Karen Stintz is a respected Canadian leader whose career spans municipal politics, nonprofit executive leadership, and public communication. She brings a proven track record of governance, fiscal responsibility, and community advocacy.

In recognition of her contributions to community and country, Karen was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025.

Over the past two decades, she has become one of Toronto’s most recognized and respected leaders—named one of Toronto Life Magazine’s 50 Most Influential People and one of Women of Influence Magazine’s Top 25 Women of Influence in Canada.

Public Service & Political Leadership
Karen served as Toronto City Councillor for Ward 16 (Eglinton-Lawrence) from 2003 to 2014. As Chair of the Toronto Transit Commission (2010–2014), she led transformative changes, including the introduction of new subway cars, Wi-Fi in stations, articulated buses, and cost-saving reforms that reduced the TTC subsidy by 10%. She also championed transparency with the launch of the TTC Customer Charter and restructured the TTC board to include citizen voices. 

In the 2025 federal election, Karen made a powerful return to public life as the Conservative Party candidate in Eglinton-Lawrence. She earned over 29,000 votes—an astounding total that marked the highest vote count for any Conservative candidate in the riding’s history. Her 48% vote share not only surpassed Joe Oliver’s 2011 majority-winning performance (47%) but also exceeded every Liberal result in the riding except two. Her campaign ran 6.5 points above the party’s strong national showing of 41.3%, underscoring both her personal appeal and the campaign’s strength in one of Toronto’s most competitive ridings

Nonprofit & Executive Leadership
After serving on Toronto City Council, Karen took her leadership skills to the nonprofit world. She served as Executive Director of ArtsBuild Ontario and as the President and CEO of Variety Village, where she championed inclusive programs for children with disabilities.

​Karen has also dedicated her time to community service as Chair of the North Toronto Arena Board and as a Board member of the North Toronto Tennis Club.

Media & Public Engagement
Karen’s authentic, hands-on approach drew national attention when she appeared on Undercover Boss Canada. She is a frequent commentator on politics, public policy, and city-building as a contributor to the National Post, The Hub and the North Toronto Post, and appearing on podcasts & talk radio stations including NewsTalk 1010, AM 640, and Zoomer Radio. 

Education & Early Career

Karen holds degrees from Western University (BA), Boston University (MSc in Journalism), and Queen’s University (MPA). Prior to public office, she held senior positions at the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and in the private sector.