Stantec Names Susan Reisbord CEO as Gord Johnston Steps Down
Event summary
- Gord Johnston to retire as Stantec CEO on October 1, 2026, transitioning to Vice Chair of the Board.
- Susan Reisbord, current COO of North America, appointed as new CEO.
- Reisbord joined Stantec in 2021 via the acquisition of Cardno, where she was CEO.
- Johnston led Stantec for 8.5 years, overseeing global expansion and strategic refinement.
The big picture
Stantec’s leadership transition reflects a deliberate succession plan aimed at maintaining strategic continuity. The move comes as the firm navigates industry shifts toward sustainable infrastructure and digital transformation. With a global footprint and a focus on long-term growth, the transition underscores the importance of leadership stability in professional services firms.
What we're watching
- Leadership Continuity
- How Susan Reisbord will maintain operational stability while advancing Stantec’s next strategic plan.
- Strategic Growth
- Whether Reisbord can sustain the growth trajectory established under Johnston’s leadership.
- Industry Positioning
- The pace at which Stantec adapts to evolving market demands in sustainable design and engineering.