Karri Dawson

Karri is a respected sport leader with more than three decades of experience in the not-for-profit and charitable sport sector. Known for her collaborative and values-driven leadership style, she brings a wealth of expertise in governance, executive leadership, organizational development, and strategic project management.

Prior to joining Sport Law, Karri held senior leadership roles at the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, most recently serving as Executive Director of Values-Based Sport. She also served as the Executive Director of the True Sport Foundation and played a key role in advancing Canada’s True Sport movement. Earlier in her career, Karri worked with Canadian Women and Sport (formerly CAAWS) and Fair Play Canada. Across these roles, she led national initiatives and supported organizations at all levels of the sport system in advancing ethical, inclusive, and values-based sport.

Karri has also contributed internationally through nine years of service on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Education Committee, helping shape global education policy. A highlight of this work was serving as Chair of the drafting team for the International Standard for Education.

Through her work with Sport Law, Karri supports sport organizations in strengthening governance, guiding CEOs and Executive Directors through leadership transitions, providing executive leadership guidance, and managing complex strategic initiatives. She is passionate about helping leaders create sport environments where people, purpose, and performance can thrive.

Karri holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Sport Administration from Laurentian University. A lifelong participant in sport, she continues to give back to the sport community through volunteering and mentoring. She is also the proud mother of two young adults and enjoys travelling, spending time at the lake, and watching and playing sport whenever she can.