John Ruffolo

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Business, Investor, Technology, Venture Capitalist

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John Ruffolo is a Canadian investor. He is best known for helping build and scale some of the country’s most influential venture capital and private equity platforms. He is the founder of Maverix Private Equity and the former head of OMERS Ventures. At OMERS, he helped support high-growth technology companies in Canada and the U.S. Throughout his career, Ruffolo has earned a reputation for his long-term mindset, disciplined investing, and strong support for Canadian innovation. His work has changed how institutional capital supports new companies and founders.

Early life

John Ruffolo was born in Toronto, Ontario, and raised by a family of Italian immigrants. He grew up in the Jane and Sheppard area and started working at a young age to support himself. He joined the Bank of Montreal when he was a teenager and quickly stood out, becoming the youngest branch manager in the bank’s history. He subsequently earned a business degree from York University, laying the foundation for a career that would span professional services, venture capital, and private equity.

Career

Ruffolo started his career at Arthur Andersen. He became a partner there and focused on technology and growth-oriented businesses. He later moved to Deloitte, where he held senior management positions, led the firm’s technology, media, and telecommunications practice, and served on Deloitte Canada’s board. His time in professional services gave him exposure to scaling companies and complex financial strategy.

In 2011, John founded OMERS Ventures, the venture capital arm of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System. With his management, OMERS Ventures became one of Canada’s most active institutional venture funds, investing more than US$500 million in 40+ technology companies. The portfolio included several well-known Canadian success stories and helped establish Canada as a leader in global tech investing.

After leaving OMERS Ventures, Ruffolo founded Maverix Private Equity. The firm focuses on technology-enabled growth in traditional industries, backing management teams that use innovation to transform established businesses. Alongside his investment work, Ruffolo co-founded the Council of Canadian Innovators and has served on numerous corporate, advisory, and nonprofit boards.

Net Worth

John Ruffolo’s net worth is estimated to be approximately US $1 billion. This figure reflects decades of leadership in venture capital and private equity, along with long-term participation in successful technology investments. As with most private investors, exact figures are not publicly disclosed and estimates may vary.

Achievement

Founder of Maverix Private Equity, focused on technology-driven growth strategies.

Founder and former CEO of OMERS Ventures, managing more than US$500M in venture investments.

Early institutional investor in several Canadian technology companies.

Co-founder of the Council of Canadian Innovators.

Named Canada’s Most Powerful Business Person by Canadian Business Magazine.

Recognized as one of Toronto Life’s 50 Most Influential People.

Awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario.