Northern Ontario native takes over as city's director of economic development

The City of Sault Ste. Marie has a new director of economic development, it announced in a press release issued this morning. 

Rick Van Staveren, who was born and raised in Northern Ontario, took over the position yesterday.

He brings over 25 years of experience to his new role, including tourism and retail management.   

The following is the full text from the city: 

The City of Sault Ste. Marie is pleased to announce the appointment of Rick Van Staveren as director of economic development effective Jan. 11, 2021.  

Van Staveren has over 25 years of senior management and change management experience in the courier industry, leading both sales and operations divisions in Canada, the United States and South America. He brings seven years of experience with a major Canadian consumer goods provider where he had responsibility for the retail network, customer care, commercial furniture and small business sales. Van Staveren’s previous experiences include being an entrepreneur, general manager in the tourism industry and retail management experience. He has provided consulting solutions for a number of businesses including DHL Canada, City of Toronto, Toronto Animal Services, Thorfam/Atlantis Group of Companies, and Toronto Municipal Licensing and Services.  

“We are excited to have someone of Rick’s caliber join our team. Rick will be a tremendous addition as we work to drive and support job growth and entrepreneurial success in Sault Ste. Marie,” said Tom Vair, deputy CAO, Community Development and Enterprise Services. “Rick is an exceptional leader with a proven ability to develop strategies and plans that help move organizations forward. He will play a key role in developing and achieving economic growth and prosperity in our community.”  

Van Staveren is a graduate of Confederation College, Kennedy-Western University, and has attended leadership development programs at the University of Notre Dame, Emory University and the Schulich School of Business. Rick is also certified in the use of the Extended DISC Analysis tools and provides management coaching and development. He is a member of the ACMP (Association of Change Management Professionals), Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Change Management Professional (Acuity) and Change Management Specialist (CMS).   

“I would like to thank the City of Sault Ste. Marie for this opportunity. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation as we strive to maximize economic development and investment in all facets of the community we serve,” said Van Staveren.  

Van Staveren was born, raised and attended school in Northern Ontario. His family business background includes owning the Beaver Tourist Centre in White River, as well as the Bonanza in Batchawana Bay.