The Honourable Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, has announced that Simon Foster will be the next chair of the Ontario Arts Council (OAC). Simon takes over from Rita Davies, whose nine-year term as OAC chair concluded in late July.
“I am delighted that Simon Foster will be sharing his time, knowledge and expertise in this important work that will make a difference for Ontarians,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “His leadership in helping the OAC to deliver on its mandate is a valued contribution in strengthening our economy and the quality of life enjoyed by residents across the province.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Simon Foster as OAC’s new chair, whose vision and leadership will inspire transformative change across Ontario’s vibrant arts community,” said OAC CEO Michael Murray. “With a deep commitment to fostering creativity and driving innovation, Simon is uniquely poised to guide the Ontario Arts Council into an exciting new chapter. Together with our dedicated team and board, we look forward to advancing our mission and making an even greater impact on the cultural and economic landscape of our province.”
“The Ontario Arts Council is a cornerstone of an arts sector that powers economic growth and enriches the quality of life for all Ontarians,” said OAC chair Simon Foster. “I am truly excited to collaborate with the board and the exceptional OAC team to amplify our impact and further advance these vital objectives for our province.”
About Simon Foster
Simon Foster was appointed to the OAC board of directors on March 31, 2023. Based in Toronto, he is the CEO and founder of Chatter Research, a customer feedback software platform he created in 2016. Prior to this, Simon spent five years with Blue Ant Media, as senior vice president of digital and corporate development.
Simon is the co-founder and chair of the Framework Foundation, a charity that promotes civic engagement of Canadians aged 22 to 35 through volunteerism. The Framework Foundation has invested almost $1 million into the careers of emerging artists.
From 2007 to 2012, Simon served on the board of Canada’s National Ballet School. In 2011 he was the recipient of Business / Arts’ Arnold Edinborough Award, recognizing an individual under 40 for exceptional leadership and volunteerism in the arts.
Simon is a graduate of Queen’s University and has a master’s degree in political economy from the London School of Economics and Political Science.