Jonathan Wener

Jonathan Wener, CM

Jonathan Wener (born August 25, 1950).is a Canadian real estate developer, philanthropist, and academic administrator. He is the founder and current chairman of Canderel, one of Canada’s largest privately held real estate development and management firms. Beyond his business ventures, Wener is recognized for his long-standing leadership at Concordia University, where he served as Chancellor, and for his extensive charitable work in healthcare and the arts.

Early Life and Education

Jonathan Wener was born in Montreal, Quebec. He displayed an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age, often citing his early interest in the physical landscape of the city as the catalyst for his career in real estate.

He attended Concordia University (then Sir George Williams University), where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1971. His time at the university laid the groundwork for a lifelong relationship with the institution, eventually transitioning from a student to one of its most significant benefactors and leaders.

Business Career: Canderel

In 1975, at the age of 25, Wener founded Canderel with a small team and a vision to transform urban spaces. Under his leadership, the company expanded from a local Montreal developer into a national company with offices in Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver.

Key Achievements

  • Urban Revitalization: Wener is credited with several landmark projects that revitalized derelict areas of Montreal and Toronto.
  • Portfolio Growth: To date, Canderel has managed or developed over 60 million square feet of property, representing billions of dollars in enterprise value.
  • Aura and The居住: Canderel was responsible for the development of Aura, which at the time of its completion was the tallest residential building in Canada, located at College Park in Toronto.

Academic Leadership and Philanthropy

Wener is perhaps as well known for his "pro bono" life as he is for his real estate empire.

Concordia University

Wener’s involvement with his alma mater spanned decades. He served on the Board of Governors for nearly 20 years before being appointed the Chancellor of Concordia University in 2015.

  • The Wener Centre: His financial contributions led to the creation of the Wener Centre for Real Estate Studies at the John Molson School of Business.
  • Leadership: As Chancellor, he acted as the university's senior representative, presiding over convocation ceremonies and advocating for higher education funding.

Healthcare and The Défi Canderel

In 1989, after his wife, Susan, was diagnosed with colon cancer, Wener founded the Défi Canderel (the Canderel Challenge).

  • Impact: This annual corporate "fun run" has raised over $25 million for cancer research centers at McGill University and the Université de Montréal.
  • Legacy: It remains one of the most successful corporate-driven philanthropic initiatives in Quebec.

Awards and Recognition

Jonathan Wener has received numerous high-level honors for his contributions to real estate, education, and health research. His accolades range from national orders to specific awards from academic and medical institutions.

National and Provincial Orders

  • Member of the Order of Canada (2003): Awarded for his vision, leadership, and corporate responsibility within the real estate industry and his commitment to cancer research.
  • Officier de l'Ordre national du Québec (2009): One of the highest honors bestowed by the Province of Quebec for his impact on the province's economic and social development.
  • Member of the Order of Montreal (2018): Recognized for his significant contributions to the development and revitalization of the city.

Commemorative Medals

  • King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024): Awarded for significant contributions to Canada.
  • Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012): Honoring his community service and professional achievements.

Professional and Business Awards

  • T. Patrick Boyle Founder’s Award (2012): The Fraser Institute's highest honor, recognizing individuals who have promoted entrepreneurship and a free-market economy.
  • Club des entrepreneurs (2009): Inducted by the Conseil du patronat du Québec (CPQ) for outstanding contributions to the province’s economic growth.
  • Urban Development Institute (UDI) Recognition: As the founding president of the UDI of Quebec and a past president of the UDI of Canada, he has been frequently cited for his leadership in the industry.

Academic and Institutional Awards

  • Great Concordian (2014): One of Concordia University's most prestigious titles, awarded to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the university.
  • Humberto Santos Award of Merit (2001): Presented by the Concordia University Alumni Association for his lifetime of service to the institution.
  • John Molson School of Business Award of Distinction (1991): Recognizing his professional success as a graduate of the business school.
  • Jewish General Hospital Distinguished Service Award (2004): For his leadership as Treasurer and his work in strategic planning for the hospital

Personal Life

Jonathan Wener is married to Susan Wener, an author and advocate for holistic health and cancer survivors.They have three children and several grandchildren. Wener is an avid art collector and has frequently lent pieces from his private collection to public institutions, emphasizing his belief that "art should be shared, not stored."

"Success isn't just about what you build with steel and glass; it's about what you build within the community." — Jonathan Wener

See Also