Maria Pontikis

Chief of External Relations

Maria Pontikis serves as Chief of External Relations for the City of Vancouver and a member of the City Leadership Team, where she provides strategic leadership across several key functions, including the Business and Economy Office, Intergovernmental Relations, Tourism and Destination Events (Sport Hosting Vancouver), and Civic Engagement and Communications. 

Maria joined the City in 2021 as Chief Communications Officer, leading communications and public engagement. Prior to that, Maria served as Director of Communications in the Cabinet Office of the Ontario Government, where she led communications in support of the Office of the Premier and Intergovernmental Affairs. She brings nearly two decades of experience in high-profile strategic communications, integrated marketing, intergovernmental relations, and public engagement. Her work has spanned diverse portfolios including health care, immigration, finance, tourism and sport, and economic development.

Maria holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Studies from Queen’s University.