In a notable development for Canada’s music community, Unison has introduced Alex Johnson as its new Executive Director. With a track record of building national programs and leading major nonprofit campaigns, Johnson is stepping into the role at a pivotal time for music workers across the country. You can read the full announcement below.
Welcome Alex Johnson – Unison’s New Executive Director
We’re thrilled to welcome Alex Johnson as Unison’s new Executive Director. This appointment was made by Unison’s Board of Directors, and marks a pivotal moment for our organization and for Canada’s music community.
Alex brings over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, having guided teams through major transitions, built programs from the ground up, and led national campaigns that drive real impact. She 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.
In her words, “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 adds: “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.”
Under Alex’s guidance, Unison will continue providing vital emergency support while evolving to strengthen the music community long-term — building resilience and strengthened support systems so that music workers have the resources they need before crisis hits.
About Alex Johnson
At the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, Alex 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.
Alex began her career as a theatre artist, giving her first-hand insight into the instability, financial strain, and mental toll of making a life in the arts. That lived experience drives her passion for Unison’s mission: supporting music workers not only in moments of crisis, but by building collective strength across the community for the long run.
We’re thrilled to have Alex leading Unison into its next chapter – join us in welcoming her to the team!
