Watson stepping down after five remarkable years at Ontario NDP helm

ETOBICOKE - Lucy Watson has announced that she intends to step down after nearly five remarkable years as the Ontario NDP’s Executive Director. Watson, along with Party Leader Marit Stiles and President Janelle Brady, informed the Party’s Caucus, Provincial Office staff, and party members this afternoon.

As Executive Director, Watson is responsible for the strategic plans for the Party and its 124 ridings across the province. She also oversees the day-to-day administrative and financial operations of the Ontario NDP Provincial Office.

During her tenure, the Ontario NDP broke records on fundraising, strengthened local electoral riding associations, maintained its status as Ontario’s Official Opposition in the last election, built a rock-solid financial footing, and organized its first leadership race in well over a decade.

Watson will be supporting the transition to the new Executive Director for whom the search is now underway.

QUOTES

Marit Stiles, Ontario NDP Leader

“Our Party and our movement are considerably stronger thanks to Lucy’s many contributions, hard work, and leadership as our Executive Director. She’s put us in a great position to be able to win more for Ontarians now and set us up for even greater success in the next election. The role required Lucy to be away from her family in Ottawa a lot, so I also want to thank her for her personal commitment to our movement. I’m excited to see what she does next.”

Janelle Brady, Ontario NDP President

“Under Lucy’s leadership, we’ve seen record-high fundraising numbers, a renewed focus on volunteer training, and increased operational capacity. As a long-time activist, and more recently as Party President, I’ve seen first-hand the passion, focus, and professionalism that Lucy has brought to the role. I also know how demanding it’s been, and I know Lucy is looking forward to being in Ottawa with her family.”