Introducing Executive Council Member: Bruce Burgetz

“I thought I was finally 'retired' from church-related positions, so I was surprised when I was invited to join the MCEC Executive Council in 2023,” says Bruce Burgetz, MCEC Executive Council member. “I was intrigued because I knew little about MCEC's workings and impact, but I saw it as a great opportunity to learn and hopefully contribute.” 

Bruce has served on the Executive Council for the past 18 months. A member of Toronto United Mennonite Church since 1970, he has held various roles within the congregation. Bruce was on the board of Ten Thousand Villages Canada for nine years, served on the board of the Mennonite New Life Centre (refugee/immigrant settlement services) for over 20 years, and was involved with Aurora House, which supports victims of human trafficking, from 2016 to 2023. 

"I’ve learned a lot about MCEC and look forward to finding new ways to engage with church members."

Bruce is a retired senior Information Technology executive with extensive leadership experience. He served as Chief Information Officer and a member of the senior leadership team at three prominent Canadian companies: LoyaltyOne/Air Miles (2006-2012), Rogers Wireless (2002-2006), and Shoppers Drug Mart (1992-2002), where he led the transformation of the IT function. Prior to these roles, Bruce spent 22 years as a partner and owner of an IT management consulting firm, working with many leading Canadian companies. From January 2012 to December 2014, he also served as a non-executive director of OpenJaw Technologies Ltd, a leading travel software company in Dublin, Ireland. 

“I’ve learned a lot about MCEC and look forward to finding new ways to engage with church members, helping them better understand the role, activities, and importance of MCEC. I also aim to provide opportunities for our diverse community to engage in meaningful dialogue,” says Bruce. As a member of the MCEC Audit & Finance Committee, he hopes to contribute to ensuring MCEC is on a firm and sustainable financial footing. 

Bruce has been married to Emily for 55 years, and together they have three daughters and six grandchildren. Much of their time is spent in Georgian Bay, where their home has become a magnet for family and friends throughout the year. They also have a condo in Toronto and attend Toronto United Mennonite Church online when away and in person when in the city. 

From mid-April to early November (weather permitting), Bruce starts his day with a 750-meter morning swim! "I particularly enjoy working outdoors, maintaining our property and Georgian Bay home. It's rewarding to see God's creation come to life, especially when new young trees (we call them 'volunteers') pop up," he shares. Bruce also loves reading, with a particular interest in biographies, history, historical fiction, and murder mysteries.