JohnQ Public Inc. Board Appoints Michelle Pereira as Chief Executive Officer

First priority: Tackling the growing gap in seniors housing in rural communities 

(Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba) — The Board of JohnQ Public Inc. (JohnQ) today announced the appointment of Michelle Pereira as its new Chief Executive Officer. 

“Michelle brings two decades of strong business leadership experience, coupled with an entrepreneurial mindset, which will serve JohnQ well as we move into our next chapter of growth and impact,” said Roy Tufford, Chair of the Board. “Her ability to bring people together, build strong partnerships, navigate complex stakeholder environments, and communicate with clarity and purpose made her the standout during our selection process.” 

First Priority: Seniors Housing 

As CEO, Pereira will lead JohnQ’s next major initiative, addressing the overwhelming need for seniors housing that is affordable in rural and northern Manitoba. 

A recent Probe Research survey (2025) found that more than 81 percent of rural and northern Manitobans want to remain in their communities as they age, yet 77 percent report insufficient housing options. Eighty-five percent of those looking for housing say it is challenging to find a suitable home. 

“I was drawn to this role because of what is at the heart of JohnQ, a simple yet powerful idea that municipalities working together can solve complex infrastructure challenges more effectively,” said Pereira. “The shortage of seniors housing in rural communities is pressing, and I am eager to apply JohnQ’s collaborative model to deliver solutions that make a real difference for Manitobans. With the support of our partner municipalities and stakeholders, we hope to share details of a new funding agreement soon that will help communities access the housing they want and urgently need.” 

The Board, in naming its next CEO, also wanted to acknowledge the contributions of retired CEO, Colleen Sklar. 

“It was through Colleen’s dedication and innovative approach to creating infrastructure that JohnQ was successfully established as a leader in municipal development,” concluded Tufford. “Michelle will have much to build on thanks to Colleen’s work and vision.” 

Pereira will work closely with JohnQ’s Board of Directors, municipal shareholders, Indigenous leaders and First Nations, stakeholders, and the team at JohnQ. She is committed to the organization’s mission of improving critical community infrastructure while delivering practical solutions for all Manitobans. 

Pereira most recently served as Director of Marketing and Communications at Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba and previously held a senior leadership role with Habitat for Humanity Manitoba. She currently serves as Chair of the Board of Regents at the University of Winnipeg, providing governance oversight and contributing to advancing post-secondary education and community engagement in Manitoba.