Chad Farquharson has always dreamed big.

“A lifetime ago I didn’t see traction on the big dreams” Chad reflects. “I thought: how do I still achieve the desire I have to want change and roll it back in a way that might actually be successful?”

This desire for meaningful change has driven Chad in both his 27-year tenure at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and in his personal life, influencing his achievements both at work and at home.

Chad has always had an interest in storytelling and design, honing his skills in crafting window displays for prestigious brands like Tiffany and Hermès. So, when he had the chance to transition from the Collections and Verification Branch (CVB) to the Public Affairs Branch (PAB) and start working on Canada.ca web design and architecture, he jumped at the opportunity.

Now, as the Lead Conceptional Designer in the Digital Design and Production Directorate (DDPD), Chad doesn’t just design webpages; he architects digital experiences that are more accessible to more Canadians. Balancing aesthetics with functionality, he’s constantly striving to find the "sweet spot" where good design meets effective architecture.

One notable achievement is the co-creation of the subway pattern, a GCWeb design that helps users navigate a series of tasks to complete a main goal. It's ideal for helping users determine their eligibility and apply for services, and also works well on mobile devices. This pattern has been widely adopted across various departments and has been used on all COVID benefit pages.

Chad's dedication to design excellence is also highlighted by his work in boosting CRA's online presence to make it more user-friendly. Some of his recent updates include pages related to the Disability Tax Credit, and scams and fraud.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chad’s personal life mirrored his resilience and commitment to making a difference. In 2000, he and his partner navigated the complexities of marriage when it wasn’t legally recognized. Parenthood brought challenges, including his son Grayson's health issues. Grayson has a rare genetic condition, Maple Syrup Urine Disease. It requires strict dietary management from birth. Chad and his family faced these challenges head on. They became advocates for children's health, even raising funds for the hospitals who provided care for Grayson.

Despite the challenges, Chad approaches his work and professional life with intention—a word that carries a profound significance to him. “Intention increases the likelihood of making things happen,” Chad emphasizes.

This personal perspective also drives Chad to value a people-first mindset. “I always think about the neighbour,” he says, “Can my neighbour understand this page?” Seeing the emphasis on people-first values across the department pushes Chad to continuously refine his work to ensure that the taxpayer’s needs are always considered first.

As Chad continues to innovate and lead within the CRA, his story shows the power of perseverance, intentionality, and a commitment to creating meaningful change. His personal life and career serve as a reminder that with intent and dedication, meaningful change is possible.