Some familiar faces among new hires to Markham's executive staff

Yorkregion.com
Feb. 9, 2022

There are some familiar faces among the latest new additions to the City of Markham's executive leadership team, including the mayor's former chief of staff Bryan Frois, and retired York Regional Police 5 District Headquarters Supt. Chris Bullen.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti said the recent hirings are an example of the depth of not only the experience and knowledge within the organization, but also the city's ability to attract top-notch industry talent.

The following is a list of the recent appointments:

Stephanie Di Perna, director of Building Standards and chief building official

Di Perna joined the City of Markham in 2005 and most recently served as manager, plans review. She has contributed toward many transformational projects at the city, including the implementation of electronic plans review, a first among Ontario municipalities, and streamlining the end-to-end infill development process. Di Perna also chairs the Ontario Municipal Code Advisory Committee, which plays a vital role in ensuring building code interpretations are consistent across municipalities in Ontario. She holds a master’s degree in business administration, a Project Management Professional designation and an Architectural Technologist designation.

Sumon Acharjee, chief information officer

Acharjee leads the city’s Information Technology division assuming the role as chief information officer. Acharjee comes to Markham having previously served as executive director, technology with the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University. His career over the past two decades includes being the chief information officer with North York General Hospital, Michael Garron Hospital and Sheridan College. Acharjee holds a bachelor of mathematics from the University of Waterloo and a master’s in business administration from Wilmington University.

Chris Rickett, director of Economic Growth, Culture and Entrepreneurship

Rickett comes to Markham having previously served as director of Municipal and Stakeholder Relations with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). As co-founder of Digital Main Street, Rickett developed and launched a not-for-profit focused on assisting businesses with the adoption of technology. He has held numerous senior economic development roles with the City of Toronto and led Mayor John Tory’s COVID-19 Business Mitigation and Recovery efforts. Having worked closely with the arts-based incubators, and a passionate supporter and participant in the arts, Rickett will lead Markham’s cultural portfolio as well as strengthen the city’s position as Canada’s premier hub for innovation and business investment.

Chris Bullen, manager of Bylaw & Regulatory Services

Bullen has served 33 years with York Regional Police, most recently in the role as unit commander and superintendent of 5 District Headquarters in Markham. Bullen joins the city with extensive experience in enforcement and is tasked with modernizing bylaw operations. Bullen has received many recognitions, including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, Markham African Caribbean Association Black History Award for Community Service and the Herbert H. Carnegie Community Award. Bullen currently serves on the board of governors of Seneca College.

Bryan Frois, manager, Strategic Initiatives and Executive Operations

Previously serving as chief of staff to Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Frois brings expertise in corporate strategy, communications and executive management to the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. The growth and development of Markham’s partnership agreement with Eabametoong First Nation and reconciliation efforts are among Frois’ notable accomplishments with the city. Prior to joining the municipality in 2017, Frois served in the Office of the Mayor at the City of Toronto, leading Mayor John Tory’s digital strategy and communications. Frois dedicates his time to several boards of directors, including 2SLGBTQ+ and diversity initiatives.