Grace Lee Reynolds is Head of Development at MaRS, where she oversees the strategies and activities essential to MaRS’ mission reach, growth and business sustainability. With nearly 30 years of experience in the public, private and philanthropic sectors, Grace is a leader passionate about fostering economic enablement and social impact through innovative business models.
Her diverse interests span the intersection of science and technology, arts and creativity and inclusive innovation, reflecting her belief that Canada needs robust infrastructure to drive economic well-being for future generations. Grace’s extensive background includes expertise in strategy, finance, fund and partnership development, commercial operations, and people leadership in both scaling enterprises and large complex organizations.
Most recently, Grace served as CEO of Toronto Artscape, a social enterprise operating unique spaces and programs for creatives across Toronto, including affordable residential options, community cultural hubs and a creative entrepreneurship hub. Prior to this role, Grace was CFO of MaRS Discovery District and President of MaRS Discovery Enterprises, where she played a pivotal role in transforming MaRS into a globally recognized innovation hub. She contributed to the development and business of the 1.5 million square feet MaRS Centre, the strategic development and activation of MaRS’ social purpose business model, innovation programming and early-stage investment funds. Before joining MaRS, Grace spent 15 years in finance leadership roles at prominent Canadian academic hospitals. At SickKids Foundation, she contributed to its growth from a small entrepreneurial entity to a leading fundraising organization, and at University Health Network, she worked in clinical operations, corporate services and the foundation. Grace began her career in the entrepreneurship services group at Ernst & Young.
Grace holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Waterloo. Her extensive experience and relentless curiosity drive her commitment to advancing MaRS’ mission and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.