Steve Desroches

Former Deputy Mayor and City Councilor, City of Ottawa

Steve Desroches is currently Deputy Director with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada where he works closely with industry leaders to strengthen Canada trade and economic performance. His public service career has spanned several federal departments including Public Works and Government Services, Elections Canada, the Privy Council Office and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  

He served two successful terms as City Councilor including four years as Deputy Mayor. He served on a number of city committees including Planning, Finance and Economic Development, Transportation and Transit. Over the course of eight years, Steve guided and oversaw residential development and infrastructure investments in a constituency that grew from 27,000 to 42,000 residents.

He was also the Chairman of the Board for Ottawa's largest public housing authority where he led the five year plan for the corporation focused on housing stock renewal, energy efficiency, organizational efficiency and strategic partnerships.

In addition, he has been an active member of the board of directors of the Ottawa Public Library Board, the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, Hydro Ottawa, and the Ontario Good Roads Association.   He is a founding member of the Barrhaven Legion branch.

He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa with an MA in History and holds MA in Public Administration from Carleton University.

Steve was recognized by Carleton University's School of Public Policy and Public Administration as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. He is the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation.

Steve and his wife Michelle have four children and reside in south Ottawa.