trainer profile

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Robb Barnes is the Executive Director of the Capacity Building Institute. He has been involved in nonprofit governance for over 20 years, and has spent over a decade working on climate and environmental issues. 

Before joining Capacity Building Institute, Robb spent eight years - including four as executive director - at Ecology Ottawa, a city-focused environmental advocacy organization. Prior to this, Robb worked with Climate Action Network Canada and interned with Sierra Club Canada. He has worked in the private sector as a management consultant and in the public sector as a federal employee. He has spent over a decade volunteering for boards and political organizations that advance climate leadership and evidence-based policy. 

When it comes to nonprofits, Robb is particularly interested in engagement organizing, data management and data-driven approaches to communications and fundraising. He has coached environmental organizations on data management and integrating engagement organizing methodologies into their work. He has also taught storytelling as a key element of community engagement, and has incorporated a storytelling and metrics-driven approach into organizational culture. 

When it comes to life outside of nonprofits, Robb is passionate about the environment, animal welfare, cities, history, politics, good food and loud music. 

Robb holds a Masters in Public and International Affairs, where he focused on the intersection of ecological economics and urban design. He also holds a Bachelor of Humanities degree from Carleton University.

Robb lives in Ottawa with his wife, his son, his rambunctious Bernedoodle and his grumpy cat.