Jay and Barbara Hennick are prominent Canadian business leaders and philanthropists whose impact spans the fields of healthcare, education, and the arts. Together, they are the founders of The Hennick Family Foundation, established in 2008 to support charitable initiatives that reflect their family’s values and passions. The Foundation plays a vital role in advancing access and excellence in areas such as medical research, higher education, and cultural enrichment across Canada.
Jay S. Hennick is the Global Chairman, CEO, and controlling shareholder of Colliers International, a leading global professional services and investment management company. He is also the Founder, Chairman, and largest shareholder of FirstService Corporation, where he served as CEO from 1988 to 2015. In addition, Jay is also the Co-Founder and Chairman of a private family investment firm that partners with leadership teams to invest in high-quality, growth-oriented businesses and institutional quality real estate for the long-term.
Jay holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from York University and a Doctor of Laws (J.D) from the University of Ottawa. He has also received Honorary Doctorates from both institutions. In recognition of his achievements, Jay was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2019 and received the International Horatio Alger Award the same year. He has also been named Canada’s Entrepreneur of the Year and was recognized as Canada’s CEO of the Year by Canadian Business Magazine in 2001. Since 2022, Mr. Hennick has been on Forbes’ annual list of the world’s billionaires.
Barbara Hennick, President of the Foundation, is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CA) with extensive experience in financial management and governance. She serves on the Board of Governors and the Audit Committee of the Royal Ontario Museum and the Board of Directors of Sinai Health System. Barbara was formerly the President of the Mount Sinai Hospital Auxiliary. Her leadership and volunteerism have had a lasting impact on the healthcare and cultural landscape in Canada.
Barbara and Jay are deeply committed to giving back and have made significant philanthropic contributions to institutions and causes that align with their belief in strengthening communities through opportunity, compassion, and innovation.