MARCH | APRIL 2014
Why Elections Matter Provincial & Municipal Votes in 2014
advocate MARCH | APRIL 2014 WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM
features 16 21 23
COVER STORY
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
Business Issues will be Prominent in Provincial Vote
Art Sinclair
Mike Dearden
EDITOR:
Heather Hutchings
FEATURE
Murray Gamble Awarded 2014 Barnraiser Award FEATURE
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
M&T Printing Group PHOTOGRAPHY:
Bill 73 and Fair Tendering
Adamski Photography
Michael Harris
ADVERTISING AND SALES:
David MacLellan – dmaclellan@greaterkwchamber.com Don Critelli – dcritelli@greaterkwchamber.com Lee Jakob-ljakob@greaterkwchamber.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Mike Dearden, Michael Harris, Ian McLean, David Popowich, Art Sinclair, Sandra Stone CONTRIBUTORS:
Teri Hetherington and Julie Tedesco ADVERTISING AND COPY DEADLINES:
March 21, 2014 for May/June 2014 July 14, 2014 for September/October 2014 September 19, 2014 for November/December 2014
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Manufacturing – A Vital Industry for our Region
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Sandra Stone
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
OntarioGovernnment Must Contain Municipal Costs Ian McLean
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ADVOCACY
James Carville knows Ontario Politics
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Art Sinclair
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Art Sinclair
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SUBSCRIPTION AND BACK ISSUE INQUIRIES:
Winter Networking
Darlene Jones djones@greaterkwchamber.com
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
SUBMISSION POLICY:
Decembeer 1, 2013 January 31, 2014 EVENTS
Proposals and articles are accepted via mail or email c/o Editor - Advocate. Please do not send originals. All contributors articles must be accompanied by a head shot in a jpg file and a 40 word author’s bio.
Mark Your Calendar SPONSOR PROFILE
Second Foundation: Laying the Foundation for a New Level of Success David Popowich
PERSPECTIVE ON HEALTH CARE
Physician Recruitment Remains Local Health Care Priority
EVENTS
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POSTMASTER ADDRESS CHANGES C/O
ADVOCATE - PUBLICATIONS OFFICE 80 QUEEN STREETE NORTH, PO BOX 2367 KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2H 6L4 The Advocate is a bi-monthly membership benefit publication of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. Advertising content and the views expressed herein are those of the contributors and do not constitute endorsement by the Chamber. The Advocate follows the Canadian Code of Advertising Standards (1990), copies are available through the Publisher. The Chamber cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur and has the right to edit material submitted. The Chamber will not accept advertising with competitor comparison claims and has the right to refuse advertising that is deemed to be false, misleading, or inappropriate.
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message from the chair
Manufacturing – A Vital Industry for our Region BY SANDRA STONE Our history of manufacturing is well known in Waterloo Region. As traditional manufacturing industries have changed, from textiles to automotive through to digital technologies and advanced food processing, we have consistently refocused our energy and resources on more lucrative opportunities. We are nothing if not resilient and our Region’s ability to reassess and redirect our collective efforts, with a focus on the future, has moved us today to more advanced manufacturing. Advanced manufacturing is simply defined as the use of innovative technologies to improve products or processes. Advanced manufacturing has seen a marked shift from manufacturing traditionally understood as labour intensive initiatives to automation, robotics, and biological science. The creation of these new industries has focused our region’s efforts on improved ways to manufacture existing products, and develop new products from innovative and advanced technologies. The Greater KW Chamber has been at the forefront of this changing industry for many years by supporting business growth and encouraging the development of new opportunities. We believe that the strength of our community also resides in the local skill base and in the need to keep existing jobs here as well as create new job opportunities. Manufacturing currently employs one in five jobs, approximately 60,000 people, across Waterloo Region and with the Chamber’s proven success in advocating for increased government funding for training, re-training, research and development across the manufacturing sector, we are well positioned for a strong future. The Chamber actively supports the manufacturing sector through a number of key initiatives. The newly created Manufacturing Peer2Peer Group provides Chamber Members with an opportunity to share best practices, network and connect directly with others in their sector. The Manufacturing P2P is focused on bringing together professionals from the manufacturing and supply chain industry sector to build a collective capacity and ultimately improvements to their own individual business or organization. P2P’s are free, and are open to member organizations – we encourage you to get involved. The Chamber is also a strong supporter of the Waterloo Region Manufacturing Innovation Network (MIN). MIN’s mission is to connect key stakeholder groups within the Waterloo Region manufacturing sector to help strengthen the local supply chain and create a more responsive and globally competitive manufacturing
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community. Art Sinclair, the Chamber’s Vice President, is an active participant on MIN’s Advisory Board, and represents the Chamber’s position of working together to support and provide strategic direction and guidance for this industry. This network has grown significantly and the Chamber is partnering with MIN, the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium, Centre For Family Business and the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce to host an annual summit which attracts wide spread attention. Mark your calendars for the third annual Manufacturing Summit, which takes place at Bingemans on May 1, 2014. In conjunction with MIN, a training partnership of five Ontario Community Colleges and the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) has seen the development of the Manufacturing Leadership Certificate Program (MLCP). This program, also supported by the Chamber, is the result of a shared commitment to improving productivity and competitiveness through innovation and workforce development. Comprised of five 30-hour courses, the MLCP focuses on supervisory skill development, coaching, building effective teams, continuous improvement processes and the future of the manufacturing industry. Graduates receive a certificate that is recognized by Ontario colleges, manufacturers and the CME. From job creation, skill development and by advocating on behalf of the manufacturing industry, the Greater KW Chamber is working hard to ensure Waterloo Region remains at the forefront. Manufacturing is an essential and viable industry and the Chamber is committed to continuing to support the growth and development of this sector. Although our Region’s future is strongly rooted in the past there is great opportunity for advancement and progress to take us into the future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sandra Stone CHAIR, BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sandra is General Manager of Conestoga Mall (Ivanhoe Cambridge Inc.). As a Board Member and advocate for local business Ms. Stone provides a unified voice for the 130 retail stores and services at Conestoga Mall, a premier shopping destination in Waterloo Region.
message from the president
Ontario Government Must Contain Municipal Costs BY IAN MCLEAN Two critical issues for the Waterloo Region business sector and our Chamber in the upcoming provincial election are interest arbitration and fair municipal tendering. Both issues are especially important since they carry the potential to significantly, and unnecessarily, increase municipal taxes for businesses recovering from the recent economic downturn. And with tight margins these businesses have very limited capacity to absorb these additional costs. First, interest arbitration is a mechanism to renew or establish a collective agreement for parties in the absence of a right to strike. It is the only legal process for municipalities to settle contract disputes with essential services such as police and firefighters. Under the current provincial legislative regime, arbitration decisions provide limited consideration to local fiscal realities. Rather, arbitrators use agreements from other municipalities as the basis for their decision. Effectively this becomes pattern bargaining. Of particular concern is the pattern of replicating salaries and benefits from urban to rural areas without incorporating the relative costs of living and other related factors such as the municipal corporation’s ability to pay. Specifically, it is not practical or fair to apply Greater Toronto Area settlements to Waterloo Region urban municipalities and other large centres throughout the province. As a result of interest arbitration, emergency service costs are escalating at a rate well above the Consumer Price Index, and above settlements for other public sector employees in the health care and education sectors. High interest arbitration awards translate into municipalities increasing taxes or reducing services. To provide fairness for all Ontario municipalities, the “ability to pay” criteria used in interest arbitration decisions must be broadened to include economic, fiscal and productivity criteria. Arbitrators should also be required to provide clear assessments and reasons for their decisions, along with written explanations of how the fiscal health of a community was considered when making a decision. Secondly, in late December of 2012, two Region of Waterloo employees were sent to Baden on a Saturday afternoon to construct a relatively small shed. These individuals had previously signed cards requesting membership in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America and since they were the entire crew on the aforementioned project, and because a technicality
allows it, the union is close to being certified with the Region of Waterloo. Waterloo Region subsequently challenged this certification to the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) due to potentially huge implications for future tendering competitions. The OLRB applies collective bargaining rules for private construction companies to public organizations such as municipalities and school boards. Once an employer becomes unionized, all infrastructure projects are available exclusively to companies organized by a specific union. Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Michael Harris introduced Bill 73, the Fair and Open Tendering Act, which explicitly stated that collective bargaining rules for construction businesses should not apply to municipalities or school boards. The proposed changes would ensure that all qualified contractors would have the right, regardless of union affiliation, to work on local infrastructure projects through an open and competitive bid process. Bill 73 was defeated in the Ontario Legislature on September 19, 2013, however our Chamber remains concerned over the potential cost to taxpayers should the OLRB reject the Region of Waterloo certification appeal. It is estimated that if unsuccessful, the additional cost could be $78 million annually. That means less infrastructure or higher taxes to compensate for the increased cost! Neither is acceptable to business or our community. In his recent speech to the Greater Kitchener Waterloo and Cambridge Chambers of Commerce on January 16, Ontario Progressive Conservative Party leader Tim Hudak supported the positions of our Chambers and committed to address the unfairness of these issues for both municipalities and taxpayers. Premier Kathleen Wynne and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath will be addressing the Chamber at later dates and we will secure their party’s positions on these vital issues.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ian McLean Ian is President and CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce
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advocacy
James Carville knows Ontario Politics BY ART SINCLAIR One of North America’s most often quoted campaign slogans originated from Bill Clinton’s first run at the White House in 1992. For a variety of reasons, the message still resonates in Ontario two decades later as a provincial election approaches. Louisiana native and Democratic strategist James Carville is generally credited with the phrase “it’s the economy stupid” to capture general concern over job losses and stagnating conditions during the early 1990s and subsequently turning this angst into votes of protest. In retrospect, the on-going legacy of this slogan is in large part related to the ultimate success of the Clinton-Gore campaign which soundly defeated an incumbent Bush-Quayle administration. In 2014 Ontario there is a growing sense that jobs and the economy are dominating the short-term political agenda. The 2013 fall economic statement delivered by Finance Minister Charles Sousa noted that the government is implementing a plan that will create jobs and protect priority public services, inferring that stable health care, social service and education systems are highly dependent on investment attraction and employment translating into escalating government revenues. The provincial business sector would agree with this fundamental approach. Also, earlier this year Ontario Progressive Conservative Party Leader Tim Hudak indicated he will be tabling the Million Jobs Act, a private member’s bill proposing policy and regulatory changes to achieve the aforementioned level of job creation. Whether the target is achievable will be intensely debated around Queen’s Park however Hudak’s plan is further evidence economic matters are the priority campaign issue. Across Ontario, preoccupation with the economy is driven in large part by the recent closures of the Heinz facility in Leamington and Kellogg’s in London. Historically, the province’s two dominant manufacturing sectors have been automotive and food processing. The recent problems experienced by Chrysler and General Motors have been well-documented, however both companies are experiencing highly promising turnarounds since Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings. News of serious issues across the food processing sector are not welcome for the Ontario Liberal Party, still reeling from heavy rural electoral defeats in the 2011 election and persistent controversy on restructuring in the horse racing industry.
The timing of the Heinz and Kellogg’s closures, which occurred within a one month time frame, followed a “challenge” by Premier Wynne (who also serves as Minister of Agriculture and Food) to the provincial food processing sector to double its growth rate and create 120,000 new jobs by 2020. Targets for jobs and commitments on who can provide the highest number will likely dominate a spring election campaign. Maintaining stability in the provincial agri-food industry is particularly important for Waterloo Region, where significant investments have been made in the Craig Richardson Institute of Food Processing Technology at the new Conestoga College Campus in Cambridge. Recognizing that a significant gap existed in training capacity for the provincial and national food processing sectors, Conestoga President John Tibbits and his staff have completed another exemplary effort in launching and operating this facility. Industry jobs losses are therefore concerning. The restructuring of manufacturing has also leveled a heavy impact on provincial municipalities. Recent media reports indicate that Heinz paid approximately $1 million in property taxes to the Town of Leamington annually. Plant closures further restrict the already diminishing ability of many rural and urban centres to maintain existing service levels or increase their capacity to meet growing population demands. In 1992, Carville had a second focus for the Clinton campaign after the economy – don’t forget health care. It is amazing in politics that the people are different however the issues rarely change with time.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Art Sinclair Art is Vice President Policy and Advocacy for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
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perspective on health care
Physician Recruitment Remains Local Health Care Priority BY ART SINCLAIR This is an expanded version of an article that appeared in the December 28, 2013 Waterloo Region Record. A series of recent media reports suggests the long-standing shortage of family doctors in Kitchener-Waterloo has been eliminated. The statistics provide a dramatically different perspective. While significant progress has been made in Cambridge and North Dumfries as the aforementioned reports have noted, the recruitment of family doctors to address our current imbalance remains a priority for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and the local business sector. The Chamber’s initial involvement in physician recruitment began in 1998 with the formation of the Health Care Resources Council. At that time, employers increasingly expressed concerns regarding their interviews with potential employees who inquired about the availability of local primary health care services and the impact on their career decisions. Candidates, particularly those with young families, consider the availability of doctors and related facilities as important decision points among many factors for selecting job offers. In the late 1990s, when an estimated 40,000 residents of Kitchener and Waterloo did not have access to a family physician, we lost many talented and skilled professionals to other communities and businesses. Also, employers expressed concerns over workforce productivity issues related to extended visits at emergency rooms and associated services. Action was required and the Chamber responded. Along with recruiting approximately 150 new physicians over the past fifteen years, local advocacy initiatives have significantly altered provincial government policy and allowed our community to attract and maintain more practitioners. Prior to 2010, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care provided financial incentives to doctors relocating to areas that were chronically short of personnel. Our community was alone in the position of having an underserviced area designation revoked and re-instituted over a series of years. The program was not sustainable for us in the competition against communities across southern Ontario for the attraction of a limited number of practicing family doctors. With the assistance of local MPPs John Milloy and Elizabeth Witmer, we achieved wide-ranging revisions to the provincial Underserviced Area Program that now places our community on a level playing field. Also, the presence of a new University of Waterloo Health Sciences Campus, which was strongly supported and promoted by local businesses and municipalities, has assisted
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in our recruitment efforts. Medical professionals generally seek communities with active research and commitments to advancements in treatments, pharmaceuticals, and technologies, therefore we are well-positioned to continue our efforts. Population and physician statistics clearly indicate the number of practicing doctors do not match our population requirements. The current population of Kitchener Waterloo is 361,000 residents who are served by 245 doctors. The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, in calculating underserviced area designations, has applied a ratio of doctors to patients at 1 to 1,380. We have a shortage of at least 17 practitioners leaving approximately 23,000 residents who do not have access to a regular doctor. As noted earlier, we are making progress. Early in 2014, eight newly-recruited family physicians will be establishing practices at the Boardwalk Medical Centre on Ira Needles Blvd. in Waterloo, increasing our total physician roster to 253. The shortage will be 8 doctors and almost 12,000 residents that do not have a family doctor. It is imperative that the community continues to recruit doctors for those presently without a doctor, for other residents who will find themselves unattached as doctors retire, and to meet the present and future health care requirements of KitchenerWaterloo. The Chamber recruitment program is a collaborative communitybased initiative with financial support from the City of Kitchener, City of Waterloo, Woolwich Township, and 27 employers. The financial and other support provided from this wide range of sources is further evidence that our community understands this issue needs to be addressed as we move forward. Each day the Chamber receives numerous calls (approximately 100 weekly) from individuals across Waterloo Region seeking advice on securing a family doctor. From a practical perspective there still remains a significant percentage of the local population who do not have appropriate access to health care services, and both business and the community have a responsibility to ensure this shortage is fully resolved. The Canada Health Act clearly notes that all eligible residents of this nation should have reasonable access to appropriate services without financial or other barriers. Until our Chamber Health Care Resources Council reaches our objective of securing access to a family physician and optimal primary care for all our local residents, we will vigourously continue these important activities. Waterloo Region and provincial health care challenges are not confined to human resources. According to a recent pre-budget
perspective on health care
submission by the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA), provincial hospitals have become among the most efficient in Canada with the second lowest per-capita funding in the entire country at $1,433 against a national average of $1,696. In 2012-13, Queen’s Park allocated 39 percent of all provincial expenditures to health care services with approximately $19.4 billion directed to hospitals. If spending on hospitals alone represented a line item in the Ontario Budget, it would represent the second largest expenditure next to education at $21.7 billion. The current provincial strategy to balance the budget by 2017-18 has translated into zero percent increases in base operating funding across the 2012-13 and 13-14 fiscal years, and 1.5 percent increases in 2010-11 and 11-12. The OHA notes that despite considerable efforts at efficiency improvements beyond the levels achieved by institutions on an annual basis, the projected funding gap will become too large to be absorbed. To address the challenges of the future, the OHA has asked the province to provide them with the instruments necessary to ensure that every dollar spent on health care is utilized most efficiently. These instruments include the creation of, among other components, a comprehensive health system capacity plan, reforming the Public Sector Labour Relations Transition Act, and strategic investment in infrastructure renewal. Despite the fiscal challenges across Ontario, the three hospitals in Waterloo Region have initiated exemplary work on collaboration and service efficiencies to better serve the local population. Specialized programs have been developed and implemented to streamline delivery, including the cardiac centre at St. Mary’s, the cancer and mental health centres at Grand River and expanding intensive care and mental health units at Cambridge Memorial. At a Chamber panel event with the three hospital presidents in February of 2013, it was noted that not only are budgets balanced but Grand River is providing care at lower costs than similar-sized hospitals across the province.
However, as St. Mary’s president Don Shilton noted, while the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) is keeping hospital funding increases close to zero, they are investing in community care at around four percent. Shilton indicated if we invest in care that assists people with being healthier and not requiring hospital care, that is the preferred option. Waterloo Region is a growing community which places increasing pressure on institutions that deliver public services to meet local demands. With limited financial resources at all levels of government, the priority remains ensuring that all taxpayers receive the most efficient return on investment and that the necessary resources, human capital and other infrastructure, are available. Our Chamber remains committed to meeting these objectives.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Art Sinclair Art is Vice President Policy and Advocacy for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
advocate MARCH | APRIL 2014
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networking
Winter Networking
THE
LE-ANNE PILECKI, BOB BALLANTYNE AND DIANNE FINN AT DECEMBER BA5 AT THE WALPER
MPP PETER BRAID AT THE POINT OF VIEW LUNCHEON IN JANUARY
STEPHANIE TANNER, LOIS RAATS, ANGIE THOMSON AND CHAMBER’S DARLENE JONES
WORKING AT THE
THE
JOHN BAKER AT THE DECEMBER NETWORKING BREAKFAST
Photography by Adamski Photography
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MEGAN ROSE, WAYNE THOMAS AND TERRA HERD NETBA5
BUSINESS AFTER 5 COMMITTEE MEMBER JEFF SHEPPARD AMY LIENHART FROM DSGN NETWORK
WITH
SOME OF THE CHAMBER STAFF AT THE CHAMBER’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
networking
Winter Networking
MIKE & NANCY NOWAKOWSKI FROM TODAY’S SAFETY TRAINING
BERRY VRBANOVIC AND MORGAN ELLIOT WITH CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO, IAN MCLEAN
ACCESS STORAGE REPS AT THE DECEMBER BA5
GUESTS AT THE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE CHATTING WITH THE CHAMBER’S DAVID MACLELLAN
CHLOE HAMILTON AND RENATE DONNOVAN WITH GREG SCHOTT
CLASSIC INDIAN RESTAURANT PROVIDING SAMPLES FOR THE GUESTS!
CARRIE & SEAN MULROONEY WITH SANDRA O’HAGAN
DESIRE2LEARN’S CEO JOHN BAKER SHARING THEIR COMPANY STORY
Photography by Adamski Photography
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new members
December 1, 2013 - January 31, 2014 1st Impressions Corporate & Sportswear
Aquarius Home Healthcare Inc. Kitchener
Promotional Products
Home Health Care Services
Joe Merriam, President 86 Queen Street North Kitchener, ON N2H 2H5 Email: 1st@1stimpressions.ca Web: http://www.1stimpressions.ca Phone: (519) 571-9004 Fax: (519) 579-2957
Asha Ibrahim, Administrator 55 King Street West, 7th floor Kitchener, ON N2G 4W1 Email: info@aquariushomehealth.com http://www.aquariushomehealth.com Phone: (519) 772-7502 Fax: (519) 772-7501
ADT Security Services
Bista Solutions Inc.
Security Services & Systems
Computer Software
Edmund Kopf, Residential Sales Manager 125 McGovern Drive Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7 Email: ekopf@adt.ca Web: http://www.adt.ca Phone: (519) 650-8866
Shahid Bandarkar, Director 667 Pinerow Crescent, Unit 43 Waterloo, ON N2T 2L5 shahid.bandarkar@bistasolutions.com http://www.bistasolutions.com Phone: (519) 489-0186
Allstate Insurance Company of Canada-Waterloo Insurance
Justin Loucks, Agency Manager 330 Farmers Market Road, Unit 402 Waterloo, ON N2V 0A5 Email: waterloo@allstate.ca Web: http://www.allstate.ca Phone: (519) 883-5490 Fax: (519) 746-4903 Andre Chin & Mike Magna Re/Max Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage Real Estate Brokers & Sales Representatives
Andre Chin, Sales Representative 720 Westmount Road East Kitchener, ON N2E 2M6 Email: andre@kwhomeshop.com http://www.kwhomeshop.com Phone: (519) 741-0950 Fax: (519) 741-0957 Aquarius Home HealthCare Inc. Home Health Care Services
Memory Majoni, Client Service Manager 1718 King Street East Cambridge, ON N3H 3R8 Email: info@aquariushomehealth.com http://www.aquariushomehealth.com Phone: (519) 219-1989
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BMO Nesbitt Burns Investments
Rob Stevenson 20 Erb Street West, 4th floor Marsland Centre Waterloo, ON N2L 1T2 Email: rob.stevenson@nbpcd.com http://www.bmo.com/nesbittburns Phone: (519) 886-3100 Fax: (519) 747-2236 BMO Nesbitt Burns Investments
Ron Eitzen, Investment Advisor 20 Erb Street West, 3rd floor, Marsland Centre Waterloo, ON N2L 1T2 Email: ron.eitzen@nbpcd.com http://www.bmo.com/nesbittburns Phone: (519) 886-3100 Fax: (519) 747-2236 Breadbaron Sandwiches Caterers
Michael Lurz, Owner/Operator 300 King Street East, Upper Level - Kitchener Market Kitchener, ON N2G 2L3 Email: breadbaroninfo@gmail.com Web: http://www.breadbaron.com Phone: (226) 606-3755
BufferBox
Durnin Motors
Information Technology Management
Automobile Dealers
Mike McCauley, Product Manager 151 Charles Street West, Suite 200 Kitchener, ON N2G 1H6 Email: mmccauley@google.com Web: https://www.bufferbox.com Phone: (519) 498-8403
Jeff Durnin, Manager 2131 Kingsway Drive Kitchener, ON N2C 1A1 Email: sales@durninmotors.com http://www.durninmotors.com Phone: (519) 893-6580 Fax: (519) 893-4751
CANGO Consulting Inc. Management Consultants
Floaters
Jonathan Rivard, CEO 585 Peel Street Woodstock, ON N4S 1K6 Email: jon@cangoconsulting.com http://www.cangoconsulting.com Phone: (226) 600-8122
Loans, Payday Loans, Cheque Cashing
Caroline Harvey - Royal LePage Real Estate
Caroline Harvey, Sales Representative 842 Victoria Street North Kitchener, ON N2B 3C1 Email: caroline@teamharvey.ca Web: http://www.teamharvey.ca Phone: (519) 897-9797 Fax: (519) 220-5909 ChefDtv Caterers
Darryl Fletcher, Corporate Chef for KW 941 Pioneer Grove Court Kitchener, ON N2P 0B2 Email: chef@chefdtv.com Web: http://www.chefdtv.com Phone: (416) 272-9010
Terri-Lee Schmidt, Senior Credit Manager Market Square, 25 Frederick Street, Unit 236B Kitchener, ON N2H 6M8 Email: floatersinc@bellnet.ca Phone: (519) 568-8747 Food Naturally Health Foods
Dana Rourke, Owner 141 Whitney Place Kitchener, ON N2G 2X8 Email: dana@foodnaturally.ca Web: http://www.foodnaturally.ca Phone: (519) 590-6525 Four Corners Group Executive Search Consultants
Andrew Norrie, Managing Partner 305 King Street West, Unit 1010 Kitchener, ON N2G 1B9 Email: info@fourcornersgroup.com http://www.fourcornersgroup.com Phone: (519) 224-3437 Fax: (226) 317-0314
City Gas Solutions
Future Edge Technologies
Heating Contractors
IT Security
Wayne Woodworth, Owner 156 Bridge Street East Kitchener, ON N2K 1K2 Email: info@citygassolutions.ca http://www.citygassolutions.ca Phone: (519) 998-4208
Gary Bateman, Owner 98 Glencliffe Court Kitchener, ON N2B 3X1 Email: info@futureedgetech.com http://www.futureedgetech.com Phone: (519) 893-0658 Fax: (866) 244-4096
Don's Upholstery Upholsterers
Don Gonzalez, Owner 87 Peel Street New Hamburg, ON N3A 1E7 Email: donsupholstery@gmail.com Phone: (519) 662-6998
Gateway iQ Communication Services
Mike Pomeroy, Managing Director 1575 Bishop Street North, Unit 1 Cambridge, ON N1R 7J4 Email: info@gatewayiq.com Web: http://gatewayiq.com Phone: (519) 622-3740
new members
December 1, 2013 - January 31, 2014 Gemini Motors
Inkorama
PCM Global Support Services
Automobile Dealers
Digital Imaging, Printing & Photography
Engineers - Consulting
Larry McKnight, President 26 Manitou Drive Kitchener, ON N2C 1L1 mmcknight@geminimotors.com http://www.geminimotors.com Phone: (519) 894-2050 Fax: (519) 893-3331
Yingjie Li, Owner 265 King Street East, Unit 203 Kitchener, ON N2G 4N4 Email: inkorama@rocketmail.com Phone: (226) 972-2058
Peter Newton, Owner/Operator 1692 Fairview Road Cambridge, ON N3H 4M7 Email: pnewton@propertyguys.com http://www.propertyguys.com Phone: (519) 239-6319
Glentel Wireless Solutions
Corey Hundt, Director of MarCom 4082 Perth Line 72 Millbank, ON N0K 1L0 Email: sales@innovativedesigns.ca http://www.innovativedesigns.ca Phone: (519) 698-3883
Steve Nicholson, VP KW Region 508 Claridge Place Waterloo, ON N2T 2N4 Email: snicholson@pcmglobal.com Web: http://www.pcm-global.com Phone: (519) 635-3622 Fax: (519) 742-1303 Pearson Consulting Services
Machine Shops
Energy Consultants & Management
Ron Bender, President 668 Colby Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1A2 Email: rbender@rjbmachining.com http://www.rjbmachining.com Phone: (519) 747-4250 Fax: (519) 747-0156
Telecommunications
Dave Strobel, Territory Account Manager 244 South Service Road, Unit 1 Stoney Creek, ON L8E 2N9 Email: Dave.Strobel@glentel.com http://www.glentelbusiness.com Phone: (905) 512-1673 Fax: (905) 662-4081 Grand Creative Inc. Website Design & Development
Matthew Quinn, Director/Co-Founder 42 Lansdowne Road South Cambridge, ON N1S 2T4 Email: matt@wearegrand.com Web: http://www.wearegrand.com Phone: (416) 977-3831 Greb Tele-Data Ltd. Telecommunications
Ross Greb, President 525 Highland Road West, Unit 10 Kitchener, ON N2M 5P4 Email: rgreb@greb.com Web: http://www.greb.com Phone: (519) 895-1320 Fax: (519) 742-7328 Hunke Construction Construction
Bob Hunke, Owner 1177 Trussler Road Kitchener, ON N2R 1S7 admin@hunkeconstruction.com http://www.hunkeconstruction.com Phone: (519) 745-7495 Fax: (519) 745-0781 Images By Design Photography Photographers
Michael Mueller, Owner 45 Brayshaw Drive Cambridge, ON N1T 2H5 michael@cambridgephotographer.ca http://www.cambridgephotographer.ca Phone: (519) 267-0131 Fax: (416) 453-2580
Innovative Design Marketing Consultants
Investigation Services Ltd/Protect Guard Services
Stephen Pearson, Chief Consultant 293C Bluevale Street North Waterloo, ON N2J 4H6 Email: steve-pearson@outlook.com Phone: (519) 746-6407 Plasticity Labs Inc.
PropertyGuys.com Kitchener/Woolwich Township Real Estate Consultants
RJB Machining Ltd.
Security Guard & Patrol Services
Computer Software
ROI Capital
Roman Bari, Vice President 1139 Industrial Road, Unit 3 Cambridge, ON N3H 4W3
Jim Moss, CEO 151 Charles Street West Kitchener, ON N2G 1H6 Email: jim@plasticitysoft.com http://www.plasticitysoft.com Phone: (855) 496-7575
Financial Services Products
romanbari@investigation-services.ca
http://www.protectsecurity.ca Phone: (519) 650-4600 Fax: (519) 650-4616
Polocorp Inc.
Kool Zone Rentals Ltd.
Land Development Consultants
Refrigerator & Freezer-Rental
Paul Puopolo, President 379 Queen Street South Kitchener, ON N2G 1W6 Email: paul@polocorpinc.com Web: http://www.polocorpinc.com Phone: (519) 745-3249 Fax: (519) 208-3004
Ken Crozier, President 165 Doon Mills Drive Kitchener, ON N2P 2S1 Email: info@koolzonerentals.com http://www.koolzonerentals.com Phone: (866) 943-3675 KW Anodizing Ltd. Anodizing
Ron Bender, President 666 Colby Drive Waterloo, ON N2V 1A2 Email: sales@kwanodizing.com http://www.kwanodizing.com Phone: (519) 747-0002 Fax: (519) 747-0156
Pop-A-Lock Southwestern Ontario Locks & Locksmith
Rob Proctor, President/Owner 40 McBrine Drive Kitchener, ON N2R 1E8 Email: robproctor@popalock.ca http://www.popalockswontario.ca Phone: (519) 894-5625
Mario Mota, VP Sales 37 Front Street, 4th Floor Toronto, ON M5E 1B3 Email: mmota@roicapital.ca Web: http://www.roicapital.ca Phone: (416) 361-6162 Fax: (416) 361-3013 Ronald Hare Photography Photographers
Ronald Hare, Owner 25 Tallwood Drive West Montrose, ON N0B 2V0 Email: hare@golden.net Web: http://www.ronaldhare.com Phone: (519) 669-9999 School of Rock KitchenerWaterloo Music Instruction Instrumental
Cynthia Sundberg, President 78 Francis Street North Kitchener, ON N2H 5B5 Email: csundberg@schoolofrock.com http://www.kw.schoolofrock.com Phone: (519) 576-7625
MyLocal Inc.
Proof Kitchen & Lounge
Internet & Technology Products & Service
Restaurants
Slide Communications
Thusenth Dhavaloganathan, Owner 151 Charles Street West, Suite 100 Kitchener, ON N2G 1H6 Email: thusenth@thelocalapp.ca Web: http://www.thelocalapp.ca Phone: (519) 212-3463
Laura Umbrio, General Manager 110 Erb Street West Waterloo, ON N2L 1T5 Email: laura.unbrio@outlook.com
Communication Services
Eva Andrews, Partner-Client Service 27 William Street Paris, ON N3L 1K9 Email: eva@slide.ca Web: http://www.slide.ca Phone: (519) 302-2700
advocate MARCH | APRIL 2014
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new members
December 1, 2013 - January 31, 2014 Squeaky Wheel Communications Inc Labour Organizations
Karen Gordon, Principle 165 Bathgate Drive Scarborough, ON M1C 1T4 Email: letstalk@squeakywheel.biz Web: http://www.squeakywheel.biz Phone: (416) 699-1624 Fax: (416) 699-8473
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The Flight Centre
Total Advantage Program
Your People Group
Travel Agencies
Financial Services Products
Human Resource Consultants
Heather Boyd, Business Development Manager 94 Bridgeport Road East, Unit 135 Waterloo, ON N2J 2J9 Email: heather.boyd@flightcentre.ca Web: http://www.flightcentre.ca Phone: (519) 342-6391
Bill Cooke, Program Director 70 Victoria Street North Kitchener, ON N2H 5C2 Email: bill.cooke@trusthouse.ca http://www.totaladvantageprogram.ca Phone: (855) 207-2700
Mike Pomeroy, Founder 69 Easson Street Stratford, ON N5A 1N1 mpomeroy@yourpeoplegroup.com
Interior Design Services
Stecho
The Westhill by Sifton Retirement Residence
Electrical Contractors
Retirement Communities & Homes
Steve Stecho, General Manager 100 Rankin Street, Unit 8 Waterloo, ON N2V 1V9 Email: steves@stecho.ca Phone: (519) 745-0047 Fax: (519) 746-4215
Donald Leslie, General Manager 25 Westhill Drive Waterloo, ON N2T 0B6 Email: info@westhill.sifton.com http://www.westhill.sifton.com Phone: (519) 725-0555 Fax: (519) 725-9115
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Vindak Nikki Foster, Owner 1323 Queen Street, Unit 121 New Dundee, ON N0B 2E0 Email: info@vindak.ca Web: http://www.vindak.ca Phone: (226) 338-1039
http://www.yourpeoplegroup.wordpress.com
Phone: (519) 274-5546
cover story
Business Issues will be Prominent in Provincial Vote BY MIKE DEARDEN sustainable without significant growth in the private sector. All signs point to a spring provincial election in Ontario. The Growth requires many ingredients some of which are land, access minority Liberal government has survived well past the date many to capital, people who can and will do the jobs created and thought it would due to the support of the NDP. While the PCs supportive government. Governments often work at cross have been angling for an election for months it now appears for purposes - purporting on one hand to be pro- growth but then reasons of their own both the Liberals and NDP have decided the implementing policies that restrict and time is right for them as well. Likely to limit key ingredients for economic be triggered by the defeat of a spring expansion. Budget a provincial election might only There are enough challenges and change that arise every day that business people do be postponed if the results of the two In Waterloo Region we are blessed with recently called by-elections are not want activist governments introducing a diverse and balanced economy. particularly bad for the Liberals or new rules, regulations and expensive Nurtured and built by the private and NDP. programs. public sectors working together our sense of community remains our So what is the business community competitive advantage. Remaining strong concerned about as we consider the and prosperous is a work in progress and the Chamber has made opportunity to elect a new government at Queens Park? At the risk clear it views the ability of governments to continue to pay for of painting some broad strokes about the business community as if critical services is dependent on everyone working together to it is monolithic in its views here are my thoughts. retain and attract business. The decision by Maple Leaf to close Business wants certainty. There are enough challenges and change the Schneider plant exposed a weakness in our excess of local that arise every day that business people do not want activist governments but it has been a catalyst for better co-ordination of governments introducing new rules, regulations and expensive economic development in the region and that is a good thing. programs. Many businesses still recovering from the recession are Two particular issues that need to be dealt with by the new now facing a falling Canadian dollar and shifting of market focus provincial government are municipal tendering and arbitrated as China cools and America heats up. Business people I talk to say public sector compensation. The need to ensure the most open they would like government, all governments, to focus on better and fair process possible in the managing their budgets and tendering of government contracts is a responsibilities and leave them alone so winner for taxpayers and business. they can focus on their business. The private sector, both business and individuals, have seen too many examples of Limiting competitive bidding by giving Many in business wonder if government mismanagement and incompetence over the special preference to union shops drives really understands what the recession up costs and limits growth opportunities meant. Every day business must find last few years including e-health, Ornge, gas for many small and medium size local ways to deliver their products and plants and electricity to believe government businesses. Arbitrators’ awards that services better for less. Government can successfully deliver major new ignore the ability of the government to comes at challenges from a different initiatives. pay must be replaced by system that perspective. Government looks for ways reflects the reality of the times. The to trim a few points off the annual Greater K-W Chamber has spoken out inevitable increase in price and taxes while reducing service. on behalf of the business community on both of these issues and will continue to do so. Public sector compensation is beyond the understanding of many small to medium size businesses. The idea that you get an So in this coming provincial election what is the business automatic raise just because a new year has arrived with no community looking for? Perhaps the best place to start would be comensary rise in productivity is foreign to independent business with the common medical saying “to do no harm�. Any political owners. The ever rising cost of government is simply not
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cover story
As we head into what appears likely Party proposing major new programs and The broader role of the province in to be a spring election provincially spending is likely to be dismissed. The delivering health care and education should many in the business community are private sector, both business and asking politicians to set aside grand individuals, have seen too many examples of focus on getting the big picture right while containing costs and finding system wide vote buying promises that always mismanagement and incompetence over underperform and over cost and the last few years including e-health, efficiencies. Leave outputs to the local instead focus on better managing the Ornge, gas plants and electricity to believe community. important responsibilities they government can successfully deliver major already have. If government could new initiatives. Likewise any Party just fix the glaring problems and start to get costs in line with promising to lower all your taxes while simultaneously improving reality most business people would be happy and frankly surprised. government services are seen as at best naive. Provincial government is responsible for our most fundamental services. Health care and education are foundation pieces in any successful society. After years of effort by a wide range of community partners we have improved medical services and the Chamber- led physician recruitment program is closing the doctor shortage gap. The administrative costs of health care delivery, locally, regionally and provincially need to be lower and our local technology sector should assist. There are innovative solutions to better patient information sharing being developed here and we can do more in this regard. The importance of world class education is demonstrated more clearly here in Waterloo Region than in any other area in the province. Does anyone believe we would be the community we are today without Conestoga College, the U of W and WLU? These first class schools provide us with the new ideas and multiple skills sets we need to grow our diverse economy. Better co-ordination between business and educational institutions can ensure students graduate into jobs and the community continues to thrive. The broader role of the province in delivering health care and education should focus on getting the big picture right while containing costs and finding system wide efficiencies. Leave outputs to the local community.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mike Dearden Mike established Dearden and Associates Inc., a government relations and communications consulting company in 1996. D&A represents domestic and foreign based clients to governments across Canada and specializes in managing complex multistakeholder issues that often include more than one level of government as well as private sector and community interests.
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events
Mark Your Calendar March 7, 2014
March 18, 2014
International Women’s Day Breakfast
Provincial Leaders Series: Premier Kathleen Wynne
7:30-9:00am at St. George’s Banquet Hall Member: $30 General Admission: $35
11:30am-1:30pm at Waterloo Inn Conference Hotel Member: $40 General Admission: $50
Join us in recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of women in our community and around the world. Our keynote speaker is Marci Ien, CTV’s Canada AM Co-Host.
Join us for the final event in the Provincial Leaders Series as we host Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne.
Title Sponsor: Event Sponsor:
Title Sponsor: Gold Sponsor:
Media Sponsors:
March 20, 2014 March 7, 2014 Manulife Chamber Academy – Leadership: Developing Leaders at Every Level 8:00-9:30am at Holiday Inn Express Waterloo-St. Jacobs Member: $20 General Admission: $25 Title Sponsor:
Second Foundation Chamber Young Professionals Networking Event 5:30-7:30pm at The Bauer Kitchen Members: $5 General Admission: $10 You are invited to join us to develop key relationships, build your business network and connect with other young professionals and business leaders at this casual networking event.
March 18, 2014 Manulife Chamber Academy – Employee Development: Increasing Results Without Spending More 8:00-9:30am at Holiday Inn Express Waterloo-St. Jacobs Member: $20 General Admission: $25 Title Sponsor:
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Title Sponsor:
events
March 27, 2014
April 8, 2014
Stantec Networking Breakfast Series presents Big Tourism and Small Business
Manulife Chamber Academy – Modern Selling: Presentation Skills
7:15-9:00am at Holiday Inn Kitchener-Waterloo Member: $28 General Admission: $40
8:00-9:30am at Holiday Inn Express Waterloo-St. Jacobs Member: $20 General Admission: $25
Join us to hear from a panel of local organizations that bring in thousands of potential customers to the Region annually, learn how you, as a small business, can benefit from this!
Title Sponsor:
April 2014 Title Sponsor: Media Sponsor:
April 8, 2014 Home Hardware Business After 5 5:00-7:00pm Hosted by Calla Studio Member: Complimentary General Admission: $10 Does networking intimidate you or do you thrive on meeting new people? Come out to this casual bi-monthly event with friendly faces and easy conversation that provides an opportunity for B2B networking. Title Sponsor:
Second Foundation Chamber Young Professionals Networking Event 5:30-7:30pm Location: TBA Members: $5 General Admission: $10 You are invited to join us to develop key relationships, build your business network and connect with other young professionals and business leaders at this casual networking event. Title Sponsor:
April 29, 2014 Manulife Chamber Academy – Twitter: How Business and Leisure Can Equal Growth 8:00-9:30am at Holiday Inn Express Waterloo-St. Jacobs Member: $20 General Admission: $25
Media Sponsor: Title Sponsor: Host Sponsor:
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feature
Murray Gamble Awarded 2014 Barnraiser Award Local business and community leader Murray Gamble is the 2014 recipient of the Waterloo Region Record Barnraiser Award. Mr. Gamble is president of the C3 Group of Companies, a Woolwich Township-based engineering and technology firm that has established a major presence both domestically and internationally. Murray and his business partner Cameron Wood have founded and grown a series of successful technology firms and maintain active networks in the corporate and academic sectors. Murray is past Chairman of the Innovators Alliance, a not-forprofit networking organization for the Presidents and CEOs of Ontario’s fastest growing companies, and has served as a technical advisor to the Ontario Centres of Excellence. He is a tireless advocate for the Waterloo Region arts and culture sectors, having served on the boards of the Centre in the Square and Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery, and was a vital organizer for the launch of the Creative Enterprise Initiative. His other volunteer activities include Junior Achievement, Family and Children’s Services, Habitat for Humanity, the House of Friendship, the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, and the Salvation Army.
Along with these many contributions, Murray has been a strong supporter of local health care delivery and has recognized the importance of family doctors for attracting both employers and highly skilled talent to Waterloo Region. The C3 Group provides financial assistance to our Chamber’s Healthcare Resources Council to ensure that the local community receives optimal primary and specialist care. In a speech to the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce in September of 2006, former University of Waterloo President and current Governor General David Johnston first outlined his ten goals to make Waterloo Region the Knowledge Capital of Canada. Subsequent Chamber events were held in 2007 and 2010 where then-president Johnston outlined the region’s progress in meeting these objectives. Goal number ten was to celebrate leadership, which served as the genesis for the Waterloo Region Record Barnraiser Award first presented in 2009 to Tim Jackson. A central component of this leadership award is recognizing exceptional individuals who contribute to the local tradition of inspiring collective and collaborative achievement similar to community barn raisings during Waterloo Region’s earliest settlement era. Congratulations to Murray on this prestigious distinction.
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feature
Bill 73 and Fair Tendering BY MICHAEL HARRIS On Thursday, September 19, 2013, I watched with disbelief during the vote on my private member’s bill, Bill 73, the Fair and Open Tendering Act. After winning the support of unionized contractors, construction companies and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, I had hoped that this important legislative reform would have been approved in principle by the Legislature and sent to committee for further study. Over the last few months, I have received many calls from concerned councillors, contractors, and constituents, asking how such an important bill could be defeated, especially when it was endorsed by the City of Kitchener, the City of Waterloo and the Region of Waterloo. The amendments I proposed to Ontario’s Labour Relations Act were straightforward. If passed, Bill 73 would have reinstated the rights of thousands of qualified contractors and trades people who have been unfairly barred from working on bridges, watertreatment facilities and public buildings in cities like Hamilton, Kitchener, Toronto and Sault Ste. Marie, simply because they don’t hold the right union card or have chosen not to hold one at all. It would have also saved Ontario taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars every year by preserving and restoring the ability of municipalities and school boards to openly tender contracts for infrastructure projects to any construction company that meets their prequalification requirements. The defeat of these reforms, unfortunately, means the status quo will continue and thereby leave the Region of Waterloo with a great deal of uncertainty as it fights to keep its ability to get the best value for taxpayers. As many know, the Region has appealed a certification bid filed with the Ontario Labour Relations Board by two regional employees who chose to leave the Canadian Union of Public Employees to instead join the Carpenters’ Union after building a prefabricated shed in Baden on a Saturday in December of 2012.
For some perspective, consider this example. Since December 2009, 27 companies have pre-qualified to bid on $140 million worth of regional water and wastewater infrastructure work. If the Region is certified, that number would drop to just two. With little to no competition, we all know prices only go in one direction – up. Just ask the City of Hamilton. The first wastewater project tendered after the city was certified by the Carpenters’ Union came in 83% over budget – or $24 million more than expected. To prevent this situation from occurring in our community, we must stop the Region of Waterloo from becoming trapped in a collective-bargaining regime designed and only intended for the private sector. We all know that municipalities and school boards are not trying to make a profit like a business in the construction industry. Instead, they’re trying to provide quality roads, bridges and buildings at the best possible value for taxpayers. In Ontario, however, our labour laws do not make this distinction clear. There’s no bright line distinguishing who is and who is not a construction employer and thereby subject to the construction rules under Ontario’s labour laws. My bill would have fixed this problem by adding a clear definition to the Labour Relations Act to clarify that municipalities and school boards are not construction employers. And it would have made this change while protecting the right of workers to collectively bargain with their employer under the same rules that apply to every other organization or business in Ontario outside of the construction industry. Unfortunately, the NDP and the Liberals have chosen to defend the status quo at the cost of denying thousands of workers of their rights and straining municipal budgets with the inevitable result of either higher taxes or less infrastructure.
Under Ontario’s labour laws, they were able to submit this application because they constituted the majority of workers on the jobsite that day. The problem is they’ve applied to be covered under a provincewide collective-bargaining agreement that’s been negotiated by contractors and unions for construction companies. This agreement also restricts contracted work only to companies affiliated with a particular union. That’s a big problem for our community. The result will be a labour monopoly that will drive up costs for taxpayers and prevent 70% of contractors from working on public projects.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michael Harris Michael is MPP, Kitchener-Conestoga, and was elected to the Legislature in October 2011. He is currently Progressive Conservative Caucus Environment Critic.
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sponsor profile
Laying the Foundation for a New Level of Success BY DAVID POPOWICH It’s been 20 years, but it seems like only yesterday. In 1994, having spent 12 years as an auditor with an international accounting firm, I walked away to start a one-man software integration business, Second Foundation. Today, with over 60 staff members in our Kitchener and Erie, Pennsylvania offices, the excitement is still there, because our business is not just about software sales - we’re focussed on solutions. When Second Foundation began, the main emphasis of the company was accounting. Today, we provide enterprise resource planning and accounting systems for supply chain management, manufacturing, financial management, personnel and executive reporting. While our clients come from a wide variety of industries, they generally fall into one of three categories: (1) Companies upgrading the hardware for a system that is seven to 10 years old, and understand that technology has evolved, who count on Second Foundation to help them realize their goals.
(3) Clients who take a close look at their operation and realize they need to become more efficient.
The Second Foundation Philosophy Since the beginning, the growth of Second Foundation and our clients has been driven by a very simple philosophy: “The first foundation of your business is the processes, products and people already in place that have allowed your company to reach your current level of success. The second foundation is what we provide - the building blocks to compliment your existing infrastructure, solutions that streamline processes and maximize efficiencies, all with the end goal of helping to propel your business to the next level of success.”
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When a prospect contacts Second Foundation, we recognize the knowledge they’ve gained through their research, and make them part of the “discovery” process. We begin with a vision and strategy session. Facilitated by Second Foundation’s team of experts, and drawing input from the organization’s senior management, we build a short and long term strategic plan as it relates to technology. This includes getting the most out of what the company already has in-house.
We want our team to ask themselves, “If I was the owner of that company, what would I do if I was in their shoes?”
(2) Growing companies who are looking to acquire systems for a variety of reasons; new locations, additional payroll requirements, or even handling of foreign currencies.
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The first step in determining the right solution for any client is to provide the information they need to make a proper buying decision. But that’s not always easy these days. In the past, prospects would contact a number of vendors to find out what software was available. Today however, they do the majority of the research online, and then short-list the vendors.
Sometimes we discover that they don’t need a new piece of software at all - they need a systems change. More often than not however, new software suited to their specific need is the answer.
A client’s “specific need” is a key consideration, as we could have two companies buy the exact same software, but with very different applications. Another important factor is choice. We decided early on that Second Foundation would not carry one package only. Rather than attempting to shoe-horn clients into a single software package, we work with trusted partners like Microsoft, Epicor and Sage to offer multiple solutions. Routinely, we will present a live demonstration session like the one attended by 65 people in January 2014. The Second Foundation team of experts brought in three different software packages to show attendees how each would react to different situations - so they could determine which would work best for their company. We want people to understand the pros and cons of the system they’re considering, with special emphasis on the cons. We don’t want an unhappy client because we misinterpreted an objective, or you discover later that the software won’t do what you want it to do.
sponsor profile
At Second Foundation, we understand that software integration is about more than getting your systems working properly. It’s about getting your people working properly, and efficiently.
Our People Make The Difference I’m extremely proud of the Second Foundation team. Our multidisciplinary team consists of chartered accountants, business consultants, project managers, certified developers and technical experts, specially trained in specific industries. We recognize and focus on each individual’s “behavioural” strengths - be it visionary, analytical or doer - to better match a client with the appropriate staff member. We want our team to ask themselves, “If I was the owner of that company, what would I do if I was in their shoes?” For example, if the economy is strong, a company may have money available for new software, but not necessarily the time for integration. Whereas if the economy is weak, companies may not have the money for new software, but understand they need to find efficiencies in their operations. Of course our staff will point out that you can save money by spending money. But that’s why I also insist that they ask themselves, “If it was my money, would I spend it?” I firmly believe that you can’t sell anything without first appreciating the consequences, both good and bad. And perhaps Second Foundation is best known for the unmatched level of support we provide our clients. It may cost us more to care more, but we have happy clients.
connect with other young professionals and business leaders. We recognize the value of having young professionals get together socially to learn and ask questions about various topics, and then spend time networking. They are after all, the future of business in Waterloo Region. Second Foundation joined the Chamber to be part of a bigger community. Chamber membership has given us the opportunity to network - to share and gain from the expertise of others. But the greatest benefit of membership has been our increased visibility here at home. It wasn’t surprising that for years, we had a higher profile in Western Canada and the United States than in Waterloo Region. No matter what the industry, there will always be companies who establish their business in a particular region because of available expertise, yet look outside that same region for needed goods and services. But with the help of the Chamber, attitudes have changed in Waterloo Region, and we are sharing in each other’s success. Yes, Second Foundation is exploring growth opportunities across North America, but our primary focus is to strengthen our local client base. Waterloo Region is our home. This is our foundation. We wouldn’t want to be anyplace else. Second Foundation 45 Washburn Drive, Unit A, Kitchener, Ontario, N2R 1S1 (O): 519.885.2040 | (F): 519.748.0880 www.second-foundation.com
Committed To Our Community Second Foundation is proud to support several initiatives across the region, including Junior Achievement, The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Communitech and Juvenile Diabetes.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
As long-time members and supporters of The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, Second Foundation jumped at the chance to sponsor the Chamber Young Professionals Networking Events. They allow business people under 40 years of age to develop key relationships, build their business contacts and
David Popowich is founder and president of Second Foundation, a self-proclaimed entrepreneurial Chartered Accountant, and proud member of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
David Popowich
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full page ad
member notables
MEMBER NOTABLES Tim Jackson Accepts New Position Tim Jackson is leaving his position as Vice President, University Relations at the University of Waterloo to assume a new capacity with the Centre for Impact Investing in Toronto’s MaRS Discovery District. Mr. Jackson has compiled an impressive record of public service through both the university and many volunteer positions at local non-profit organizations. He was the inaugural recipient of the Waterloo Region Record Barnraiser Award in 2009 and received the 2012 Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce Michael R. Follett Community Leadership Award. Our Chamber extends sincere best wishes to Mr. Jackson on assuming his new position.
University of Guelph Announces 2013 Co-op Award Winners The University of Guelph Co-op Student of the Year Award recognizes excellence in a wide variety of student achievements including job and academic performance with contributions to their employer, co-operative education, and the community at large. Winners for 2013 are: • Adelaide Manley in Commerce & Social and Applied Human Science; • Lauren Patrick in Science & Engineering; • Yosra Mohamed was the recipient of the Collin Cureatz Memorial Award for Co-op Student Involvement; • Mikutech Inc. received the 2013 Co-op Employer of the Year. For more information on the awards or hiring a co-op student, visit www.recruitguelph.ca.
Zehrs introduces In-Store Dietitian Program Zehrs Markets aim to empower Canadian families to make healthier choices and provide them with support on their journey to a healthy lifestyle. One of the ways they support their customers is an In-Store Dietitian program. A local Zehrs Dietitian is available for complimentary guidance on healthy eating. Some of the services provided include: • Grocery Store Tours – hands-on nutrition education with consumers throughout the store; • Personalized Nutrition Check-ups - one-on-one counseling with a dietitian; • Nutrition Q & A – ask your nutrition questions in-person, by phone or email. To find out when an in-store dietitian is available, visit the pharmacy or customer service in a Zehrs Market store. Schedules are also available on the Zehrs store websites, www.zehrs.ca.
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member notables
MEMBER NOTABLES Former Conestoga Dean Recognized by CGA Ontario Frank Mensink, retired executive dean of Conestoga College’s School of Business and Hospitality, was recently awarded a Life Membership by the Certified General Accountants (CGA) of Ontario. Mr. Mensink was recognized for his lifetime contributions to CGA Ontario, including chair of their Board of Governors in 2010-11 along with a commitment to building a relationship with the college. Frank commenced his teaching career at Conestoga in 1984 in business administration and accounting, and served as a volunteer committee member at the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations are extended on this prestigious distinction.
Local Food Processor Secures Ontario Government Support Woolwich Township-based Conestoga Meat Packers recently received $1.5 million from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund to increase their plant capacity by approximately one-third. Conestoga is owned and supplied by a co-operative of 120 southern Ontario hog farms. The provincial funding will assist with the creation of 100 new jobs and retaining 425 existing positions through new cooler space and refrigeration equipment. Company President Arnold Drung indicated in a provincial news release that the funding will allow Conestoga to invest in the latest technologies for providing high quality and nutritious Ontario grown pork to customers around the world.
Region of Waterloo Announces New Manager of Economic Development Ron Gaudet has been appointed the new Manager of Economic Development at the Region of Waterloo. His initial responsibilities include the coordination and creation of the Region’s first economic development strategy and the implementation of a new Economic Development Corporation. Mr. Gaudet’s past positions include President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Moncton Economic Commission, Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor-Essex Economic Development Corporation and Special Advisor to the President at the University of Windsor. Our Chamber welcomes Mr. Gaudet to the community and looks forward to working with him on new opportunities.
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Helping Us Make Our Vision Possible A special Thank You to each of these Chamber Sponsors.
CHAMBER CHAIR’S CIRCLE
CHAMBER PATRON
TITLE SPONSOR
CHAMBER TRUSTEE
MEDIA PARTNERS 30
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