TORONTO—In a letter to the RGD Ontario board of directors last month, executive director Carmen von Richthofen announced she is stepping down at the end of June. 

RGD Ontario executive director Carmen von Richthofen passes the torch

“I’m very sorry to be leaving and ending my formal association with RGD Ontario but on the other hand I’m excited about the prospect of doing something new,” says von Richthofen in an interview with Design Edge Canada.

What that will be she has not yet decided but she will enjoy some time off while she contemplates her next move. After 11 years with the association, von Richthofen says it is time to pass the torch. 

RGD Ontario director of communications Hilary Ashworth, who is in her ninth year with the association, will assume the position of executive director in July. Membership coordinator Heidi Mulzer has also been promoted to chief operating officer and director of membership.

“Hilary has also been instrumental in creating the success that the association is enjoying today and she is fully prepared and ready and eager to take on a more senior role now,” says von Richthofen.

Members should take comfort, she says, that Ashworth and Mulzer’s new appointments ensure continuity for the association.

Design Edge Canada also spoke with Ashworth about her new role. 

“I’m excited about moving forward and taking on new challenges,” says Ashworth. She wants to focus on helping the board roll out its new strategic plan, which includes building more awareness of the association within the business community. Contact: www.rgdontario.com