Stephen Gross

Stephen Gross is a unique leader who has distinguished himself in the areas of community, philanthropy, and personal leadership. His name is synonymous with the annual Combined Jewish Appeal Campaign. An avid campaigner, Stephen canvasses hundreds of donors each year. He has held several leadership positions in the Combined Jewish Appeal, including extensive involvement with the Fashion Division, the Lead Gifts Committee, the Cash Realization Committee, the Kadima Division and the Corporate Sponsorship Committee. In 2005, he served as General Campaign Chair, raising the exceptional sum of $44.2 million.

He is a deeply committed philanthropist who leads by example. He has been involved in multiple projects in both the Jewish and non-Jewish community. He has been front and centre in cutting-edge initiatives like FEDERATION CJA’s GEN J initiative on Jewish identity and education, and the MADA strategic planning committee, and sits on the Board of Hillel Montréal and Mount Sinai Hospital Montreal. This reflects Stephen’s deep dedication to community.

Stephen is the friend and confidante of countless people. He is a role model who motivates others to give and get involved, and is a mentor to many young leaders who look to him for advice and inspiration. Stephen leads with his heart, and inspires others to lead as well.

Professionally, Stephen, with his brother-in-law Irv Teitelbaum, began Suzy Shier in 1966, which became the well-known La Senza stores in 1993, when they took the company public. He currently serves as Vice Chairman and Secretary of La Senza, which has grown into one of Canada’s retail giants. The company was sold to Limited Brands of the United States in November 2006.

Stephen and his wife, Saryl, have two children, Elisa and Irwin.