Toronto Metropolitan University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Toronto Metropolitan University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategic oversight, financial management, administrative operations, and community safety initiatives.

Committed to fostering innovation through the DMZ incubator, Toronto Metropolitan University drives global entrepreneurial growth by supporting tech founders across 15+ countries. This institution bridges academic excellence with real-world startup scaling to create lasting economic impact.

Leadership Roles at Toronto Metropolitan University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Rosanna Maietta
  • Chief Financial Officer - Joanne McKee
  • Chief of Staff & President, Office of - Matthew Baker
  • Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of - Nina Elmazaj
  • President - Samantha Durrell
  • President - Bahareh Chaichypour
  • Co-President of TMU Pre-Optometry Society - Sonam Nundloll
  • Administrative Coordinator Office of the President - Hannah Williams
  • President, Member, 's Implementation Task Force On Campus Expression, Antisemitism & Community Safety - Jack Vanek
  • President - Arpan Brar
  • Rosanna Maietta - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Rosanna Maietta, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Toronto Metropolitan University, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. Overseeing the integration of academic research with the DMZ tech incubator, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that startup support programs align with broader university goals. This leadership role involves managing high-level partnerships across North American markets to expand the reach of student-led ventures. By coordinating with the Board, Maietta secures the resources necessary for scaling complex educational and entrepreneurial initiatives. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on operational efficiency, ensuring that the university remains a top-tier hub for innovation. Through rigorous oversight of institutional growth, Rosanna Maietta strengthens the university's position as a global leader in tech incubation and academic excellence.

    Joanne McKee - Chief Financial Officer

    Joanne McKee, the Chief Financial Officer at Toronto Metropolitan University, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire organization. Overseeing the financial infrastructure that supports the DMZ incubator, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital flows efficiently toward high-growth startup programs. This role involves analyzing investment trends across 15+ countries to optimize the university's financial portfolio. By collaborating with executive leadership, McKee develops sustainable funding models that fuel long-term research and community engagement. The Chief Financial Officer monitors budgetary compliance while identifying new revenue streams to support diverse founder initiatives. Through precise financial planning, Joanne McKee mitigates institutional risk and maximizes the impact of every dollar invested in student entrepreneurship. McKee provides the fiscal stability required for the university to maintain its competitive edge in the global tech landscape.

    Matthew Baker - Chief of Staff & President, Office of

    Matthew Baker, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of at Toronto Metropolitan University, coordinates the daily operations and strategic priorities within the executive office. Overseeing the flow of information between departments, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of ensures that institutional objectives remain synchronized with the mission of the DMZ incubator. This role involves managing complex projects that require cross-functional collaboration across the university campus. By facilitating communication between the President and senior leadership, Baker drives the execution of key administrative initiatives. The Chief of Staff & President, Office of optimizes internal processes to enhance organizational agility and responsiveness to market changes. Through meticulous project management, Matthew Baker supports the university's commitment to fostering a vibrant ecosystem for tech founders. Baker ensures that the executive office functions as a catalyst for innovation and academic success.

    Nina Elmazaj - Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of

    Nina Elmazaj, the Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of at Toronto Metropolitan University, supports the administrative functions and strategic planning efforts of the executive leadership team. Overseeing the implementation of operational policies, the Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of ensures that the university's support for the DMZ incubator remains consistent and effective. This role involves managing stakeholder relationships and coordinating high-priority events that showcase student innovation. By assisting the Chief of Staff, Elmazaj streamlines communication channels to improve decision-making speed across the institution. The Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of monitors progress on key performance indicators related to startup growth and community engagement. Through diligent administrative oversight, Nina Elmazaj contributes to the seamless operation of the university's leadership office. Elmazaj facilitates the environment necessary for founders to thrive within the global tech ecosystem.

    Samantha Durrell - President

    Samantha Durrell, the President at Toronto Metropolitan University, leads specific academic and community-focused initiatives that enhance the university's reputation. Overseeing the development of specialized support programs for diverse founders within the DMZ, the President ensures that inclusive entrepreneurship remains a core pillar of the institution. This role involves engaging with industry experts to refine mentorship models that benefit early-stage startups. By fostering partnerships with external organizations, Durrell expands the network available to students and alumni. The President monitors the impact of educational initiatives on startup success rates across international markets. Through active community engagement, Samantha Durrell promotes a culture of innovation that attracts top-tier talent to the university. Durrell drives the strategic expansion of programs that empower founders to build, launch, and scale their ventures effectively within the competitive global tech landscape.
    Samantha Durrell

    Bahareh Chaichypour - President

    Bahareh Chaichypour, the President at Toronto Metropolitan University, directs the expansion of specialized research and development programs within the university's innovation ecosystem. Overseeing the integration of advanced technical training into the DMZ incubator, the President ensures that founders receive the necessary expertise to navigate complex market challenges. This role involves collaborating with faculty and industry leaders to bridge the gap between academic theory and commercial application. By managing regional outreach efforts, Chaichypour increases the visibility of the university's startup support services. The President evaluates the effectiveness of current incubator programs to ensure they meet the evolving needs of tech entrepreneurs. Through strategic leadership, Bahareh Chaichypour fosters an environment where innovation flourishes and startups achieve significant growth. Chaichypour maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the university continues to produce high-impact ventures that contribute to the global economy.

    Sonam Nundloll - Co-President of TMU Pre-Optometry Society

    Sonam Nundloll, the Co-President of TMU Pre-Optometry Society at Toronto Metropolitan University, manages student-led initiatives that prepare aspiring professionals for careers in healthcare and technology. Overseeing the society's outreach and educational workshops, the Co-President of TMU Pre-Optometry Society ensures that members gain access to industry-relevant resources and mentorship. This role involves coordinating with the university's broader innovation network to highlight the intersection of health tech and entrepreneurship. By organizing professional development events, Nundloll helps students build the skills required for success in competitive fields. The Co-President of TMU Pre-Optometry Society facilitates connections between students and established industry experts to foster career growth. Through dedicated leadership, Sonam Nundloll strengthens the student community and promotes a culture of excellence. Nundloll ensures that the society remains a vital resource for those pursuing advanced studies and entrepreneurial ventures within the healthcare sector.

    Hannah Williams - Administrative Coordinator Office of the President

    Hannah Williams, the Administrative Coordinator Office of the President at Toronto Metropolitan University, manages the logistical operations and scheduling requirements for the executive office. Overseeing the coordination of high-level meetings and institutional events, the Administrative Coordinator Office of the President ensures that the leadership team remains focused on strategic priorities. This role involves maintaining clear communication lines between the President and various university departments to support the DMZ incubator's mission. By organizing complex workflows, Williams improves the efficiency of the executive office. The Administrative Coordinator Office of the President handles sensitive documentation and ensures compliance with university policies. Through proactive administrative support, Hannah Williams enables the leadership team to execute their vision for innovation and entrepreneurship. Williams provides the organizational foundation necessary for the university to maintain its status as a premier hub for startup development and academic achievement.

    Jack Vanek - President, Member, 's Implementation Task Force On Campus Expression, Antisemitism & Community Safety

    Jack Vanek, the President, Member, 's Implementation Task Force On Campus Expression, Antisemitism & Community Safety at Toronto Metropolitan University, leads critical efforts to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all students and faculty. Overseeing the implementation of safety protocols, the President, Member, 's Implementation Task Force On Campus Expression, Antisemitism & Community Safety ensures that the university remains a secure space for innovation and academic discourse. This role involves collaborating with community leaders to address complex social issues that impact the campus climate. By developing comprehensive safety strategies, Vanek supports the overall mission of the DMZ incubator by ensuring that founders can work in a supportive and protected environment. The President, Member, 's Implementation Task Force On Campus Expression, Antisemitism & Community Safety monitors the effectiveness of community safety initiatives. Through dedicated leadership, Jack Vanek fosters a culture of respect and safety that underpins the university's success.

    Arpan Brar - President

    Arpan Brar, the President at Toronto Metropolitan University, directs the strategic development of new partnerships that enhance the university's global reach. Overseeing the expansion of the DMZ incubator's international footprint, the President ensures that founders have access to diverse markets and investment opportunities. This role involves negotiating agreements with global tech hubs to facilitate cross-border collaboration. By aligning university resources with international industry trends, Brar drives the growth of high-potential startups. The President evaluates the impact of global partnerships on the university's overall innovation strategy. Through visionary leadership, Arpan Brar strengthens the institution's position as a leader in global tech incubation. Brar maintains a focus on creating sustainable value for students and founders alike, ensuring that the university remains at the forefront of entrepreneurial excellence. The President continues to build bridges that connect local talent with global opportunities.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Toronto Metropolitan University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Toronto Metropolitan University?
    Toronto Metropolitan University is led by Rosanna Maietta (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joanne McKee (Chief Financial Officer) and Matthew Baker (Chief of Staff & President, Office of).
    Who is part of Toronto Metropolitan University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Toronto Metropolitan University includes leaders such as Rosanna Maietta (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joanne McKee (Chief Financial Officer), Matthew Baker (Chief of Staff & President, Office of) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Toronto Metropolitan University have?
    Toronto Metropolitan University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Toronto Metropolitan University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Toronto Metropolitan University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff & President, Office of, Deputy Chief of Staff & President, Office of, President.