Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is facing a major leadership shakeup as its chair, Annette Verschuren, announced her resignation on December 1. This move comes after the federal ethics commissioner began an investigation into her role in providing $38 million in relief funding for SDTC’s companies during the pandemic, including one she leads as chief executive.

Verschuren expressed that it was time for her to step aside, citing her commitment to serve the organization’s best interests. She has been on the SDTC board of directors since 2019. Her departure follows the resignation of former CEO Leah Lawrence, who cited a “sustained and malicious campaign to undermine” her leadership as the reason for leaving.

The resignations of Verschuren and Lawrence are likely to have a significant impact on the future direction and leadership of SDTC. The organization has been under investigation by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada following allegations made by a whistle-blower group comprised of current and former employees regarding inappropriate funding and breaches of conflict-of-interest rules.