CCBC team have accomplished,” says Mr. Ahmadi. “I look forward to fostering deeper collaboration and resilience in the bilateral relationship, ensuring long-term success for businesses and communities in both markets.”
“It has been a privilege to lead the Council for nearly two decades,” says Ms. Kutulakos. “I am deeply grateful for the steadfast support of our members and partners throughout the years and proud of the strong foundation we have built. Bijan’s guidance and dedication will be key in shaping the Council’s next phase of growth.”
Under Mr. Ahmadi’s leadership, CCBC will continue to serve as a key platform for strengthening Canada-China relations, driving economic growth, and creating valuable opportunities for its members.
ABOUT CCBC
Founded in 1978, CCBC has been the leading voice of Canadian businesses in China for over 45 years, providing the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in China and Canada. In addition to its focused and practical services, CCBC is the voice of the Canadian business community on issues affecting Canada-China business, trade, and investment. Along with its corporate head office in Toronto, CCBC has chapters in Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic region, British Columbia, the Prairies, Beijing, and Shanghai. CCBC’s network of staff offers programs and services in both Canada and China, and introduces members to opportunities in China’s emerging markets. CCBC also operates a Chamber of Commerce in Beijing, offering a range of events and broad networking opportunities at the local level. For more information, please visit: www.ccbc.com.
For media inquiries, please contact
Alyssa Dalton
Director of Communications
Canada China Business Council
communications@ccbc.com