Former OPG CEO Kenneth Hartwick Tops Ontario's 2025 Sunshine List with $1.9 Million Earnings
Kenneth Hartwick, who stepped down as president and CEO of Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in late 2024, has once again claimed the top spot on Ontario's latest Sunshine List. Hartwick earned a substantial $1.9 million in salary during 2025, along with $3,582.20 in taxable benefits, despite his role shifting to a "special advisor" for the crown corporation.
Significant Growth in Public Sector Disclosures
The 2025 Sunshine List features 404,922 names, marking a nearly 7% increase from the 377,666 public servants listed in 2024. Treasury Board President Caroline Mulroney attributed this growth to factors such as retroactive payments, collective bargaining outcomes, and an additional pay period for multiple organizations.
Mulroney emphasized, "More than 50% of this year's growth was driven by municipalities, which includes local police and fire services whose work continues to protect Ontario communities." As a cabinet minister, Mulroney herself earned $213,939.75 in 2025.
Inflation Adjustments and Historical Context
Established in 1996, the Sunshine List has sparked debates over its relevance, as six-figure salaries have become more common over time. According to the Bank of Canada's inflation calculator, $100,000 in 1996 is equivalent to approximately $188,309 in today's currency, highlighting the changing economic landscape.
Key Sectors and Top Earners
Ontario Power Generation employees dominate the top ranks, with current president and CEO Nicolle Butcher earning $1.6 million in salary and benefits last year. Other high-earning OPG executives include:
- Chief Nuclear Officer Steve Gregoris: $1.1 million
- Chief Financial Officer Aida Cipolla: $1.01 million
- Chief Project Officer Suba Sinnathamby: $981,475.74
In total, 10,672 OPG employees secured spots on this year's list.
Healthcare and Education Highlights
Healthcare executives also feature prominently, with University Health Network president and CEO Kevin Smith earning $939,603, Sick Kids head Ronald Cohn taking home $880,013.40, and Hamilton Health Sciences president and CEO Tracey Macarthur earning $773,658.23.
In education, 112,654 employees of Ontario school boards earned over $100,000 in 2025. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) led with 84,510 employees, followed by the Toronto Catholic District School Board with 44,736. Former TDSB director of education Clayton La Touche was the highest-paid TDSB employee at $304,894.41.
Municipal and Police Earnings
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti emerged as the highest-paid municipal politician, earning $308,179.23, followed by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow at $240,349.28. In law enforcement, Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah topped the list with $604,449.04, while the three highest-paid police constables were all from Toronto, led by Const. Mariusz Turkot at $366,484.11.
Notable Figures and Broader Implications
Other notable names on the Sunshine List include:
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford: $269,567.49
- NDP Leader Marit Stiles: $233,334.05
- Auditor General Shelley Spence: $466,588.85
- Kids Help Phone president and CEO Katherine Hay: $729,753.93
The list encompasses elected officials, crown corporations, and publicly-funded entities like universities and colleges, reflecting the extensive scope of public sector compensation in Ontario. This disclosure continues to serve as a tool for government transparency, despite ongoing discussions about its modern-day relevance.
