Veteran London community leader to bring government, regulatory and communications
experience to the city’s development community
LONDON, ON — The London Development Institute (LDI) has appointed Scott Collyer as its
new Executive Director, effective September 1, 2026, as longtime Executive Director Mike
Wallace retires after seven years of unwavering leadership with the organization.
The leadership transition comes at an important time for London, as the city continues to
navigate significant opportunities and challenges related to growth, housing,
infrastructure, investment and economic development.
“On behalf of the London Development Institute and our members, I want to thank Mike for
his passion and thoughtful leadership,” said Jamie Crich, President of the London
Development Institute. “Mike has been a tireless advocate for LDI and for the development
community. His commitment, professionalism, and ability to bring people together have
made a lasting contribution to this organization and to London.”
“While we will certainly miss having Mike at the helm, we are fortunate to have someone of
Scott’s experience and community commitment stepping into the role. This is an
important transition for LDI, but it is also an exciting new chapter.”
Collyer brings more than four decades of experience and community involvement in
London. A 40-year London resident, he has a diverse professional background spanning
regulatory law, telecommunications, marketing and communications, governmental
affairs, and public policy.
His community leadership includes serving as Vice-Chair of the London Transit
Commission and Chair of the London Downtown Business Association. He also serves as a
trustee of the London Public Library and sits on the boards of Residenza Affordable
Housing and Youth Opportunities Unlimited.
“London is at an important point in its growth, and the decisions we make today will shape
the city for decades to come,” said Crich. “Scott understands London, he understands
government, and he understands the importance of bringing people together around
difficult issues. That combination makes him an ideal person to lead LDI and strengthen its
voice on the issues that matter to our members and to the future of this city.”
Collyer said he is honoured to take on the role and build on the foundation established
during Wallace’s tenure.
“Mike leaves some very big shoes to fill,” said Collyer. “His time with the organizations has
helped establish LDI as an important voice for London’s development community, and I’m
looking forward to building on that work.”
“I’ve spent 40 years watching London grow, change, and take on new challenges, and I
believe the opportunity in front of us is enormous. The way we grow matters. It affects
where people live, how they move around the city, where businesses invest, and the kind
of community we leave for our next generation.”
Collyer said his immediate focus will be on listening, building relationships and ensuring
LDI continues to be a constructive and effective voice in discussions about London’s
future.
“I’m looking forward to working with LDI members, municipal leaders, the development
community and stakeholders across London to find common ground, encourage smart
growth, and make sure London’s future is built with purpose,” he said.
Wallace’s seven-year tenure has included leading LDI through a period of significant
change and growth in London’s development environment. His retirement marks the
conclusion of a sustained period of service to the organization and its members.
“Mike’s contribution to LDI cannot be measured simply in years,” said Crich. “He has
invested his time, energy and relationships in making London a better place. We are
deeply grateful for everything he has done for LDI and wish him every success in his
retirement.”
As Executive Director, Collyer will lead LDI’s engagement with members, government and
community stakeholders on issues affecting development, investment and economic
growth. He will also support LDI’s role as a forum for constructive dialogue among the
development community and the broader London community.
About the London Development Institute
The London Development Institute is the leading voice for London’s development
community, bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders to promote responsible
growth, investment, and economic development throughout the city and region.
Media Contact:
London Development Institute
Scott Collyer
+1 (519) 854-1455
londondev@rogers.com
www.londondev.ca
