Susanna Zagar, Ontario Energy Board CEO, Named EHRC’s 2025 Agent of Change

May 12, 2025

Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is proud to announce Susanna Zagar (she/her), Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), as the recipient of the 2025 Agent of Change Award. This recognition celebrates Ms. Zagar’s remarkable leadership and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the electricity sector.

Since stepping into her role at the province’s energy regulator in 2020, Ms. Zagar has emerged as a transformative force, championing a values-based, organization-wide commitment to DEI.

Under Ms. Zagar’s leadership, the OEB launched its first-ever DEI Statement, Roadmap and Council, weaving inclusion into every facet of the organization’s people and culture strategy. Her stewardship has brought about positive change, as evidenced by employee satisfaction survey results that demonstrate continued growth in the areas of job satisfaction, corporate outlook and employee trust. The organization also adopted a Land Acknowledgement practice, recognizing and honouring Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of the land during OEB events. Furthermore, 60% of employees who self-identify are Black, Indigenous or People of Colour (BIPOC), reflecting Ms. Zagar’s mission to foster a workplace that mirrors the diversity of Ontario.

The Agent of Change Award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates exemplary leadership advancing a culture of fairness, representation and belonging in Canada’s electricity sector.

“Susanna Zagar leads with vision, empathy and bold resolve,” says Michelle Branigan (she/her), CEO, EHRC. “Her ability to unite people around shared values and to embed DEI into the DNA of an organization is remarkable. Ms. Zagar is not only shaping a model for inclusive organizations, but her leadership is also helping transform the broader industry to ensure it serves all Canadians equitably.”

Ms. Zagar’s impact extends far beyond the OEB. A vocal advocate positioning DEI at the core of the electricity sector’s transition, she championed the OEB’s commitment to the EHRC Leadership Accord on DEI and has inspired stakeholders through her engagements. Her dedication to inclusive progress is also demonstrated by roles on the Board of Governors for Ontario Tech University, participation in The Prosperity Project’s Rosie Initiative advocating for women in STEM and trades, and leadership roles with the United Way and the International Women’s Forum. Ms. Zagar has been recognized with an Ontario Volunteer Service Award for over 30 years of community service.

“I am humbled and honoured to receive the 2025 EHRC Agent of Change Award. For me, DEI has always been more than a program or an initiative,” says Ms. Zagar. “It is about human dignity, which also happens to be smart business, good for the OEB and for those we serve. It’s been my privilege and my obligation to champion the importance of DEI within my organization and across the energy sector.”

In an era of rapid transformation, Canada’s electricity workforce must reflect the full spectrum of the communities it serves. Leaders like Ms. Zagar exemplify how diversity, equity and inclusion are not just a priority, they are a pathway to innovation, resilience and sector-wide sustainability.

EHRC invites you to join in celebrating Susanna Zagar’s achievements as they present this award at Agents of Change on May 14 in Toronto, ON. The event brings together industry leaders, advocates and changemakers to celebrate progress and spark further action toward a more inclusive electricity sector.

Register to attend today at ehrc.ca/event/agents-2025.

Related Links

• Agents of Change 2025 – May 14 in Toronto, ON
• Leadership Accord
• EHRC’s Work on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion