Unison Fund Appointment
The Unison Fund announces the appointment of Alex Johnson as its new Executive Director, This selection was made by Unison’s renewed Board of Directors, marking a pivotal moment for the organization and for Canada’s music community.
Music workers contribute billions to Canada’s GDP and are essential to the country’s cultural fabric, yet many face systemic challenges that leave them vulnerable. Under Johnson’s leadership, Unison will work to refine its mission and strengthen its upstream approach — building resilience and providing resources before crisis hits, while continuing to deliver vital emergency support services. More details to be shared in early 2026.
A former theatre artist turned nonprofit executive with 15+ years of leadership experience, Johnson describes herself as a “music industry outsider” — but one who intimately understands the emotional burden, financial precarity and mental health challenges that define creative careers. Her appointment comes as Unison looks to evolve from being primarily a crisis-response organization to one that also builds long-term community stability.
“Canada’s music workers — from artists and engineers to managers, venue staff, and countless others — are the heartbeat of our cultural economy,” said Alex. “They create the soundtrack to our lives, drive billions in economic activity, and build the creative communities that make our country vibrant. They shouldn’t have to choose between their art and their well-being. Unison will always be here in moments of crisis, but we’ll also focus on building resilience — making sure music workers have the support they need before reaching a breaking point.”
Board Chair Brian Huston welcomed the appointment, noting:
“Alex brings a unique blend of vision, heart, and proven results. She understands the emotional weight of a life in the arts, and she has a track record of building programs that truly change lives. The Board is thrilled to welcome her as the leader to guide Unison into its next chapter.”
About Alex Johnson:
Alex Johnson has more than 15 years of leadership with mission-driven organizations. She has guided teams through major transitions, built departments from the ground up, and used values-driven storytelling to drive lasting growth.
At the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, she led the fundraising and communications teams in future-proofing the organization — diversifying revenue, strengthening donor engagement, and securing partnerships with artists and corporate leaders. As part of a Joint Interim CEO team, she steered the organization through a leadership transition, keeping goals on track and staff supported while working closely with the board on a bold annual plan.
At Jack.org, Alex transformed a two-person communications shop into a national team, positioning the organization as a leading voice on youth mental health during the pandemic, and leading the marketing of a Webby Award–winning mental health platform that partnered with Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation. Earlier, she created Koffler.Digital at the Koffler Centre of the Arts, a first-of-its-kind digital platform that reshaped how the organization connected with audiences and sustained for nearly a decade.
Website - www.unisonfund.ca