Vistage Acquires TEC Canada in North American Power Play

SAN DIEGO, CA & CALGARY, AB – May 12, 2026 – In a significant move to consolidate its dominance in the executive coaching space, Vistage Worldwide, Inc. announced today it has acquired its long-standing Canadian licensee, TEC Canada. The acquisition brings one of the world's most established CEO peer advisory networks under direct corporate ownership, integrating a thriving Canadian community into Vistage's expansive global platform.

This strategic transaction marks the end of a 40-year licensing agreement and the beginning of a new chapter for over 1,600 Canadian business leaders who rely on the network for confidential guidance and professional growth. For Vistage, the world's largest CEO peer advisory organization with 45,000 members worldwide, the move solidifies its footprint in North America and continues a pattern of strategic global expansion.

A Global Strategy of Consolidation

The acquisition of TEC Canada is not an isolated event but the latest in a series of calculated moves by Vistage to strengthen its global market leadership. Over the past few years, the private equity-backed organization has been methodically acquiring key licensees and complementary businesses to unify its brand and expand its service offerings.

This trend includes the 2022 acquisition of Denmark-based EGN, which broadened its reach in Europe, and the 2024 acquisition of TEC Australia and New Zealand, another long-term licensee. These integrations demonstrate a clear strategy: bringing successful, mature markets under the direct Vistage umbrella to ensure brand consistency and operational synergy. By doing so, Vistage can more effectively leverage its global resources, share best practices across its network of 40 countries, and present a unified front in an increasingly competitive industry.

Furthermore, the company has also expanded its capabilities. The 2025 acquisition of Smart Business Network (SBN), a U.S. media and events company specializing in M&A and deal-making, signaled Vistage's ambition to be more than a peer advisory group. It aims to be an indispensable resource for every critical decision a CEO faces, including complex capital strategies and transactions. Bringing TEC Canada into the fold aligns with this vision, promising its members deeper connections and access to a wider array of expert resources.

From Pioneering Licensee to Integrated Partner

The relationship between Vistage and TEC Canada is deeply rooted. Vistage itself was founded in 1957 under the name The Executive Committee (TEC). In 1985, Dr. W. Lynn Tanner licensed the model and introduced the concept of peer advisory to Canada, founding TEC Canada. Over four decades, he and his team built a formidable community.

"After more than 40 years of building TEC Canada, the time has come to pass this work forward," said Dr. W. Lynn Tanner, Founder of TEC Canada, in a statement. "What began as a vision to support CEOs has grown into a trusted community grounded in challenge, accountability and meaningful growth. I am proud of what has been created and confident it will continue to evolve in ways that serve members and Chairs across the country."

Under the leadership of outgoing CEO Todd Millar, TEC Canada grew into a community of over 1,600 members and more than 75 Chairs—the seasoned executives who facilitate the peer advisory groups. This success made it one of Vistage's most significant and enduring licensees.

"We've built something very special at TEC Canada — a values-driven community focused on better leadership and better decisions," commented Millar. "This next chapter creates the opportunity to extend that impact, giving our members and Chairs access to broader resources, deeper connections and a global platform to continue their growth."

Navigating a Competitive Canadian Market

Vistage's move to directly control its Canadian operations comes as the market for executive coaching and leadership development in Canada is both lucrative and crowded. Valued at an estimated USD 2.3 billion, the industry is populated by global networks and independent consultancies all vying for the attention of top executives.

Prominent competitors include the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) and the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO), both of which have strong chapter presences across Canada and offer their own models of peer-to-peer learning. By fully integrating TEC Canada, Vistage is strengthening its position against these rivals. The key differentiator it offers is its sheer scale—a global network of 45,000 leaders—and a formalized coaching structure that combines confidential peer groups with one-on-one executive coaching and expert speaker workshops.

This acquisition allows Vistage to leverage its global brand recognition directly in the Canadian market, potentially attracting new members who want access to an international brain trust. For existing TEC Canada members, the promise is an enhanced value proposition, connecting their local peer groups to a worldwide ecosystem of business leaders facing similar challenges and opportunities.

The Path Forward Under New Leadership

To ensure a smooth transition and continuity of leadership, Vistage has appointed two long-serving TEC Canada executives as Co-General Managers. Pearl Gittins, previously the Chief Financial Officer, and Jody Milhousen, formerly the Vice President of Operations, will now lead the organization. Their deep familiarity with the Canadian member and Chair community is seen as a critical asset in guiding the organization through this integration.

Rob Ristagno, President of International Operations at Vistage, emphasized the value of the community that has been built. "TEC Canada has built an exceptional and enduring community of leaders committed to growth, trust and high-integrity decision-making," he stated. "We are grateful for the strong foundation and look forward to working together to expand Vistage peer advisory across Canada."

The integration is a pivotal step toward Vistage's overarching vision of becoming the world's most trusted resource for small and midsize business leaders. By bringing TEC Canada into its direct operations, Vistage is not just acquiring a company; it is reinforcing a 40-year partnership and making a powerful statement about its commitment to owning the future of executive leadership development in North America and beyond.