“CJI’s mission of walking in solidarity with vulnerable communities for social justice and dignity, is a life-giving way of being in relationship and belonging to one another and the world,” says Julia Thompson, who is set to begin her role as CJI Executiive Director on January 1, 2027. Photo: Submitted
Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) is pleased to announce the selection of Julia Thompson as its incoming Executive Director.
Thompson is set to begin her role on January 1, 2027. She succeeds Jenny Cafiso, who announced in June that she will step down at the end of December 2026. Cafiso led CJI for 23 years.
With over 20 years’ experience in executive leadership, programme management, non-profit governance, and organizational development and stability, Thompson is an international development professional who has worked in the Global South and Canada.
Thompson was officially appointed by Fr. Jeffrey Burwell, SJ, Provincial of the Jesuits of Canada, following a recommendation by the CJI Board of Directors and by a search committee that led the recruitment process.
“I am pleased to welcome Julia Thompson to Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) as its new Executive Director. The Jesuits of Canada recognize CJI as a cornerstone of our justice ministry, connecting people in Canada with partners across our global network,” said Fr. Burwell in a written statement sent to CJI. “I know Julia will find encouragement in these relationships and in the generosity that sustains our shared mission. As she takes up this responsibility, I look forward to working with her to clarify how CJI can strengthen ties with our other apostolates and collaborators — deepening our commitment to justice through practical solidarity.”
Desmond Wilson, Chair of the CJI Board, said Thompson “brings to this role a unique combination of talents, skills, and experiences that make her exceptionally well suited to lead CJI into its next chapter.”
Thompson is assuming the leadership role at CJI “at an important moment in the life of our organization,” said Wilson. “After more than two decades of exceptional leadership, Jenny Cafiso is retiring, leaving behind much more than an impressive record of achievement. She is bequeathing to us an organization that is strong, confident, deeply respected by its partners, clear about its mission, and well positioned for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. We are profoundly grateful for her leadership and for the enduring legacy she leaves behind.”
At the same time, said Wilson, “we look to the future with tremendous optimism.” Thompson “brings a global perspective, strategic insight, and a profound appreciation for the values that define Canadian Jesuits International.” Wilson said the CJI Board is “confident that under Julia’s leadership, CJI will continue to grow in strength and impact, deepening its partnerships and advancing its mission in a rapidly changing world.”
Cafiso extended a warm welcome to Thompson. “I am delighted to know that a new director has been appointed to lead CJI to its next phase,” said Cafiso. “My last 23 years at CJI have been rich, inspiring and fulfilling. I leave with my heart full of gratitude. I am now ready to pass the baton to Julia for her to lead the organization to a new exciting chapter while remaining faithful to its mission that goes back 75 years.”
Cafiso expressed the wish that Thompson’s tenure at CJI “will be as rich and rewarding as it has been for me.” Cafiso said Thompson “will have the support of a fantastic, committed and dedicated team; of a network of faithful donors, and inspiring partners around the world who will become her friends and companions.”
Thompson said, “CJI’s mission of walking in solidarity with vulnerable communities for social justice and dignity, is a life-giving way of being in relationship and belonging to one another and the world.” She added: “I am delighted for this opportunity to serve and grateful to the Jesuits of Canada and the CJI Board for their trust. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, partners and the wider CJI network and to listening, learning, and many conversations ahead.”
Prior to joining CJI, Thompson worked as an independent practitioner in Ottawa and Toronto, providing “organizational development and leadership coaching to international development, education, and faith-based organizations and leaders.”
Thompson has been an executive director at Help Lesotho and chief executive officer at Common Purpose South Africa. She has also been a manager of the International Programme for Development Evaluation Training for Carleton University and the World Bank, convening participants from over 80 countries each year.
Thompson earned a Master of Science in Social Policy and Planning at the London School of Economics, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Development Studies at the University of Toronto.
