Building Stronger Businesses: Keynote Search’s Collaborative Vision for Ottawa
In today’s competitive market, organizations need more than just candidates - they need exceptional talent that fits their culture, stays engaged, and performs at their best. That’s where Keynote Search comes in. Unlike typical search firms that concentrate on the hiring transaction, this executive search and coaching firm partners with organizations to find, fit, retain, and maximize the potential of top-tier professionals. Not only do they strive to find the best talent, but Keynote Search actively supports their journey, helping organizations build stronger, more effective teams that drive sustained success.
Read on to learn more about Keynote Search, their Pillar Partnership with OBOT, and their views on the future of the National Capital Region.
What inspired you or your business to become an Ottawa Board of Trade Pillar Partner?
Being headquartered in Ottawa, Keynote Search is deeply invested in the city’s future, not just as a business hub, but as a community where our team lives and our children will grow up. We view our membership with OBOT as a vital way to connect with local business leaders and decision-makers, fostering trusted relationships that enable us to address critical hiring needs across Ottawa’s diverse sectors.
How has your OBOT membership contributed to your business’ growth?
Keynote Search focuses predominantly on Ottawa businesses and non-profits. OBOT serves as a unique intersection where shared interests and objectives bring business owners and executives together. Through these valuable conversations, Keynote Search has built lasting relationships founded on trust, which opens the door for us to support companies with their most critical hiring needs.
What unique value do you believe the Ottawa Board of Trade brings to Ottawa’s business community?
OBOT stands alone as the only independent voice of business in Ottawa, uniting all sectors, industries, and interest groups. It operates free from any external agenda, with a singular focus on supporting and advancing the success of businesses throughout the city. If you are an Ottawa business that is committed to your people, then you need to be a member. We have a shared responsibility to lift our entire eco-system up. Whether directly, or indirectly, the more resources we can provide to OBOT, the more impact they can have on our city and our people.
What excites you most about operating a business in Ottawa in particular?
For the first time in my 20 years, we have a chance to be defined by something other than the public service. There is an opportunity for the city to become a world-class urban centre with a diversified economy that spans its vast geography—something truly exciting for local businesses and residents alike.
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Ottawa, and why?
We love the energy of the Canadian Tire Centre as we cheer on the Ottawa Senators - our team! We also enjoy visiting the Hornets Nest in Blackburn Hamlet, where thousands of kids play soccer – the greatest game on Earth! Lansdowne Park is a favourite spot for a patio drink with friends or to warm up for a REDBLACKS game. Additionally, any local music venue or festival holds a special place as a gathering spot for live music and community spirit.
Are there any particular city-building or development projects in Ottawa that interest you, and why?
We are inspired by transformative projects like the ByWard Market revitalization and the LeBreton development. These initiatives have the potential to redefine Ottawa’s downtown core, enhancing its vibrancy and attractiveness as a destination to live, work, and invest.
What would you like the future of Ottawa in the coming years to look like?
Our vision for Ottawa’s future is bold: to be the first major Canadian city to genuinely resolve pressing social issues. We advocate for going above and beyond in enhancing public safety and creating a city that represents the best of Canada to visitors. This welcoming, safe, and dynamic environment will not only support economic development but ensure that people want to live, work, and thrive in Ottawa.