Capital Current introduces people who have had an impact on the city.
Who is Jason Burggraaf ?
For seven years, Jason Burggraaf has been the executive director of the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association. He works to ensure homebuilders’ views are taken into account as policymakers shape residential construction and development in Ottawa.
What is his background?
Originally from Conception Bay South, N.L., Burggraaf moved to Ottawa to study political science at Carleton University with a vision of becoming a Parliament Hill staffer. But he soon realized his passion for public policy.
“Policy and development has always been kind of my bread and butter,” he told Capital Current.
Before joining the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association, Burggraaf spent 15 years with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association. He worked in government relations and as an assistant to the chief operating officer, gaining experience in running a membership-based organization. Altogether, he has more than 20 years of experience in housing advocacy, with a focus on building “housing for the future generations,” he said.
What is he known for in Ottawa?
Burggraaf is recognized for helping guide Ottawa’s housing sector through complex challenges. During the pandemic, for instance, he worked to ensure the industry was deemed an essential service by the province, allowing homes to continue being built.
He is now advocating for intensification around LRT stations and growing the housing supply to accommodate projected population increases. At GOHBA, he said he strives to “make sure that everyone feels like they’re part of that community and that they’re engaged.” Since taking the role, the association’s membership has grown by 30 per cent.
What do people say about him?
Burggraaf calls himself a “policy wonk.” Soula Burell, director of business development and membership at GOHBA, said that’s a perfect description.
“Jason is genuinely one of the best leaders I’ve ever worked with,” she said. “Working with Jason feels like being part of something meaningful. He brings people together, listens, and makes sure everyone has a voice.”
Burggraaf said he wants his team to be empowered, adding that his leadership approach is built on trust. Burell agreed, saying he gives his team members “a place to shine.”
What is something people don’t know about him?
Although confident in his job, Burggraaf describes himself as “quiet and reserved” in his personal life and admits he still finds public speaking “kind of intimidating most of the time.”
Away from housing advocacy, he enjoys travelling, attending concerts and watching Atlético Ottawa soccer games with his family. He is an avid Beach Boys fan and a proud collector of the band’s albums and memorabilia.
