Answering the Call: Jerry Sen Appointed CEO
At Compassion, leadership isn’t passed on, it’s entrusted.
Transitions are rooted in a prayerful process, clarified in community and confirmed in the quiet work of the Spirit. They unfold under the leading of a God who sees beyond what we can and who in His timing raises leaders made ready for such a time as this.
Earlier this year, Allison Alley shared her sense of calling out of the role of President and CEO, a role she held with deep conviction and courage. Her announcement marked the beginning of a search for the next leader to advance the mission. But more than that, it marked the beginning of a discernment process and a posture of listening. Together, we asked: Lord, who are You raising up for this season?
Today, with gratitude and confidence, we share the answer.
Jerry Sen has been appointed as Compassion Canada’s next President and CEO. He will step into the role in September 2025.
The Board’s search process began with applicants from across Canada. Through interviews, prayer and a discernment process, it became clear: God was guiding us to a leader who was already among us.
Jerry’s appointment was unanimous and deeply affirmed.
A Familiar Face. A New Calling.
Jerry is no stranger to Compassion. As our Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, he’s been integral in shaping the strategic framework we use at Compassion and helping to create momentum for growth. Driven from his strategic clarity, Jerry has led a revitalization of our brand identity that amplifies our purpose and resonates deeply across audiences. Under his leadership, we’ve expanded our reach through compelling storytelling and launched integrated digital initiatives that invite deeper supporter engagement. He has championed a transformation of our digital systems, helping us build more meaningful relationships with more people, in more places. Beyond systems and strategy, Jerry has been a steadfast voice for cultivating a culture of collaboration and Christ-centred purpose where every team member is empowered to move with compassion.
Before joining Compassion, Jerry led marketing and digital innovation at companies like Google, PepsiCo, Maple Leaf Foods, Smucker’s and DoubleClick. His work has been recognized by the Globe and Mail and Strategy Magazine and honoured with awards for creativity that delivered real-world results.
In 2018, Jerry followed a different call. He stepped away from the marketplace to serve in full-time ministry at OneChurch, his home church for more than 35 years, where he became the Directional Leader of Digital and Outreach. As part of the Executive Team, he helped lead initiatives to reach over one million people annually in Toronto through digital channels and founded LoveArmy, a movement committed to doing 100,000 acts of goodness over five years in the city.
But his credentials are only part of his story. Jerry has been married to Olga for 20 years and has four amazing children. He is a man of deep faith who is driven by modelling the love of Christ and making a difference with his family in their home, community and the world.
Jerry leads with a clear sense of direction but also with heart and humour. He makes space for people to show up fully and has contributed to a culture where people feel both challenged and celebrated.
In many ways, Jerry’s new role is a continuation. He already knows this team, this mission and this neighbourhood. But stepping into the first chair role is a sacred shift, a moment of continued prayer and discernment. He has been a faithful steward in his role as CMO and now he has been entrusted to advance the mission in like manner.
The Board is walking with Jerry. And we invite you to walk with him, too.
A Leader for Such a Time as This
At Compassion, we believe that God provides leaders when and where they are needed most. We believe God has prepared Jerry for such a time as this, not only to sustain what is, but to help us see what’s next.
Please join us in congratulating and praying for Jerry as he moves into this new role. We’re thankful for the Lord’s guidance and for your partnership as we continue to move with compassion. Together, we’re bringing hope to the world around us as we release children from poverty in Jesus’ name.
