Vancouver, British Columbia, May 24, 2019 – Brightside Community Homes Foundation (Brightside), one of Vancouver’s largest and oldest affordable housing societies for seniors, families, and people with disabilities, today announced the appointment of William Azaroff as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Azaroff joins Brightside from Vancity credit union, where as Vice President of Community Business & Investment he and his team have been supporting local businesses and organizations throughout southwestern British Columbia that are looking to deliver triple-bottom-line results – those that generate profits, alongside positive results for people and the planet. A seasoned executive, Azaroff is also the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Vancity Community Foundation and a Board Member and former Chair of Modo Cooperative.
“I am honoured to be taking on this new role,” said Azaroff. “Vancouver is an amazing city, and I’ve been passionate about working to make it more accessible, livable and affordable for many years. Brightside has a strong vision and an important role to play to ensure people of all income levels have a home within a vibrant and healthy community in Vancouver. I can’t wait to get started.”
Chair of Brightside’s Board of Directors, Greg Tooke, said that Azaroff shares the board’s vision for Vancouver’s future and will provide excellent leadership as Brightside aims to double the number of affordable homes it provides over the next decade. Tooke continued, “We look forward to welcoming William as the new CEO of Brightside. William is an authentic and visionary leader with the skillset to create a big impact on retaining Vancouver’s diversity, and making Vancouver housing inclusive for all.”
Azaroff will officially begin his new role on June 17, 2019. Azaroff will replace Jan Robinson, who has served as Executive Director for Brightside for nearly four years, and who recently announced her retirement.
Tooke commented, “Brightside has continued to build a solid foundation through Jan’s leadership over the last four years. We thank her for her dedication and support in advancing our organization’s mission.”