| President and Chief Executive Officer, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade | 7 | President and Chief Executive Officer, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade | Bridgitte | Anderson | | <div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852"><p></p>Bridgitte Anderson is the President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade - Western Canada's most active and influential business association.</div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852"><br></div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852">Bridgitte is the first woman to lead the Board of Trade in its 138-year history. Her focus is on building a more competitive and sustainable economy, through better public policy that increases prosperity, productivity, and investment in our region. Under her leadership, she led the creation of one of the first Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Councils in the in the Canadian Chamber network, Canada’s first ever ESG Microcredential Program in partnership with BCIT, and GVBOT’s Engaged Leadership Program.</div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852"><br></div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852">Bridgitte also serves as the current Chair of the Canadian Global Cities Council (CGCC), representing Canada’s largest urban Chambers and Boards of Trade.</div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852"><br></div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852">Prior to Bridgitte’s current role, she was the Vancouver General Manager for Edelman, a global public relations firm advising clients on crisis communications, and government and stakeholder relations. She also served as Press Secretary to BC Premier Gordon Campbell, leading communications during the 2010 Winter Olympics, following a 20-year career in journalism.</div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852"><br></div><div class="ExternalClass555593C23E4C4950A4BF5B65F983E852">She serves on several boards and committees, including Invest Vancouver. Recognized for her impactful leadership, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2024 and named to BIV’s Power 50 List in 2023 and 2024. <br></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/bridgitte-anderson.jpg, Bridgitte Anderson | | | |
| Chief Executive Officer, HTEC | 58 | Chief Executive Officer, HTEC | Colin | Armstrong | | <div class="ExternalClass4DC2CED2B73E4585A0C3EA623C534554">Colin is a professional mechanical engineer with more than 35 years of experience in the hydrogen sector and clean technology company growth. He is a co-founder of HTEC and has led the company since 2011. Colin is the driving force behind British Columbia’s hydrogen station network.<div><br>Prior to HTEC, Colin led hydrogen initiatives at Ballard, Sacré-Davey Engineering, and Dynetek. Colin was a member of the Canadian Hydrogen Association board of directors from 2011 to 2022 and has been a director of Hydrogen BC since 2020.</div><div><br>Colin has been recognized for the contributions he has made to the hydrogen sector. He received the Canadian Hydrogen Convention 2024 Hydrogen Leader of the Year Award and is a 2022 Clean50 Honoree.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Colin-Armstrong.jpg, Colin Armstrong | | | |
| Tsawwassen Member, Judicial Council, Tsawwassen First Nation | 46 | Tsawwassen Member, Judicial Council, Tsawwassen First Nation | Andrew | Bak | | <div class="ExternalClass922E77DBB13B443E8CACB5726C6734EE"><p>Andrew Bak is an alumnus of the SFU Indigenous Business Leadership Executive MBA program. Andrew was part of the team that negotiated and implemented the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement – the first urban treaty in the history of British Columbia and the first modern treaty negotiated under the British Columbia Treaty Commission process. Andrew has served his community twice, as an elected leader first as an Executive Council member under Tsawwassen's last term of Indian Act governance, and as a Legislator under Tsawwassen's first term of self-government. He has served on several boards, including the Mayor's Council on Regional Transportation, and the Laurier Institution and is currently appointed to the Tsawwassen First Nation Judicial Council.</p><p>Andrew's business interests include leasing properties for residential and commercial use - and was involved with the music industry, for several years, producing recordings and live events, and is also an avid visual artist.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Andrew-Bak.jpg, Andrew Bak | | | |
| Managing Director of Operations, UFCW 1518 | 68 | Managing Director of Operations, UFCW 1518 | Michelle | Chisholm | | <div class="ExternalClass86741EF36EDD46BCB26E26C2A8C797B2">Michelle is the Managing Director of Operations at UFCW 1518, BC’s largest private sector union. Her role involves leading strategic initiatives to improve wages, benefits, and working conditions for workers in a variety of sectors. She oversees bargaining strategies, operational policies and ensures the union remains a powerful force for workers’ rights.<div><br>Her work is rooted in the belief that a strong labour movement creates a more equitable economy – one where workers earn a living wage, have access to benefits, and are protected. She drives meaningful change by pushing for legislative enhancements and holding employers accountable, which creates lasting improvements that make a difference in people’s lives.</div><div><br>Prior to stepping into her role with UFCW 1518, Michelle held positions in labour relation, resolving workplace disputes, developing investigation strategies, and overseeing recruitment and team development.</div><div><br>Being bilingual in French and English allows her to bridge communication gaps, advocate for workers in both official languages, and engage with a broader range of stakeholders.</div><div><br>Outside of work, she has a deep passion for music. Whether performing, listening, or exploring different genres, music is a constant source of inspiration and creativity in her life. It fuels her drive to connect with people and bring fresh ideas into her work, by challenging her to think differently.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Michelle-Chisholm.jpg, Michelle Chisholm | | | |
| Dean of Sauder School of Business, Sauder School of Business, UBC; Innovate BC Professor | 33 | Dean of Sauder School of Business, Sauder School of Business, UBC; Innovate BC Professor | Darren | Dahl | | <div class="ExternalClass03B6894BA8944E0E868C5D60E5D688F6"><p>Darren Dahl is the Dean and Innovate BC Professor at the Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia. His current research interests are in the areas of new product design and development, creativity, consumer product adoption, the role of social influence in consumer behavior, and understanding the role of self-conscious emotions in consumption. His research has been presented at numerous national and international conferences, and published in various texts and such journals as the Journal of Marketing Research, Journal of Marketing, Journal of Consumer Research, Management Science, and Journal of Consumer Psychology. Professor Dahl teaches in the areas of business strategy, marketing, and creativity/innovation at the undergraduate, graduate, and executive education levels. He has won awards for both his research (e.g., Killam Research Prize) and his teaching (e.g., 3M Teaching Fellow) efforts.</p><p>Before coming to UBC in 2002, he held a faculty appointment at the University of Manitoba for four years. He also has been a visiting professor at Stanford (2009), Columbia University (2008), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (in 1997 and in 2001) and the Thammasat University in Thailand (2005, 2006). Before entering academia, Dr. Dahl worked with Coopers & Lybrand chartered accountants in the areas of audit and insolvency. He has consulted and organized education programs for a number of non-profit and for-profit organizations such as Cathay Pacific, Procter & Gamble, Xerox, General Electric, YVR, Vancouver Public Health, Teekay Shipping, Lululemon Athletica, Earls Restaurants, BCLC, McDonalds, Agent Provocateur, Daehong Advertising – Korea, and LIC India. Professor Dahl received his Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Darren-Dahl.jpg, Darren Dahl | | | |
| Executive Director, DigiBC | 34 | Executive Director, DigiBC | Loc | Dao | | <div class="ExternalClassA2D5D5B02CBE49E991991516FC3E020E"><p>Loc Dao is the Executive Director of DigiBC - the Creative Technology Association of BC representing over 250 companies and 14,000 people in the video game, animation, VFX, XR, and virtual production industries. He's the acting chair of the board of the Canadian Interactive Alliance representing over 900 companies working in Interactive Digital Media in Canada and is on the management Board of Invest Vancouver.</p><p>Loc co-founded the first public media digital studios at CBC and the NFB and led in the invention of new forms of storytelling such as the interactive documentary and immersive experiences that were recognized by academics, peers and critics globally. </p><p>Loc was the first Chief Digital Officer for the National Film Board of Canada and has advised the Government of Canada on digital policy, the Canada Media Fund on digital media strategies, and the Province of BC most recently leading the first sectoral talent and growth strategy for Creative Technology in BC. <br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Loc-Dao.jpg, Loc Dao | | | |
| Secretary Treasurer, International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada | 36 | Secretary Treasurer, International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada | Bob | Dhaliwal | | <div class="ExternalClass11B7688F43294080A122D6EEFBB04F2F"><p>Bob Dhaliwal is currently serving his fifth two-year term as secretary treasurer of ILWU Canada. He was elected to the position in 2014. Bob began his longshore career with ILWU Local 502, New Westminster, British Columbia in 1988. Shortly thereafter he left the industry for a time to continue his studies and completed his commercial pilot's license and his Bachelor of Science in biology from Simon Fraser University. He returned to the longshore industry in 2002.</p><p>Bob has extensive experience in board governance. He currently sits on numerous boards and committees. These include the ILWU Canada executive board and the Longshore Contract Executive Board, both of which his is the recording secretary. He is also currently serving as the lead trustee of the longshore pension and benefit plans with over $2 billion in assets. He serves as one of the directors for Community Savings Credit Union and the International Transport Workers Federation has asked him to chair a working group whose mandate is to study automation and the future of work.</p><p>He lives in Burnaby, B.C. with his wife and two children. His hobbies include playing guitar, reading and basketball.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Bob-Dhaliwal.jpg, Bob Dhaliwal | | | |
| Chief Executive Officer, InBC Investment Corp. | 59 | Chief Executive Officer, InBC Investment Corp. | Jill | Earthy | | <div class="ExternalClassD4DE19D206D847FA9BFFEDFD84E2F8F0"><div>Jill Earthy is a forward-thinking business leader with a drive to create an inclusive innovation ecosystem. As CEO of InBC Investment Corp., Jill leads a provincial Crown corporation with a strategic investment fund of $500 million to invest in growing companies and funds, with a triple bottom line approach that values people, planet and profit to build a more prosperous, sustainable and inclusive future for British Columbia (B.C.). </div><div><br></div><div>Jill has held multiple leadership positions, including as CEO of WeBC (formerly Women’s Enterprise Centre), where she led a provincial non-profit organization supporting women entrepreneurs with loans, education, mentorship and advisory services across B.C. Prior to that, Jill was the Head of Female Funders, working to empower women leaders to invest in early-stage companies, and Chief Growth Officer of FrontFundr, an online investment platform bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and investors. As an entrepreneur, Jill has built and sold two national companies. </div><div><br></div><div>Jill has committed her career to mentoring entrepreneurs and growing the innovation ecosystem in Canada. She is an active member of the community and currently serves on the Board of The Forum, a national charity supporting women entrepreneurs across Canada. She is also an Advisor to the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics at the UBC Sauder School of Business, to the SFU Beedie School of Business and to the Impact Investing Hub within UVic’s Gustavson School of Business. Jill has been well recognized for her contributions including as an Influential Woman in Business by Business in Vancouver (BIV), one of the Top 100 most powerful women in Canada by WXN and one of the Power 50 most powerful people in Vancouver by Vancouver Magazine.<br><br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Jill-Earthy.jpg, Jill Earthy | | | |
| Councillor, City of Richmond | 60 | Councillor, City of Richmond | Kash | Heed | | <div class="ExternalClass9EE3A73378E94CE88C9359897353C2DE">Elected to Council in October 2022, Kash Heed brings over four decades of experience in public service to the role of Councillor. A former Chief of Police, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Solicitor General, and Adjunct Professor, he holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in the field of Leadership in Public Safety from Simon Fraser University. He is also a published author.<div><br></div><div>Kash has lived in Richmond for almost six decades and is raising his teenage daughter Ella here.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Kash-Heed.jpg, Kash Heed | | | |
| President and Chief Executive Officer, Life Sciences BC | 40 | President and Chief Executive Officer, Life Sciences BC | Wendy | Hurlburt | | <div class="ExternalClass06874B172D7B4427A9DBBA815BBEE8CA"><p>Wendy Hurlburt is the President and CEO of Life Sciences BC, holding a critical leadership role in B.C.'s dynamic life sciences ecosystem. She uses a collaborative approach to support the thriving sector and cultivate relationships between local SMEs, global partners, educational institutions, and the government. Wendy elevates the sector as a highly regarded spokesperson in key international markets. In addition, Wendy is acknowledged as a promoter and advocate for the sector, attracting new business and investment opportunities to the province.</p><p>Before joining Life Sciences BC, Wendy held multiple leadership roles with Johnson & Johnson in strategic and business planning, finance, partnerships and business development, operational transformation and quality and regulatory compliance. Prior to J&J, she held Chief Financial Officer roles for both the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and Lexmark International in its Canadian and South Asian divisions.</p><p>Wendy is passionate about volunteerism and seeks out tangible ways to give back. She is a member of the Government, Budget, and Finance Committee for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT); the Clinical Trials BC Advisory Council, Michael Smith Health Research BC; the external advisory committee of the Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes; and a data governance advisor to the Association of Privacy Professions Vancouver Chapter. She is also a Canadian Chamber of Commerce Life Sciences Strategy Council committee member and a board member with Invest Vancouver and Science World. </p><p>Wendy's background includes chairing the Finance and Audit Committee for adMare Bioinnovations. She holds an MBA from Queen's University, a B.A. from Western University, and a Strategic Leadership Certificate from UBC's Sauder School of Business.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Wendy-Hulburt.jpg, Wendy Hurlburt | | | |
| Councillor, City of Vancouver | 61 | Councillor, City of Vancouver | Mike | Klassen | | <div class="ExternalClass2126B414C10B4FA1AF8FDF4D471EAD88">Mike Klassen is a Councillor for the City of Vancouver, first elected in 2022. He is committed to fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses, and promoting safe, vibrant communities. A strong advocate for innovation, Mike works to champion the city’s high-tech industry and implement creative solutions to address Vancouver’s housing, economic, and social challenges.<div><br></div><div>Before public office, Mike served as Vice President of Public Affairs for the BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA), where he played a key role in advocating for seniors' health care and housing. During the COVID-19 crisis, as Acting CEO of BCCPA, he led efforts to help care homes manage the unprecedented challenges and reunite families separated by health restrictions.</div><div><br></div><div>He also served previously as B.C. Director for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.</div><div><br></div><div>Mike’s commitment to community service is evident in his leadership roles, including as president of the board for PAL (Performing Arts Lodge) Vancouver, where he helped launch a 66-unit housing project for arts professionals. He has also served as Vice-Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, Vice-Chair of the DOXA Documentary Festival, and board member for the B.C. Small Business Roundtable and Canadian Association of Long-Term Care.</div><div><br></div><div>In 2015, Mike led a province-wide consultation that resulted in regulatory reforms bolstering B.C.’s wine and grape-growing industry. A UBC graduate with a passion for fitness, enjoying music and wine travel, Mike was born and raised in Vancouver, where he lives with his family.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Mike-Klassen.jpg, Mike Klassen | | | |
| President, North Shore/Mammoth Studios | 41 | President, North Shore/Mammoth Studios | Amy | Lang | | <div class="ExternalClass8A12B5691CC24B15890A48374F1E808C"><p>As President of North Shore and Mammoth Studios, Amy oversees all aspects of the operations and administration of the two production facilities. Amy is also actively involved in industry building initiatives and works closely with MPPIA and Creative BC to champion long term growth of the film and television industry in BC. Amy previously held the position of Director of Finance & People at Bosa Development for the past 5 years and prior to that worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers (Vancouver) from 2007 to 2017. During her years with PricewaterhouseCoopers Amy worked with both public and private companies across a broad range of industries including mining, forestry, financial services, retail, film & entertainment, and technology. Her time also there also included working with PricewaterhouseCoopers (San Jose) focused exclusively on private equity venture capital in the life sciences & bio medial field. Amy was also involved in leading the training and development programs for the CA (CPA) exams and has also worked as an Adjunct Professor in the accounting department at UBC Sauder School of Business. </p><p>Amy holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University, a Master of Professional Accounting from University of Saskatchewan, and is a CPA-CA. <br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Amy-Lang.jpg, Amy Lang | | | |
| Councillor, City of Burnaby | 42 | Councillor, City of Burnaby | Richard | Lee | | <div class="ExternalClassAD20E0B24CD240A986A9E6FD72DDE2CC"><p></p><p>Before being elected to serve as councillor in the City of Burnaby on October 15, 2022, Richard T. Lee served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in the Province of British Columbia from 2001 to 2017. While serving as an MLA, he was appointed Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly from September 2015 to May 2017.</p><p>Richard also has served as Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific and as members of the Cabinet Committees on Strong Economy, Open Government and Engagement, Jobs & Training and Climate Action and Clean Energy. He also served as member of Government Caucus Committee on Economy and Government Operations as well as many Legislative Select Standing Committees.</p><p>Before being elected to the Legislature, Richard was a professional staff at TRIUMF, Canada's national particle research facility. In 1976 he earned a Combined Honours Bachelor of Science degree from UBC in physics and mathematics and later a Master of Science from UBC in Applied Mathematics.</p><p>Richard immigrated to Canada in 1971 to live with his grandfather who came to Canada in 1913. Hr married his late wife Anne and settled in Burnaby in 1986, where they raised 3 children.</p><p>Richard was an active volunteer in the community, having served as Founding President of the BC Cultural Diversity Association, and served as director of BC Heritage Language Association, Burnaby DPAC, Burnaby Chinese Parents' Association, Burnaby Multicultural Society, and Civic Education Society.</p><p>Currently Richard T. Lee serves as Chair of Traffic Safety Committee and Vice-Chair of Executive Committee of Council, Access Advisory Committee and Community Heritage Commission.</p><p>Richard will make sure that City Hall focuses on making life more affordable for families.<br><br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Richard-Lee.jpg, Richard Lee | | | |
| Chief Executive Officer, Immigrant Employment Council of BC | 62 | Chief Executive Officer, Immigrant Employment Council of BC | Patrick | MacKenzie | | <div class="ExternalClassE89012F463FF487BA23CD31EBA5355BB">Patrick MacKenzie has devoted his career to the intersection of people and the economy. For him, immigration is more than a policy area—it’s a pathway to creating a more vibrant, prosperous economy where people and communities flourish. Patrick believes that when individuals succeed, so does society, and he has championed this vision across his work in public service from coast to coast.<div><br></div><div>With almost 20 years in public service, including a decade at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Patrick held pivotal roles in both Ottawa and Vancouver, driving progress with private and public sector partners on key issues affecting Indigenous and immigrant populations. His expertise extends into immigrant economic integration, credential and skills recognition, and labour mobility—areas he sees as essential for unlocking Canada’s full potential. As an advocate for thoughtful dialogue, Patrick’s connections give him a unique view of the realities and aspirations of both communities and the broader economy. His people-first approach is evident in his leadership and in the lasting partnerships he builds with employers and immigrants. With this commitment to growth through inclusivity, Patrick continues to meaningfully contribute to economic and social progress centred on human potential.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Patrick-MacKenzie.jpg, Patrick Mackenzie | | | |
| President and General Manager, Coast Mountain Bus Company | 51 | President and General Manager, Coast Mountain Bus Company | Michael | McDaniel | | <div class="ExternalClass3702EA3701CA4681B7EE2E5F1149DFE9">Michael McDaniel is the President and General Manager of Coast Mountain Bus Company (CMBC), the largest operating company in the TransLink enterprise. He joined CMBC in 2018 as President and General Manager following three years on the CMBC Board of Directors of which he served two years as Chair.<div><br><div>Prior to joining CMBC, Michael was President and CEO of the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) for fifteen years and was responsible for its overall operation, including community and government relations. During his tenure, Michael led the PNE through its transition from provincial ownership to the City of Vancouver. He was also instrumental in developing a long-term future for the PNE and Hastings Park, including a City Council approved 30-year Master Plan and an approved governance structure. Before his appointment as President and CEO, Michael held the role of Vice President of Human Resources, managing employee and labour relations, performance management, recruitment and retention, payroll, benefits, and occupational health and safety.
</div><div><br></div><div>Michael also has previous experience in the hospitality, tourism, and entertainment industry for companies both locally and in the United States, and has spent time as a contract consultant, providing expertise in corporate and management development.
</div><div><br></div><div>Michael sits on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) as Vice Chair of Finance as well as Invest Vancouver, a standing committee of the Metro Vancouver Regional District Board. </div><div>In 2005, he was recognized as one of Vancouver's "Top 40 under 40" by Business in Vancouver. </div><div><br></div><div>Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Simon Fraser University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business. <br><br></div></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Michael-McDaniel.jpg, Micheal McDaniel | | | |
| Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer, Vancouver Airport Authority | 55 | Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer, Vancouver Airport Authority | Mike | McNaney | | <div class="ExternalClass45E675F84A8B452F9A11F5D0C6FDCF8E">Mike McNaney joined the Airport Authority in January 2022. As Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer, Mike is responsible for YVR’s Government Relations, Indigenous Relations, Corporate Communications and Strategic Customer Relationship teams.<br></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Mike-McNaney.jpg, Mike McNaney | | | |
| VP, Communications and Public Affairs, Canada's Digital Supercluster | 43 | VP, Communications and Public Affairs, Canada's Digital Supercluster | Cheryl | Muir | | <div class="ExternalClass093B318463744B5FA8B7DE42BC98576C">Cheryl joined the Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC) in 2012 and leads the organization’s public affairs, communications, events and outreach activities. In February 2023, she assumed the role of Interim CEO. The BCBC is a non-partisan organization comprised of over 20 of the province’s largest and leading companies, post-secondary institutions and organizations from across B.C.’s diverse economy. The Business Council provides timely and exceptional public-policy research and advice on improving B.C.’s competitiveness.</div><div class="ExternalClass093B318463744B5FA8B7DE42BC98576C"><br></div><div class="ExternalClass093B318463744B5FA8B7DE42BC98576C">Before joining the BCBC, Cheryl worked at a national public affairs firm, providing communications and public affairs advice to clients in energy, transportation and natural resources. For six years, she worked as the Director of Communications and Public Affairs with Canada’s National Brewers, representing the country’s largest brewers on social responsibility, regulatory affairs, distribution and environmental and container management. From 2001 – 2006, Cheryl worked in the Provincial Government, including in the offices of the Minister of Transportation, Minister of Small Business and Revenue and the Public Affairs Bureau. Cheryl has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English Language from the University of British Columbia.<br></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Cheryl-Muir.jpg, Cheryl Muir | | | |
| President and CEO, Vancouver Community College | 45 | President and CEO, Vancouver Community College | Ajay | Patel | | <div class="ExternalClass839352D0A1B742C9B5D470ED0B26C68B"><p>With over 20 years of experience in post-secondary, Ajay Patel was appointed President and CEO of Vancouver Community College (VCC) in January 2020, after joining VCC as Vice-President, Enterprise and International Development from his previous role as Vice President, External Development at Langara College.</p><p>As a provincial leader in the international education sector, Ajay played a key role in securing the University Mobility in Asia Pacific (UMAP) International Secretariat at VCC from 2021 to 2026. He recently completed his term as Chair for the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) and will continue this year as Past Chair. He also serves as the Vice-Chair on the BC Council for International Education (BCCIE). </p><p>In 2022, Ajay was appointed to the Multicultural Advisory Council of BC, the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CiCan) Board of Directors, and the Creative Technology Education Committee for DigiBC.</p><p>Ajay's ongoing commitment to International Education across the post-secondary sector was recognized in 2019 with the BC Council for International Education Distinguished Leadership Award. He has received numerous other awards including the City of Vancouver Parks and Recreation's Volunteer of the Year, the Sport BC President's Award, and the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant award in 2021. </p><p>At VCC, one of Ajay's priorities is to lead the college into a promising future by implementing the Strategic Innovation Plan, including a Campus Plan designed to guide VCC's development over the next 10 years.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Ajay-Patel.jpg, Ajay Patel | | | |
| Mayor, City of Maple Ridge | 70 | Mayor, City of Maple Ridge | Dan | Ruimy | | <div class="ExternalClassD894CA6939FD42E9845721F6E5597000">Dan Ruimy brings over 25 years of leadership experience to his role as Mayor of Maple Ridge. His career in the hospitality industry, where he trained over 200 franchisees and helped open 140 restaurants, provided a strong foundation for his public service. His commitment to service also includes time in the Infantry Reserve, where he developed discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of duty to his community.<div><br><div>Born in Montreal and settling in Maple Ridge in 2011, he became deeply involved in the local community by opening 'Bean Around Books,' a bookstore and coffee shop that became a social hub. This sparked his interest in public service, and he later became the Member of Parliament for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. During his time as an MP, he championed federal investments in infrastructure, as well as programs for seniors, youth, and the environment.
</div><div><br></div><div>In 2022, he was elected Mayor of Maple Ridge, bringing his passion for community engagement to the local level. <br></div><div><br></div><div>Under his leadership, Maple Ridge has experienced significant growth and revitalization. He continues to drive this vision forward with clear strategic priorities, including enhancing infrastructure, fostering economic development, supporting environmental sustainability, and strengthening community well-being. The introduction of a bold new city logo reflects its vibrant future, while the city’s "Bold by Nature" initiative, which highlights the area’s unique natural beauty and its spirit of innovation, has become a defining element of the community’s identity.
</div><div><br></div><div>Mayor Ruimy’s vision for Maple Ridge is one of progress, inclusivity, and opportunity, ensuring that the city remains a thriving, dynamic community for all its residents. <br></div><div><br></div></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Dan-Ruimy.jpg, Dan Ruimy | | | |
| Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Metro Vancouver | 63 | Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Metro Vancouver | Erin | Seeley | | <div class="ExternalClass62101D419842450E94FAD08C14265349">Erin is the CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, one of BC’s largest multi-service charities. YWCA currently operates 75 programs supporting women, families and allies across more than 180 locations including transitional and permanent housing, violence prevention, employment and skills training, youth and mentorship, and early childhood education.<div><br></div><div>With a passion for public and community service, Erin brings more than 20 years of experience in governance, strategic planning, communications, policy analysis and stakeholder relations. Most recently, Erin served as Senior Vice President, BC Financial Services Authority and CEO of the Real Estate Council of BC, where she was responsible for consumer protection in the financial services sector and regulatory oversight of real estate professionals.</div><div><br></div><div>Erin completed a BA in Political Science and Hispanic Studies from the University of Victoria and an MA in International Studies from Simon Fraser University. She has been a long-time community volunteer and is a Past-President of the Board of Directors for Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, a Vancouver-based community services organization serving children, youth and seniors.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Erin-Seeley.jpg, Erin Seeley | | | |
| Senior Vice-President, Customer and Corporate Affairs, BC Hydro | 53 | Senior Vice-President, Customer and Corporate Affairs, BC Hydro | Diana | Stephenson | | <div class="ExternalClassB2746802B2024F67846620775C9EF419"><div><div><div><div>Diana Stephenson is BC Hydro’s Senior Vice-President of Customer and Corporate Affairs. She joined BC Hydro in December 2021, and has nearly two decades of electricity industry experience in Western Canada’s regulated and competitive electricity marketplaces. Diana’s team works directly with customers, stakeholders, Indigenous Nations, employees, regulatory bodies, and our shareholder – the provincial government – to support our customers, conservation and teams within our organization.</div><div><br>Before joining BC Hydro, Diana served as Vice-President, Public Affairs & Sustainability with ENMAX Corporation. During her time with ENMAX, she led the organization’s public affairs, shareholder relations, environmental, social and governance (ESG), branding, governance, communications, executive projects, organizational change management and community portfolios.<br><br>From 2010 to 2012, she was the Chief Governance Officer for Mountain Equipment Co-op, where she held a range of organizational and stakeholder accountabilities. She also worked for BC Hydro and the former BC Transmission Corporation from 2001 to 2010, holding roles in corporate governance, regulatory affairs and executive project management.<br><br>Diana currently serves on the board of WaterAid Canada, part of a global not for profit organization working to increase access to and awareness of the critical need for clean water, sanitation and hygiene in economically challenged and marginalized regions across the world. She is also on the Human Resources board committee of the BC SPCA.<br><br>Diana holds a Bachelor of Sociology from Simon Fraser University and a corporate governance designation from the Institute of Governance Professionals. <br></div></div></div></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Diana-Stephenson.jpg, Dian Stephanson | | | |
| Mayor, City of Coquitlam | 67 | Mayor, City of Coquitlam | Richard | Stewart | | <div class="ExternalClassB81A0B0145854672A1B2ADBD934E9527"><p>Richard Stewart is serving his fifth term as Mayor of Coquitlam; he was elected to City Council in 2005, and was elected as Mayor in 2008, winning re-election in 2011, 2014, 2018 and 2022. </p><p>Richard has also served as Chair of the National Housing Economic Research Council in Ottawa, as President of the Canadian Home Builders' Association of BC, and as a member of the National Research Council's IRC Housing committee in Ottawa, the body that writes the National Building Code of Canada. Richard also worked as a consultant for the provincial government in establishing the Homeowner Protection Office, and in developing the consumer protection regulations associated with builder licensing and home warranty.</p><p>Richard's career has included a decade as publisher/editor of a housing trade magazine, as well as many years as a consultant in building technology and building codes, consumer housing issues, land use, government relations and communications. He has been a member of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce since 1989.</p><p>Richard has lived all his life in Coquitlam, and is bilingual (English and French). Richard and his wife Anna Rosa have been married since 1983, and have four children. He is an avid swimmer, cyclist, musician, and grammarian.</p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Richard-Stewart.jpg, Richard Stewart | | | |
| President, Vancouver & District Labour Council | 69 | President, Vancouver & District Labour Council | Stephen von | Sychowski | | <div class="ExternalClass974D8578B98E438AB86217C3DC5D84AF">Stephen von Sychowski is the President of the Vancouver & District Labour Council. Established in 1889, today the VDLC represents ninety affiliated local unions, and approximately 60,000 union members in Vancouver, Richmond, and the North Shore. The VDLC works to advance the rights, common interests, and welfare of working people, and to promote just, affordable, resilient communities.<div><br><div>Stephen was first elected president of the VDLC in 2018 and has been involved in the Labour Council in a variety of capacities since 2004. He brings to his work a passion for cooperation, education, and advancing the common good.</div><div><br></div><div>In addition, Stephen currently serves as a member of the Canadian Council of the Canadian Labour Congress, and the Executive Council of the BC Federation of Labour. He is a Director of the Employment Standards Coalition, and Co-Chair of the Sustainable Workforce Coalition.<br></div><div><br></div><div>In his hometown of Maple Ridge, Stephen also serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Advisory Committee. He previously served on the Board of Directors of United Way of the Lower Mainland, and on the merger committee which coordinated the formation of United Way of British Columbia.</div><div><br></div><div>Before taking on the role of VDLC President, Stephen worked as a Union Representative for MoveUP, representing members in grievances, arbitrations, and collective bargaining.<br>Stephen grew up in and around Prince George, BC. He moved to Metro Vancouver in 2003, settling first in Vancouver, before moving to Maple Ridge with his wife and daughter in 2018. <br></div></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Stephen-von-Sychowski.jpg, Stephen von Sychowski | | | |
| Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Technology Council | 64 | Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Technology Council | Natiea | Vinson | | <div class="ExternalClass7B0DA68CB537439BAEE36B04B40C18C6">Natiea Vinson is the CEO of the First Nations Technology Council. Natiea has more than a decade of experience working as an entrepreneur and across academia, social enterprise organizations and the public and private sectors. In all her roles, Natiea has advocated for institutional innovation, reconciliation, and Indigenous renewal. She has held several senior positions at Indigenous-led organizations, including as the Director of Programs at the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business and as the Founder of Makook, an Indigenous content discovery service.<div><br></div><div>Natiea was a Founding Partner of Coast Educational Development Research (Cedar), and previously worked as a Lecturer and as the Associate Director of Graduate Programs at the Beedie School of Business at Simon Fraser University. Recently, Natiea led the creation of a province-wide digital education strategy for BC Children’s Hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>Natiea holds a Master of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University.</div><div><br></div><div>A member of the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc, Natiea is grateful to live on the traditional and unceded territory of Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh) Nations, also known as Vancouver, BC.</div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Natiea-Vinson.jpg, Natiea Vinson | | | |
| Councillor, District of West Vancouver | 65 | Councillor, District of West Vancouver | Linda | Watt | | <div class="ExternalClass452E31E518A544229CE02B7A84B67FA3">Linda Watt was first elected to Council in 2022. Her prior career in the global film industry and propensity for offbeat travel have exposed her to a vast array of cultures and led her into remote locales in challenging conditions. Prior to her Council appointment, Linda diversified into the marine industry where she continues to represent a UK performance apparel line as the North American rep. She is motivated to work toward finding solutions that will lessen the challenges facing many local businesses as they reel from the pressures of inflation, escalating rents, taxation rates, supply chain and staffing issues.<div><br></div><div>Linda was recently appointed to the Metro Vancouver Air Quality and Climate Committee. She is also the Council Liaison to the Ambleside Dundarave Business Improvement Association and serves as Acting Chair to the West Vancouver Finance and Revenue Advisory Committee, Council Liaison to the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, Finance and Audit Committee, Howe Sound Community Forum and North Shore Table Matters. She previously served on the Enhance West Van Board, West Vancouver Community Grants Committee, Public Art Advisory Committee, Art Museum Committee and the Youth Advisory Committee.</div><div><br></div><div>Prior to being elected to Council, Linda served on a BC Ferries Liaison Committee, and as a Director with the Western Residents Association, Block Watch Captain and volunteered as a ski instructor in the children’s program at Cypress Mountain.</div><div><br></div><div>Linda holds a Bachelor of Environmental Studies with a Legal Studies Minor from the University of Waterloo. She is an avid skier, kayaker and open ocean swimmer, and continues to push the limits in the elements.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Linda-Watt.jpg, Linda Watt | | | |
| President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority | 52 | President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority | Peter | Xotta | | <div class="ExternalClass5D6284B9669C4D87A09C9138E98A820D">Peter Xotta is the president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, the federal agency responsible for enabling Canada’s trade through the Port of Vancouver, Canada’s largest port. Peter joined the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s executive leadership team over a decade ago, most recently serving as vice president, operations and supply chain.<div><br><div>He started his port career over 35 years ago—nearly 30 of which have been spent at the port authority—and progressively advanced through various roles. Today, he applies the experiences, relationships, and passion he has cultivated throughout his life and career to his role as the port authority’s president and CEO. Peter is particularly interested in work that keeps the port competitive and goods moving efficiently for the benefit of all Canadians, such as addressing resiliency and fragility in the supply chain and developing innovation within operational systems.</div><div><br></div><div>Prior to his appointment to president and CEO in 2023, Peter’s diverse portfolios at the port authority included port operations, business development and strategic projects.
</div><div><br></div><div>Peter sits on the boards of Invest Vancouver Management, Burnaby Hospital Foundation, and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. He previously served on the boards of the Freight Management Association of Canada and the Clear Seas Centre for Responsible Marine Shipping. He is also the former chair of Canada Place Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.
</div><div><br></div><div>Peter has a master of business administration degree from Simon Fraser University’s Segal Graduate School of Business and has served as a mentor in the program. <br><br></div></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Peter-Xotta.jpg, Peter Xotta | | | |
| CEO, Surrey Board of Trade / Acting Executive Director, South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce | 72 | CEO, Surrey Board of Trade / Acting Executive Director, South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce | Joslyn | Young | | <div class="ExternalClassBA541070B6E74E45A685F934AF8C5B05">Joslyn Young is an accomplished executive and strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in stakeholder relations, government affairs, and external communications. She is recognized for her ability to build meaningful relationships, drive policy initiatives, and lead high-performing teams that create lasting economic and community impact.<div><br>As CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, one of Canada’s largest and most influential business organizations, and Acting Executive Director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, Joslyn is leading the transition toward the anticipated Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade, pending federal approval of their merger. Under her leadership, the newly integrated organization will drive economic growth, advocate for business-friendly policies, and strengthen the local business community through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and engagement.</div><div><br>Previously, Joslyn served as Manager of External Relations at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, where she elevated the reputation of Canada’s largest port by cultivating relationships with industry leaders, business associations, elected officials, and international stakeholders. Prior to that, as Public Affairs Manager for CN Rail in British Columbia, she shaped public and government affairs strategy, managed crisis communications, and built key relationships across industry and community sectors.</div><div><br>Her tenure at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and the Lower Mainland Local Government Association (LMLGA) provided a strong foundation in governance, event management, and advocacy. Her research and authorship of an LMLGA policy paper advocating for the shift from three-year to four-year municipal terms contributed to a landmark legislative change in BC, implemented in the 2018 election.<br>Joslyn has served on the Advisory Board for the World Trade Centre – Vancouver and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She holds a Journalism and Public Relations Diploma (Honours) from Kwantlen Polytechnic University and has pursued executive education at SFU’s Beedie School of Business.<span id="ms-rterangecursor-start"></span><span id="ms-rterangecursor-end"></span><br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Joslyn-Young.jpg, https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Joslyn-Young.jpg | | | |
| AVP & Chief Economist, Central 1 Credit Union | 54 | AVP & Chief Economist, Central 1 Credit Union | Bryan | Yu | | <div class="ExternalClass7FC7969BB3CB4FE0805C1356199694D8"><p>Bryan leads and mentors Central 1's team of economists who empower credit unions with practical and unbiased forecasting, reporting and analysis. The team provides objective, expert-driven economic analysis that enables credit unions to clearly evaluate issues emerging on an international, national and local level – helping credit unions make informed decisions.</p><p>Bryan joined Central 1 in 2010 and was most recently Deputy Chief Economist since 2017. In addition to managing the team's broad research agenda and economic forecasts, he continues to write key economic reports including interest rate forecasts, and economic outlooks and commentaries. </p><p>Prior to Central 1, Bryan was an economist at the B.C. Real Estate Association and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. In addition to presenting his insight and analysis at over 100 events, Bryan has written a weekly article in the Vancouver Sun and then in Business in Vancouver. He is the past-president of the Association of Professional Economists of B.C.</p><p>Through his engaging economics reports Bryan has become Central 1's local celebrity, with his work featured by various media outlets including the Globe and Mail, BNN, Bloomberg and BC Business. When he's not keeping busy as our Chief Economist, Bryan can be found spending time with his wife and kids or volunteering with various charitable and industry associations.<br></p></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Bryan-Yu.jpg, Bryan Yu | | | |
| President, BCIT | 66 | President, BCIT | Dr. Jeff | Zabudsky | | <div class="ExternalClassBD5EA852AD5B47B28F3891BFDC64AE6D"><div>Dr. Jeff Zabudsky has over 30 years of experience within post-secondary and polytechnic leadership roles, both in Canada and internationally. Throughout his career, he has championed applied education as a transformative instrument to enrich lives and contribute to thriving communities.</div><div><br></div><div>Prior to his appointment as President of the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), Dr. Zabudsky was Provost for the American University of Bahrain, having also served as CEO for Bahrain Polytechnic. Before his career took him to the Middle East, Dr. Zabudsky was President and Vice Chancellor for Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. He has also served as President and CEO of Red River College Polytechnic and Vice President, Academic at Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr. Zabudsky is an active member of the communities in which he works and lives, including having chaired municipal United Way campaigns for both Oakville and Winnipeg. He served on the Halton Healthcare regional board and Halton Food For Life foodbank, in addition to sitting on the boards for the Mississauga Board of Trade and Mississauga Healthy City Stewardship Centre. Dr. Zabudsky has been honoured with distinguished alumni awards from Toronto Metropolitan University and Athabasca University. He has also received an award for the employment of Indigenous people from the Inter Provincial Association for Native Employment (IANE) and is a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr. Zabudsky holds a PhD in Educational Policy Studies from the University of Alberta, a Master’s degree in Distance Education from Athabasca University, and a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University.<br></div></div> | https://investvancouver.ca/about/governance/PublishingImages/Jeff-Zabudsky.jpg, Jeff Zabudsky | | | |
