Inspirational Leadership: Stories of Strategy and Success with Barbara Grantham
In my role with Odgers Berndtson, and in the process of interviewing leaders across Canada, I have the privilege of hearing firsthand about the unique journeys and insights of those who shape the non-profit sector. Recently, I spoke with Barbara Grantham, the President and CEO of CARE Canada, whose career and leadership style reflect a profound commitment to social impact, advocacy, and innovation. Her story demonstrates the power of values-driven leadership and the impact it can have on communities both locally and globally.
A Career Rooted in Social Justice
For Barbara, a career in the non-profit sector was not only a choice, but a calling. Barbara had initially considered a career in government following the completion of her master’s degree; however, her first role with United Way shifted her trajectory indefinitely toward the non-profit world. “The sector kind of chose me,” she explained. “I’ve always felt that this sector was my professional home. It was the sector that best aligned with my own personal values and lived experiences, as well as the way I wanted to express myself as a woman, as a feminist, as a thinker, and as a leader.”
Throughout her career, Barbara has held multiple CEO and executive roles within the non-profit sector, working across areas such as healthcare, mental health, and homelessness. Each role contributed to a deeper understanding of the non-profit sector’s critical impact on society. “I’ve always worked closely adjacent to government, but never felt the need to leave the non-profit sector,” she said. This dedication speaks to her sense of purpose and the belief that real change is rooted in compassion, resilience, and advocacy.
Empowering Others: A Leadership Philosophy
Central to Barbara's leadership philosophy is the idea of teamwork and empowerment. Describing her approach, she said, “I am one of a team, so from my role, and my vantage point, I’m bringing voice to a cause, mobilizing other voices in support of that cause, and bringing the very best people into that organization in support of the cause.” For her, effective leadership is not about control; it’s about bringing out the best in others. She believes in hiring strong, capable people and then stepping aside to let them lead, a strategy she deems essential for creating a culture of collaboration and growth.
As she puts it, “It’s about being a cheerleader, ambassador, and representative… and then stepping aside and letting people do their very best in support of that cause.” This approach is particularly suited to the non-profit world, where leaders must balance passion and purpose with practical strategies to engage communities, inspire teams, and drive impact.
Overcoming Challenges in a Misunderstood Sector
A persistent challenge for Barbara has been the underappreciation of the non-profit sector’s contributions. “It’s 9% of the GDP in this country, employing 2 million people,” she noted, pointing out that the non-profit sector’s scale is often overlooked despite its crucial role in daily life. She described how the pandemic underscored this reality, with communities relying heavily on mental health services, food banks, and shelters.
Moreover, the sector’s structure presents its own hurdles. Non-profits often face a lack of resources for essential infrastructure, such as technology, professional development, and financial stability. She believes that by investing in the sector’s infrastructure, society would ultimately gain a stronger, more resilient network of organizations dedicated to social well-being.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Lasting Change
As she looks toward the future, Barbara sees a critical need for structural reform within the non-profit sector. She envisions a shift in funding models to ensure that non-profits can invest in technology, strategic growth, and fair compensation for employees. “The sector is reaching a tipping point within the current financial and regulatory framework,” she warned, underscoring the importance of sustainable funding for long-term impact.
Despite these challenges, Barbara remains optimistic. Her commitment to CARE Canada and the broader non-profit community reflects a vision for change grounded in compassion, innovation, and strategic growth. Through her work, she hopes to inspire a broader understanding of the sector’s value and to encourage a shift toward greater support and recognition of non-profits’ role in Canada’s social and economic fabric.
A Legacy of Purpose and Impact
Barbara’s leadership journey is one of purpose, resilience, and relentless advocacy for a more just world. Her career serves as a testament to the impact of values-driven leadership, inspiring others to strive for change that aligns with their deepest beliefs. In her view, success in the non-profit sector is not just measured by outcomes, but by the lives touched and the communities strengthened along the way.