BC 500 2025

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS LEADERS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

Proud to be recognized.

Dentons congratulates this year’s Top 500 BC Business Leaders — including our own Scott Wilson, Managing Partner, and John Sandrelli

As Canada’s Global Law Firm, we’re proud to support leaders shaping the future of business in BC and beyond. At Dentons Vancouver, clients benefit from deep experience across nine practice areas — including one of the country’s largest real estate teams, BC’s leading insolvency group, a dynamic corporate advisory and transactions team, a trusted employment and labour group helping businesses navigate evolving workplace trends, and a skilled litigation and risk management group guiding clients through complex disputes.

Rooted in Vancouver and connected worldwide, Dentons delivers seamless, cross-practice solutions with global reach and local insight

PUBLISHER: Lara Graham

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Hayley Woodin Hastings

VICE-PRESIDENT, SALES: Alvin Chow

DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS: Marianne LaRochelle

MANAGING EDITOR: Tyler Orton

DESIGNER: Petra Kaksonen

BIV EDITORIAL: Adam Campbell, Tiffany Chu, Jeremy Hainsworth, Mike Howell, Glen Korstrom, Stefan Labbé, Jami Makan, Graeme Wood AD SALES: Leanne Chapman, Sam Gray, Tanya Kalra, Pariya Tari, Michelle Van Der Westhuizen

PROJECT COORDINATOR: Eva Shumiatcher

EDITORIAL INTERNS: Penny Ni Xue, Rahat Sandhu, Clarkson Zhong

BC500 is published by

Business in Vancouver, a division of Lodestar Media. 303 West 5th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1J6 604‑688‑2398 biv.com

Copyright 2025 Business in Vancouver. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or incorporated into any information retrieval system without permission of BIV. BIV is not responsible in whole or in part for any errors or omissions in this publication. ISSN 1205 5662

Publications Mail Agreement No.: 40069240. Registration No.: 8876. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: BIV Circulation Department: 303 West 5th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1J6 subscribe@biv.com

Cover photo: IStock/Aolin Chen

ABOUT BC500

BC500 features influential leaders who have had a notable impact on British Columbia’s communities, industries and economy. They are visionaries, innovators, connectors and trailblazers. They embody the values of modern leadership, including engagement, trust, corporate citizenship and inclusion. Some of these leaders are household names; others are well-known by their peers and within their respective industries. All of them influence life and business in British Columbia.

NEW IN 2025

SECTOR TAGS

On each profile in this year's magazine, you'll see sector tags that were self-selected by the hundreds of leaders who submitted information to our team. In some cases, tags were also added. The sectors represented are broad, and intended to offer an at-a-glance overview of the areas of our economy to which an individual contributes. Leaders are listed by these categories at the back of the book.

AWARDS

Where possible, we have taken steps to acknowledge which leaders featured in this year's publication have been recognized by BIV in the past. Recipients with an awards badge have previously received a Forty under 40 Award, an Influential Women in Business Award or one of our C-Suite Awards (such as BC CEO, BC CFO, BC CTO and BC CIO). In select cases, a few leaders have received two or three of these awards.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

On behalf of the entire team at BIV, I’m proud to introduce the fourth edition of BC500

This publication remains one of our most ambitious annual editorial undertakings — a project we approach with pride, care, and a deep sense of responsibility. BC500 is designed to spotlight individuals whose leadership and influence shape the direction of British Columbia’s economy, industries, and communities.

As this marks my first year as Publisher at BIV, this edition holds particular significance. It’s been inspiring to see firsthand the dedication of our editorial and sales teams,

and the collaborative effort behind producing a publication of this scale and quality.

This year’s edition reflects our continued commitment to showcasing a wide spectrum of impact — across business, community, innovation, and beyond. While the format and structure have evolved, the core mission remains the same: to recognize and celebrate those driving meaningful change in our province.

Thank you to our editorial, sales, and design teams for their tireless work, and to the advertisers whose support makes this possible.

We appreciate your readership and your continued support of BIV.

Lara Graham Publisher, BIV

THE FUTURE IS YOURS FOR THE MAKING.

As one of BC’s largest post-secondary institutes, BCIT delivers relevant and future-proof education that prepares students to lead innovation in the workplace and in communities. We are here to partner with you to bring new perspectives and workforce solutions to your business.

EDUCATION FOR A COMPLEX WORLD.

BCIT Electrical Engineering grads such as Aileen Maynard, employed by Hedgehog Technologies, supports the Tll Yahda Energy solar array project—a Haida-led initiative located in Masset, Haida Gwaii.

WELCOME TO BC500

On behalf of the team at BIV, we are proud to present the fourth issue of BC500, available in print and digital formats. This publication represents a massive editorial effort, months of research and consultation, and months of work right up until press time to ensure the profiles of the 500 people included this year are up to date and accurate. Since our first edition in 2021, this project has evolved, and this edition is no different.

Each time we’ve undertaken this publication, we set out to create an accurate and thought-provoking portrait of influence in our province — a snapshot of the mostprominent leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and advisers at a particular moment in time.

This isn’t a ranking, nor is it a complete picture of influence, or a mirror image of the demographics and diversity that give our province strength. Influence, after all, is subjective, and it ebbs and flows. Who wields power, the impact they can have and the decisions they make against an ever-changing backdrop of economic uncertainty, is evolving. This is a serious attempt to highlight individuals who have an impact in their respective roles and organizations — and beyond them — at the time of publication.

With your input, we look forward to refining and revising this publication in the years ahead, so that it is accurate, and so that the individuals featured in it can continue to be proud of their inclusion.

Our thanks goes to those who were involved in the creation of this publication, and to the hundreds of individuals who submitted content to inform the profiles on the pages ahead. The fourth edition of BC500 builds on our first three lists, and remains an editorially driven initiative.

Avid readers will notice the structure of this version differs significantly from previous iterations. In past years, this book began with sectors of B.C.’s economy, broken down into nearly 70 industry categories. We then sought to identify and select on average six leaders per category — the number we could fit on a page — with certain areas expanded to highlight as many as 18 leaders.

This year, we focused first on individuals who deserved to be included, regardless of whether their impact and influence fit neatly into a single category. As in past years, we identified prominent companies, organizations and individuals who are leaders in business, and, critically, have

an impact — individually or organizationally — beyond the scope of their role. We took steps to find and include leaders whose influence transcends categories — individuals who engage in community, volunteerism, philanthropy, politics, investment or other areas, beyond day-to-day business or organizational activities.

The magazine is divided into 14 aspects of influence, with leaders organized by one area where they excel and have outsized impact and success. Leaders are also listed alphabetically by first name and by company at the start of the publication, and by self-selected industry categories at the back of the book.

To compile BC500, our team considers a broad range of factors, such as achievement within an organization or sector, professional contributions, peer recognition, awards, board and volunteer appointments, community and political engagement, philanthropy and non-profit work, and more. Politicians who currently hold elected office are excluded — as they no doubt have great capacity to influence life and business in our province — with the exception of elected Indigenous leaders, many of whom are directly responsible for economic development initiatives and the management of corporate and business entities. Those running for federal office when we began working on this magazine, or those who have stated their intentions to run in an upcoming election, are also not in these pages. Finally, there are a select few individuals who asked to be excluded.

Individuals cannot be nominated to the list, but we always welcome feedback and suggestions. We're aware that some individuals may have moved out of province, changed roles or retired since we began production on this issue; it's also likely that highly influential leaders have moved to the province, or were not on our radar this year, and were missed. If you are reading this publication, it means you're in a position to help us identify who ought to be considered for our fifth anniversary issue, in 2026.

Thank you for reading, and for supporting BIV.

Hayley Woodin Hastings Editor-in-Chief, BIV

The Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower is scheduled to open in February 2026 and will serve even more British Columbians in their greatest time of need.

BC500 BY NAME

AARON STONE 118

ABI COMAN-WALKER 40

AJAY DILAWRI 98

ALAN COSGRAVE 22

ALAN DAVIS 83

ALAN WINTER 26

ALEXANDER BIKKERS 47

ALEXANDRA GREENHILL 76

ALEX MACLENNAN 109

ALEX MEIER 124

ALI ARDAKANI 75

ALLAN SECKEL 112

ALLEN EAVES 76

AMAR DOMAN 62

AMIR NASRABADI 57

AMY LANG 55

ANDREA CARLSON 120

ANDREW KEMP 122

ANDREW REID 80

ANDY YAN 87

ANGELA CHAPMAN 70

ANGELA ELSTER 54

ANGUS ENGLISH 121

ANGUS REID 102

ANNA SAINSBURY 80

ANNE MCMULLIN 31

ANNE NASER 110

ANTHONY VON MANDL 104

ARJAN STEPHENS 103

ARMIN AMROLIA 39

ASHLEIGH BROWN 47

ASHLEY COOPER 89

AZIM JAMAL 90

BARBARA BRINK 98

BARRY RIVELIS 35

BELINDA TREMBATH 59

BEN CAMPBELL 115

BENOIT-ANTOINE BACON 83

CARLA

CARL

CAROLE

CAROLINE

MCLEOD-SELTZER 93

CATHY MACKAY 124

CATHY THORPE 95

CELESTE HALDANE 107

CHAD KROEGER 55

CHERYL CASIMER 106

CHERYL NAKAMOTO 49

CHIP WILSON 104

CHRIS GARDNER 29

CHRIS O'RILEY 110

CHRIS REID 80

CHRISTA-LEE MCWATTERS 65

CHRISTIAN CHIA 89

CHRISTINA ANTHONY 69

CHRISTINE BERGERON 128

CHRISTINE COLETTA 61

CHRISTINE SINCLAIR 58

CHUCK KEELING 55

CHUCK WE 131

CINDY LEE 101

CLARENCE LOUIE 101

CLAUDE LETOURNEAU 78

CLIFFORD PROUDFOOT 24

CLINT MAHLMAN 43

CLIVE JOHNSON 91

COLE SAYERS 36

COLIN BOSA 128

COLIN CHAPDELAINE 61

CRYSTAL SMITH 118

CYBELE NEGRIS 80

CYNTHIA JAGGER 122

DALE BOSA 128

DANIEL FRANKEL 121

DANIEL FRIEDMANN 76

DANIEL SITNAM 50

LOPEZ

PINKERTON

ERNIE DANIELS 116

ETHAN FABER 83

ÉTIENNE BRUSON 21

EVA CLAYTON 39

EVAN ALLEGRETTO 128

EVI MUSTEL 85

FAZIL MIHLAR 110

FIONA DALTON 40

FIONA FAMULAK 28

FRANCESCO AQUILINI 89

FRANK GIUSTRA 100

FRED LEE 42

GARY MACISAAC 31

GARY POONI 43

GARY SEGAL 103

GEENA JACKSON 117

GEMMA MARTINI 56

GEOFF MEGGS 23

GEORGE PALEOLOGOU 66

GERRI SINCLAIR 81

GIGI CHEN-KUO 120

GLEN CLARK 106

GORDON DOYLE 107

GORDON FYFE 70

GORDON MCCAULEY 79

GRAHAM CLARKE 48

GREG MCDOUGALL 64

GREGORY LOUIE 91

GWENDOLYN POINT 43

HAIG FARRIS 99

KEITH IPPEL 63

KELLY EDMISON 62

KEN CRETNEY 106

KEVIN BRENNAN 21

KEVIN HALL 84

KEVIN MCCORT 72

KEVIN PARKES 111

KEVIN QUINN 50

KHELSILEM 130

KIM BAIRD 115

KIM HAAKSTAD 29

KIRK KUESTER 123

KIRSTEN KOPPANG TELFORD 71

KLEO LANDUCCI 49

KORY WILSON 37

KRISTINE SIMPSON 25

KRISTY JAMES 71

KYLE WASHINGTON 113

LAURA JONES 30

LAURA NASHMAN 72

LAUREL DOUGLAS 116

LENNARD JOE 35

LILLIAN TUMMONDS 125

LINDSAY KISLOCK 30

LISA HELPS 108

LISA SPARROW 94

LISA WOLVERTON 73

LIZ SHORTEN 58

LOC DAO 41

LOIS NAHIRNEY 79

LORI MATHISON 109

LORING PHINNEY 73

LORNE SEGAL 73

LORRAINE CUNNINGHAM 48

LYNDA BROWN-GANZERT 75

LYNN STEVENSON 44

MANNY JULES 108

MARIA PACELLA 66

MARILYN SLETT 36

MARK GOODMAN 121

MARK HICKEN 29

MARK JACCARD 108

MARK KREMIN 108

MARK MELVILLE 85

MARKO DEKOVIC 48

MARKUS FRIND 62

MARK ZACHARIAS 37

MARSHA WALDEN 59

MARTIN JOBKE 122

MARTIN THIBODEAU 94

MATT HENDRICK 122

MATTHEW CICCI 22

MEERU DHALWALA 121

MEGAN OWEN-EVANS 50

MERLE ALEXANDER 21

MERRAN SMITH 36

MICHAEL AUDAIN 98

MICHAEL BALLINGALL 53

MICHAEL BONSHOR

REHANA

RICHARD

RICH

RICK

ROBERT

ROBERT JOSEPH

ROBERT MACKIE 78

ROBERTO AQUILINI 89

ROBERT WHITNEY 118

ROBIN DHIR 41

ROBIN SMITH 25

ROBYN CHISHOLM 70

ROGER DALL'ANTONIA 106

ROGER HARDY 63

RON TOIGO 59

RON WILSON 96

ROSS BEATY 98

ROYCE CHWIN 53

RYAN BEEDIE 69

RYAN BENN 83

RYAN BOSA 128

RYAN D'ARCY 75

RYAN DOUGLAS 22

SALIL MUNJAL 65

SAM FELDMAN 54

SANDRA OLDFIELD 65

SARAH HOFFMAN 122

SARAH MCLACHLAN 56

SARAH MCNEILL 49

SARAH ROTH 73

SCOTT MORISON 124

SCOTT MUNRO 110

SCOTT WILSON 26

SERGIO COCCHIA 70

SEYCHELLE CUSHING 83

SHACHI KURL 84

SHANNON BYRNE SUSKO 86

SHANNON SALTER 112

SHARLEEN GALE 34

SHARON SINGH 25

SHAUN STEVENSON 51

SHEILA BIGGERS 69

SHEILA MURRAY 24

SHEILA VOKEY 95

SHELINA ESMAIL 48

SHELLEY FROST

GASKIN

BC500 BY COMPANY

A2O ADVANCED MATERIALS 75

ABCELLERA 78

ACERA INSURANCE 122

ACUITAS THERAPEUTICS 40, 85

ADMARE BIOINNOVATIONS 79

AECOM 121

A&F MUSIC 54

AGRICULTURAL LAND COMMISSION 107

ALCA INTELLIGENCE 29

ALIVE PUBLISHING GROUP 83

AMAZON WEB SERVICES 89

ANDERSON GROUP 89

ANGUS REID INSTITUTE 84, 102

ANTHEM PROPERTIES 128

AQUILINI GROUP 89

ARC'TERYX 90

ARITZIA 96, 100

ARTEMIS GOLD 116

ARTS UMBRELLA 71

ASIA PACIFIC FOUNDATION OF CANADA 85

ASPECT BIOSYSTEMS 79

ASSOCIATED ENGINEERING 122

AUDAIN ART GALLERY 98

AVISON YOUNG 21

A&W FOOD SERVICES OF CANADA 131

AXIS INSURANCE MANAGERS 124

B2GOLD 91

BACAS FAMILY WINES 61

BALLARD POWER SYSTEMS 109

BCAA 122

BCAFN 112

BC AGRICULTURE COUNCIL 67

BC ASSESSMENT 107

BCBC 30 BC

BEAR CREEK MINING 93

BEAR'S LAIR 117

BEEDIE DEVELOPMENT 69, 132

BEEM CREDIT UNION 130 BEST BUY 96

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT 53

BC

BC INFRASTRUCTURE

BIOLYTICAL LABORATORIES 78

BLAKE, CASSELS & GRAYDON LLP 24

BORDEN LADNER GERVAIS 26

BOSA DEVELOPMENT 128

BOSA PROPERTIES 128

BOYDEN CANADA 47

BCLC 106

BROWNS RESTAURANT GROUP 124

BRUCE ALLEN TALENT 53

BURDOCK & CO. 120

BURNABY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 71

CADILLAC FAIRVIEW 34, 125

CAI CAPITAL PARTNERS 65

CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH MANAGEMENT 22

CANADIAN MEDIA PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 58

CANADIAN STRATEGY GROUP 23

CANFOR CORPORATION 91, 96

CANUCK AUTISM NETWORK 69

CANUCKS SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT 89

CAPILANO GROUP 58

CARBON ENGINEERING 76

CARETREAM TECHNOLOGIES 76

CBRE CANADA 122

CENTRAL 1 CREDIT UNION 87, 95

INVESTMENTS 49

CREW GROUP OF COMPANIES 70 CRITICAL PATH GAMES 65 CTV VANCOUVER 83

CUNNINGHAM GROUP 48 DAVID SUZUKI 103

CANADA 21 DENTONS CANADA 25, 26

CANADA 59

VANCOUVER

GROUP OF COS. 98

COMMUNITY

VAN

VICTORIA BIA 28

(CANADA) 50

CENTRE FOR FUTURE WORK 86 CHRYSALIX VENTURE CAPITAL 66

DSBIA 31

EA 39

EARLS RESTAURANTS 99

EAST SIDE GAMES 57

ECONOMIC TRUST OF THE SOUTHERN INTERIOR 116

EDI ENVIRONMENTAL DYNAMICS 124

EGBC 113

EKONA POWER 80

ELYSIAN PROJECTS 65

EQUINOX GOLD 98

EY CANADA 21

FAIRCHILD GROUP 84

FAIRMONT PACIFIC RIM 124

FARRIS 25

FASKEN MARTINEAU

DUMOULIN 22

FINNING 111

FIRST NATIONS

FINANCE AUTHORITY 116

FIRST NATIONS

FISHERIES COUNCIL 34

FIRST NATIONS LNG ALLIANCE 110

FIRST NATIONS SUMMIT 106, 117

FIRST NATIONS TAX COMMISSION 108

FNBDA 115

FNFMB 110

FNMPC 34

FOODWEST RESOURCES 25

FORESIGHT CANADA 64

FORTISBC 106

FOUNDATION 103

FPCC 100

FRACTAL CAPITAL 99

FRAMEPOINT PUBLIC AFFAIRS 23

FRASER BASIN COUNCIL 98

FRASER HEALTH 44

FRIND ESTATE WINERY 62

FULMER & CO. 41

GCT GLOBAL CONTAINER TERMINALS 48, 95

GENERAL FUSION 78

GENOME BC 84

GENUS CAPITAL 126

GEOCOMPLY 80

GITXAALA ENTERPRISES CORP. 118

GLACIER 85

GLOBAL BC 84

GLOBAL RELAY 80

GLOWBAL RESTAURANT GROUP 126

GOLD ROYALTY CORP. 70

GOODMAN COMMERCIAL 121

GRAHAM CLARKE GROUP 48

GREAT CANADIAN ENTERTAINMENT 55

GREATER VANCOUVER

FOOD BANK 71

GROUPHEALTH 122

GVBOT 28

HAIDA ENTERPRISE CORP. 116

HAIDA NATION 39

HAISLA NATION 118

HALFWAY RIVER GROUP 115

HARBOUR AIR GROUP 64

HARRIS & COMPANY LLP 26

HAWKSWORTH

RESTAURANT GROUP 121

HAYWIRE WINERY 61

HEALTHTECH CONNEX 75

HEILTSUK TRIBAL COUNCIL 36

HELIJET 50

HUB INTERNATIONAL 124

HUDSON PACIFIC PROPERTIES 131

H.Y. LOUE CO. 91, 92, 101 IBABC 125 ICBA 29, 83

MACKAY CEO FORUMS 42 MADISON GROUP 70

MARK ANTHONY GROUP 104

MARTINI FILM STUDIOS 56

MCCARTHY TÉTRAULT LLP 21, 26

MCMILLAN LLP 22, 25

MCNEILL NAKAMOTO RECRUITMENT GROUP 49

MDGB CAPITAL INC. 78

MERCHANT GROWTH 63 METHANEX 112

METRONOMICS 86

METRO VANCOUVER 107

METRO VANCOUVER ZERO EMISSIONS INNOVATION CENTRE 36

MICHAEL GREEN ARCHITECTS 129

MICHAEL SMITH HEALTH 71

MICROSOFT 80

MINERVA BC 73

MINING ASSOCIATION OF BC 29

MNP LLP 22, 23

TOURISM BC 53

124

HOMES 128

AIR 48 ISLAND COASTAL ECONOMIC TRUST 117 JABC 69, 98

JAMES K.M. CHENG ARCHITECTS 129

JILLIAN HARRIS DESIGN 54

JOEY RESTAURANTS 121 KABAM 59

KAMLOOPS BLAZERS 90 KF AEROSPACE 93

KINGSWOOD CAPITAL 73, 103

KIRK & CO. 23

KITS EYECARE 63

KLOHN CRIPPEN BERGER 22

KPMG 24

KRYTON INTERNATIONAL 96

KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY 83, 115

LAUNCH.VC VENTURES 87

LAW SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA 120

LAWSON LUNDELL 24

LEDCOR

LSBC 30

LULULEMON 92

MACDONALD REALTY GROUP OF COMPANIES 93

MOMENT ENERGY 75

MOSAIC FOREST MANAGEMENT 61

MST DEVELOPMENT CORP. 130

MT+CO 21

MUSQUEAM CAPITAL CORP. 117

MUSQUEAM INDIAN BAND 86

MUSTEL GROUP 85

NANAIMO PORT AUTHORITY 49

NATURE CONSERVANCY OF CANADA 57

NATURE'S PATH 103

NCH’KAÝ DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 131

NEPTUNE TERMINALS 50

NEW ECONOMY CANADA 36

NEWMARK 44

NICOLA WEALTH 26, 101

NIMBUS SYNERGIES 63

NISGA’A LISIMS GOVERNMENT 39

NORTHAM BEVERAGES 61

NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT TRUST 115

NORTHLAND PROPERTIES 100, 125

NORTH SHORE AND MAMMOTH STUDIOS 55

NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT CANADA LLP 21

NOVATEUR VENTURES INC. 75

NURSE NEXT DOOR 95

NUU-CHAH-NULTH TRIBAL COUNCIL 36

OCEAN PACIFIC HOTEL GROUP 94

ODLUM BROWN 69

OFFICE OF THE PREMIER 106, 108, 112 OH BOY PRODUCTIONS INC. 85

INDIAN BAND GROUP OF COMPANIES 118

SARAH MCLACHLAN

SCHOOL OF MUSIC 56

SCIENCE WORLD 85

SCOTIABANK 70, 90

SEAPEAK 108

SEASPAN CORP. 90

SEASPAN SHIPYARDS 92

SEDGWICK STRATEGIES 23

SFU 35, 83, 84, 87

SHELL CANADA 111

SONY PICTURES IMAGEWORKS 54

SOUTH ISLAND

PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP 118

SPORT HOSTING VANCOUVER 40

SPRING 63, 66

SSA MARINE, CANADA 49

STEMCELL TECHNOLOGIES 76

ST. PAUL'S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 69

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. 39

SVANTE 78

TAHLTAN NATIONAL

DEVELOPMENT CORP. 116

TAP AND BARREL GROUP 121

TASEKO MINES LIMITED 92

TD BANK GROUP 120

TECK RESOURCES 24, 93

TELUS

44, 90, 93

TEWANEE CONSULTING GROUP 42

THE FORUM 71 THE FUTURA

CORPORATION 62

THE GELLER GROUP 129

THE JIM PATTISON GROUP 101

THUNDERBIRD ENTERTAINMENT GROUP 59

TIME FAMILY OF WINES 65

TODERIAN URBAN WORKS 131

TOLKO INDUSTRIES LTD. 94

TOWER BEACH CAPITAL 24

TOWNLINE 130

TRANSLINK 50

TRIGON PACIFIC TERMINALS 47

TSAWWASSEN SHUTTLES 51

TSILHQOT’IN 115

TSLEIL-WAUTUTH NATION 86

T&T SUPERMARKET 64, 101

TWIN BROOK DEVELOPMENTS 41

UBC 75, 83, 86

UBCIC 37, 111 UBCM 31 UDI PACIFIC REGION 31

UNIUNI 64

UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA 84 VANCITY 42

VANCOUVER AIRPORT AUTHORITY 50

VANCOUVER CHINATOWN BIA 29

VANCOUVER CHINATOWN FOUNDATION 71

VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTH 41

VANCOUVER FILM STUDIOS 57

VANCOUVER FOUNDATION 72

VANCOUVER FRASER PORT AUTHORITY 51

VANCOUVER GIANTS 59

VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL 63

VANCOUVER OPERA 59

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS 55 VANEDGE CAPITAL PARTNERS 64 VARIATIONAL AI 78 VARSHNEY CAPITAL 44, 103 VERSION ONE VENTURES 66

VGH & UBC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 70

VIJ'S RESTAURANT 121, 126

ADVICE

From legal advice, to tax guidance, to business strategy, to consulting — the leaders featured in this section are trusted advisers whose expertise and insight help guide some of the most prominent businesses and leaders in British Columbia. Across disciplines and backgrounds, these advisers have collectively influenced critical decisions and policies, both in the private and public sectors. Many also serve to advise governments, influential institutions and leading non-profit organizations through volunteer, board and committee work.

MERLE ALEXANDER

PRINCIPAL MT+CO

Merle Alexander, KC, is custodian to the hereditary chief name of the Hailzaq/Tsimshian First Nations. He practises at the epicentre of legal reform in Aboriginal common law, Indigenous legal orders, natural resource law and environmental law. Alexander is a co-developer of provincial and federal UNDRIP legislation. Most importantly, he's a father to Eli and Liam and partner to Maureen Buchan.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RESOURCES

KEVIN BRENNAN

MANAGING PARTNER, WEST AND B.C. EY CANADA

Kevin Brennan is the managing partner of the British Columbia practice for EY Canada, as well as the firm’s market segment leader for Western Canada. Prior to his current role, Brennan was the EY strategy and transactions leader for British Columbia and headed up EY’s restructuring practice in Vancouver.

BRETT ARMSTRONG

MANAGING DIRECTOR, VANCOUVER

AVISON YOUNG

Brett Armstrong is a principal and managing director for the firm’s Vancouver office, where he is responsible for the operations and strategic direction of the Vancouver market. Armstrong joined Avison Young in 2012 at the firm’s global headquarters in Toronto, where he worked as an office leasing broker until making the move across the country in 2024.

PROFESSIONAL

ÉTIENNE BRUSON

VICE-CHAIR, B.C. DELOITTE CANADA

Étienne Bruson is currently vice-chair, British Columbia, at Deloitte Canada. He was formerly the national assurance leader for Canada, managing partner for Deloitte in B.C., B.C. leader for tax and national leader for the international tax service line at Deloitte. Bruson has over 33 years at the firm serving large, global public companies and private companies.

CAMERON BELSHER

PARTNER

MCCARTHY TÉTRAULT LLP

Cameron Belsher, KC, is national cohead of M&A at McCarthy Tétrault and former chair of the firm's board of partners. He is recognized in numerous publications as one of Canada's top corporate practitioners, and is an adviser to many C-suites and boards of the province's largest companies. Active in the community, he is chair of the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation.

DONALD CAMPBELL

SENIOR STRATEGY ADVISER

NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT CANADA LLP

Don Campbell is a respected strategy adviser in both the private and public sectors. His stellar diplomatic career included service as deputy minister of both foreign affairs and international trade, G8 Summit sherpa, a senior negotiator on Canada-U.S. trade issues, and ambassador to Japan and Korea. Subsequently, he has been executive vice-president and group president of CAE Inc.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL

MATTHEW CICCI

HEAD, PRIVATE CLIENT GROUP

CANACCORD GENUITY

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Matt Cicci, CFA, leads the private client group at Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management Canada. With over 35 years in the industry, he oversees adviser teams nationwide, driving growth, recruitment, retention and compensation strategy, while aligning wealth with CG’s capital markets platform. Cicci is known for his deep expertise and leadership in the wealth management industry.

ALAN COSGRAVE

REGIONAL MANAGING PARTNER, B.C. ADVISORY MNP LLP

Alan Cosgrave leads MNP’s advisory practice in B.C., helping private enterprises, Indigenous organizations, credit unions and governments manage change, build resilience and drive long-term success. Based in Vancouver, he was named a BIV Forty under 40 Award winner in 2022 and joins BC500 in 2025 for his impact on B.C.’s business community.

RADHA CURPEN

GROUP HEAD, ESG AND SUSTAINABILITY MCMILLAN LLP

Radha Curpen is group head of McMillan’s ESG and sustainability practice, and national client relationship ambassador. She serves on the board of governors of the Business Council of British Columbia, the council of governors for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and the ESG advisory council to the B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation.

SERVICES

RYAN DOUGLAS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

KLOHN CRIPPEN BERGER

Ryan Douglas is president and CEO of Klohn Crippen Berger. He began his consulting career 30 years ago in South Africa and joined KCB in 2000. He became a principal in 2013 and vice-president of power and transportation in 2018. Within KCB, Douglas oversees operations, subsidiaries, enterprise risk management and strategy, and international corporate compliance.

PROFESSIONAL

JENNY FRANCIS

MANAGING PARTNER, B.C. REGION

FASKEN MARTINEAU DUMOULIN LLP

Jenny Francis is an experienced litigator with broad commercial litigation, arbitration and advisory work experience. She is managing partner of the B.C. region, with primary responsibility for leadership of the firm’s Vancouver and Surrey offices. She is committed to furthering Fasken’s position as a trusted adviser to clients and as a place where people want to work together.

PROFESSIONAL

KATE FURBER

VICE-CHAIR PWC

Kate Furber is PwC Canada’s vicechair, the firm’s managing partner for B.C. and a member of the firm’s extended leadership team. Prior to this role, Furber led the firm’s assurance practice in the region and was a member of PwC Canada’s national assurance leadership team. She currently sits on the board of governors for York House School.

PROFESSIONAL

PROFESSIONAL

JIM GILLILAND

PRESIDENT AND CEO

LEITH WHEELER

INVESTMENT COUNSEL

Jim Gilliland is the managing principal, president and CEO for Leith Wheeler Investment Counsel, one of Canada’s largest employee-owned investment managers. Additionally, he heads up the fixed income team, chairs the firm’s executive and portfolio review committees, and sits on the board of directors. Gilliland holds degrees from UBC and UC Berkeley, and actively contributes to education-focused boards and committees.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

BYNG GIRAUD

PRESIDENT SEDGWICK STRATEGIES INC.

Byng Giraud specializes in obtaining project approvals in the natural resource and infrastructure sectors. Highlights include negotiating Canada's first Indigenous-led environmental assessment and the first agreements between operating mines and First Nations in B.C. He led the coalition which pushed for the Northwest Transmission Line and chaired Ridley Terminals during negotiations leading to B.C.'s first hydrocarbon export facility in decades.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PETER GUO

PARTNER MNP LLP

Over a 30-year career, Peter Guo has served as board chair, director, executive and trusted adviser. A Vancouverite since 1998, he mentors many emerging leaders, students and immigrants. With accounting and technology expertise, Guo delivers value to public and private companies, governments and non-profits. At his current and previous firms, he built teams with people hailing from across the globe.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BRITTNEY KERR

FOUNDING PARTNER

FRAMEPOINT PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Brittney Kerr is founding partner at Framepoint Public Affairs. A senior executive, she specializes in government relations, strategic communications and advocacy campaigns. Kerr worked in the Prime Minister’s Office and served as a national campaign co-chair for a federal political party. She lives on the North Shore with her husband and three children.

MIKE MCDONALD

CSO AND PARTNER KIRK & CO.

Mike McDonald is chief strategy officer and partner with Kirk & Co. He is also a senior research associate with Pollara Strategic Insights, a market research and public opinion research firm. McDonald previously served as chief of staff to B.C.’s premier, has run winning provincial election campaigns and is known for his encyclopedic knowledge of the province.

GEOFF MEGGS

SENIOR ADVISER CANADIAN STRATEGY GROUP

Geoff Meggs is a seasoned communications and public policy professional with extensive experience in the labour movement, civic politics and provincial politics. He was chief of staff to premier John Horgan until his retirement in 2022. He is now a senior adviser with Canadian Strategy Group's Vancouver office and a regular on the popular Hotel Pacifico podcast about B.C. political affairs.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

JEFFREY MERRICK

OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER, VANCOUVER BLAKE, CASSELS & GRAYDON LLP

Jeff Merrick is the Vancouver office managing partner at Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, where he has practiced law since 1990. He is recognized as a leading lawyer in many legal publications, including Chambers Global, Best Lawyers, Lexpert and Thompson Reuters.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

JOHN MONTALBANO

PRINCIPAL

TOWER BEACH CAPITAL

John Montalbano is the retired CEO of RBC Global Asset Management. He is the audit chair of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, AbCellera Inc. and Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals, and a director of Manulife Financial. Montalbano is a recipient of the UBC Alumni Volunteer Leadership Award, and chairing the newly launched Canada Soccer Foundation.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SHEILA MURRAY

CHAIR

TECK RESOURCES LTD.

Sheila Murray is the former president of CI Financial Corp. Prior to that, she practised securities law with Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP for 25 years, where she was involved in mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance and corporate reorganizations. She is chair of the Dean’s Council at Queen’s University Law School and is a director for BCE Inc. and Bell Canada.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WALTER PELA

REGIONAL MANAGING PARTNER

KPMG, LLP

As regional managing partner of KPMG, Walter Pela leads B.C.'s largest professional services firm. A champion of innovation, inclusion, impact and economic growth, he serves on numerous boards, including the Business Council of BC, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, BC Achievement Foundation and Pacific Autism Family Network. Pela's leadership bridges business and community, shaping policy, talent, innovation and transformation across the region.

CLIFFORD PROUDFOOT

MANAGING PARTNER LAWSON LUNDELL LLP

Clifford Proudfoot, KC, is the managing partner of Lawson Lundell LLP, the largest law firm in British Columbia. During his tenure as managing partner, which began in 2016, Proudfoot oversaw substantial expansions of the real estate and litigation groups in Calgary in 2018, navigated the firm through the COVID-19 pandemic and led another major firm expansion in 2023 in Kelowna.

THOMAS ROPER

FOUNDING PARTNER AND CHAIR ROPER GREYELL LLP

Thomas A. Roper, KC, a founding partner at Roper Greyell, has practised labour and employment law for five decades. He has advised major employers, governments, post-secondary institutions, associations and unions. He received the Vancouver Bar Association's Peter S. Hyndman Mentorship Award and is a recipient of the University of Toronto Bora Laskin Award for “outstanding contributions to Canadian labour law.”

BO ROTHSTEIN

MANAGING PARTNER

FARRIS LLP

Bo Rothstein is managing partner of Farris LLP. His practice includes M&A, corporate finance and corporate commercial law. Rothstein has been lead counsel on several domestic and cross-border transactions. He is also a corporate director and advises public and private company boards. Rothstein currently serves as director of a not-for-profit, and serves on the independent review committees of two investment funds.

JOHN SANDRELLI

PARTNER

DENTONS CANADA LLP

A trusted leader in Vancouver’s legal community and beyond, John Sandrelli has guided Dentons through transformative growth. Known for his integrity and innovation, he has shaped major restructurings across industries while championing a globally minded, locally grounded approach to client service.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

SHARON SINGH

PARTNER

MCMILLAN LLP

Sharon Singh is the co-head of McMillan’s Indigenous and environment practices, and is renowned for guiding businesses on environmental, Indigenous, ESG and human rights matters. Singh has a proven track record of delivering strategic, practical and tailored solutions to clients across the mining, renewable energy, infrastructure, construction, manufacturing and agribusiness industries.

PROFESSIONAL

KRISTINE SIMPSON

PARTNER, ASSURANCE

BDO CANADA LLP

Kristine Simpson, FCA, FCPA, is a partner at BDO, specializing in public sector and not-for-profit audit and advisory engagements. With over 25 years of experience, she has been instrumental in enhancing the integrity and sustainability of organizations across B.C. In addition to her contributions through the chamber of commerce network, Simpson was inducted into the fellowship of the CPABC in 2024.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PUBLIC SECTOR

ROBIN SMITH

PRESIDENT AND CEO

FOODWEST RESOURCES

Founded in 1977, Foodwest Resources has provided consulting advice to industry and governments across Canada and globally. Robin Smith is the former chair of BC Food & Beverage. He has held multiple leadership and advisory roles in the industry over decades, and currently serves as a director of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.

JAMES SPEAKMAN

PARTNER

CLARK WILSON LLP

James Speakman has been a leading figure in B.C.'s business and legal communities for nearly four decades. As the former managing partner of Clark Wilson, he guided the firm through a period of transformative growth, expanding its size from 160 to over 300 professionals. During his tenure, he solidified the firm’s reputation for excellence and leadership within the industry.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PROFESSIONAL

PAUL SULLIVAN

PRINCIPAL REGIONAL

LEADER, PROPERTY TAX

COMPLEX

RYAN ULC

Paul Sullivan specializes in providing tax services in the British Columbia region, saving clients millions of dollars in annual property taxes by negotiating on clients' behalf, and by appearing as an advocate during the assessment process. Sullivan lectures on various tax topics for Ryan clients and the Ryan professional development program.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

DAVID SUNG

EXECUTIVE VICECHAIR, PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL

NICOLA WEALTH

David Sung is executive vice-chair and president of institutional at Nicola Wealth, having co-led the firm’s growth from $300 million to over $17 billion in assets. With over 30 years in the wealth management field, Sung is now leading the firm’s growth into the institutional asset management field, with a focus on foundations, endowments, pensions and select family offices.

ARTS & CULTURE

FINANCIAL &

STEVE WINDER

REGIONAL MANAGING

PARTNER, VANCOUVER

BORDEN LADNER

GERVAIS LLP

Steve Winder is the regional managing partner of the Vancouver office of BLG, one of Canada’s largest law firms. He has over 25 years of experience focusing on labour and employment advice and litigation. Winder supports various literacy projects, including CODE, a foundation promoting every child’s right to read, and BLG’s Reads to Kids program. He frequently contributes to B.C.’s legal education.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ALAN WINTER

PARTNER

HARRIS & COMPANY LLP

Alan Winter has provided labour relations services and advice to employers for over four decades, with a particular focus on collective bargaining in both the public and private sectors. Winter has also been recognized as one of the province’s leading lawyers in the field of workers’ compensation and occupational health and safety on behalf of employers.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

SCOTT WILSON

MANAGING PARTNER

DENTONS CANADA LLP

A lifelong Lower Mainland resident, Scott Wilson leads Dentons’ Vancouver office with authenticity and vision. Recognized for his leadership and practical insight, he is a trusted adviser to clients navigating the complexities of real estate and business in British Columbia.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PROFESSIONAL

JILL YATES

MANAGING PARTNER, B.C. MCCARTHY TÉTRAULT LLP

Jill Yates is the managing partner of the British Columbia region at McCarthy Tétrault and chair of the firm’s national class actions group. A seasoned trial lawyer and versatile litigator, Yates works with major international and Canadian companies operating in diverse industries, including financial services, retail and consumer markets, technology, pharmaceuticals, forestry and manufacturing.

SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL

ADVOCACY

From national policy change to critical community needs, the advocates featured in this section are leaders on behalf of diverse industries, membership bases and communities. They draw attention to acute needs, propose needed reforms, shine light on issues that haven’t yet made headlines and represent diverse stakeholder interests. Collectively, they influence policy and public sentiment on some of the most important issues of our day.

BRIDGITTE ANDERSON

PRESIDENT AND CEO GVBOT

Bridgitte Anderson is the first woman to lead the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade in its 138-year history. Her priorities include building a more competitive economy through better public policy that increases prosperity, productivity and investment in B.C., with initiatives to support the business community, such as the 3% Challenge - Agenda for Economic Growth and the Benchmarking Greater Vancouver Report.

ROBERT ASHTON

PRESIDENT ILWU CANADA

Rob Ashton was registered as a Longshore Worker in 1994 with ILWU Local 500 in Vancouver and elected to the position of president of ILWU Canada in 2016. As president, he represents approximately 17,000 workers in B.C. and Saskatchewan, including 12 locals and one affiliate union (RWU-BC) in B.C. and two affiliates in Saskatchewan (GSU and RWDSU).

JEFF BRAY

CEO

DOWNTOWN

Jeff Bray grew up in Vancouver. After graduating from UBC, he had a 13-year career with the B.C. government. In 2001, Bray was elected as MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill. he was then manager of government and regulatory affairs for Shaw in B.C. Bray is currently the CEO of the Downtown Victoria Business Association.

INSTITUTIONS

BRYAN COX

GM, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS PETRONAS CANADA

Bryan Cox is general manager, external affairs at PETRONAS Canada, where he leads the team activating the company’s external advocacy strategies. He collaborates directly with governments and external and community partners regarding the continued responsible development of natural gas and LNG in British Columbia and Canada. Previously, he was CEO of both the Canadian LNG Alliance and Mining Association of BC.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES

DAVE EARLE

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BC TRUCKING ASSOCIATION

Dave Earle is president and CEO of the BC Trucking Association, a member-based, provincewide, non-partisan, non-profit motor carrier association. His national board appointments include the executive board of the Canadian Trucking Alliance and its policy development committee. Earle is also the secretary-treasurer of the Canadian Hoisting and Rigging Safety Council, and secretary for the Greater Vancouver Gateway Council.

FIONA FAMULAK

FORMER CEO

BC CHAMBER

Fiona Famulak has more than 30 years of international experience in Europe, Asia and Canada, working in private and non-profit sectors. A chartered accountant, former small business owner and experienced board member, Famulak lives to serve others, attaching a high premium to fairness and courage in words and actions. Her passion is connecting with people, understanding their needs and catalyzing meaningful change.

ECONOMIC

INDUSTRY INSTITUTIONS

VICTORIA BIA

JORDAN ENG

PRESIDENT VANCOUVER CHINATOWN BIA

Jordan Eng has been president of the Vancouver Chinatown Business Improvement Association since 2018. With deep family roots in the area, he champions revitalization, safety and cultural preservation. Eng advocates for stronger community engagement and economic growth to sustain Chinatown’s unique heritage.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PAUL FINCH

PRESIDENT BCGEU

Paul Finch was elected president of the BC General Employees’ Union at the union’s convention in June 2024. He had previously served as the union’s treasurer for three terms. His efforts to create a more transparent and modernized union include introducing internal audit, procurement management and capital stewardship programs, and creating a framework for managing the union's investments.

SECTOR

CHRIS GARDNER

PRESIDENT AND CEO ICBA

Chris Gardner has led the ICBA since 2017. The organization has expanded into Alberta and is now the largest construction association in Canada, and one of the largest business organizations in the country. He has lived in Asia working for one of South Korea’s largest law firms and for Samsung Electronics. He has a JD in law from the Allard School of Law at UBC.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDUSTRY RESOURCES

MICHAEL GOEHRING

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MINING ASSOCIATION OF BC

Michael Goehring brings vision, strategic leadership and decades of experience advising leading natural resource firms across Canada to B.C.’s mining sector. He works directly with members to develop and advocate for sound public policy solutions that will position B.C. as a leading global supplier of responsibly produced critical minerals and metals, to meet Canada’s decarbonization, technology and national security objectives.

KIM HAAKSTAD

PRESIDENT AND CEO COFI

Kim Haakstad, president and CEO of COFI, has over 20 years of experience at the intersection of business and government. She leads advocacy for B.C.’s forest sector, emphasizing sustainable forestry, Indigenous reconciliation and economic growth. Haakstad also serves on non-profit and innovation boards, reflecting her commitment to community and forward-thinking leadership.

INDUSTRY RESOURCES

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDUSTRY

RESOURCES

MARK HICKEN

PRINCIPAL ALCA INTELLIGENCE

Mark Hicken is a consultant to the B.C. wine and liquor industry who has been involved with many policy and reform issues. Previously a well-known industry lawyer (now retired from legal practice), he is past chair of the Vancouver International Wine Festival, and a director of the Canadian and international chapters of the International Association of Wine Lawyers (Association Internationale des Juristes du Vin).

INDUSTRY

PUBLIC

WENDY HURLBURT

PRESIDENT AND CEO

Wendy Hurlburt, president and CEO of LSBC, builds relationships between local SMEs, global partners, educational institutions and government to support the thriving life sciences sector. Regarded as a promoter and advocate, Hurlburt attracts new business and investment opportunities to the province. ECONOMIC

LAURA JONES

PRESIDENT

Laura Jones is president and CEO of the Business Council of British Columbia. Previously, she served as chief strategic officer and executive vice-president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, a non-profit, non-partisan association that advocates for 97,000 independent businesses across Canada.

ECONOMIC

LINDSAY KISLOCK

PRESIDENT AND

Lindsay Kislock is president and CEO of the Western Canada Transportation Advisory Council. She previously held senior roles in the B.C. government, including assistant deputy minister of transportation, and served as vice-president of corporate affairs at the Mining Association of B.C. In 2024, she became chair of the Immigrant Employment Council of BC, supporting inclusive workforce development.

TREVOR KOOT

As CEO of the BC Real Estate Association, Trevor Koot advocates for research-backed housing policy and balanced regulation on behalf of more than 26,000 B.C. realtors. He also maintains a strong focus on data innovation, advancing not just data-driven technology but data production from underutilized sources at all points along the housing continuum.

WALT JUDAS

Walt Judas has been involved in the tourism industry for over 35 years, having worked at B.C. Pavco, Port Metro Vancouver and Tourism Vancouver prior to joining the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia in May 2015. Judas leads multiple policy files, builds relationships with government, members and industry stakeholders, and communicates the value of tourism to various constituents.

MIKE LEONARD

PRESIDENT AND

MARITIME EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION

As president and CEO of the BC Maritime Employers Association, Mike Leonard has led transformative initiatives that have strengthened B.C.’s waterfront industry. As a leader in labour relations, he has built a career defined by a deep belief that culture drives engagement and performance.

GARY MACISAAC

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

UBCM

Gary MacIsaac is the executive director of the Union of B.C. Municipalities — a position he has held since 2007. MacIsaac has spent his career in local government, starting as clerk-treasurer of a small town in Nova Scotia, five years in the Vancouver city clerk's department and nine years as the CAO for a county government in Nova Scotia.

ANNE MCMULLIN

PRESIDENT AND CEO

UDI

As president and CEO of the Urban Development Institute, Anne McMullin has long advocated for transformational change. Through her leadership, the industry has seen the most significant change in housing policy in over a generation. McMullin's career has spanned over 35 years as a business leader, communications executive and journalist.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

REAL ESTATE

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

SUSSANNE SKIDMORE

PRESIDENT

BC FEDERATION OF LABOUR

Sussanne Skidmore was elected president of the BC Federation of Labour in 2022 after being elected as the federation's secretary-treasurer in 2018 and 2020. Previously, she served as executive vice-president of the BCGEU for five years. Skidmore has co-chaired the BCFED’s human rights committee and is active in the federation’s women and gender rights committee. INDUSTRY

JANE TALBOT

PRESIDENT AND CEO DOWNTOWN VAN

Jane Talbot is the president and CEO of the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association, where she leads efforts to create a vibrant, inclusive and economically resilient downtown core. Known for her collaborative approach, commitment to data-informed strategy and passion for place-making, Talbot is dedicated to making downtown a place where people want to be.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

RETAIL

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

ELIZABETH MODEL

CEO

DSBIA

Elizabeth Model has a strong and diverse business background in a variety of industries, currently holding the position of CEO for the Downtown Surrey Business Improvement Association, a position she has held since 2009, and where she continues to contribute and collaborate in the new buildout of Downtown Surrey.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY

REAL ESTATE RETAIL

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

JILL TIPPING

Jill Tipping is a passionate advocate for B.C.’s tech-enabled future. With a background in consulting, advanced manufacturing and cleantech, she is no stranger to the opportunities technology provides. As BC Tech’s CEO, she is dedicated to accelerating the success of members, helping more startups grow into scaleups, and more scaleups grow into anchors. She is unapologetically ambitious for B.C. and for Canada.

IAN TOSTENSON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

Ian Tostenson is president and CEO of the British Columbia Restaurant and Foodservices Association. After a distinguished career in British Columbia's wine industry, Tostenson has led the BCRFA for several years, championing the health and growth of the province's restaurant industry. Under his leadership, the BCRFA has been a pivotal force in revitalizing the industry post-pandemic.

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Thomas A. Roper, K.C.,founding partnerand chairofRoper GreyellLLP forhis tireless advocacy,contributions andinfluence on employment and labour lawoverthe past five decades andbeing recognized as oneofBIV’s BC500and most influentialbusiness leadersinBC.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

CHANGE

Previous editions of BC500 included a small section for climate change leadership. This issue takes a broader look at change — and the changemakers who are working to advance climate-related policies, reconciliation, equity and diversity, inclusion or significant changes that set new standards for how organizations and industries operate. While every leader touches change, these individuals have sought it out or are leading organizations and initiatives that are pushing business to change for the better.

CHANGE

STU BARNES

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FNFCBC

Stu Barnes (Kil Ts’ak) is an active member of Wilps Dawamuukw in the Gitksan feast system and is serving his fourth term on the council for his band, Kispiox (Anspayaxw). With a notable 18-year tenure as chair of the Skeena Fisheries Commission, he continues to contribute as an adviser. Barnes is executive director of the First Nations Fisheries Council of B.C.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

BRYNN BOURKE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

BC BUILDING TRADES

Brynn Bourke is the executive director of the BC Building Trades. Under her leadership, BCBT has opened the College of the BC Building Trades, launched a youth ambassador program, secured enhanced sanitation protocols on construction sites and supported initiatives that reduce barriers for under-represented groups. Bourke is a board member of BC Hydro, BuildForce Canada and SkillPlan. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

& TRANSPORTATION

SHARLEEN GALE

CHAIR FNMPC

Sharleen Gale has chaired the First Nations Major Projects Coalition since 2017, advocating for First Nations' economic inclusion. A former chief of Fort Nelson First Nation, she values her heritage and teaches traditional skills to her son. With experience in oil and gas, she served on B.C.’s Economic Recovery Task Force and received the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

JESSE GREGSON

VP, OPERATIONS CADILLAC FAIRVIEW

Jesse Gregson, vice-president of operations for Cadillac Fairview, is a driving force behind the company's community safety mandate and decarbonization efforts in Vancouver. The company is one of the largest commercial property owners in the city, with a Greater Vancouver portfolio that includes 12 office properties and two shopping centres.

ROBERT CLARK

CHIEF CULINARY OFFICER

ORGANIC OCEAN SEAFOOD

Chef, author and disruptor, Robert Clark, OC, is executive chef of C Restaurant. He rose to national prominence for his creativity and contemporary approach to local seafood.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

JOANNA JAGGER

FOUNDER AND ED WORTH ASSOCIATION

Joanna Jagger, founder of WORTH Association, advocates for women of recreation, tourism and hospitality. Since 2018, she has awarded $50,000 in scholarships through events like Yes Shef. Jagger created WORTH Academy, offering free courses and coaching to accelerate more leaders in the sector. She is an instructor at Capilano University's School of Tourism and serves on the B.C. PavCo board.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

LENNARD JOE

CEO

BC FIRST NATIONS FORESTRY COUNCIL

Lennard Joe (Suxwsxwwels) brings over 30 years of natural resources and business experience to his role as CEO of the BC First Nations Forestry Council. He is actively involved in developing new businesses and opportunities in the resource sector within his territory and throughout Canada.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS INDUSTRY RESOURCES

KAREN JOSEPH

CEO

RECONCILIATION CANADA

Karen Joseph is Musgamagw Dzawada’enuxw and the eldest daughter of Hereditary Chief Kwinkwinkwalkigedzi-Wakas (Chief Dr. Robert Joseph) and Matriarch Gwantilakw (Donna Joseph). She is the co-founder and CEO of Reconciliation Canada, a charitable organization dedicated to deepening reconciliation. She has received Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division) and a YWCA Women of Distinction Award.

IRENE KERR

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BC INFRASTRUCTURE BENEFITS

Irene Kerr has more than 20 years of experience in both private and public spheres. Formerly the CEO of Transportation Investment Corp., another B.C. Crown corporation, she now serves on SkillPlan’s board of directors. Under Kerr, BCIB has repeatedly been named a BC's Top Employer and a Canada’s Top Diversity Employer.

PUBLIC SECTOR

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

MONICA MCALDUFF

CEO

BC FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY

Monica McAlduff is of mixed ancestry from the Secwepemc Nation on her mother's side and a French Canadian background on her father's side. She has over 30 years of experience in numerous roles across the system of care. She is CEO of the First Nations Health Authority, which is the health and wellness partner to more than 200 First Nations communities.

PUBLIC SECTOR

NANCY OLEWILER

ECONOMIST AND PROFESSOR

SFU

Dr. Nancy Olewiler, PhD, is an economist and professor in the School of Public Policy at Simon Fraser University. Olewiler has had a lengthy career of service to community at the local to national level, and is currently co-chair of B.C.’s Climate Solutions Council and a member of the Commission on Carbon Competitiveness. Her current research addresses climate resilience in B.C.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR RESOURCES

BARRY RIVELIS

PRESIDENT PBC SOLUTIONS

Barry Rivelis is a visionary and transformational leader who has created and led two health-care companies, PBC Solutions and TELUS Health, and designed and executed complex, multi-organizational, enterprise-wide transformations. He is a translator — embracing business challenges, applying technology and finding solutions. Rivelis is passionate about improving the health and well-being of Canadians through digital health and data-driven insights.

INDUSTRY

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

CHANGE

PETER ROBINSON

CHAIR

Dr. Peter Robinson is the former CEO of the David Suzuki Foundation, Mountain Equipment Co-op and BC Housing. He has served as chancellor of Royal Roads University and was the former governor of the Canadian Red Cross. Robinson and his wife own a farm on Mayne Island, where they practise sustainable agriculture and restorative land stewardship.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

JUDITH SAYERS

PRESIDENT NUU-CHAH-NULTH TRIBAL COUNCIL

Cloy-e-iis, Dr. Judith Sayers is president of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council and chancellor of Vancouver Island University. She is an adjunct professor with the Gustavson School of Business and the School of Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria. She is on the boards of the BC Achievement Foundation and First Nations Justice Council, and co-chair of the Island Corridor Foundation. ECONOMIC

COLE SAYERS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CLEAN ENERGY BC

Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, a member of the Hupacasath Nation, is executive director of the Clean Energy BC. A respected advocate for Indigenous leadership in clean energy, he supports First Nations in navigating the energy transition. His work promotes reconciliation, sustainability and economic growth through innovative policy, equity partnerships and strategic collaboration across industry, government and Indigenous communities.

ECONOMIC

MARILYN SLETT

CHIEF COUNCILLOR

HEILTSUK TRIBAL COUNCIL

Marilyn Slett is serving her fifth term as chief councillor of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council. She is a steadfast advocate for Indigenous rights and environmental protection, focused on safeguarding Heiltsuk title, rights and way of life, emphasizing the deep connection between Indigenous sovereignty and a healthy coastal ecosystem. Slett continues to champion marine conservation and Indigenous governance in British Columbia.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

MERRAN SMITH

PRESIDENT NEW ECONOMY CANADA

Merran Smith is president of New Economy Canada. She is broadly recognized as an advocate and national thought leader in advancing Canada’s clean, zero-carbon economy. Since establishing Clean Energy Canada in 2010, Smith has been at the forefront of public policy discourse and solution building for Canada to win in the global energy transition.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

JOEL SOLOMON

CO-FOUNDER RENEWAL FUNDS

Joel Solomon is a co-founder of Renewal Funds, Canada’s largest mission venture capital firm, which has $240 million assets under management. Solomon is a 2021 Clean50 Canada Lifetime Achievement honouree, a board member of the University of British Columbia, co-producer of the Just Economy Institute and co-author of The Clean Money Revolution: Re-Inventing Power, Purpose & Capitalism .

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

DON TOM

VICE-PRESIDENT

UBCIC

Chief Don Tom is vice-president of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and a member of the First Nations Leadership Council. His political files include emergency management, cannabis, hunting and wildlife. He is serving his third consecutive term as chief of the Tsartlip First Nation.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

DOUG WHITE

SPECIAL COUNSEL, INDIGENOUS RECONCILIATION

PROVINCE OF B.C.

Doug White is a member and former chief and councillor of the Snuneymuxw First Nation in Nanaimo. He is also a practising lawyer and has been a negotiator for First Nations across the country. White was appointed as special counsel to the premier on Indigenous reconciliation in November 2022.

PUBLIC SECTOR

KORY WILSON

ED, INDIGENOUS INITIATIVES AND PARTNERSHIPS

BCIT

Kory Wilson is a sought-after, truth-telling speaker and strategist on history and the current realities of Indigenous Peoples. With a deep commitment to justice and education, she knows innovative solutions are necessary to advance reconciliation and make systemic change. Inclusion is a choice and a must — requiring bold and courageous conversations that lead to authentic, sustainable actions.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

MARK ZACHARIAS

SPECIAL ADVISER

CLEAN ENERGY CANADA

Mark Zacharias joined Clean Energy Canada in 2020 after a 25-year career with the British Columbia public service, most recently serving as deputy minister of environment and climate change strategy. He holds a fellowship at Simon Fraser University and is also an adjunct professor in School of Public Policy. Mark holds a PhD in zoology from the University of Guelph.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

COMMUNITY

The influence of the leaders profiled in this section lies in part in their ability to create and foster community. Many serve on boards, committees, task forces and panels, giving their time and expertise to causes and initiatives that affect the daily lives of British Columbians. Collectively, they oversee venues that bring people together, they champion initiatives to make streets safer, they and their organizations give back significantly to community in a variety of ways. They connect us, they engage in politics, they serve organizations beyond our local borders. In all cases, their dedication transcends categories and industries, to our collective benefit.

JASON ALSOP

President of the Haida Nation and a member of the Ts’aahl Eagle Clan, Gaagwiis has been involved in the governance of the Haida Nation since 2010. He is a graduate of Royal Roads University. His master’s research project examined the landmark Gwaii Haanas Agreement, with his work recognized with a Governor General’s Gold Medal Award in 2018.

NATALI ALTSHULER

COO, EA SPORTS STUDIOS

Natali Altshuler oversees development of EA’s multibillion-dollar portfolio of industry-leading sports and racing franchises, including operations, technology and creative services. She ensures that their experiences launch on time, within budget and at quality for hundreds of millions of players worldwide. TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ARMIN AMROLIA

DEPUTY CITY MANAGER CITY OF VANCOUVER

As deputy city manager for the City of Vancouver, Armin Amrolia works with the city manager on several aspects of city operations, with an emphasis on housing delivery across the continuum. She is department lead for the real estate, environment and facilities management team; the recently created Vancouver housing development office; and the Indigenous relations team.

DAVID BYRES

PRESIDENT AND CEO PHSA

Dr. David Byres was appointed president and CEO of the Provincial Health Services Authority in February 2021. He has had a 25-year health-care career, most recently as the associate deputy minister of health, and previously as the chief nurse executive.

QUEENIE CHOO

S.U.C.C.E.S.S.

Queenie Choo has spent a more than a dozen years leading one of Canada’s largest non-profit social services agencies. S.U.C.C.E.S.S., founded in 1973, provides newcomer settlement services, affordable housing and seniors care in B.C. and abroad to more than 80,000 clients each year.

EVA

CLAYTON

LISIMS

Eva Clayton became the seventh elected president of the Nisga’a Nation in November 2016. She started her career with the Nisga’a Tribal Council in the 1980s and has since held various political offices, including chief councillor for the Gitlaxt’aamiks Village Government from 2004-2008, and councillor for the Gitlaxt’aamiks Village Government.

MICHELLE COLLENS

DIRECTOR, TOURISM AND DESTINATION EVENTS

SPORT HOSTING

VANCOUVER

Michelle Collens specializes in the development of strategy related to major events, sport tourism, destination marketing and economic development. She played a lead role in establishing Sport Hosting Vancouver, a collaborative community partnership providing a responsive and streamlined approach to attracting major events like the annual HSBC Vancouver Sevens, 2024 Grey Cup, 2025 Invictus Games and the FIFA World Cup 2026.

ABI COMAN-WALKER

ACUITAS THERAPEUTICS

Abi Coman-Walker is a globally experienced operational leader known for driving transformation, innovation and strategic growth across the financial services and biotechnology sectors. With more than two decades of international leadership experience in more than seven countries, she currently serves as COO at Acuitas Therapeutics, a pioneering biotechnology company whose technology played a critical role in the COVID-19 vaccine Comirnaty.

FIONA DALTON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

PROVIDENCE HEALTH CARE

Fiona Dalton became president and CEO of Providence Health Care in April 2018. She has 23 years of healthcare experience, most recently as CEO of University Hospital Southampton National Health Service Foundation Trust in the United Kingdom, which had 10,000 employees and an annual budget of around $1.2 billion.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

LOC DAO

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

DIGIBC

Loc Dao is the executive director of DigiBC — the Creative Technology Association of BC representing over 250 companies and 16,000 people in the video game, animation, VFX, XR and virtual production industries. He is chair of the board of the Canadian Interactive Alliance, and on the boards of Invest Vancouver and the Centre for Digital Media.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ROBIN DHIR

PRESIDENT TWIN BROOK DEVELOPMENTS

Robin Dhir has spent his career as an entrepreneur and business executive, with a passion for community service. Dhir plays an active leadership role in Metro Vancouver’s business community and South Asian community, volunteering his time with many organizations and raising millions of dollars. A graduate of SFU Beedie School, Dhir enjoys spending time with his three children and wife.

JAMES DONALDSON

BC FOOD & BEVERAGE

James Donaldson has spent the past 11 years as CEO of BC Food & Beverage, driving the association’s growth and impact. Under his leadership, BCFB has expanded its reach, developed resources to support member companies of all sizes and strengthened its role as a key industry voice.

ECONOMIC

MANUFACTURING

VIVIAN ELIOPOULOS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VANCOUVER COASTAL HEALTH

A registered nurse, Vivian Eliopoulos has worked with Vancouver Coastal Health for over 35 years, with leadership roles spanning clinical and corporate portfolios, including critical care, emergency and trauma services, and clinical information systems. Honoured with a 2024 YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 2024, Eliopoulos is a mentor to female leaders in health care.

SHELLEY FROST

PRESIDENT AND CEO PNE

Shelley Frost was named president and CEO of the PNE in 2018. She is proud to be the steward of such an important organization in B.C. After opening Canada’s fastest launch coaster, ThunderVolt, in 2024, the PNE looks forward to launching an iconic new amphitheatre next spring, and being host of the official FIFA Fan Fest in summer 2026.

YURI FULMER

CHAIR AND CEO

FULMER & CO.

Yuri Fulmer, OBC, is chair and CEO of Fulmer & Co., a Vancouver-based private investment firm focused on small and medium-sized businesses. He is chair of United Way Worldwide and chancellor of Capilano University. Fulmer has decades of service as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, and in governance and Indigenous reconciliation efforts.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

DARYL HATTON

Daryl Hatton leads ConnectionPoint, producer of the world’s premiere collaborative commerce platform, and its leading crowdfunding brands FundRazr, Crowdfundr, PetFundr and CoCoPay. He is the finance, audit and risk committee chair and a director of the PayPal Giving Fund (Canada), a past director of the National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada, and president and CEO of Headwaters Ventures.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

WELLINGTON HOLBROOK

PRESIDENT AND CEO VANCITY

Wellington Holbrook is president and CEO of Canada’s largest community credit union. With a 30-year career in Canada’s financial services industry, he has focused his leadership on cooperatives and banking institutions with missions that extend beyond profits. Holbrook is chair of the Calgary Telus Convention Centre, an avid music fan and amateur musician.

TEWANEE JOSEPH

GROUP

Tewanee Joseph leads Tewanee Consulting Group, a First Nations company focused on delivering meaningful partnerships, communications planning and reconciliation. Joseph is a member of the Squamish Nation and is half Maori. He served eight years on the Squamish Nation Council, and was CEO of the Four Host First Nations Secretariat for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

BRENDA KNIGHTS

CEO

B.C. INDIGENOUS HOUSING SOCIETY

Brenda Knights is a member of the Kwantlen First Nation and currently CEO of the B.C. Indigenous Housing Society. Previously, she was CEO for Seyem, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Kwantlen First Nation. Knights is a federal appointee to the Canada Lands Company board and a provincial appointee to Legal Aid B.C. and the New Relationship Trust.

FRED LEE

MEDIA PERSONALITY

VANCOUVER'S MAN ABOUT TOWN

Fred Lee has a distinguished record of helping charities raise big bucks for worthy causes. In addition to hosting fundraisers and raising millions as an auctioneer, Lee is a mentor and continues to give of his time and expertise to many not-for-profit organizations, including the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, Chor Leoni and CampOUT!. His impactful work and efforts help charities raise funds and be sustainable.

NANCY MACKAY

FOUNDER AND CEO MACKAY CEO FORUMS

Nancy MacKay, PhD, is founder and CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, providing the highest-impact, least time-intensive and most diverse peer learning groups in Canada for over 5,000 CEOs and executives over the past 20 years. A bestselling author and keynote speaker, MacKay is dedicated to populating the world with inspiring leaders. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

CLINT MAHLMAN

PRESIDENT AND COO

DRUGS

In addition to his executive roles at one of B.C.'s largest employers and most-loved brands, Clint Mahlman is co-founder of the Save Our Streets coalition, which is fighting retail crime and street disorder. Mahlman is a current board director of Retail Council of Canada, and a former chair or board member of various non-profit recycling industry organizations.

PAUL MOCHRIE

CITY

Paul Mochrie was appointed as city manager for the City of Vancouver in April 2021. He previously served as deputy city manager, and as a general manager overseeing human resources and technology services. Mochrie has broad experience in the public sector, including appointments with the government of British Columbia, regional health authorities and employers’ associations.

SUE PAISH

Sue Paish is CEO of DIGITAL, Canada’s leader in accelerating the development and commercialization of Canadian-made digital technologies that address the most pressing needs across our economy and society. She was previously CEO of LifeLabs and Pharmasave, and the first female managing partner at Fasken. Paish holds multiple board roles and awards, including the Order of B.C. and King’s Counsel. ECONOMIC

GWENDOLYN POINT

CHAIR PAVCO

Dr. Gwendolyn Point is a respected Stó:lõ leader, mentor and cultural adviser. From 2007-2012, as spouse of then-Lt. Gov. Steven Point, she served as B.C.’s chatelaine. Point has served on numerous committees and boards, including as independent chair of the Ministry of Children and Families’ Fraser Valley Aboriginal Interim Board.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

GARY POONI

PRESIDENT POONI GROUP

In his role as president of Pooni Group, Gary Pooni drives the firm’s growth and guides major client projects as strategic lead. With nearly 30 years of urban planning-related experience, he has spearheaded some of the country's most significant development projects.

KAM RAMAN

VP, COMMERCIAL

FINANCIAL SERVICES

RBC

Kam Raman leads with strategic vision and a deep commitment to service. Her influence has spanned regional and national levels, often guiding over 200 employees while driving transformative initiatives that improve experiences for both clients and teams. Raman holds a Queen’s MBA, ICD.D designation and is certified in executive lean leadership — testament to her ongoing dedication to learning and growth.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

NEELAM SAHOTA

CEO DIVERSECITY

Neelam Sahota is a senior executive in B.C.'s social impact sector. She joined DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society as CEO in 2013 and has led the organization through significant growth to become one of the largest employers in the South Fraser. Her award-winning work through public-private partnerships is recognized for delivering collective impact in B.C. and for inspiring a future generation of innovative leaders

ECONOMIC

NORM TAYLOR

PAST PRESIDENT, CANADA NEWMARK

Norm Taylor served as country head and president of the global commercial real estate services firm Newmark in Canada. He previously worked at financial services company CMLS Financial, in addition to holding executive and senior roles at commercial real estate companies such as CBRE, Colliers and Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. He is vice-chair of the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation.

JUGGY SIHOTA

Juggy Sihota, senior vice-president at TELUS, has led transformative healthcare innovation, reaching 76 million people in over 160 countries. A trailblazer in social capitalism and digital health, Sihota champions equity, technology and impact. Named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, she has chaired major boards including the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, and serves on YVR's board. ARTS & CULTURE

LYNN STEVENSON

INTERIM PRESIDENT AND CEO

FRASER HEALTH

Dr. Lynn Stevenson is the interim president and CEO of Fraser Health, one of the largest and most complex health service delivery systems in Canada. Stevenson is a registered nurse and has held senior and executive positions with B.C.'s health-care system across three decades.

PRAVEEN VARSHNEY

DIRECTOR VARSHNEY CAPITAL CORP.

Praveen Varshney has been a principal of Varshney Capital Corp., a Vancouver-based family office, since 1991. He's also a founding director of Pyfera Growth Capital and a founding director of Humanitas Smart Planet Fund, both with a social impact focus. Varshney obtained his bachelor of commerce from UBC's Sauder School of Business in 1987, is a FCPA, a FCA and a long-time member of EO.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

MIKE VOLKER

Michael Volker is an angel investor and entrepreneur. He is chair of WUTIF Capital, an angel fund for startups. He founded the Vancouver Angel Network, VANTEC and is co-president of the Keiretsu Forum’s Vancouver chapter. Volker is a director and past-chair of New Ventures BC.

& BANKING

DUNCAN WLODARCZAK

CHIEF OF STAFF

GROUP

Duncan Wlodarczak is chief of staff at Onni Group, leading initiatives in Vancouver, Chicago, Seattle and Los Angeles. He holds a master’s in urban studies and serves as chair of the Liberal Party of Canada (B.C.), chair of ULI BC, chair of Community Impact Real Estate Society, vice-president of the Strathcona BIA and vice-chair of A Better Life Foundation.

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ONNI

CONNECTION

Business is powered by connections. In some cases, the leaders featured next excel in connecting people; in other cases, they lead organizations that are responsible for infrastructure and networks that connect people to places, and get goods and services to market. These leaders also help connect commerce to causes, and work to strengthen critical connections throughout communities and the province.

KAREEM ALLAM

PARTNER

RICHARDSON STRATEGY GROUP

With two decades of private and public sector experience in public affairs, Kareem Allam has fostered an understanding of Canada’s Chinese, South Asian and Indigenous communities while developing policy expertise in energy, health and transportation. He successfully managed Kevin Falcon's BC Liberal leadership campaign and the ABC Vancouver municipal campaign, electing 19 out of 19 candidates, including Mayor Ken Sim.

ALEXANDER BIKKERS

PRESIDENT

SAAM TOWAGE

With over 20 years of international maritime leadership, Alexander Bikkers has held senior vice-president roles at Boskalis, Dockwise Heavy Transport and Damen Shipyards. He is recognized for his expertise in multicultural leadership, successfully integrating diverse teams and companies post-M&A, and driving operational excellence through cross-cultural collaboration, continuous improvement and disruptive business strategies.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY

ROB BOOKER

CEO

TRIGON PACIFIC TERMINALS

Rob Booker is CEO of Trigon Pacific Terminals, leading its growth as a top Canadian energy export hub. With a strong focus on and proven success in delivering transformational change, he works with Canadian companies, Asia-Pacific partners, Indigenous communities and governments to drive major infrastructure initiatives. A geologist by training with deep experience in marine terminals, Booker chairs several industry boards.

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION RESOURCES

JADE BOURELLE

Jade Bourelle has worked in the human resources and technology industries for 25 years. He is the founder of Inception Ventures and Talemetry, cofounder of Workstory, and co-founder and chair of Mindfield Group, ranked one of Canada's Top 50 fastest-growing companies. Bourelle is chair of the board of YPO BC.

ASHLEIGH BROWN

GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR

ROBERT HALF CANADA

Ashleigh Brown brings over 20 years of experience in senior recruitment advisory, business consulting and strategic relationship management to her role as group managing director for Western Canada at Robert Half. Specializing in retained search for senior-level professionals, Brown has implemented mission-critical recruitment solutions, delivering talent mandates for some of the most prominent organizations in Canada.

BRENT CAMERON

REGIONAL MANAGING PARTNER, WESTERN CANADA BOYDEN CANADA

Brent Cameron is chair of the board for Boyden Canada, one of the leading executive search firms in the country. He currently serves on the boards of the BC Cancer Foundation and Business Council of BC. He is a past chair of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and one of its youngest governors in the organization's 138 years.

GRAHAM CLARKE

FOUNDER

GRAHAM CLARKE GROUP

Graham Clarke has been shaping B.C.'s waterfront for decades with marinas, ferries and tourism ventures. He owns six marinas, Harbour Cruises Ltd., Western Pacific Marine, a stake in Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre and various leases on land and water, and also manages various tourism and hospitality businesses owned by others.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

LORRAINE CUNNINGHAM

OWNER

CUNNINGHAM

Lorraine Cunningham serves as chair of TransLink and chair of the Pacific Pilotage Authority, a federal Crown corporation that places marine pilots on large vessels that arrive and depart from Canada's West Coast. Cunningham manages the Cunningham Group, an entrepreneurial investment group and privately held family business involved in marine transportation, plywood manufacturing, software development and restaurants.

MARKO DEKOVIC

VP, PUBLIC AFFAIRS

GCT GLOBAL CONTAINER TERMINALS

Marko Dekovic is vice-president of public affairs at Global Container Terminals, overseeing stakeholder relations and ESG. He has held key positions at the Port of Vancouver and for Canada’s minister of international trade. A UBC graduate and active in his community, Dekovic is a recipient of BIV ’s Forty Under 40 Award and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

SHELINA ESMAIL

PARTNER

PFM EXECUTIVE SEARCH

Shelina Esmail is an equity partner with PFM Executive Search and has more than 25 years of experience in executive recruitment. A UBC alumna, Esmail holds an economics degree and a diploma in urban land economics. She currently sits on the board of the UBC Foundation and is co-chair of the Business Laureates of BC Hall of Fame gala.

ECONOMIC

TEARA FRASER

FOUNDER

ISKWEW AIR

Teara Fraser is the founder of Iskwew Air, and she recently launched an aero tech company – elibird aero. She believes that together in this innovative space we will reimagine, rematriate and rebuild our air transportation system — centring equity and sustainability.

PAUL HEXTER

PRESIDENT WATERFRONT SHIPPING CO.

Paul Hexter took over the helm of Waterfront Shipping Co. in 2017 after serving as the commercial manager for the company that is the shipping arm of Methanex Corp. — the world’s largest producer of methanol. He is a member of the BC Chamber of Shipping.

NICOLAS JIMENEZ

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BC FERRIES

Nicolas Jimenez provides leadership and strategic direction to ensure BC Ferries fulfils its vital role of connecting British Columbians up and down B.C.'s coastal waterways to the people and places important in their lives. The team is focused on making sure the company offers great customer experiences, in a way that honours its commitment to safety, reliability and affordability.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PUBLIC SECTOR TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

KLEO LANDUCCI

PRESIDENT AND CEO

CRESCENTVIEW INVESTMENTS

Kleo Landucci is CEO and president of CrescentView Investments Ltd. Until 2018, she was managing director of Ashcroft Terminal, an inland rail transloading and storage terminal. She is a board member of Ashcroft Terminal and a director of H2 Portable. In 2021, Landucci was named Supply Chain Executive of the Year by the Freight Management Association of Canada.

DAVE LUCAS

PRESIDENT

SSA MARINE, CANADA

Dave Lucas has been president of the most diverse marine terminal and stevedoring company in British Columbia since January 2024. He joined Western Stevedoring in 1985 and progressed through several key positions before becoming president of terminals and stevedoring in 2019. Lucas serves on the board of the BC Maritime Employers Association and on several waterfront industry committees.

INDUSTRY

IAN MARR

PRESIDENT AND CEO

NANAIMO PORT AUTHORITY

Ian Marr was named CEO of the Port of Nanaimo in 2018. He was elected president of the Association of Pacific Ports in 2019 and presided over the APP’s 107th annual conference, which was held in Nanaimo in 2020. Marr has been with the Nanaimo Port Authority since 1987.

SARAH MCNEILL

CO-FOUNDER

MCNEILL NAKAMOTO RECRUITMENT GROUP

As co-founder of McNeill Nakamoto Recruitment Group, Sarah McNeill dedicated herself to creating a client-focused staffing agency that prioritizes exceptional service. Currently, she serves as chair of GrapeJuice, an annual wine event that has become a cornerstone of fundraising efforts for Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, and is a chapter family officer with YPO Vancouver.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

CHERYL NAKAMOTO

PRESIDENT AND MANAGING PARTNER

MCNEILL NAKAMOTO RECRUITMENT GROUP

Cheryl Nakamoto oversees operations, and leads client development and strategy for McNeill Nakamoto Recruitment Group. She holds her CPHR designation from the nationally recognized CPHR BC & Yukon. She is a member of the Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services, the Women Presidents Organization and is a former board member of Dress for Success.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

MEGAN OWEN-EVANS

PRESIDENT NEPTUNE TERMINALS

Megan Owen-Evans leads Neptune Terminals, a world-class bulk-handling terminal in North Vancouver. She is a two-time anonymous living organ donor, co-chair of the Living Donor Circle of Excellence, director of the Kidney Foundation BC & Yukon and Canucks Alumni Foundation, and recipient of a King Charles III Coronation Medal. She sits on the boards of the BC Maritime Employers Association and BC Maritime Terminal Operators.

ERINN PINKERTON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BC

As president and CEO of BC Transit, Erinn Pinkerton is driving modernization through innovation, technology and zero-emission initiatives. She serves on the University of Victoria's board, and received a 2021 BIV Influential Women in Business Award and Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 2024 Award of Distinction. Pinkerton holds a bachelor of commerce, MBA and ICD.D designation.

KEVIN QUINN

Kevin Quinn is CEO of TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s award-winning transportation authority. As CEO, he oversees the management, planning, finance and delivery of bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus, HandyDART and West Coast Express transit services, as well as cycling and walking infrastructure, five bridges and the Major Road Network.

DANIEL SITNAM

PRESIDENT AND CEO

HELIJET

Daniel Sitnam began his aviation career in 1977. Backed by a few gutsy investors, Helijet’s inaugural flight lifted off in 1986, launching a company that would change the face of commercial aviation in B.C. Sitnam has been presented with a Helicopter Association of Canada Award for his lifetime achievement. Helijet is the largest helicopter airline in the world. TRADE

STEPHEN SMART

HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS

VANCOUVER AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Stephen Smart is a recognized communications and public affairs leader in B.C. Before joining YVR, he spent six years as the general manager of Hill & Knowlton in Western Canada, and 15 years as an award-winning journalist, including as the legislative bureau chief for CBC in B.C. Smart also served as press secretary to the premier of British Columbia.

DOUGLAS SMITH

CEO

DP WORLD (CANADA) INC.

Douglas Smith, CEO of DP World’s operations in Canada, has nearly 30 years of industry expertise backed by a distinguished career in international trade, shipping and logistics. Smith began his career with Sealand Service and has held key positions at Maersk, APM Terminals and Global Ports Management.

STEVE STARK

As president and owner of Tsawwassen Shuttles, Steven Stark has led a team of professionals in providing reliable and safe transportation services to various clients in the marine industry. Stark also serves as president of Two World Transportation and president of Tsawwassen Constructors.

SHAUN STEVENSON

Shaun Stevenson leads the Port of Prince Rupert, Canada’s third-largest trade gateway, anchoring over $60 billion in trade value annually. Over the past 20 years, Stevenson has helped transform the port into a global hub, enabling strategic access to the Indo-Pacific region. Stevenson is currently overseeing a more-than $3 billion expansion to strengthen trade diversification and Canada’s role in global energy security.

BILL WILLIAMS

Elected to the BC First Nations Forestry Council in 2008 by the BC Assembly of First Nations, Chief Bill Williams (ta-lall-SHAM-cane siyam) has been a member of the community’s hereditary council since 1995. He has played a leadership role among First Nations by successfully blending business and conservation efforts. He remains president of the BC First Nations Forestry Council.

PETER XOTTA

Peter Xotta is president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, the federal agency responsible for enabling Canada’s trade through the country's largest port. Xotta began his port career over 35 years ago — nearly 30 of which have been spent at the port authority — and progressively advanced through various roles.

CULTURE

The leaders featured in this section influence the business of culture. Whether they lead creation and innovation at the C-Suite level, or contribute directly to culture through their own influential thought-leadership, these individuals are recognized for the ways in which their business and corporate success intersects with and supports art, recreation, society, film, sport , music and other areas that help make life richer and more meaningful.

BRUCE ALLEN

FOUNDER

BRUCE ALLEN TALENT

For more than 30 years, Bruce Allen has been a cornerstone of the Canadian entertainment industry, with Bruce Allen Talent among the most influential management agencies in North America. In 2008, Allen was named to the board of directors of the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, where he continues to serve.

ARTS & CULTURE

PAULA AMOS

CHIEF MARKETING AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

INDIGENOUS TOURISM BC

Of Squamish Nation descent, Paula Amos has worked with the Indigenous Tourism Association of B.C. for more than 20 years, helping drive growth in the industry through experience development, partnerships and marketing strategies to amplify Indigenous voices and create space for Indigenous tourism.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

MICHAEL BUBLÉ

SINGER AND SONGWRITER

Michael Bublé has sold more than 75 million albums worldwide and won five Grammy Awards and 15 Juno Awards. Known for revitalizing the Great American Songbook, he’s released multiple multi-platinum albums and performed sold-out shows across 30 countries. In 2024, he joined NBC’s The Voice as a coach, winning in his debut season.

ARTS & CULTURE

ROYCE CHWIN

PRESIDENT AND CEO DESTINATION VANCOUVER

As president and CEO of Destination Vancouver since 2020, Royce Chwin leads the city’s official destination promotion agency. Under his leadership, the organization has become more agile and innovative, partnering to drive Vancouver’s visitor economy. Recent successes include bringing major events like the Grey Cup, Juno Awards, Invictus Games, Web Summit and FIFA to the city. TOURISM

MICHAEL BALLINGALL

SVP

BIG WHITE SKI RESORT

Michael J. Ballingall, senior vice-president at Big White Ski Resort, has been a leader in adventure tourism since 1997. He served six years as chair of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association board. Under his leadership, skier visits tripled. He also holds key roles with Tourism Kelowna, the Tourism Industry Association of B.C., the Canadian Ski Council and TELUS.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

REHANA DIN

Rehana Din is COO of PavCo, the Crown corporation managing BC Place and the Vancouver Convention Centre. She also serves on Destination Vancouver’s board. Din's leadership shapes Vancouver’s event landscape and inspires individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue their goals with confidence and dedication.

ARTS

ECONOMIC

TRACEY DRAKE

CEO

ROYAL BC MUSEUM

Tracey Drake is CEO of the Royal BC Museum, overseeing museum operations, BC Archives, and key initiatives in reconciliation and repatriation. A senior executive with more than 20 years of experience, she is leading the museum’s reimagining with a focus on diversity, inclusion and transformative change.

ARTS & CULTURE

ANGELA ELSTER

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VSO & VSO SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Angela Elster leads with infectious passion, vision and energy. She is a recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada and was recently awarded an honorary fellowship by the Royal Conservatory of Music, which recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary cultural contributions. Elster joins a distinguished group of recipients, including Lang Lang, k.d. lang and Oscar Peterson.

ARTS & CULTURE

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PREM GILL

CEO

CREATIVE BC

Prem Gill has been named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in entertainment. She brings more than 25 years of experience in digital media and entertainment to her current role, and has championed Canadian creativity as a representative and spokesperson to media, industry and all levels of government.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MICHELLE GRADY

PRESIDENT SONY PICTURES IMAGEWORKS

Michelle Grady oversees operations, strategy and production at Sony Pictures Imageworks. With over two decades in Vancouver’s visual effects and post-production industry, her career has grown alongside the city’s expanding film sector. She chairs the Animation & Visual Effects Alliance of BC, is vice-chair of the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of BC and serves on the board of Creative BC.

ARTS & CULTURE

SAM FELDMAN

CO-FOUNDER

A&F MUSIC

Sam Feldman is a veteran music executive and leader of A&F Music Ltd. and Watchdog Management. He has represented artists such as Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and Norah Jones. Known for championing artistic freedom, Feldman is dedicated to nurturing talent and empowering artists.

ARTS & CULTURE

JILLIAN HARRIS

FOUNDER

JILLIAN HARRIS DESIGN

Jillian Harris, former Bachelor and Bachelorette contestant and national TV host on renowned interior design shows, has used her platform to share her signature heart and design aesthetic with homes across North America and with followers online. She now leads two successful businesses in media and product development. Harris is the founder of Jillian Harris Design and co-founder of The Jilly Box.

RETAIL

CHUCK KEELING

EVP

GREAT CANADIAN ENTERTAINMENT

In 2004, Great Canadian entered the horse racing industry and retained Chuck Keeling to oversee its racing operations, including Hastings Racecourse and two racetracks in Ontario. In 2013, he was appointed to lead the company’s government, community, charitable and media relations, as well as its responsible gambling programs. Keeling is currently executive vice-president of external relations and business development.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

NAOMI KLEIN

AUTHOR

Naomi Klein is an award-winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author. A Guardian columnist, she was the inaugural Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair at Rutgers University and is now its honorary professor of media and climate. Since 2021, Klein has served as a tenured professor of climate justice and co-director of the Centre for Climate Justice at the University of British Columbia.

ARTS & CULTURE

AMY LANG

PRESIDENT

NORTH SHORE AND MAMMOTH STUDIOS

Amy Lang is president of North Shore and Mammoth Studios, overseeing operations at both production facilities. A CPA-CA, she serves on the Motion Picture Production Industry Association and Invest Vancouver boards, supporting B.C.’s screen industry growth. Lang previously held senior roles at Bosa Development and PwC and taught at UBC’s Sauder School of Business.

ARTS & CULTURE

TREVOR LINDEN

ATHLETE

Trevor Linden played 20 seasons in the NHL, including 16 with the Vancouver Canucks, earning the nickname “Captain Canuck.” Widely respected for his leadership on and off the ice, Linden became a beloved figure in B.C., recognized for his contributions to both hockey and the community.

ARTS & CULTURE

CHAD KROEGER

MUSICIAN

Chad Kroeger is the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for Nickelback, a band that he co-founded in 1995. Nickelback has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and is recognized for multiple hits. Kroeger is a songwriter and producer, who has collaborated with various artists across genres. He is a co-founder of 604 Records.

ARTS & CULTURE

JEFF MALLETT

CO-OWNER

VANCOUVER WHITECAPS

A former Yahoo! president and COO, Jeff Mallett has spent three decades leading and investing in ventures across technology, sports and media. He is a co-owner of the Vancouver Whitecaps and has held executive roles with the San Francisco Giants, Derby County FC and Indochino.

ARTS & CULTURE

CULTURE

GEMMA MARTINI

CEO

MARTINI FILM STUDIOS

Gemma Martini is the founder and CEO of Martini Film Studios. A longtime entrepreneur, she launched the Langley-based production hub in 2016 to meet growing industry demand. Martini is chair of the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of BC and a champion of green infrastructure, industry education and inclusive workforce development in B.C.’s film and television sector.

ARTS & CULTURE

SARAH MCLACHLAN

SINGER AND SONGWRITER

SARAH MCLACHLAN SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Sarah McLachlan, OBC, OC, is a multi-platinum, Grammy- and Juno-winning singer-songwriter. In 1997, she founded Lilith Fair, a touring music festival that featured only female artists. It became the top-grossing festival of its kind during its run and raised more than $7 million for charity. McLachlan is also the founder and board chair of the Sarah McLachlan Foundation.

ARTS & CULTURE

ED MCLAUGHLIN

EVP AND GM ROGERS ARENA

Ed McLaughlin is executive vice-president and general manager of Rogers Arena at Canucks Sports and Entertainment. A former CEO of Hollyburn Country Club, he brings a strong background in project management, marketing strategy and emerging payments, along with leadership experience in operations and training.

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PETE MITCHELL

PRESIDENT

VANCOUVER FILM STUDIOS

Pete Mitchell, president of Vancouver Film Studios, is known for his business leadership and environmental efforts, having led VFS to become Canada’s first carbon-neutral production facility. He oversees the continued growth and financial management of its subsidiaries, Pacific Backlot Services and Signal Systems.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

REAL ESTATE

AMIR NASRABADI

HEAD OF STUDIO

WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS, VANCOUVER

Amir Nasrabadi is head of Walt Disney Animation Studios in Vancouver. With over 20 years in animation production, operations and strategy, he has held senior roles at top global studios and supported numerous award-winning films and series.

ARTS & CULTURE

VICTOR MONTAGLIANI

PRESIDENT CONCACAF

Victor Montagliani is president of CONCACAF and a FIFA vice-president, the first Canadian to hold that role. Raised in a soccer family in Vancouver, he played for local clubs before earning a bachelor of arts from Simon Fraser University. A former president of Canada Soccer, he also holds a national coaching diploma and is a BC Soccer life member.

& CULTURE

BRUCE MUNRO WRIGHT

CHAIR

NATURE CONSERVANCY OF CANADA

Bruce Munro Wright is a volunteer leader in Canada’s charitable sector, known for decades of service in the arts, literacy and nature conservation. A retired lawyer, he chairs and serves on numerous boards, including the Vancouver Opera and Nature Conservancy of Canada. In 2021, he received the Order of British Columbia for his contributions to arts and non-profit work.

ARTS & CULTURE INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

JOSH NILSON

CO-FOUNDER AND GM EAST SIDE GAMES

Josh Nilson, a Métis leader from northern B.C., brings 20 years of tech experience to East Side Games. Under his leadership, ESG has earned the Business of Good: Indigenous Prosperity Award, been named a Top 50 Mobile Game Maker and won Company of the Year: Scale at the Technology Impact Awards.

ARTS & CULTURE

RICHARD PORGES

PRESIDENT AND CEO DESTINATION BC

Richard Porges is president and CEO of Destination BC. He joined the corporation’s research department in 1999 and has held senior roles within Destination BC and the provincial government. Before that, he taught economics and business courses at the University of Victoria and consulted for government and non-profits.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

ARTS

LIZ SHORTEN

COO

CANADIAN MEDIA PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Liz Shorten has over 25 years of experience building capacity in film, television and digital media. As CMPA’s COO, she oversees operations across Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. Shorten chairs REEL CANADA, is treasurer of the Pacific Screenwriting Program, co-founded Women in View and was founding chair of Story Money Impact.

ARTS & CULTURE

CHRISTINE SINCLAIR

ATHLETE

Christine Sinclair is Canada’s all-time leading soccer scorer with more than 185 international goals, the highest worldwide. She has competed in four Olympic Games, winning gold in Tokyo 2020 and back-to-back bronzes in 2012 and 2016. Sinclair is a coowner of Vancouver Rise FC.

ARTS & CULTURE

NANCY STIBBARD

OWNER & CEO

CAPILANO GROUP OF COMPANIES

Nancy Stibbard has helped shape Canadian tourism since 1983, when she purchased Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Her group of companies now includes attractions in Stanley Park and luxury lodges in the Canadian Rockies. Stibbard’s influence extends beyond her businesses, touching thousands of employees and tourism organizations through her visionary leadership.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Based in Squamish (Skwxwú7mesh), British Columbia, Carbon Engineering is developing scalable Direct Air Capture technologies to make capturing large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere an affordable reality.

Congratulations to all the BC500 recipients leading the way across the province!

RON TOIGO

PRESIDENT AND MAJORITY

OWNER

VANCOUVER GIANTS

Ron Toigo is president and majority owner of the Vancouver Giants. He previously owned and operated the Tri-City Americans Hockey Club before selling it in 2000. Toigo currently serves as governor of the Western Hockey League and sits on the league’s executive committee. He is a BC Restaurant Hall of Fame inductee in 2025.

ARTS & CULTURE

BELINDA TREMBATH

COO

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

Belinda Trembath became the first female COO of Whistler Blackcomb in May 2023. Before leading North America's largest mountain resort, she served as vice-president and general manager of three of Australia’s most popular ski resorts — Mt. Hotham, Falls Creek and Perisher — from 2006 to 2023.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

JENNIFER TWINER MCCARRON

CEO

THUNDERBIRD ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Jennifer Twiner-McCarron is CEO and chair of Thunderbird Entertainment Group, a multi-platform company that produces award-winning scripted, unscripted and animated content for major media platforms worldwide. She also serves on several boards and committees, including the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, the CKNW Kids’ Fund and the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television.

ARTS & CULTURE

MARSHA WALDEN

CEO

DESTINATION CANADA

Marsha Walden became president and CEO of Destination Canada in 2020. Formerly head of Destination BC, she holds a strong record in tourism strategy and recovery leadership. A trusted voice in Canada’s tourism sector, Walden is focused on building a resilient visitor economy.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

KAY WONG-ALAFRIZ

CFO

KABAM AND KABAM GAMES

Kay Wong-Alafriz, FCPA, is a respected CFO known for her leadership in global finance, strategic transformation and inclusive governance. With experience across public and private sectors, she has driven growth at Kabam Inc. and is a champion for emerging leaders in B.C.’s business community.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

TOM WRIGHT

GENERAL DIRECTOR

VANCOUVER OPERA

Tom Wright has overseen more than 50 productions in 15 seasons with Vancouver Opera. A champion of new commissions and young talent, he founded the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artist Program and helped establish the Michael & Inna O’Brian Opera Centre. Wright previously held leadership roles with Arizona Opera and Calgary Opera and trained at the Banff Centre.

ARTS & CULTURE

GROWTH

The individuals included in this section are instrumental in driving economic expansion and development. Through strategic vision and innovative business models, they foster environments where companies thrive, creating jobs and increasing prosperity. Their work often involves identifying new market opportunities, scaling businesses and attracting investment that fuels sustainable and impactful growth. In all cases, these leaders are growth-oriented, whether focused on growing products for consumption, expanding services for businesses or developing their businesses in remarkable ways.

COLIN CHAPDELAINE

PRESIDENT

WHOLE LEAF (STAR PRODUCE LTD)

Colin Chapdelaine is president of Whole Leaf, a high-tech greenhouse operation under The Star Group. A produce industry leader since 1999, he has held multiple senior roles, including president of B.C. Hot House. A past chair of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, he was named B.C. Produce Person of the Year in 2023.

RESOURCES

DUNCAN DAVIES

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MOSAIC FOREST MANAGEMENT

Duncan Davies leads Mosaic Forest Management as president and CEO, with decades of executive experience in the forestry sector. Formerly CEO of Interfor, Davies built that company into a global leader. He has also led Pinnacle Renewable Energy and chaired Resolute Forest Products.

RESOURCES

CHRISTINE COLETTA

CO-FOUNDER

HAYWIRE WINERY & GARNET VALLEY RANCH WINERY

Christine Coletta is a pioneer in B.C.’s wine industry, co-owning Haywire and Garnet Valley Ranch with her husband, Steve Lornie. A founding director of the B.C. Wine Institute, she is known for her innovative marketing, fearless leadership, and commitment to sustainability and community volunteerism.

INDUSTRY

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

JENNIFER CUDLIPP

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BACAS FAMILY WINES

Jennifer Cudlipp is president and CEO of BACAS Family Wines, home to Quails’ Gate Winery. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, she is known for guiding people-centred organizations through growth and transformation. A CPA Distinguished Service Award recipient, Cudlipp champions a vision that blends tradition, innovation and community.

INDUSTRY MANUFACTURING

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

DIRK DE JONG

REGIONAL MANAGER VILLAGE FARMS

Born into a Dutch farming family, Dirk de Jong grew up immersed in greenhouse production. After horticultural school, he joined Village Farms in Texas before relocating to B.C., where he continues to contribute his lifelong expertise to the industry.

RESOURCES

BRUCE DEAN

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT NORTHAM BEVERAGES

Bruce Dean founded Northam Beverages in 2005. As president, he oversees the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of Western Canada’s most innovative craft beverage company. In 2001, Dean immigrated to B.C. from Australia to fill the role of president for Mark Anthony Group, then B.C.’s largest beverage alcohol distributor.

INDUSTRY MANUFACTURING

GROWTH

AMAR DOMAN

PRESIDENT AND CEO

THE FUTURA CORPORATION

Amar Doman is the founder of The Futura Corporation, which has over 3,500 employees and more than $3 billion in revenue. He began his career in B.C.’s forest products industry and is now chair and CEO of Doman Building Materials, chair of Tree Island Steel and owner of the B.C. Lions Football Club.

INDUSTRY MANUFACTURING RESOURCES

MICHAEL FITZPATRICK

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ROBERT ALLAN LTD.

Michael Fitzpatrick, a naval architecture graduate from the University of New South Wales, Australia, has led Robert Allan Ltd. to becoming a global leader in ship design. Under his leadership, more than 1,200 commercial vessels valued at over $10 billion have been built on six continents using designs developed by the Vancouver-based firm. PROFESSIONAL

KELLY EDMISON

CHAIR PENDER FUND

Kelly Edmison is chair of Pender, which he founded in 2003. A former lawyer with over 20 years of experience advising B.C.-based tech companies, he has spent the past 15 years as a director and officer of successful firms across technology, health care and other sectors. He holds a bachelor of arts in economics from the University of Toronto and a law degree from Queen’s.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

KARIMAH ES SABAR

CO-FOUNDER AND GENERAL PARTNER QUARK VENTURE LP

Karimah Es Sabar is the founding CEO and general partner at Quark Venture LP/GHS Fund. She chairs the boards of Triumf Innovations and GlycoNet, and the Life Sciences/Biomanufacturing Strategic Review Committee. A global life sciences leader, she previously led the Centre for Drug Research and Development and has helped advance B.C.’s and Canada’s life sciences sector.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

JENNIFER FOSTER

SVP, HR & CORPORATE AFFAIRS WESTERN FOREST PRODUCTS

Jennifer Foster is senior vice-president of human resources and corporate affairs at Western Forest Products, an integrated forest products company competing in global softwood markets. She also serves as a director of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and as a trustee of the IWA–Forest Industry Pension Plan.

RESOURCES

MARKUS FRIND

PROPRIETOR FRIND ESTATE WINERY

Markus Frind is the founder of PlentyOfFish, one of the world’s most successful online dating platforms. Born in Germany and raised in northern B.C., he studied computer programming at BCIT and launched POF in 2003. After selling the company in 2015, he turned to winemaking, continuing his family’s 500-year tradition in farming and viticulture.

RESOURCES

DAVID GENS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MERCHANT GROWTH

David Gens is the founder, chair, president and CEO of Merchant Growth and Merchant Opportunities Fund, one of Canada’s largest fintech lending platforms. Since 2009, Merchant Growth has provided over $800 million in financing through more than 10,000 transactions to support small businesses across the country.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

PAUL GEYER

CEO

NIMBUS SYNERGIES

Paul Geyer is a medtech entrepreneur, experienced board member, angel investor and venture capitalist. Over the past 35 years, he has founded or led three companies through significant growth, including one successful exit and another that became a public company. Two have grown into anchor medical device firms in B.C.’s life sciences sector.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ROGER HARDY

CEO

KITS EYECARE

Roger Hardy has transformed the vision care industry by founding and scaling platforms that make high-quality, affordable eyewear widely accessible. His focus on convenience, affordability and customer-first service has reshaped the optical market, offering more choice and lasting impact for people seeking reliable vision solutions.

HARRY HERTSCHEG

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL

Harry Hertscheg has led media, arts and cultural organizations including CiTR-UBC Radio, the Vancouver Fringe Festival and the Vancouver East Cultural Centre. He now heads the Vancouver International Wine Festival, Canada’s top food, wine and hospitality event and one of the world’s premier wine trade shows. His passion lies in building and supporting community.

ARTS & CULTURE

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

KEITH IPPEL

CO-CEO SPRING

Keith Ippel is the co-founder of Spring, a global incubator, accelerator and advisory firm that supports purpose-driven entrepreneurs. Based in Vancouver, Spring runs entrepreneurship, incubator, accelerator and funding programs, and is the only global entrepreneurship program of its kind in Canada.

ECONOMIC

& BANKING

BRENDA IRWIN

MANAGING PARTNER RELENTLESS VENTURE FUND

Brenda Irwin is the founder and managing partner of the Relentless Venture Fund and the Relentless Health Pursuit Fund, both focused on health technologies for chronic disease management and aging populations. An experienced board chair and director, she has served on more than two-dozen Canadian boards across private, public and non-profit sectors.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

RETAIL

GROWTH

JEANETTE JACKSON

CEO FORESIGHT CANADA

Jeanette Jackson is a multi-awardwinning sustainability champion and CEO of Foresight Canada, supporting over 845 cleantech companies that have raised more than $1 billion. A leading adviser in the sector, she also serves on the board of Invest Vancouver and as an adviser to Frontier Collective.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

DAVE LEDE

CHAIR AND CEO

LEDCOR GROUP OF COMPANIES

Dave Lede is currently chair and CEO of the Ledcor Group of Cos. From 1980 to 1985, he was president and general manager and, prior to that, he held many positions while rising through the ranks of his family’s company. Lede was inducted into the Business Laureates of British Columbia Hall of Fame in 2013.

INDUSTRY

TINA LEE

CEO

T&T SUPERMARKET

Tina Lee is CEO of Richmond-based T&T Supermarket, Canada’s largest Asian food retailer. She received Ascend Canada’s Executive of the Year Award in 2018 and the Retail Council of Canada’s Grand Prix Trailblazer Lifetime Achievement Award. Lee was also recognized as one of Canada’s Most Powerful CEOs by the Women’s Executive Network in 2024. RETAIL

PETER LU

FOUNDER AND CEO UNIUNI

Peter Lu is founder and CEO of UniUni, which aims to lead last-mile delivery in North America. Since 1998, he has held roles from software engineer to IT consultant and project manager. He founded Save Online Enterprise Corp., and holds a degree from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and leadership credentials from Harvard Business School Online.

PAUL LEE

MANAGING PARTNER

VANEDGE CAPITAL PARTNERS

Paul Lee is the founder and managing partner of Vanedge Capital Partners Ltd., a venture capital fund investing in hard technology, analytics and computational biology. Former president of Electronic Arts Inc., he serves on several community and corporate boards, including those with the UBC Sauder School of Business, Vancouver Police Foundation and Quantum Gravity Society.

GREG MCDOUGALL

FOUNDER AND CEO

HARBOUR AIR GROUP

Greg McDougall is the founder and CEO of Harbour Air Group and Harbour Air Seaplanes, one of the world’s largest all-seaplane airlines. Harbour Air was North America’s first fully carbon-neutral airline. In 2019, McDougall was inducted into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.

TRACEY MCVICAR

PARTNER

CAI CAPITAL PARTNERS

Tracey McVicar is a former partner at CAI Capital Partners and serves on the boards of several CAI portfolio companies. She is a former director of Teck Resources and BC Hydro. McVicar has been recognized among Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women and received BIV ’s Forty Under 40 Award.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

CHRISTA-LEE MCWATTERS

GENERAL MANAGER TIME FAMILY OF WINES

Daughter of B.C. wine legend Harry McWatters, Christa-Lee McWatters is a prominent voice in Canada’s wine industry. Former chair of the B.C. Wine Institute and director of the Canadian Vintners Association, she currently serves on the boards of Wine Growers Canada, Wine Growers British Columbia and Les Dames d’Escoffier.

RESOURCES

DON MURRAY

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO SAFE SOFTWARE

Don Murray is the co-founder and CEO of Safe Software, which created the only enterprise data integration platform with comprehensive spatial data support. Murray has dedicated his career to helping organizations unlock the power of data for better decision-making.

SANDRA OLDFIELD

PARTNER

ELYSIAN PROJECTS

Sandra Oldfield, a passionate advocate for B.C.’s wine industry, now champions the province’s tourism sector. Through her consultancy, Elysian Projects, she mentors small business leaders, offering strategic advice and support to help them lead with clarity, build strong teams and grow resilient organizations.

SALIL MUNJAL

MANAGING PARTNER

YALETOWN PARTNERS

Salil Munjal leads Yaletown Partners, one of Canada’s largest venture capital firms investing in growth-stage technology companies. Yaletown is a past recipient of the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association Deal of the Year Award. Previously, Munjal was president of Leitch Technology, growing it to over 1,200 employees across six global offices.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

JEANNE-MARIE OWENS

CO-FOUNDER AND COO CRITICAL PATH GAMES

Jeanne-Marie Owens is co-founder and COO of Critical Path Games and board chair of DigiBC. She helped create the creative technology gallery at Science World and is a strong advocate for B.C.’s creative tech sector. As former COO of Phoenix Labs, she helped grow the company to over 350 staff while fostering an award-winning culture.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

GROWTH

MARIA PACELLA

MANAGING PARTNER

PENDER VENTURES

Maria Pacella is a venture capitalist at Pender with over two decades of experience investing in early-stage tech companies. A CFA charterholder, she has held board roles across the software, e-commerce and medtech sectors. She sits on the board of Clarius Mobile Health, advises SFU Beedie and is a past president of CFA Society Vancouver.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

GEORGE PALEOLOGOU

PRESIDENT AND CEO

PREMIUM BRAND HOLDINGS

George Paleologou has been president and CEO of Premium Brands or its predecessors since May 2008. He previously served as president from July 2001 to May 2008, and as CEO of Direct Plus Food Group Ltd. — a Premium Brands subsidiary — from October 2000 to July 2001. He has been a director of Premium Brands since July 2001.

INDUSTRY

HAMED SHAHBAZI

CHAIR AND CEO WELL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES

Hamed Shahbazi has over 28 years of experience as a technology-focused operator. He is the founder, chair and CEO of WELL Health Technologies — the largest owner and operator of outpatient medical clinics in Canada. Shahbazi also founded TIO Networks, which was acquired by PayPal in 2017 for $304 million. An advocate of impact entrepreneurship, he mentors founders and provides strategic investments through his family office.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

WAL VAN LIEROP

FOUNDING PARTNER

CHRYSALIX VENTURE CAPITAL

Dr. Wal van Lierop is an internationally recognized cleantech pioneer, venture capitalist and business leader. With a background as a corporate executive, consultant and professor, he founded Chrysalix Venture Capital in 2001, building it into one of the world’s most respected early-stage cleantech investment firms. ECONOMIC

CAROLINE VON HIRSCHBERG

CO-CEO SPRING

Caroline von Hirschberg, co-CEO of Spring, champions impact entrepreneurship and gender equity in investing. She serves as chair of Propel Impact and a jury member for the Cartier Women’s Initiative. With global experience across sectors, she works to close funding gaps for women entrepreneurs and build sustainable, purpose-driven business models.

BORIS WERTZ

FOUNDING PARTNER VERSION ONE VENTURES

Boris Wertz is the founding partner of Version One Ventures and a leading early-stage tech investor in North America. He served as COO of AbeBooks until its acquisition by Amazon. In 2005, he was named the Pacific Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and in 2024, he was inducted into the BC Innovators Hall of Fame.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

JENNIFER WOIKE

PRESIDENT

BC AGRICULTURE

COUNCIL

Jennifer Woike is a Cowichan Valley-based agribusiness owner and leader, operating Vancouver Island’s largest egg production farm. She has held leadership roles on the North Cowichan council and the BC Egg Marketing Board. Woike also served as president of the 2018 BC Summer Games Society and is recognized for expertise in agriculture, government relations and Indigenous partnerships.

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IMPACT

This section recognizes leaders whose actions and initiatives have created significant and measurable positive change. Whether through their philanthropy, social enterprise, environmental stewardship or advocacy, these leaders have had and continue to leave a lasting imprint on society. Their influence extends beyond financial success, demonstrating a profound commitment to making the province a better place for entrepreneurs, communities and British Columbians.

CHRISTINA ANTHONY

VP AND DIRECTOR

ODLUM BROWN

Christina Anthony is a vice-president, director, portfolio manager and investment adviser at Odlum Brown. She is the founder and chair emeritus of The Forum, chair of the Telus Vancouver Community Board and chair of the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation Property Development Committee. Anthony is widely recognized for her leadership in philanthropy and the investment industry.

PAOLO AQUILINI

FOUNDER

CANUCK AUTISM NETWORK

Paolo Aquilini founded the Canucks Autism Network in 2008 with his wife, Clara Aquilini. The organization serves thousands of children on the autism spectrum across British Columbia, through social events, sports and recreation opportunities, training programs and more. INSTITUTIONS

JILL ATKEY

CEO

BCNPHA

Jill Atkey leads a team working to address the housing crisis in British Columbia. She oversaw the creation of the Canadian Rental Housing Index, the B.C. Rental Protection Fund and Community Housing Coverage — a sector-owned insurance solution. Atkey has also expanded services and programs, and serves on several boards, in the housing sector.

RYAN BEEDIE

PRESIDENT BEEDIE DEVELOPMENT

Ryan Beedie leads one of Canada’s top industrial and residential property development companies. His passion for real estate was inspired by his father, Keith, who founded the company in 1954. Beedie joined in 1993 and became president in 2001. He has donated or pledged over $145 million to 350 charitable organizations in British Columbia.

SHEILA BIGGERS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ST. PAUL'S HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Sheila Biggers is president and CEO of St. Paul’s Foundation. She has held leadership roles at UBC’s Sauder School of Business and JA British Columbia, focusing her career on the intersection of business and community. Biggers holds a master's of public administration from the University of Victoria and serves on the Peter Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics advisory board.

WENDI CAMPBELL

PRESIDENT AND CEO JABC

Wendi Campbell is president and CEO of JA British Columbia. With more than 30 years of business experience, including as managing director at KPMG Canada, she advocates for youth education and financial literacy. Campbell is skilled at connecting people and ideas, turning strategy into action and empowering young people to shape their futures.

ANGELA CHAPMAN

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VGH & UBC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Angela Chapman has advanced education, research and health care through philanthropy, leaving a global impact over more than three decades. Since 2020, she has served as president and CEO of the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, the primary philanthropic partner of Vancouver Coastal Health and a leading charity investing in health-care innovation in British Columbia.

ROBYN CHISHOLM

VP, HEAD, COMMERCIAL BANKING SCOTIABANK

Robyn Chisholm is vice-president of commercial banking for Scotiabank’s British Columbia and Yukon region. Her team works closely with businesses to understand their goals at every stage, providing tailored advice and solutions to navigate challenges, achieve milestones and seize opportunities.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

SERGIO COCCHIA

PRESIDENT CREW GROUP OF COMPANIES

Sergio Cocchia, OBC, is president of Crew Group of Companies and has managed Vancouver’s Century Plaza Hotel for over 35 years. He co-founded the Pacific Autism Family Network, which creates a knowledge centre for autism in British Columbia. The Justice Institute of B.C. awarded him an honorary doctor of laws in 2010.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

JOHN DELUCCHI

PRESIDENT AND CEO MADISON GROUP

John DeLucchi, FCPA, FCA, is president and CEO of the Madison Group, which operates businesses in the commercial real estate, electric automation, environmental risk and media sectors. He has served on a number of not-for-profit boards, including Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, Covenant House and the United Way.

GORDON FYFE

CEO AND CIO BCI

Gordon Fyfe is CEO of British Columbia Investment Management Corporation, where he transformed BCI into one of Canada’s leading institutional investors. He was CEO of the Public Sector Pension Investment Board in Montreal for 11 years. In 2023, the lieutenant governor of B.C. appointed him to the Order of British Columbia.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

DAVID GAROFALO

CHAIR AND CEO GOLD ROYALTY CORP.

David Garofalo, FCPA, FCA, ICD.D, is chair and CEO of Gold Royalty Corp. He was CEO of Goldcorp (2016-2019), CEO of Hudbay (2010-2016) and CFO of Agnico-Eagle (1998-2010). Garofalo was named The Northern Miner ’s Mining Person of the Year in 2012 and Canada’s CFO of the Year in 2009. He and his wife, Christie, have eight children.

ARTS & CULTURE

BEV HOLMES

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MICHAEL SMITH HEALTH

Ben Holmes, FCAHS, is president and CEO of the Michael Smith Health Research. With over 20 years of experience in funding and using research to improve public health, Holmes is also an adjunct professor at SFU’s Faculty of Health Sciences and UBC’s School of Population and Public Health.

RESOURCES

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

KRISTY JAMES

CEO

BURNABY HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Kristy James is CEO of the Burnaby Hospital Foundation. Previously, she served as director of donor relations for Lions Gate Hospital, executive director for Western Canada at Cystic Fibrosis Canada and CEO of Variety. She is focused on strengthening Burnaby Hospital and Burnaby community health services. James was named a 2024 BCIT Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. INSTITUTIONS

KIRSTEN KOPPANG TELFORD

CEO THE FORUM

Kirsten Koppang Telford is CEO of The Forum. Before joining the organization, she co-founded ePACT and spent 11 years there. She leads initiatives such as The Forum’s Pitch competition, where women entrepreneurs compete for funding, driving The Forum’s impact on individual entrepreneurs and the Canadian women’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

PAUL LAROCQUE

CEO

ARTS UMBRELLA

Paul Larocque is CEO of Arts Umbrella. Since 2016, he has led the arts education institution through significant growth, now serving more than 20,000 children and youth annually. His leadership drove the opening of a new 50,000-square-foot arts education centre on Granville Island. Larocque was named a 2025 honorary degree recipient by Emily Carr University.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

CAROL LEE

CHAIR

VANCOUVER CHINATOWN FOUNDATION

Carol Lee, OBC, is chair of the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. Focused on revitalizing Chinatown and the Downtown Eastside, she leads efforts in affordable housing, seniors’ housing, and cultural and economic development. Lee holds an honorary doctor of laws degree from UBC and an honorary doctorate of technology from BCIT.

DAVID LONG

CEO

GREATER VANCOUVER FOOD BANK

David Long is CEO of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, where he leads efforts to address Vancouver’s food crisis. He relocated the organization to Burnaby, doubling refrigeration capacity to better handle fresh food. Under his leadership, the food bank provides healthy food weekly to 15,000 clients and 150 agencies, while redirecting 300,000 pounds of surplus to provincial food banks.

KEVIN MCCORT

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VANCOUVER FOUNDATION

Kevin McCort became CEO of Vancouver Foundation in 2013 after 25 years in international development with Canada’s top global charities. He served six years with a federal advisory committee on the charitable sector and was recently named a director of the Conference Board of Canada. McCort is also a member of Young Presidents’ Organization in British Columbia.

MICHAEL MCKNIGHT

PRESIDENT AND CEO

Michael McKnight is a recognized leader in the non-profit sector, dedicating his career to community service. Over the last 30 years, he has served as CEO of two charitable organizations, generating more than $1 billion to support healthy, caring and inclusive communities. McKnight has also been a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations.

LAURA NASHMAN

CEO BC PENSION CORP.

Laura Nashman is CEO of the BC Pension Corporation. Under her leadership, the organization earned Canada Awards for Excellence Platinum certification in 2022 and has been recognized as one of B.C.’s Top Employers for four consecutive years. Nashman also leads a transformation within the organization that includes building six websites and a new pension payment system.

JACK NEWTON

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO CLIO

Jack Newton is the CEO and founder of Clio. He fosters a work environment that prioritizes work-life balance, supporting employee well-being. Under his leadership, Clio delivers accessible, equitable legal services and helps law firms succeed. Newton shares his expertise in his bestselling book The Client-Centered Law Firm.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

JEFF NORRIS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ROYAL COLUMBIAN HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Jeff Norris, president and CEO of Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, has led the organization for a decade. He is spearheading a $1.5 billion Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower campaign. With more than 30 years in the non-profit sector, Norris is known for his impact-driven leadership. BIV has recognized Norris with a BC CEO Award in the non-profit organization category.

RICHARD PASS

CEO RONALD MCDONALD

Richard Pass has been CEO of Ronald McDonald House British Columbia and Yukon since 2006, supporting families with critically ill children. Under his leadership, the organization has grown significantly, including through the design and 2014 opening of Vancouver’s 73-bedroom house — one of the largest Ronald McDonald Houses in the world.

LORING PHINNEY

Loring Phinney's career has spanned over 30 years of communications and stakeholder engagement, working in a wide range of sectors, from business and government, to education and professional sports. As the new CEO for the Pacific Autism Family Network, he embraces his passion for community leadership, working to support the neurodivergent community's journey towards meaningful inclusion and lifelong skills development.

SARAH ROTH

PRESIDENT AND CEO BC CANCER FOUNDATION

With nearly 30 years leading high-impact fundraising across North America, Sarah Roth has a record of driving ambitious results. During her nine years at the helm of the BC Cancer Foundation, she led a historic $500 million campaign to advance research and expand access to clinical trials and cutting-edge technology across B.C.— including supporting the development of four new BC Cancer centres.

LORNE SEGAL

PRINCIPAL

KINGSWOOD CAPITAL

Lorne Segal, OBC, president of Kingswood Properties, is a real estate leader and philanthropist. Known for developments such as Fifteen Fifteen and The Kingswood, he has chaired the Courage to Come Back Awards for over 20 years, raising awareness and transforming lives across British Columbia.

TINA STREHLKE

Tina Strehlke is CEO of Minerva BC, a provincial charity advancing leadership for women and girls. With 20 years in the social impact sector, she specializes in authentic and inclusive leadership, gender equity and career development. Strehlke holds degrees from UBC and Royal Roads University, and volunteers with several advisory groups.

LISA WOLVERTON

CO-OWNER PACIFIC INVESTMENT

Lisa Wolverton is co-owner of the Pacific Investment Corporation. Under her leadership of more than 20 years, the corporation facilitated The Sarah McLachlan School of Music by providing permanent housing. Wolverton served on the board of directors of UNICEF Canada for six years, and has served on the board of Family Services of the North Shore.

INNOVATION

Innovation is at the heart of progress, and the leaders in this section are at the forefront of pioneering new ideas, technologies and approaches. They challenge the status quo, embrace risk and drive the development of groundbreaking solutions that reshape industries and improve daily life. Their vision and dedication to cutting-edge advancements position British Columbia as a hub for creativity and future-forward thinking.

ALI ARDAKANI

FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

NOVATEUR VENTURES

Ali Ardakani is a visionary biotech leader with over two decades in life sciences. Founder of Novateur Ventures and CEO of Optigo Biotherapeutics, he spearheaded groundbreaking global partnerships and excelled in M&A and fundraising. Past chair of Life Sciences BC and an associate at Creative Destruction Lab, he continues to inspire as an incoming board member of the BC Cancer Foundation.

LYNDA BROWNGANZERT

Lynda Brown Ganzert is the global CEO of RxPx an award winning, digital health platform that makes safety and adherence easier for patients and physicians, and used by most major pharma around the world. Her passion is using technology to connect people. She has developed more than 100 digital products and services and is internationally recognized as a pioneer in digital health. PROFESSIONAL

EDWARD CHIANG

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO MOMENT ENERGY

Edward Chiang is a 2020 Next 36 alumnus and the co-founder of Moment Energy. Moment’s mission is to help diesel-dependent remote communities wean off of fossil fuels by repurposing electric vehicle batteries. Chiang has a bachelor of mechatronics systems engineering from SFU and Moment is a Global Cleantech 100 company.

MANUFACTURING

PIETER CULLIS

PROFESSOR

UBC

Dr. Pieter R. Cullis, Ph.D. FRS, OC, is a professor at the University of British Columbia. Cullis has co-founded 11 biotechnology companies that now employ over 500 people in Vancouver. His work has led to five approved drugs including Comirnaty, the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.

RYAN D'ARCY

CO-FOUNDER AND CSO HEALTHTECH CONNEX INC.

Dr. Ryan D’Arcy is a neuroscientist and entrepreneur specializing in neurotechnology, neuroimaging and brain health innovation. He is the cofounder of B.C.’s Health and Technology District and HealthTech Connex, and creator of the NeuroCatch Platform — a globally deployed portable brain scanner. D’Arcy holds professorship appointments at SFU and UBC, where he serves as a BC leadership chair in health-tech innovation.

NATALIE DAKERS

CEO A2O ADVANCED MATERIALS

Natalie Dakers is a leading figure in the Canadian innovation sector. She is serial entrepreneur, having co-founded several technology-based companies and high-impact organizations that have contributed to the growth of the health sciences ecosystem. She is active on several private technology company boards, including Augurex, Sonic Incytes and Stemcell Technologies, and has received numerous awards for her contributions.

EDOARDO DE MARTIN

FOUNDER AND CEO

INDUSTRIO AI

Edoardo De Martin is the co-founder and CEO of Industrio AI, a Vancouver-based company building custom AI and software solutions. A former Microsoft and EA executive, he is a recognized leader in Canadian tech innovation. He serves on the boards of Innovate BC, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and the Richmond Hospital Foundation, and is the former chair of Canada’s digital supercluster.

MOHAMMAD DOOSTMOHAMMADI

FOUNDER AND CEO

PH7 TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Mohammad Doostmohammadi, founder and CEO of pH7 Technologies, leads the company’s strategy and innovation. With over 15 years in chemical processes and mineral recovery, he drives sustainable technologies that enable green metal production and reduce the environmental footprint of industrial operations.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES INDUSTRY

JUSTIN DOWDESWELL

Justin Dowdeswell is the general manager at Relic Entertainment. He has more than 15 years of game development experience and oversees Relic’s teams and studio operations. His vision is to harness Relic’s world-class team to build great games and, in partnership with Sega, restore Relic’s place in the video game industry.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ALLEN EAVES

PRESIDENT AND CEO

STEMCELL TECHNOLOGIES

Dr. Allen Eaves, OBC, OC, FRCPC, is a Canadian scientist, physician and entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of advancing science and the Canadian biotechnology industry for over 50 years. Over the past 31 years, Eaves built STEMCELL Technologies into Canada’s largest biotechnology company, which provides cell culture media, cell separation reagents and tools for regenerative medicine.

MANUFACTURING

& LIFE SCIENCES

DANIEL FRIEDMANN

CARBON ENGINEERING

Before being named CEO for Carbon Engineering, Daniel Friedmann served as CEO of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates for 20 years, during which time the company's revenue grew 19-fold and its market capitalization increased 35-fold. He was named the Brendan Wood TopGun CEO in Canada for 2015-2016.

MANUFACTURING

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ALEXANDRA GREENHILL

CEO

CARETREAM TECHNOLOGIES

Alexandra Greenhill is CEO and chief medical officer of the award-winning Caretream Technologies. She has received numerous recognitions, including BIV ’s Forty under 40 Award, Most Influential Women in STEM, Startup Canada Woman Entrepreneur of the Year and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

CARL HANSEN

FOUNDER AND CEO

ABCELLERA

Dr. Carl Hansen is the founding CEO of AbCellera. Under his leadership, AbCellera was a contractor for the pandemic preparedness program of the Defense Advanced Research Program Agency, and developed two antibody treatments for COVID-19 that were administered to 2 million patients. Hansen's work is represented in over 90 peer-reviewed manuscripts and abstracts, and more than 75 patent applications.

HANDOL KIM

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO VARIATIONAL AI

Handol Kim has more than 25 years of AI, machine learning, biotech, deeptech and software leadership experience in venture-backed startups and publicly listed companies. Variational AI is the third startup he has co-founded. Kim is the co-founder of the AI Network of British Columbia and the Asian Canadian Ventures Collective.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

MICHEL LABERGE

FOUNDER AND CHIEF SCIENTIST

GENERAL FUSION

Canadian physicist Dr. Michel Laberge is a long-standing leader in the global fusion industry. In 2002, he founded General Fusion — one of the first private fusion companies in the world — because he believes fusion energy is the solution that will make a transformational impact in the fight against climate change. In his words: “Fusion energy will save the world.”

TECHNOLOGY

CLAUDE LETOURNEAU

PRESIDENT AND CEO

SVANTE

Claude Letourneau is CEO of Svante, which raised US$318 million in venture capital in 2022 and is investing nearly $100 million in a new headquarters and carbon-capture filter manufacturing plant in Burnaby. Letourneau has held senior management roles with Canam Group Inc. and SNC-Lavalin Inc., and has founded two technology companies: Vaperma Inc. and Avestor Inc.

ROBERT MACKIE

CHAIR AND CEO BIOLYTICAL LABORATORIES

Robert Mackie, CEO and chair of bioLytical, has more than 35 years of business leadership. He built a global real estate portfolio and is a philanthropist who supports youth and sports. At bioLytical, he champions global health by advancing bioLytical’s INSTI and iStatis rapid-testing platforms to fight HIV, hepatitis, syphilis and other infectious diseases.

MANUFACTURING

& LIFE SCIENCES

DON MATTRICK

CO-PRESIDENT MDGB CAPITAL INC.

Don Mattrick, a British Columbia-born tech visionary, revolutionized global gaming through his leadership at EA, Xbox and Zynga. Now, as co-president of MdGB Capital, he champions innovation, mentorship and diversity — driving investment, job creation and community-centred growth across B.C.’s thriving tech ecosystem.

GORDON MCCAULEY

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ADMARE BIOINNOVATIONS

Gordon C. McCauley, president and CEO of adMare BioInnovations, is dedicated to advancing Canada's life science industry, drawing on experience in biotech, venture capital and public policy. As an industry leader, he currently serves on the boards of CGEn, Forus Therapeutics and Montreal InVivo, and is involved in national life science policy initiatives. McCauley holds degrees in political science, business and corporate governance. ECONOMIC

TAMER MOHAMED

FOUNDER AND CEO

ASPECT BIOSYSTEMS

A bioengineer, invento, and entrepreneur, Tamer Mohamed co-founded and serves as CEO for Aspect Biosystems. Under his leadership, Aspect has grown its team to over 100 people, raised more than US$260 million in capital and partnered with best-inclass pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies like Novo Nordisk. He is on the board for both BIOTECanada and the Stem Cell Network.

LOIS NAHIRNEY

FOUNDER AND CEO

DNAPOWER INC.

Dr. Lois Nahirney is CEO of dnaPower Inc., revolutionizing preventative health care through personalized DNA testing. She was formerly a senior executive with Teekay, BC Hydro and WMC. Nahirney serves on the boards of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, Coast Capital and the Canadian International Women’s Network.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

Jim Gilliland,CFA ManagingPrincipal, President &CEO Head,F ixed Income

CYBELE NEGRIS

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO WEBNAMES.CA

Cybele Negris is a tech CEO, serial entrepreneur, experienced corporate director, sought-after speaker, mentor, columnist and Hall of Fame inductee of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women. Co-founder and CEO of Webnames.ca, Canada's original domain registrar, and Webnames Corporate, a leader in security and enterprise domain management for corporations and government, Negris has held technology leadership positions for over two decades.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

WARREN ROY

CEO AND FOUNDER

GLOBAL RELAY

A life-long entrepreneur and 25-year veteran in the information technology sector, Warren Roy founded Global Relay in 1999 to offer one of the first hosted email archiving services. Roy drives the overall strategic direction for the company. He is a past recipient of the BC CEO Award and the BC Technology Industry Association's Person of the Year.

CHRIS REID

CEO

EKONA POWER INC.

Chris Reid is a business leader with over 30 years of experience taking cleantech companies from early-stage development to commercialization. Today, he is CEO at Ekona Power Inc., a company developing a low-cost, scalable methane pyrolysis solution — deployable wherever there is natural gas infrastructure — that converts natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon for clean hydrogen production.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ANDREW REID

FOUNDER AND CEO RIVAL TECHNOLOGIES

Andrew Reid founded Vision Critical (now Alida), one of Vancouver's anchor technology companies. Reid is the cofounder and a director of Rival Group, and co-chair of the BC Brain Campaign. He is a Canadian Top 40 Under 40 and BIV Forty Under 40 recipient.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

ANNA SAINSBURY

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO GEOCOMPLY

Anna Sainsbury is the co-founder and CEO of GeoComply Solutions Inc., which provides award-winning fraud prevention and cybersecurity solutions. The company’s software is installed on over 400 million devices worldwide and analyzes over 10 billion transactions annually. Sainsbury is a board member of the American Gaming Association and MVB Bank, and a board trustee of Conscious Gaming.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

DAVID SEYMOUR

VP, AI STRATEGY AND PRODUCT MICROSOFT

David Seymour is vice-president and general manager in the office product group at Microsoft Vancouver. He has been part of Microsoft’s Vancouver team since the company's acquisition of the game development studio Bigpark in 2009. He began his career in IT, working for Compugen and IBM Global Services.

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

GERRI SINCLAIR

INNOVATION

COMMISSIONER

PROVINCE OF BC

Gerri Sinclair is B.C.’s innovation commissioner. She was formerly managing director at Kensington Capital Partners, heading up the $100 million BC Tech Fund. Her career includes more than 25 years of experience in technology, business, research and government. Sinclair is the recipient of numerous awards, including two Lifetime Achievement Awards.

PUBLIC SECTOR

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

PHILIP VANDERPOL

PRESIDENT AND CEO

VITALUS NUTRITION INC.

Philip Vanderpol is a seasoned thought leader who is widely recognized throughout Canada’s business and dairy industries as an entrepreneur driving innovation. With over 30 years of experience, he leans into his unique ability to both modernize and create positive change in business, and lead with deep integrity and care for people.

MANUFACTURING

KNOWLEDGE

The leaders featured in this section are recognized for the profound expertise and invaluable knowledge they contribute to their fields. Whether in education, research, economics, thought leadership or specialized professions, they are instrumental in advancing our understanding, shaping discourse and disseminating critical information. Their intellectual capital enriches British Columbia's professional landscape and supports informed decision-making across various sectors.

BENOIT-ANTOINE BACON

PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR

UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Dr. Benoit-Antoine Bacon is president and vice-chancellor of the University of British Columbia, where he is also a professor of psychology and neuroscience. He was previously president of Carleton University and a senior leader at Queen’s University and Concordia University in his hometown of Montreal. Sharing his own lived experience, he advocates nationally for mental health and substance use issues.

RYAN

BENN

CEO AND GROUP PUBLISHER ALIVE PUBLISHING GROUP

Ryan Benn is a multi-award-recognized CEO with a history of business and board management. He is growth focused, with an aptitude for the buying and selling of companies, international business, strategic planning, operational execution, legal, human resources and finance. An inspirational leader who has managed complex business structures, Benn is a go-to adviser, director and investor who gives tremendously to non-profit roles.

SEYCHELLE CUSHING

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PARTNERSHIPS HUB SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY

Seychelle Cushing spearheads initiatives enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Canadian companies in AI, cleantech, agritech and advanced manufacturing. As executive director of the Partnerships Hub and founder of the Big Data Hub, she champions innovation through strategic partnerships. She also leads the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation, enabling companies to de-risk and adopt cutting-edge technologies.

ALAN DAVIS

PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR

KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

Dr. Alan Davis was appointed president and vice-chancellor of Kwantlen Polytechnic University in September 2012. He previously held leadership positions at institutions in the U.S. and Canada. He is a published playwright, a distinguished member of the Canadian Society for the Study of Higher Education and a board member of Canada’s Collaboration for Online Higher Education Research and BCNet. INSTITUTIONS

ETHAN FABER

NEWS DIRECTOR CTV VANCOUVER

Ethan Faber is a veteran journalist who has helped lead the local evolution of CTV News into a digital news powerhouse that continues to win the top journalism honours in the industry. Besides its television newscasts, CTV News Vancouver is now one of the top read and watched news websites in the province.

JOCK FINLAYSON

CHIEF ECONOMIST ICBA

Jock Finlayson is currently chief economist at the ICBA, Canada's largest construction industry association. Before that, he served for many as executive vice-president and chief policy officer at the Business Council of B.C. Finlayson has served on the boards of a number of Canadian think tanks, as well as with the Bank of Canada and GenomeBC. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY

KNOWLEDGE

THOMAS FUNG

FOUNDER, CHAIR AND CEO

FAIRCHILD GROUP

Thomas Fung founded The Fairchild Group, which has substantial interests in a range of business areas, including media, information technology, retail and real estate. He has studied at the University of British Columbia and New York University. He is the recipient of an honorary degree from UBC.

ARTS & CULTURE

REAL ESTATE

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

TRADE &

BHUPINDER HUNDAL

NEWS DIRECTOR

GLOBAL BC

Bhupinder Hundal is a media professional and manager with close to two decades of media experience. Before joining Global News, he was the senior producer for television news at CBC News Vancouver. Hundal founded CrossConnect Media and is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

ARTS & CULTURE

SUZANNE GILL

PRESIDENT AND CEO

GENOME BC

Suzanne Gill is president and CEO of Genome British Columbia. She has spent 20 years driving partnerships and progress in life sciences with Genome BC and the Digital Innovation Cluster. She has a master of science from UBC and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

KEVIN HALL

PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR

UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA

Kevin Hall is president and vicechancellor of the University of Victoria. He is an innovative academic leader and civil engineer known for his strong commitment to sustainability, innovation and community engagement. He has an unwavering belief in equitable access to education, and equity, diversity and inclusion.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

JOY JOHNSON

PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR

SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY

Joy Johnson is president and vice-chancellor of Simon Fraser University, and committed to carrying out SFU’s vision to be a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Prior to SFU, Johnson had a distinguished academic career. She is an elected fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

SHACHI KURL

PRESIDENT ANGUS REID INSTITUTE

In addition to polling, Shachi Kurl offers analysis with CBC, The Wall Street Journal, PBS, The Globe and Mail and more. Kurl is a former political journalist, and received a Jack Webster Award in 2011. She moderated B.C.’s televised leaders debates in the 2020 and 2024 elections, and the English leaders debate in the 2021 federal election.

INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

MIRANDA LAM

PRESIDENT AND CLO ACUITAS THERAPEUTICS

Miranda Lam is president and chief legal officer of Acuitas Therapeutics, the global leader in LNP-technology-enabling nucleic acid therapeutics. She currently chairs both UBC's board of governors and the board of the BC Cancer Foundation, and serves on the GVBOT board. Formerly an equity partner at McCarthy Tétrault, Lam was appointed King's Counsel in 2023.

STUART MCNISH

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OH BOY PRODUCTIONS

For more than 35 years, Stuart McNish has been involved in video journalism and storytelling. He is the host of Conversations Live, a public affairs dialogue platform carried live on The Vancouver Sun . He is also the host of Conversations That Matter and the founder of Oh Boy Productions, which produces television shows, live virtual events and videos.

MARK MELVILLE

PRESIDENT AND CEO GLACIER

Mark Melville became president and CEO of Glacier in June 2023. He has been an executive with the company for more than 10 years. Previously, Melville resided in Silicon Valley where he held executive positions at various venture-backed technology companies.

ARTS & CULTURE

EVI MUSTEL

PRESIDENT MUSTEL GROUP

Evi Mustel is president of Mustel Research Group and has conducted studies on many of today’s important economic and social issues. She is extensively involved in the business community through her board work, and through her position as honorary vice-consul for Estonia. Current and past board positions include: Invest Vancouver, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, Shato Holdings, GVBOT, YMCA, IWF and Easy Park.

JEFF NANKIVELL

PRESIDENT AND CEO ASIA PACIFIC FOUNDATION OF CANADA

Jeff Nankivell is a dedicated leader in Canada-Asia affairs with over 30 years in the foreign service. Prior to his post as the consul general of Canada in Hong Kong and Macao, he led various official programs across Asia related to development, strategic policy and international financial institutions as director-general of the Canada International Development Agency and Global Affairs Canada.

TRACY REDIES

PRESIDENT AND CEO SCIENCE WORLD

Tracy Redies became president and CEO of Science World British Columbia in 2020. She is passionate about disseminating STEAM learning to more people in B.C., believing these skill sets will be key to the province's and Canada's success in the coming decades.

ARTS & CULTURE

ARTS & CULTURE

KNOWLEDGE

JUDY ROGERS

CHANCELLOR

UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Judy Rogers is a leader in public administration, community development and governance. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of Canada and two United Nations public service awards. She serves as chancellor of the University of British Columbia and is an alumna of UBC and the University of Victoria.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

WAYNE SPARROW

CHIEF

MUSQUEAM INDIAN BAND

Chief Wayne Sparrow has served as elected chief of Musqueam Indian Band since 2012, after serving as an elected councillor beginning in 1995. He is board chair of the Musqueam Capital Corporation, the economic development arm of Musqueam, and sits on the Musqueam Fisheries Commission, which he chaired from 2000 to 2020.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS PUBLIC SECTOR REAL ESTATE

PHILIP STEENKAMP

PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR

ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY

Philip Steenkamp began his second five-year term as president and vice-chancellor of Royal Roads University in January 2024. He previously held the role of vice-president, external relations, at the University of British Columbia and at Simon Fraser University, and held senior leadership positions in multiple provincial ministries. Steenkamp is chair of Universities Canada’s International Committee and chair of the RUCBC.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PUBLIC SECTOR

JIM STANFORD

ECONOMIST AND DIRECTOR CENTRE FOR FUTURE WORK

Jim Stanford is an economist and the director of the Centre for Future Work, a labour economics think tank based in Vancouver. He is one of Canada’s bestknown economists, quoted frequently in the print and broadcast media, and contributes regular commentaries to the Toronto Star, CTV News Channel, and Corus Radio.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SHANNON BYRNE SUSKO

FOUNDER AND CEO METRONOMICS

Shannon Byrne Susko is a bestselling author, award-winning CEO and leadership team coach. She is the founder of Metronomics — a globally adopted strategic growth operating system that guides leadership teams to scale faster with clear strategy, confident execution and aligned, accountable teams, while fostering a culture of sustainable, measurable and predictable business success

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MANUFACTURING

JEN THOMAS

CHIEF TSLEIL-WAUTUTH NATION

Chief Jen Thomas, daughter of former Chief Maureen and Stanley Thomas, tirelessly advocates for the rights and title of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation to benefit the next seven generations. With decades of experience implementing effective social initiatives for the community and beyond, she believes the success of the nation is reflected in its youth and enjoys helping them reach their full potential.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

RAY WALIA

CEO LAUNCH.VC VENTURES

Ray Walia, FCPA, FCMA, is a serial entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment, technology and real estate sectors. He has invested in over 30 startups. As the founder of Launch Ventures, Walia owns and operates a network of proprietary accelerators, innovation labs and investments, alongside his TractionConf.io podcast and network that connects over 100,000 tech professionals.

ANDY YAN

DIRECTOR, CITY PROGRAM

SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY

Born and raised in Vancouver, Andy Yan is the director of the city program and an associate professor of professional practice at Simon Fraser University. Prior to his SFU appointment, he worked in the non-profit and private urban-planning sectors with projects in various American and Canadian metropolitan regions. He is a fellow of the Canadian Institute of Planners.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC

JEFF ZABUDSKY

PRESIDENT BCIT

Dr. Jeff Zabudsky has over 30 years of experience within post-secondary and polytechnic leadership roles. Prior to joining BCIT, Zabudsky was provost for the American University of Bahrain, CEO for Bahrain Polytechnic, president and vice-chancellor for Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, president of Red River College Polytechnic and vice-president, academic, at Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology.

BRYAN YU

AVP AND CHIEF ECONOMIST

CENTRAL 1

Bryan Yu is chief economist at Central 1 Credit Union and leads its economics services and IFRS9 platform business lines. He is known for providing actionable advice to executive management teams and their boards. Yu speaks regularly at credit union and industry events, and is frequently contacted to provide national and provincial economic commentary.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

LEADERSHIP

This section celebrates individuals who exemplify exceptional leadership qualities, inspiring and guiding others towards collective success. They demonstrate strong strategic acumen, foster collaborative environments and cultivate talent, steering their organizations and initiatives with integrity and vision. Their ability to motivate and empower teams is crucial to achieving ambitious goals and shaping the future of their respective industries and communities.

JOHN ANDERSON

CEO ANDERSON GROUP

John Anderson is the chair, CEO and majority owner of The Oppenheimer Group (Oppy), based in Coquitlam. He also founded Anderson Air 44 years ago with a passion for aviation. Anderson has worked for Oppenheimer, the oldest operating company in B.C., for 40 years and continues to be strategically involved in the business at Anderson Air.

FRANCESCO AQUILINI

CHAIR

CANUCKS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Francesco Aquilini is chair of the Vancouver Canucks and a governor of the National Hockey League. He is the managing director of the Vancouver-based, family-run Aquilini Investment Group. Aquilini holds a business administration degree from Simon Fraser University and an MBA from UCLA.

ARTS & CULTURE

Christian Chia is CEO of OpenRoad Auto Group, the largest-volume dealership group in British Columbia. Representing more than 20 brands with over 30 locations in Canada and the U.S., OpenRoad is a proven innovator and has been recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for nine consecutive years.

RETAIL

ASHLEY COOPER

CEO

GROUP OF COS.

Ashley Cooper is CEO of Paladin Group of Companies, one of North America’s largest full-service security companies with offices across the continent. Cooper started working with Paladin as a security officer while completing his bachelor of commerce degree at UBC. After graduating, he managed and then acquired the four-person company.

ROBERTO AQUILINI

MANAGING PARTNER

AQUILINI GROUP

Roberto Aquilini, managing partner of the Aquilini Group, was born and raised in Vancouver and began his career with the family business over 40 years ago. Aquilini is a supporter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and Aquilini Group-supported organizations such as British Columbia Children’s Hospital and Canucks for Kids Fund.

JESSE DOUGHERTY

Jesse Dougherty is a vice-president with Amazon Web Services in Vancouver, where he leads network edge services. He has over 20 years of experience as a software engineer. Originally from Vancouver, he previously spent nine years working at Microsoft in Washington, before returning to his hometown in 2013 to lead the growth of Amazon’s Vancouver office.

DARREN ENTWISTLE

PRESIDENT

Darren Entwistle has guided TELUS’ evolution from a regional telephone company into a global data and wireless leader, generating world-leading operational and financial results, and establishing a track record of driving global-best outcomes. Since 2000, the TELUS family has gifted $1.8 billion, including 2.4 million days of volunteerism — more than any other company in the world.

THOMAS GAGLARDI

GOVERNOR AND CO-OWNER

KAMLOOPS BLAZERS

Tom Gaglardi is governor and coowner of the Kamloops Blazers, and an owner and governor of the Dallas Stars Hockey Club. He is also president of Northland Properties, which includes brands such as Sandman Hotel Group, The Sutton Place Hotels, Moxie’s Grill & Bar, Chop Steakhouse & Bar, Denny’s Restaurants and Northland Asset Management Company.

STEPHEN GASKIN

SVP, B.C. AND YUKON SCOTIABANK

Stephen Gaskin is senior vice-president, British Columbia and Yukon, at Scotiabank, and chair of the Canadian Bankers Association – BC Chapter. Before beginning his career at the bank, Gaskin served as an infantry reservist and a member of the Cadet Instructors Cadre. Scotiabank’s sponsorship of the 2025 Invictus Games was part of efforts to bridge veterans’ transition to civilian employment.

STUART HASELDEN

CEO

ARC'TERYX

Fuelled by his passion for building diverse, high-performing teams and cultivating leaders at all levels, Stuart Haselden has held senior leadership roles across Away Travel, lululemon, J.Crew and Saks Fifth Avenue stores. This passion is central to his business approach, and he sees working shoulder to shoulder with leaders at all levels as critical to building a company's future success.

TORSTEN HOLST PEDERSEN

COO

SEASPAN CORP.

Torsten Holst Pedersen is a senior executive with extensive international experience in a wide range of transportation and logistic industry companies. He has held leadership roles and board positions in those companies in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. He joined Seaspan in late 2018 and was named the company’s COO in 2020.

AZIM JAMAL

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO PACIFIC REACH PROPERTIES

Azim Jamal co-founded Pacific Reach, a diversified investment company, in 2014. Acquisitions began in 2004 with the purchase of the 280-room Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. The company’s other hotel and hospitality assets include the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, the Hilton Vancouver Downtown, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 1927 Lounge and more. Jamal is a trained family physician.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

CLIVE JOHNSON

PRESIDENT, CEO AND DIRECTOR

B2GOLD

Clive Johnson has served as a founding director and the president of B2Gold since December 2006, and as CEO since March 2007. He oversees B2Gold’s long-term strategy and development, and leads the executive team. Previously, Johnson was involved with Bema Gold and its predecessor companies since 1977.

RESOURCES

DON KAYNE

SPECIAL ADVISER TO THE CEO CANFOR

Don Kayne is special advisor to the CEO of Canfor Corporation, an integrated forest products company. He served as president and CEO of Canfor Corporation from 2011 to 2024 and is the former CEO of Canfor Pulp Products Incorporated (2012 to 2022). Kayne has spent his entire career at Canfor, starting out as a regional sales representative in 1979.

RESOURCES

GREGORY LOUIE

CO-PRESIDENT

H.Y. LOUIE CO.

Gregory Louie is co-president of H.Y. Louie Co., a private family company established in 1903. He is also a governor of London Drugs. Louie is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada, and holds a master of public health degree. RETAIL

Congratulationsto our Regional Managing Partner, Jill Yates, and corporate partner, Cameron Belsher, for their recognition by BIV as being among the most influential business leaders in British Columbia.

STUART LOUIE

CO-PRESIDENT

H.Y. LOUIE CO.

Stuart Louie brings extensive legal and commercial expertise to the H.Y. Louie and London Drugs Group leadership teams, gained from years at a top U.S. law firm. He specializes in strategic planning for business growth and development. A Duke University graduate, Louie earned degrees in economics and law. He also serves on several philanthropic boards, continuing his family’s legacy of giving.

THOMAS MARTINI

PRESIDENT AND CEO

LORVAL CAPITAL MANAGEMENT

Thomas Martini is a prominent entrepreneur based in Langley and known for his significant contributions to the manufacturing and real estate sectors. He is president, CEO and founder of Apex Aluminum Extrusions, Lorval Developments and Vitrum Glass. In recognition of his entrepreneurial achievements, Martini was named the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023 Pacific Award Winner.

MANUFACTURING

JOHN MCCARTHY

CEO

SEASPAN SHIPYARDS

John McCarthy was appointed CEO of Seaspan Shipyards in September 2022, following four years as the chief program officer. To Seaspan, he brought over 30 years of extensive shipbuilding experience at American and international shipyards. Prior to Seaspan, McCarthy was president of an independent ship construction consultancy, and, before that, spent nearly three decades years at General Dynamics – Bath Iron Works Corporation.

MANUFACTURING

CALVIN MCDONALD

CEO

LULULEMON

Calvin McDonald leads Lululemon Athletica Inc., which has more than 500 company-operated stores in 17 countries. He joined Lululemon in 2018 and was previously president and CEO of Sephora Americas. Earlier, McDonald was president and CEO of Sears Canada and spent 17 years at Loblaw Companies Ltd. He is a director of The Walt Disney Co.

STUART MCDONALD

PRESIDENT AND CEO

TASEKO MINES LIMITED

Stuart McDonald is a senior mining executive with over 25 years of experience. Under his leadership, Taseko is positioned to become a leading North American copper producer. It operates the Gibraltar Mine, the second-largest copper mine in Canada, and will soon be producing from its second mine in Arizona. Taseko’s growth strategy also includes development of B.C.’s Yellowhead copper project.

INDUSTRY RESOURCES

KEITH CARTER

SVP, WESTERN CANADA WEST FRASER

Keith Carter joined West Fraser in 2000. He was appointed vicepresident of Western Canada operations in 2021. Based in Quesnel, Carter has previously held progressively senior leadership roles within the industry. Carter holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Victoria.

RESOURCES

CATHERINE MCLEOD-SELTZER

CHAIR

BEAR CREEK MINING

Catherine McLeod-Seltzer is a leader in the minerals industry, recognized for her financial expertise, access to capital and ability to create growth-focused companies that generate significant shareholder value. She has a track record of founding, stewarding and directing successful mining ventures, and attributes their success in large part to her partnership with outstanding geological and corporate teams.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

RESOURCES

JONATHAN PRICE

CEO TECK RESOURCES

Formerly the company's CFO, Jonathan Price was named CEO of Teck Resources in 2022. Prior to Teck, Price was at Australian mining giant BHP from 2006-2020. He also worked on the metals and mining team at ABN AMRO Bank and held various production and technical roles with INCO.

RESOURCES

TRACY MEDVE

PRESIDENT AND CEO

KF AEROSPACE

Since joining KF Aerospace in 2013, Tracy Medve has played a pivotal role in transforming the company. She is past chair of the Air Transportation Association of Canada and the first woman in Canada to be named an honorary life member. She serves as chair of Fortis BC and is a 2025 inductee into Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.

JAMIE NELSON

PRESIDENT PATTISON FOOD GROUP

With more than four decades of experience in the grocery retail industry, Pattison Food Group president Jamie Nelson leads a team of more than 30,000 team members working in over 300 retail locations across 11 grocery banners, pharmacy, specialty and wholesale operations. He is actively involved in several industry boards, including the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers, The Grocery Foundation and GS1 Canada.

DAN

SCARROW

PRESIDENT AND CEO

MACDONALD REALTY GROUP OF COMPANIES

Dan Scarrow is president and CEO of Macdonald Realty Group of Companies, which has over 80 years of history in B.C. The group includes Macdonald Realty, with over 20 offices in the province; Macdonald Commercial, with three offices and over 40 commercial brokers; Macdonald Property Management, with more than 8,000 properties valuing over $8 billion under management; and Lyndan Properties.

ECONOMIC

JILL SCHNARR

CHIEF SOCIAL INNOVATION, COMMUNICATIONS & BRAND OFFICER TELUS

With over 30 years of telecommunications and technology industry experience, Jill Schnarr leads communications, public relations, brand marketing, sponsorship, public policy, sustainability and community investment at TELUS. A gifted storyteller, she brings TELUS’ social purpose to life to drive social change, leveraging its world-leading technology and compassion to enable remarkable human outcomes.

ECONOMIC

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

LEADERSHIP

RANDY SMALLWOOD

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WHEATON PRECIOUS METALS

Randy Smallwood was involved in founding Wheaton Precious Metals (formerly Silver Wheaton), which has grown under his leadership from a pure silver streaming company to one that now boasts a diversified, international portfolio of gold, silver, palladium, platinum and cobalt assets. Smallwood holds a geological engineering degree from UBC and a mine engineering diploma from BCIT.

FINANCIAL & BANKING RESOURCES

ZUL SOMANI

OWNER

OCEAN PACIFIC HOTEL GROUP

Zul Somani is the asset manager at Ocean Pacific Hotel Group, which is often described as a $1 billion hotel chain that includes owning the iconic Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver. Somani is a prominent figure in the Canadian hotel industry.

REAL ESTATE TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

LISA SPARROW

PRESIDENT AND CEO CORIX

Lisa Sparrow is president and CEO of Corix, a leading district energy utility with operations across North America. With over 30 years in the manufacturing, energy and utilities sectors, she has established herself as a transformative leader, driving innovation and growth.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

MICHAEL STEINMANN

PRESIDENT AND CEO

PAN AMERICAN SILVER

Michael Steinmann joined Pan American in 2004 and held progressively senior roles before being promoted to president in 2015, and president and CEO in 2016. He has also been a director of the company since 2016. Steinmann has over 30 years of experience in the base and precious metals industry.

RESOURCES

MARTIN THIBODEAU

REGIONAL PRESIDENT, B.C. RBC

As regional president of B.C., Martin Thibodeau leads a team of over 8,000 employees and partners in the province, dedicated to providing financial advice and services to almost two million personal, small business and commercial clients. An energetic, inspiring and authentic leader, Thibodeau is very committed to his community and has dedicated his time and skills in service to numerous organizations.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

BRAD THORLAKSON

EXECUTIVE CHAIR TOLKO INDUSTRIES

Brad Thorlakson served as Tolko’s president and CEO from 2010 to 2024 before transitioning to the role of executive chair. He began his career at the Lavington Planer Mill and advanced to become vice-president of marketing and sales before assuming the role of president and CEO. He was the third generation of the Thorlakson family to lead Tolko.

MANUFACTURING RESOURCES

CATHY THORPE

PRESIDENT AND CEO NURSE NEXT DOOR

Cathy Thorpe, CEO of Nurse Next Door, is disrupting the home-care industry. Her leadership has grown the Vancouver-based company to 400 locations across the U.S., Canada, England and Australia. Recognized with the 2020 BIV BC CEO of the Year Award for exceptional leadership and results, her insights are captured in the Amazon best-selling book, Bold Kindness.

SHEILA VOKEY

Sheila Vokey has been president and CEO of Central 1 Credit Union since 2022, after joining as CFO in 2018. She leads Central 1 in delivering core payments, clearing, settlements and treasury services, strengthening Canadian credit unions’ ability to offer banking choices nationwide. She brings 25 years of financial leadership experience, including roles at Payments Canada and the Bank of Canada.

ERIC WALTZ

PRESIDENT AND CEO

GCT GLOBAL CONTAINER TERMINALS

Eric Waltz was appointed president and CEO of GCT Global Container Terminals in 2023 after joining as president of GCT Canada in 2009. He oversees strategy and operations at GCT and its terminals, GCT Vanterm and GCT Deltaport. Previously, he was COO at APM Terminals in Cape Town. Waltz served in the U.S. Army and has a degree from West Point.

CONGRATULATIONS

Kristy James

BurnabyHospitalFoundationproudly celebrates ,President &CEO,for hertransformative contributionstohealthcareinBurnaby.Honouredasone of BIV’sInfluential WomeninBusiness, this well-deserved recognitionreflectsher dedication,commitmentto excellence, andtirelessefforts to create lastingchange forour community.

LEADERSHIP

RON WILSON

FORMER

Ron Wilson is president of international for Best Buy Co. Inc. In this role, he guides the vision and strategic direction for the company’s operations in Canada and Mexico. Wilson began his career at Best Buy more than 25 years ago on the front lines of a Future Shop store in Edmonton.

JENNIFER WONG

Jennifer Wong is CEO of the Vancouver-based retailer Aritzia Inc. She has executive oversight of a broad portfolio that includes e-commerce, people and culture, finance, information technology, supply chain, diversity, equity and inclusion, communications and legal. Previously, Wong served as president and COO for seven years as part of her overall 35-year tenure at Aritzia.

KARI YUERS

PRESIDENT

Kari Yuers transformed Kryton from a small B.C. family business into a global company with reach in over 50 countries. A leader and speaker, she’s a governor of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, an American Concrete Institute Fellow and an Export Development Canada director. Her recognitions include EY Entrepreneur of the Year (2003) and BIV 's Influential Women in Business Award (2012).

MANUFACTURING

SUSAN YURKOVICH

PRESIDENT AND CEO

Susan Yurkovich is president and CEO of Canfor Corporation, a leading manufacturer of forest products with operations in Canada, the U.S. and Europe. She previously served as president and CEO of the BC Council of Forest Industries, and executive vice-president at BC Hydro, where she led the development of the Site C hydro project on the Peace River in northeast B.C.

RETAIL

LEGACY

Previously included as living legends or featured as a top leader in a single industry category, these individuals have created a legacy or are continuing a legacy that has made an indelible mark on life and business in British Columbia. Their impact spans communities, industries, sectors and generations.

MICHAEL AUDAIN

CHAIR

AUDAIN ART GALLERY

Since 1980, Michael Audain's leadership established Polygon as one of B.C.'s leading homebuilders. He is also chair of the Audain Foundation, supporting the visual arts and wildlife conservation. Audain is a recipient of the Order of Canada, the Order of BC, and six honorary degrees. Married to Yoshiko Karasawa, he enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and dogs.

ARTS & CULTURE

JANET AUSTIN

CHAIR

FRASER BASIN COUNCIL

Janet Austin, chair of the Fraser Basin Council since March 2025, brings decades of leadership in public service. Former lieutenant governor of British Columbia and longtime CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, she is known for advancing community well-being, equity and sustainability through collaborative initiatives.

ROSS BEATY

CHAIR

EQUINOX GOLD

Ross Beaty is a Vancouver geologist and entrepreneur who founded 15 resource companies, including Pan American Silver and Equinox Gold. He chairs the BC Parks Foundation and leads the Sitka Foundation, supporting environmental philanthropy and sustainable resource development.

RESOURCES

BARBARA BRINK

BOARD MEMBER JABC

Barbara Brink, OC, the founder and CEO behind Science World’s creation, led its funding and $19 million retrofit. A lifetime achievement award recipient, Brink currently sits on the board of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, the Architectural Institute of B.C. and the BC Parks Foundation. A model of voluntarism, she has dedicated herself to a broad spectrum of public causes.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PETER DHILLON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

RICHBERRY GROUP OF COMPANIES

Peter Dhillon, president and CEO of the Richberry Group and chair of Ocean Spray, leads one of Canada’s foremost cranberry operations. A respected business leader and philanthropist, his influence spans agriculture, ethics and global humanitarian efforts. He also serves on the board of directors of the Bank of Canada.

MANUFACTURING RESOURCES

AJAY DILAWRI

CO-FOUNDER

DILAWRI GROUP OF COS.

Ajay Dilawri and his two brothers own Canada’s largest automotive group, with 83 dealerships. The company represents 38 automotive brands and employs over 4,000 people. Through the Dilawri Foundation, he supports causes championing children, families and healthy communities. In recognition of his leadership and philanthropy, he was awarded the Order of British Columbia, one of the province’s highest honours.

RETAIL

HAIG FARRIS

Haig Farris, president of Fractal Capital since 1990, is a pioneer in financing early-stage tech and resource ventures. A founding chair of D-Wave Systems, he helped raise $130 million for the first commercial quantum computer. Farris also played a key role in the creation of Vancouver’s Science World.

KAREN FLAVELLE

CEO AND CHAIR

PURDYS CHOCOLATIER

Karen Flavelle’s experience includes a bachelor of commerce from Queen’s University, living in Japan and Asia for two years, and speaking fluent French. She has led Purdys, Canada’s largest chocolatier, and is transitioning active owner leadership to her son, Scott McTavish. Her passion for endurance sports such as running, biking, rollerblading and skiing fuels her high energy. MANUFACTURING

STAN FULLER

Stan Fuller is a renowned entrepreneur and restaurateur, best known as the visionary behind Earls Restaurants and for pioneering premium casual dining. He holds stakes in all Fuller family restaurant concepts and has received numerous awards recognizing his contributions to hospitality. Fuller is a 2025 Business Laureate of BC Hall of Fame Inductee.

Congratulations to Angela Chapman, President& CEOof VGH&UBC Hospital Foundation, forbeing recognized as oneof BC’s mostinfluential leaders. UnderAngela’s leadership in 2024-25, the Foundation raisedmorethan $130 million*to advance health care in BC –our mostsuccessfulyeartodate.

Thank youtoall our donorsfor helping us build healthier communities in BC.

BOB GAGLARDI

FOUNDER AND CHAIR

EMERITUS

NORTHLAND PROPERTIES

Bob Gaglardi is a Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist from Kamloops and the founder of Northland Properties. Since 1963, his vision has grown the company into a trusted name in hospitality and development. He opened the first Sandman Hotel in 1967, building a legacy rooted in service, integrity and community.

FRANK GIUSTRA

FOUNDER

LION'S GATE

Frank Giustra is a Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist known for contributions across industries. As CEO of the Fiore Group, he manages assets in natural resources, entertainment and lifestyle companies. Giustra has received the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia for his work.

ARTS & CULTURE

FINANCIAL & BANKING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

RICK HANSEN

FOUNDER

RICK HANSEN FOUNDATION

Rick Hansen, founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation, is a global accessibility leader known for his 40,000-kilometre Man In Motion World Tour. Through his foundation, he raises awareness, influences policy and delivers programs to remove barriers and create inclusive communities.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TRACEY HERBERT

CEO FPCC

Tracey Herbert, CEO of the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, is a nationally recognized Indigenous leader and advocate for language, arts and cultural revitalization. A member of the St’uxwtews First Nation, she has advanced community-led programs and secured investments to protect B.C.’s Indigenous heritage.

BRIAN HILL

CHAIR

ARITZIA

Brian Hill, founder and executive chair of Aritzia, is a visionary retailer who has led the company’s growth since opening its first boutique in 1984. A third-generation retailer, he has shaped Aritzia into a leading North American fashion brand blending creativity, innovation and philanthropy.

ROBERT JOSEPH

FOUNDER RECONCILIATION CANADA

Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, OBC, OC, is a hereditary chief of the Gwawaenuk First Nation and a transformative leader in reconciliation. A residential school survivor, he is the ambassador for Reconciliation Canada, former executive director of the Indian Residential School Survivors Society and honorary witness to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

RETAIL

CINDY LEE

FOUNDER

T&T SUPERMARKETS

Cindy Lee founded T&T Supermarket in 1993, creating Canada’s largest Asian grocery chain. An immigrant from Taiwan, she expanded the business to 27 locations. After selling to Loblaw in 2009, she retired as CEO in 2014 but remains a board member. Lee earned the 2018 Retail Council of Canada Lifetime Achievement Award. RETAIL

CLARENCE LOUIE

CEO

OSOYOOS INDIAN BAND

Chief Clarence Louie has led the Osoyoos Indian Band since 1984, transforming it into a thriving economic force in B.C. Under his leadership, the band established nine businesses, including Nk’Mip Cellars, North America’s first Indigenous-owned winery. He promotes self-reliance, job creation and cultural preservation and has received the Order of Canada and Order of British Columbia.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

JOY MACPHAIL

CHAIR

BC FERRIES

Joy MacPhail is chair of the British Columbia Ferry Services board and the board of Nch’kay Development Corporation. She previously chaired ICBC and led expert panels on mobility pricing and housing affordability. A former MLA, she has received the Order of Canada, the Order of B.C. and honorary doctorates from Western and Simon Fraser universities.

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

JOHN NICOLA

CHAIR AND CEO NICOLA WEALTH

John Nicola, chair of Nicola Wealth, has been a financial services leader since 1974, known for innovative wealth management and strategic planning. An award-winning entrepreneur, he has been recognized as a Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and BIV BC CEO Award winner. He supports non-profits focused on youth, legal aid and global community development.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

BRANDT LOUIE

CHAIR AND CEO

H.Y. LOUE CO.

Brandt Louie is a Canadian business leader and philanthropist, serving as chair and CEO of H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd. and chair of London Drugs. A chartered accountant, he joined the family business in 1972. Under his leadership, the company grew into one of Canada’s largest private firms. Louie is an Order of Canada and Order of British Columbia recipient and Canadian Business Hall of Fame inductee.

JIM PATTISON

CHAIR AND CEO THE JIM PATTISON GROUP

Jim Pattison is a Canadian business magnate and founder and CEO of The Jim Pattison Group, Canada’s second-largest private company. Starting with a single GM dealership in 1961, he built a conglomerate spanning 25 industries. Pattison is a major philanthropist, supporting health care and community causes, and has received the Order of Canada and Order of British Columbia. INDUSTRY RETAIL

RETAIL

DAVID PODMORE

CO-FOUNDER AND CHAIR EMERITUS CONCERT PROPERTIES

David Podmore, OBC, co-founded Concert Properties, growing it to over $9 billion in assets with thousands of homes and commercial spaces across Canada. A champion of philanthropy, he raised millions for education, health care and trades training. Podmore retired as chair in 2024 and is recognized for visionary leadership.

REAL ESTATE

ANGUS REID

FOUNDER

ANGUS REID INSTITUTE

Angus Reid, a market research pioneer, is CEO of Angus Reid Group and the Angus Reid Forum, chair of the Angus Reid Institute and director at Rival Group, a global research technology firm. He has founded, scaled and exited major firms, including Vision Critical (now Alida), and remains a respected research figure.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BOB RENNIE

FOUNDER

RENNIE GROUP OF COMPANIES

Bob Rennie, OBC, is founder of the Rennie group of companies and has advised Vancouver’s development community for 50 years. He has built a contemporary art collection of over 4,000 works and chairs major gifts for the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. He is also chair of the Peter Dhillon Institute for Ethics at UBC Sauder.

ARTS & CULTURE

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

REAL ESTATE

Because Results Matter

Farris is a high-performance law firm with a proven track record in closing diverse transactions and leading complex litigation.

Congratulations to our Managing Partner, Bo Rothstein, for being recognized as one of BC500’s most influential business leaders in British Columbia.

GARY SEGAL

PRINCIPAL

KINGSWOOD CAPITAL

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Gary Segal’s leadership role with Kingswood Capital and the Kingswood Group. The group’s activities include real estate investing, development and structured debt financing, as well as investments in manufacturing, retail, technology and health. Segal is involved in numerous philanthropic endeavours which are multifaceted, bridging cultures and borders, locally and overseas.

ARJAN STEPHENS

CEO

NATURE'S PATH

Arjan Stephens is president of Nature’s Path Organic Foods, North America’s largest certified organic breakfast and snack food company. Based in Vancouver, the company was founded in 1985 by his father Arran Stephens with a goal to always leave the earth better than how he found it.

MANUFACTURING

RETAIL

CAROLE TAYLOR

BOARD MEMBER INBC

Carole Taylor has served B.C. in politics as minister of finance, in academia as chancellor of two universities and in media as a public affairs journalist. She also chaired two major Crown corporations. She is an officer of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the Order of British Columbia.

EIRA THOMAS

CHAIR

WESTHAVEN GOLD

Eira Thomas is a Canadian geologist with more than 25 years in mining, including leadership roles at Aber Resources, Stornoway Diamond and Kaminak Gold. She co-founded Lucara Diamond Corp. in 2007 and served multiple years as its president and CEO. Recognized as a Young Global Leader and one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women, she sits on Suncor Energy’s board.

RESOURCES

DAVID SUZUKI

CO-FOUNDER

DAVID SUZUKI FOUNDATION

David Suzuki is a Canadian scientist, broadcaster and environmental activist. He co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation in 1990 to promote sustainability and environmental protection. Suzuki is known for making complex science accessible, inspiring action to protect the planet.

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

HARI VARSHNEY

PRINCIPAL

VARSHNEY CAPITAL

Hari Varshney, FCPA, FCA, OBC, has had a distinguished venture capital career since 1985. Serving as director or officer of various public companies, his influence extends beyond business to community and philanthropy. His awards include the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, Order of British Columbia, a UBC honorary alumnus award and an SFU President’s Distinguished Community Leadership Award.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

ANTHONY VON MANDL

FOUNDER AND CEO

MARK ANTHONY GROUP

Anthony von Mandl has gone from being a wine representative selling a line of blended wines out of his car in the early 1980s to being B.C.'s most successful wine entrepreneur. He owns Mission Hill Estate Winery and has invested heavily to make the winery a destination. Von Mandl has created countless other beverage brands.

PEETER WESIK

CHAIR

WESGROUP PROPERTIES

Peeter Wesik is chair of Wesgroup Properties, a family real estate firm with a diverse portfolio in Greater Vancouver, and Wesgroup Equipment, a construction equipment distributor in B.C. A former corporate lawyer, he brings over 30 years of experience in real estate and acquisitions. Wesik also serves as a director of the Royal BC Museum.

CHIP WILSON

PRINCIPAL

WILSON 5, LOW TIDE

Chip Wilson, founder of lululemon and Westbeach, is a visionary entrepreneur driving innovation in technical apparel and lifestyle. Through House of Wilson, he invests in apparel, real estate and brand building. Committed to social impact, he co-founded the Wilson 5 Foundation and imagine1day, and is funding a $100 million search for a cure for FSHD.

POWER

The leaders in this section wield significant influence through their positions, resources and strategic capabilities. They are key decision-makers in large organizations, government bodies or influential networks, enabling them to shape policy, direct substantial investments and drive significant societal or economic shifts. Their power is often demonstrated through their ability to mobilize resources, build consensus and effect large-scale change.

PENNY BALLEM

HEALTH ADVOCATE

OFFICE OF THE PREMIER

Penny Ballem, a veteran health executive and former B.C. deputy minister of health, is Premier David Eby’s special adviser on health. She led B.C.’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout and brings decades of experience managing complex health and political challenges. Known for her blunt approach, Ballem plays a key role in addressing the province’s strained health-care system.

CHERYL CASIMER

POLITICAL EXECUTIVE MEMBER

FIRST NATIONS SUMMIT

Chief Cheryl Casimer is a committed leader and advocate for reconciliation, Indigenous governance, human rights and community well-being. She has served on provincial and national committees tackling systemic racism, child welfare and poverty reduction. Casimer champions Indigenous rights and government accountability to help build a healthier, more prosperous future for the next generation.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PUBLIC SECTOR

KEN CRETNEY

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BC PAVILION CORP.

Ken Cretney is president and CEO of the provincial Crown corporation overseeing the Vancouver Convention Centre and BC Place. With over 35 years in hospitality and tourism, he is a former chair of the Hotel Association of Vancouver and currently chairs the board of the Vancouver Community College Foundation.

ROGER DALL'ANTONIA

PRESIDENT AND CEO FORTISBC

Roger Dall’Antonia is president and CEO of FortisBC, supplying electricity and gas to nearly 1.3 million British Columbians. With close to 30 years in energy, he chairs the Canadian Gas Association and sits on the boards of Electricity Canada and the Western Energy Institute.

INDUSTRY

RESOURCES

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

GLEN CLARK

CHAIR

BC HYDRO

Glen Clark is CEO of Overstory Media, chair of BC Hydro, and serves on the boards of Tersa Earth and Lifesupport Air Medical Services. Previously, he was president and COO of The Jim Pattison Group and served on the boards of Canfor Corporation and Westshore Terminals.

INDUSTRY

PUBLIC SECTOR

REAL ESTATE

PAT DAVIS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BRITISH COLUMBIA LOTTERY CORP.

Before becoming president and CEO, Pat Davis was BCLC’s chief information officer and vice-president of business technology. He is a certified project management professional and a chartered director through the Directors College. Davis also serves as president of the Inter-Provincial Lottery Corporation.

PUBLIC SECTOR

JERRY DOBROVOLNY

COMMISSIONER AND CAO METRO VANCOUVER

Jerry Dobrovolny leads Metro Vancouver, B.C.’s largest regional district, serving over three million residents. He oversees water, wastewater and solid waste services, manages one of the province’s largest non-profit housing providers, and safeguards the region’s air quality and 25 per cent of its land base.

PUBLIC SECTOR

GORDON DOYLE

PRESIDENT

PACIFIC NORTHERN GAS

Gordon Doyle leads PNG’s natural gas and propane operations, steering the company’s strategy to ensure safe, reliable energy delivery across northern B.C. With over 20 years in the province’s gas and electric utility sectors, he brings deep expertise in regulatory affairs, customer service and business development.

RESOURCES

JILL EARTHY

CEO

INBC INVESTMENT CORP.

Jill Earthy is CEO of InBC Investment Corp., a provincial Crown corporation managing a $500 million strategic investment fund. She leads efforts to invest in innovative companies and venture funds that deliver strong financial returns while driving measurable economic, social and environmental benefits for the people of B.C.

JASON GRANT

PRESIDENT AND CEO BC ASSESSMENT

Jason Grant has served as president and CEO of BC Assessment since 2017. He began his career with BC Assessment in 1991 and has held various leadership roles, including corporate media spokesperson.

PUBLIC SECTOR

JENNIFER DYSON

CHAIR

AGRICULTURAL LAND COMMISSION

Jennifer Dyson, chair of the Agricultural Land Commission, leads a team dedicated to sound, practical decisions within the Agricultural Land Reserve. She lives and farms on the unceded traditional territory of the Hupacasath and Tseshaht in the Alberni Valley, where she and her husband run a grass-based water buffalo dairy and direct market.

RESOURCES

CELESTE HALDANE

CHIEF COMMISSIONER BC TREATY COMMISSION

Celeste Haldane is in her third term as chief commissioner of the BC Treaty Commission. She is Musqueam (Sparrow), Metlakatla (Haldane) and of European descent, through her mother’s Finnish family in Sointula. A practising lawyer and King's Counsel, Haldane has 25 years of experience in Indigenous law, corporate governance and advancing social justice for women.

INSTITUTIONS

LISA HELPS

SPECIAL ADVISER

OFFICE OF THE PREMIER

Lisa Helps is the premier's special adviser on housing. The former mayor of Victoria, she brings extensive experience in municipal leadership and urban planning. Helps is known for championing affordable housing and sustainable development, using a collaborative approach to tackle housing challenges and promote inclusive, community-focused solutions. PUBLIC

CATHERINE HOLT

Catherine Holt chairs ICBC’s board of directors, guiding the organization through a transformation focused on enhanced care, road safety and driver licensing. She has held leadership roles in public transit, business advocacy and government relations. Holt is a former CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and a certified management consultant with extensive experience in public service and strategic advising.

MARK JACCARD

CHAIR AND CEO

BCUC

Mark Jaccard is a distinguished professor of sustainable energy at Simon Fraser University. He is currently on leave from SFU to serve as chair and CEO of the BC Utilities Commission. The focus of his career is energy regulation and climate policy. He has won numerous awards and honours, including being named a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, and receiving the Donner Prize.

PUBLIC SECTOR

MANNY JULES

CHIEF COMMISSIONER

FIRST NATIONS TAX COMMISSION

Manny Jules, OBC, is a member of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and served as chief from 1984 to 2000. He led changes to the Indian Act allowing First Nations to levy property taxes on designated reserve lands, and was a key force behind the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, which established the First Nations Tax Commission.

MARK KREMIN

CEO

SEAPEAK

Mark Kremin sits on Seapeak’s board of directors and represents the company on joint-venture boards globally. Before joining Seapeak, he practised law in New York City and previously worked for a major container ship owner and operator.

BLAIN LAWSON

CEO AND GM BCLDB

Blain Lawson is CEO and general manager of the BC Liquor Distribution Branch, the provincial Crown corporation responsible for the wholesale distribution of beverage alcohol and non-medical cannabis. Appointed in 2013, Lawson brings over two decades of retail leadership experience to the role. PUBLIC SECTOR

RANDALL MACEWEN

PRESIDENT AND CEO BALLARD POWER SYSTEMS

Randall MacEwen has been president and CEO of Ballard Power since 2014. He has held executive roles in clean energy companies for more than 15 years. From 2009 to 2014, he was founder and managing director of NextCleanTech LLC. From 2005 to 2009, he served as president and CEO of Solar Integrated Technologies Inc.

ALEX MACLENNAN

CEAO

PROVINCE OF B.C.

Alex MacLennan joined the B.C. public service in 2005 and has held senior roles in public safety and solicitor general, finance, the Premier’s Office and citizens’ services. In 2024, he was appointed chief executive assessment officer for the Environmental Assessment Office.

LORI MATHISON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

CPABC

Lori Mathison is CEO of the Chartered Professional Accountants of B.C., where she leads the executive management committee and represents the province nationally. Formerly managing partner at Dentons Canada’s Vancouver office, she was named one of BIV ’s Influential Women in Business in 2020.

PUBLIC SECTOR

www.b2gold.com

AR ES PO NS IB LE IN TERN AT IO NAL SENI OR GO LD PR OD UC ER

Foundedin 20 07,today,B2G oldhas operatinggold mines in Mali,N amibia andthe Philippines, the GooseProject underconstructioninnor thern Canada,and numerous development andexploration projec ts in various countriesincluding Mali, Colombia andFinland.

JASON MCDANIEL

INTERIM PRESIDENT AND CEO

Jason McDaniel is interim president and CEO of ICBC. Over nearly 20 years with the corporation, he has held several senior roles and played a key part in transitioning B.C.’s auto insurance to its enhanced care model.

ECONOMIC

ANNE NASER

Anne Naser is president and CEO of WorkSafeBC. Before her appointment, she was senior vice-president of information technology at the B.C. Investment Management Corp., and held senior leadership roles at WorkSafeBC from 1998 to 2018. Naser was named Canadian CIO of the Year by Computerworld in 2010 and received a Premier’s Award for Innovation.

FAZIL MIHLAR

DEPUTY MINISTER, JEDI PROVINCE OF B.C.

Fazil Mihlar is the deputy minister of jobs, economic development and innovation. He joined the provincial government in 2013 and has since served as deputy minister for energy, mines and low carbon innovation; jobs, economic development and competitiveness; and climate leadership.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SCOTT MUNRO

Scott Munro is deputy CEO of the First Nations Financial Management Board. A Chartered Professional Accountant and member of the Kaska Nation, he promotes Indigenous inclusion in leadership to improve governance and risk awareness. Munro contributes to sustainability standards in Canada and globally, and serves as vice-chair of the Canadian Public Sector Accounting Board.

CHRIS O'RILEY

PRESIDENT AND CEO BC HYDRO

Chris O’Riley is president and CEO of BC Hydro, B.C.’s largest Crown corporation. The utility delivers 98 per cent clean, renewable electricity to four million customers and is investing $2 billion annually to upgrade its infrastructure. O’Riley chairs Powertech, sits on the Powerex board and serves on the United Way Cabinet.

ECONOMIC

KAREN OGEN

Karen Ogen is CEO of the First Nations LNG Alliance, a B.C.-based group that supports responsible liquefied natural gas development with a focus on the environment and First Nations engagement. She served as chief of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation for six years and is currently a member of the nation’s council.

KEVIN PARKES

PRESIDENT AND CEO FINNING

Kevin Parkes became president and CEO of Finning International Inc. in November 2022, after serving as COO since April 2022. With a 21-year career at Finning, he has held senior leadership roles, including president of Finning Canada, managing director of Finning UK and Ireland, and CEO of Hewden from 2010 to 2015.

INDUSTRY

STEWART PHILLIP

PRESIDENT

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip is a dedicated and widely respected advocate for Indigenous rights in British Columbia. He has served as president of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs since 1998, chaired the Okanagan Nation Alliance and was chief of the Penticton Indian Band, where he has contributed in various roles for nearly 40 years.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PUBLIC SECTOR

SUSANNAH PIERCE

FORMER COUNTRY CHAIR

SHELL CANADA LTD.

Over the last 20 years of her career, Susannah Pierce has played a critical role advancing major infrastructure projects in the U.S. and Canada and leading corporate relations teams globally. Pierce is recognized for her leadership in bringing business, governments, communities, Indigenous groups and other non-governmental actors together to support large infrastructure projects by building shared interests and shared value.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

JIM RUTKOWSKI

CHIEF OF STAFF

OFFICE OF THE PREMIER

Jim Rutkowski brings over 20 years of experience in communications, public policy and government relations. He has held senior political roles, including chief of staff to B.C. Opposition leader Carole James and principal secretary to Alberta premier Rachel Notley. Rutkowski’s expertise lies in navigating B.C.’s political landscape and leading impactful communications campaigns across sectors.

PUBLIC SECTOR

KATE RYAN-LLOYD

CLERK, LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

PROVINCE OF B.C.

Kate Ryan-Lloyd is the first woman to serve as clerk of B.C.’s legislative assembly. With nearly 30 years of experience, she began her career as a librarian and advanced through various roles in the clerk’s office, bringing extensive knowledge of legislative processes and operations.

PUBLIC SECTOR

SHANNON SALTER

DEPUTY MINISTER TO THE PREMIER

PROVINCE OF B.C.

Shannon Salter is deputy minister to the premier, head of the B.C. Public Service and cabinet secretary. She previously served as deputy attorney general and chair of the Civil Resolution Tribunal. A lawyer by training, Salter has been named one of Canada’s 25 Most Influential Lawyers for her leadership in justice and public sector innovation.

PUBLIC SECTOR

ALLAN SECKEL

CHAIR BC HOUSING

Allan Seckel is a lawyer and former senior public servant whose career spans law, government and the non-profit sector. He served as B.C.’s deputy attorney general and later as cabinet secretary and head of the B.C. Public Service. Seckel was CEO of Doctors of BC and currently sits on several provincial boards, including BC Housing, ICBC, TransLink and Legal Aid BC.

RICH SUMNER

PRESIDENT AND CEO METHANEX

Rich Sumner is president and CEO of Methanex. Since joining the company in 2004, he has held senior roles in finance, supply chain and global marketing. He previously served as senior vice-president of global marketing and logistics and led Methanex’s North American manufacturing operations. Sumner holds a bachelor of business administration from Simon Fraser University and is a chartered professional accountant.

ECONOMIC

TERRY TEEGEE

REGIONAL CHIEF BCAFN

Terry Teegee is regional chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, currently serving his third term. A member of the Takla Nation, he is of Dakelh, Gitxsan and Sekani heritage. Teegee was instrumental in the development and enactment of B.C.’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, a key milestone in advancing Indigenous rights and reconciliation. INDIGENOUS

VINCENT TONG

Vincent Tong is CEO of BC Housing, the provincial Crown corporation responsible for delivering social housing in British Columbia. He leads efforts to expand affordable housing supply through funding programs and partnerships with non-profits, First Nations, municipalities and developers, supporting the creation of rental homes for low-, moderate- and middle-income households across the province.

TAMARA VROOMAN

Tamara Vrooman, OBC, is president and CEO of Vancouver International Airport and serves as the 12th chancellor of Simon Fraser University. She was previously CEO of Vancity, B.C.’s deputy finance minister, secretary to the treasury board and CEO of the Public Sector Employers’ Council.

KYLE WASHINGTON

CANADIAN

Kyle Washington joined the Washington Companies board in 2009 and is chair of Canada-based Seaspan ULC and Southern Railway of British Columbia. A committed community philanthropist, he chairs the Washington Kids Foundation and serves on the board of APiJet.

DAVID WONG

David Wong is CEO of Powerex, BC Hydro’s energy marketing and trading subsidiary. He joined Powerex in June 2025 after two years as president and CEO of the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia. Wong is a chartered professional accountant.

HEIDI YANG

Heidi Yang is CEO of Engineers and Geoscientists BC, guiding the organization as an inclusive, progressive and future-focused regulator. With 29 years in executive and leadership roles across professional regulation, manufacturing and forestry, she has a strong record of building positive workplaces, creating value-added programs, engaging partners and leading organizations through change.

PROSPERITY

This section features leaders who are directly contributing to economic well-being and wealth creation in British Columbia. Their efforts in entrepreneurship, investment and strategic economic development lead to job creation and meaningful opportunities for success. They use their platforms to advocate for healthier, more inclusive and stronger communities, and they are instrumental in fostering a robust and thriving economy that benefits all segments of society.

JOE ALPHONSE

PAST CHIEF

TSILHQOT’IN

Former Chief Joe Alphonse, OBC, served as tribal chair of the Tsilhqot’in National Government since 2010. He led six First Nations communities in British Columbia and secured recognition of a specific area of land through Canada’s highest court. Alphonse was awarded the Order of British Columbia in 2022 and received an honorary doctor of laws from the University of Victoria.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

KIM BAIRD

CHANCELLOR

KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

Kim Baird, OBC, is chancellor of Kwantlen Polytechnic University and owner of Kim Baird Strategic Consulting. She served as chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation for 13 years and was involved in multiple non-profit projects, including the Tribal Council and the First Nation Employment Training Society. In 2016, Baird was awarded the Order of British Columbia.

BRENDA BAPTISTE

CHAIR

INDIGENOUS TOURISM

Brenda Baptiste, OBC, is chair of Indigenous Tourism. She is the project manager for the Osoyoos Indian Band Centre for Aboriginal Community Enterprise, working to innovate an economic development model in the region. Baptiste is dedicated to showcasing the strong and rich cultural life of Indigenous peoples through the tourism industry. She was awarded the Order of British Columbia in 2022.

BRAD BONNER

CEO

HALFWAY RIVER GROUP OF COS

Brad Bonner, ICD.D, is CEO of the Halfway River Group of Companies. Bonner has more than 35 years of leadership experience in British Columbia’s forestry, construction and energy sectors. His leadership has facilitated economic development for the generational prosperity of the Halfway River First Nation while ensuring annual revenue growth for the nation’s owned businesses.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

MICHAEL BONSHOR

MANAGING DIRECTOR FNBDA

Michael Bonshor is managing director of the First Nations Business Development Association. With 20 years of experience working with First Nations across Canada, he bridges Indigenous rights and title with opportunities in government and industry. Bonshor was appointed chair of the board of directors for BCIT.

BEN CAMPBELL

CEO

NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT TRUST

Ben Campbell is CEO of the Northern Development Trust. Previously, he served as CFO of the organization for four years, leading advances in the connecting British Columbia and northern passenger transportation service programs. He also volunteers as a board member for non-profits, including Community Futures Fraser-Fort George and the College of Complementary Health Professionals.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WENDY COCCHIA

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR PROVINCE OF B.C.

Wendy Cocchia, OBC, CM, is British Columbia’s 31st lieutenant-governor. She is an entrepreneur, philanthropist and dedicated community leader. A champion for disability rights and services, she co-founded the Pacific Autism Family Network, a first-of-itskind knowledge and resource network in North America for people who are neurodivergent and their families. ECONOMIC

ERNIE DANIELS

CEO

FIRST NATIONS FINANCE AUTHORITY

Since 2012, Ernie Daniel's visionary leadership has supported First Nations across Canada in accessing over $3 billion in affordable financing to achieve their priorities and participate in economic reconciliation. FNFA has contributed over $6.5 billion to Canada’s economy and members’ community-driven projects have created over 30,000 jobs. FNFA is First Nations-led, self-sufficient and operates on a pooled-borrowing model.

STEVEN DEAN

CEO

ARTEMIS GOLD

Steven Dean is the CEO of Artemis Gold and a member of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. Prior to his current position, Dean served on the boards of multiple mining companies. He is a recipient of the Viola R. MacMillan Award from the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada.

RESOURCES

TODD DEN ENGELSEN

CEO

TAHLTAN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CORP.

Todd den Engelsen, FCPHR, is CEO of Tahltan Nation Development Corporation, a powerhouse Tier 1 mining service provider providing heavy civil construction, infrastructure, mine development, transportation, aggregates, air support, aviation, forestry, transportation and fibre-optic communications. A seasoned executive leader of proud Métis heritage, he holds an MBA in executive management from Royal Roads University.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

CANDACE DENNIS

ENTERPRISE CORP.

Candace Dennis is CEO of the Haida Enterprise Company. Before joining the organization, she spent more than 25 years working with over 80 Indigenous communities across British Columbia and the Yukon. Dennis is dedicated to implementing economic development plans for communities in need of financial support. She leads multiple projects in Haida, including tourism, energy, forestry and professional education.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FINANCIAL & BANKING

LAUREL DOUGLAS

CEO

ECONOMIC TRUST OF THE SOUTHERN INTERIOR

Laurel Douglas, ICD.D, is a respected business, community and economic development leader. She has been CEO of the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior since 2020. Prior to that, she was CEO of WeBC for over 15 years. Douglas serves on the board of the Justice Institute of BC, the UBCO Regional Leadership Table and several other boards.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HOWARD GRANT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FIRST NATIONS SUMMIT

Howard Grant, a resident of the Musqueam community, is executive director of the First Nations Summit. He also serves as the executive director of the Musqueam Indian Band. Through the First Nations Summit, Grant assists in negotiating treaties and advancing public interests. He inherits his family’s culture and is a historian and cultural leader within the community. INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

BRODIE GUY

CEO ISLAND COASTAL

ECONOMIC TRUST

Brodie Guy serves in executive and governance roles with public, private and Indigenous-led funds that invest in sustainable development, innovation and technology, landscape-level stewardship, guardian programs and ecological restoration throughout B.C. He is the CEO of the Island Coastal Economic Trust and serves on a committee of B.C.'s $100 million Watershed Security Fund.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS PUBLIC SECTOR RESOURCES

GEENA JACKSON

FOUNDER

BEAR'S LAIR

Geena Jackson is the founder of the Bears’ Lair TV show, a reality program where 18 Indigenous businesses pitch their business blueprints to industry leaders for a chance to win $160,000 in prize money. A proud member of the Shishalh Nation, Jackson has been an entrepreneur for 25 years. Through Bears’ Lair TV, she has empowered over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

PAUL LACERTE

MANAGING PARTNER

RAVEN CAPITAL PARTNERS

Paul Lacerte, OBC, is the managing partner of Raven Capital Partners, recognized as Canada’s first Indigenous-owned financial intermediary. A member of the Nadleh Whut’en First Nation, he co-founded the Moose Hide Campaign with his daughter Raven to engage men and boys in ending violence against women and children. In 2014, he was awarded the Order of British Columbia.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

CAROL ANNE HILTON

FOUNDER AND CEO

INDIGENOMICS INSTITUTE

Carol Anne Hilton, ICD.D, is the founder of the Indigenomics movement which includes CEO of the Indigenomics Institute, the Global Center of Indigenomics and the Global Indigenous Technology House. Hilton is a dynamic Indigenous national and international business leader, author, speaker, director, facilitator and senior adviser with an international MBA.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

STEPHEN LEE

CEO

MUSQUEAM CAPITAL CORP.

Stephen Lee, FCMA, is CEO of Musqueam Capital Corporation. With over 30 years of experience in the finance industry, he has served both private and public companies. Under his leadership, Musqueam Capital Corporation creates economic opportunities and develops Musqueam’s land. Lee also serves as a board member of the Langara College Foundation.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

WILLIE SELLARS

CHIEF

WILLIAMS LAKE FIRST NATIONS

Chief Willie Sellars of the Williams Lake First Nation is a two-term chief, author and community advocate. Elected to council at 23, he leads transformative work in governance, economic development and reconciliation. He has negotiated major agreements, advanced cultural revitalization and remains dedicated to strengthening self-determination and opportunities for his nation through leadership rooted in vision, integrity and collaboration.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

CRYSTAL SMITH

CHIEF COUNCILLOR HAISLA NATION

Crystal Smith has served the Haisla Nation for 12 years as an elected councillor and chief councillor. She was key in securing Cedar LNG’s final investment decision in 2024 — the first Indigenous majority-owned LNG project. The $6 billion Kitimat-based facility is under construction and expected to begin operations in 2028.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

AARON STONE

CEO

SOUTH ISLAND PROSPERITY PARTNERSHIP

Aaron Stone, CEO of South Island Prosperity Partnership, champions place-based economic strategies leveraging Vancouver Island's strengths. He focuses on innovation investment for high-value sectors, community wealth building and economic reconciliation with First Nations. Driving inclusive growth aligned with Greater Victoria's values and natural assets, Stone brings 25 years of experience in tech-entrepreneurship, governance and regional strategy to his role.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

MICHAEL UEHARA

PRESIDENT AND CEO

GITXAALA ENTERPRISES CORP.

Michael Uehara is president and CEO of Gitxaała Enterprises Corporation, the economic arm of the Gitxaała Nation. With over 30 years of leadership experience in hospitality, real estate and Indigenous partnerships, he has led the organization's rapid growth across tourism, marine, forestry and environmental services.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

ROBERT WHITNEY

CEO

OKANAGAN INDIAN BAND GROUP OF COMPANIES

Robert Whitney is CEO of the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies. With 35 years of experience in business operations, he applies his expertise in strategic planning and marketing to support the community in building a healthy and prosperous future.

ECONOMIC

SERVICE

There are many ways in which to consider service — an unparalleled dedication to customer service, service to communities and causes, and service to business and leaders. The individuals featured in this section work in services-oriented areas and organizations. They are also widely respected leaders, in large part for their unwavering service to ideas, causes, communities, people and stakeholders.

JULIE ARMOUR

PACIFIC REGION HEAD

TD BANK GROUP

In her current role as senior vice-president and Pacific region head, Julie Armour is responsible for leading the TD’s branch banking team in B.C. and the Yukon, driving growth, strengthening relationships and building connections within the community. Armour is actively involved with TD's Women in Leadership network, the United Way and The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award initiatives.

KATHY BUTLER

VICE-CHAIR

CIBC WORLD MARKETS

Kathy Butler is the head of capital markets in B.C. for CIBC. She has been with the bank for more than 28 years and has been involved in M&A advisory, as well as debt and equity financings for clients in technology, telecom, consumer retail, industrials and forestry. Since 2003, Butler has been a partner with SVP Vancouver, which engages in venture philanthropy.

ANDREA CARLSON

OWNER AND CHEF

BURDOCK & CO.

Andrea Carlson is the chef and owner of Burdock & Co., a Vancouver restaurant known for its commitment to organic, locally sourced ingredients. A leader in sustainable dining, Carlson has shaped Canada’s farm-to-table movement with her inventive, seasonal menus and focus on regional producers.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

FOOD & BEVERAGE

GIGI CHEN-KUO

CEO

LAW SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Gigi Chen-Kuo is the chief executive officer and executive director of the Law Society of B.C., which licenses and regulates more than 15,000 lawyers. Called to the bar in 1991, she worked in private practice before joining BC Transit and TransLink, where she held senior roles including general counsel, interim CEO and COO.

INEZ COOK

OWNER

SALMON N’ BANNOCK

Inez Cook, a proud member of the Nuxalk Nation and the co-founder of Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro. She also owns Salmon n’ Bannock on the Fly at Vancouver International Airport. Cook is the author of The Sixties Scoop and Reconnecting After the Sixties Scoop, which share her personal story.

PETER COWAN

PRESIDENT AND CEO INNOVATE BC

Peter Cowan, president and CEO of Innovate BC, is a recognized leader in intellectual property strategy with more than 25 years of experience advancing innovation across startups, multinationals, government and venture capital. He holds more than 70 clean energy patents and has launched major innovation programs across Canada.

MEERU DHALWALA

CO-FOUNDER

LILA AND VIJ'S RESTAURANTS

Meeru Dhalwala led the kitchen at Vij’s for nearly 30 years and opened the Lila restaurant in 2024 with co-founder Shira Blustein. A community advocate for sustainable farming, healthy eating and food waste reduction, Dhalwala also serves on the board of ICIMPACTS, the India-Canada Centre for community-focused innovation.

ARTS & CULTURE

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

ANGUS ENGLISH

PROJECT DIRECTOR

AECOM

Angus English is the project director of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant at AECOM. He has decades of leadership experience in infrastructure and environmental services, having overseen major projects in transportation, water and urban development. English has received the McLachlan Award for Outstanding Achievement in Engineering from Engineers and Geoscientists BC.

DANIEL FRANKEL

FOUNDER AND CEO

TAP & BARREL GROUP

Daniel Frankel is CEO of Tap & Barrel Group, which operates Tap & Barrel, TAPshack, Brewhall and Fixins Mac n’ Chicken. By the end of 2023, the company was set to run eight locations, with more planned. Frankel is a member of the B.C. Restaurant Hall of Fame. TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

JEFF FULLER

FOUNDER AND CEO

JOEY RESTAURANTS

Jeff Fuller started his journey flipping burgers, washing dishes and sweeping floors. He absorbed valuable lessons from his family’s successful businesses before striking out on his own with a new concept. The first Joey Restaurant opened in 1992. Today there are 30 restaurants across North America.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

MARK GOODMAN

FOUNDER GOODMAN COMMERCIAL

Mark Goodman is one of Canada’s leading commercial real estate brokers. With close to $4 billion in sales of apartment buildings, investment properties and development sites across more than 600 transactions, he has built a distinguished career in the industry. Goodman founded Goodman Commercial and publishes the Goodman Report, the company's cutting-edge platform for apartment news and marketing.

DAVID HAWKSWORTH

FOUNDER AND CHEF HAWKSWORTH RESTAURANT GROUP

David Hawksworth owns Hawksworth Restaurant Group, which includes Hawksworth Restaurant, Nightingale and Bel Café. A cookbook author and Air Canada’s culinary partner, he founded the Hawksworth Young Chef Scholarship Foundation in 2013, awarding over $100,000 and offering mentorship to support emerging culinary talent.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

PUBLIC SECTOR

MATT HENDRICK

CEO

GROUPHEALTH

Matt Hendrick is CEO of GroupHEALTH, a leading Canadian provider of employee benefits and a subsidiary of Munich Re New Ventures. With a background in human resources and disability management, he has guided strategic growth at GroupHEALTH, rising through senior leadership roles following earlier experience at the Disability Management Institute.

SARAH HOFFMAN

PRESIDENT AND CEO

PACIFIC BLUE CROSS

Sarah Hoffman is president and CEO of Pacific Blue Cross, with over 20 years of experience in finance, administration and health care. An award-winning leader, she is known for building inclusive workplaces and driving business transformation through efficient, cost-effective and accessible solutions.

PROFESSIONAL

ERIC HOPKINS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BCAA

Eric Hopkins is president and CEO of BCAA, which serves nearly half of B.C. households. Since joining in 2011, he has led major initiatives including the launch of Evo Car Share and BCAA Auto Service Centres. A former executive at The Globe and Mail and CocaCola, Hopkins brings a strong focus on innovation and community impact.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PUBLIC SECTOR

CYNTHIA JAGGER

EVP

CBRE CANADA

Cynthia Jagger has completed more than $2 billion in commercial real estate sales. She serves on the board and executive committees of the Urban Development Institute and is vicechair of its rental housing issues committee. A frequent panelist at industry events, she is often sought by media outlets for real estate commentary.

MARTIN JOBKE

PRESIDENT AND CEO

ASSOCIATED ENGINEERING

Martin Jobke is president and CEO of Associated Engineering. He has led bridge projects across Canada and internationally. A former director of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies BC, he also serves on the advisory committee for the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s civil engineering program. PROFESSIONAL

ANDREW KEMP

EVP OF P&C AND CHAIR ACERA INSURANCE

Andrew Kemp has nearly 40 years in insurance and risk management. As president of CapriCMW Insurance since 2006, he led its growth into one of Western Canada’s largest brokerages. Kemp played a key role in a merger with Rogers Insurance, creating Acera Insurance — Canada’s largest independent, employee-controlled brokerage.

KIRK KUESTER

EXECUTIVE MANAGING

DIRECTOR

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL

Kirk Kuester is executive managing director at Colliers International. He is responsible for the company’s strategy, business plan and operations in Greater Vancouver, and oversees one of the largest commercial real estate brokerages in the province. With more than three decades at Colliers, he takes pride in leading a business whose roots in Vancouver date back to 1898.

JAMIE LYONS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

WESTLAND INSURANCE GROUP

Jamie Lyons is president and CEO of Westland Insurance, overseeing strategy and national growth. He joined in 2016 after 13 years in reinsurance with Guy Carpenter in Toronto, New York and London. Lyons holds an MBA from Western University and brings deep industry expertise to the role.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

CALVIN MACINNIS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

COAST CAPITAL SAVINGS

Calvin MacInnis is president and CEO of Canada’s largest federal credit union, Coast Capital. He has led the organization’s shift toward a social-purpose focus on building better futures for members, employees and communities. His previous roles include president of TD Waterhouse Canada and co-founder and managing partner of QTrade Financial Group.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

CATHY MACKAY

CEO

EDI ENVIRONMENTAL DYNAMICS INC.

EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc. specializes in fisheries, wildlife and water resources. Cathy Mackay began at EDI as a biologist in 2006 and became CEO in April 2024. The team of over 160 staff help people deliver environmentally and economically responsible projects. Mackay's role balances business growth, company culture and innovation in a changing regulatory landscape.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

JACK MEIER

PRESIDENT AND CEO INSUREBC

In 1988, Jack Meier founded InsureBC (formerly known as the Intercity Group). Since its inception, the company has grown into B.C.’s largest independently owned group of general insurance brokerages. FINANCIAL & BANKING

ALEX MEIER

PRESIDENT AND CEO AXIS INSURANCE MANAGERS

Alex Meier, president and CEO of Axis Insurance since 2010, has more than 20 years of industry experience. Known for his strategic vision and people-first leadership, he has guided the firm’s national growth through acquisitions and team development. Meier fosters a culture of respect and performance, balancing business success with family, philanthropy and personal growth.

JENS MOESKER

REGIONAL VP AND GM

FAIRMONT PACIFIC RIM

Jens Moesker is regional vice-president of Fairmont’s Pacific Northwest region and general manager of Fairmont Pacific Rim. With a hospitality career that began in 1990, he has held senior roles across Europe, the Middle East and the U.S. His global leadership experience includes positions with Hilton, InterContinental and Shangri-La.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

SCOTT MORISON

CHAIR AND CEO BROWNS RESTAURANT GROUP

Scott Morison is chair and CEO of Browns Restaurant Group, overseeing more than 80 locations. Known for his visionary leadership, he drives innovation across menu development, music programming and brand experience. With sharp intuition and trend-spotting, Morison creates immersive, sensory-driven spaces and lives by the mantra: “There is no finish line.”

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

TINA OSEN

PRESIDENT HUB INTERNATIONAL

Tina Osen is president of HUB International Canada and a respected leader in insurance. She champions employee empowerment, customer service and community investment. Osen chairs Thrive Youth Development Canada and Nature Force’s Member Advisory Group. Named among Canada’s Top 100 Most Influential Women by WXN, she exemplifies leadership excellence and industry impact.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

STEVE SAMMUT

PRESIDENT AND COO

NORTHLAND PROPERTIES

Steve Sammut is president and COO of Northland Properties, which he joined in 2021. He has extensive leadership experience in hospitality, tourism and real estate, including roles as CEO of Rocky Mountaineer and CFO at Intracorp and Intrawest.

JULIE SKELTON

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND COO

IBABC

Julie Skelton is executive director and COO of Insurance Brokers Association of B.C., with 37 years of brokerage experience. She leads advocacy, talent development and disaster response efforts, passionately supporting brokers and strengthening the insurance industry for members.

FINANCIAL & BANKING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

LILLIAN TUMMONDS

SVP, RETAIL OPERATIONS CADILLAC FAIRVIEW

Lillian is senior vice-president of retail operations at Cadillac Fairview, overseeing the company’s Canadian shopping centre portfolio. She is past chair of the boards of BOMA BC, the Downtown Vancouver BIA and the Museum of Vancouver. Tummonds currently serves on the boards of the Canada Green Building Council and MRKH Canada.

A shared vision of financial wellness for all and a long histor y of communit y suppor t has brought together credit unions with deep roots across British Columbia. BlueShore Financial, Gulf & Fraser, and Interior Savings are now Beem Credit Union. Stronger together, Beem now serves over 19 0,00 0 members with 66 branches in communities across the province.

VIKRAM VIJ

OWNER AND CHEF

VIJ'S RESTAURANT

Chef Vikram Vij is a pioneer of Canadian cuisine who opened Vij’s in 1994 with a vision to redefine Indian food through traditional flavours and modern presentation. The first sommelier to pair Indian dishes with local and international wines, he has helped elevate the cuisine globally. In 2024, Vij’s proudly marked its 30th anniversary.

WAYNE WACHELL

CEO AND CIO GENUS CAPITAL

Wayne Wachell co-founded Genus Capital in 1989 and designed its investment process. He oversees research, investment operations and product development. With more than $1.8 billion in assets under management, Wachell has demonstrated that divesting from fossil fuels can yield both financial and environmental returns.

EMAD YACOUB

PRESIDENT AND CEO

GLOWBAL RESTAURANT GROUP

Emad Yacoub is president and CEO of Glowbal Restaurant Group, overseeing daily operations at nine acclaimed restaurants with plans to expand east. A chef-turned-entrepreneur, he is known for culinary innovation, philanthropy and his influence on Vancouver’s dynamic dining scene.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

TOLGA YALKIN

CEO AND CSO

BC FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY

Tolga Yalkin is CEO and chief statutory officer of the BC Financial Services Authority. He brings extensive public sector experience and a forward-looking approach to oversight, having led transformative regulatory initiatives during his tenure at the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions.

TRANSFORMATION

Influence, leadership and vision can be transformative. Here, we consider leaders whose work and contributions have not only had an impact on their respective organizations, but have often quite literally contributed to the transformation of our cities and skylines. Some of them are helping to transform affordable housing goals into reality with the delivery of new residential supply; some are transforming communities with unprecedented and visionary developments; some are giving to charities and not-for-profit initiatives in transformative ways; and some are transforming their businesses for maximum impact.

EVAN ALLEGRETTO

PRESIDENT

INTRACORP HOMES

With more than 15 years of development experience, Evan Allegretto is president, B.C., at Intracorp Homes, overseeing business development, operations and acquisitions. He advocates for better housing through leadership roles with the Urban Development Institute and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Passionate about community, he supports non-profits and champions collaboration between developers and governments to deliver impactful housing solutions across B.C.

CHRISTINE BERGERON

PRESIDENT AND CEO

CONCERT PROPERTIES

Christine Bergeron joined Concert Properties in September 2023 as president and CEO. She is a highly respected, values-based leader whose personable style aligns with the company’s people-first culture. Prior to joining Concert, Bergeron was president and CEO of Vancity. She holds an MBA from UBC Sauder School of Business and an ICD.D designation.

RYAN BOSA

PRESIDENT BOSA DEVELOPMENT

Ryan Bosa, president of Bosa Development since 2017, builds on a family legacy with a focus on smart design, team building and diversification. Passionate about urban living, he’s expanding the company’s asset base and rental portfolio while upholding its reputation for excellence and building for the future.

COLIN BOSA

CEO BOSA PROPERTIES

As CEO of Bosa Properties, Colin Bosa leads a trusted brand with an enduring legacy, evolving from construction to human-centred property development and management, with more than 23,000 homes built or in development. A committed leader driven by progress, he oversees a diverse team delivering excellence in residential, commercial and mixed-use projects that continue to grow across asset classes and markets.

DALE BOSA

CEO

BLUESKY BY BOSA PROPERTIES

Since 1992, Dale Bosa has built a distinguished reputation in British Columbia’s development community, managing thousands of homes with exceptional design and leadership skills. Renowned for delivering quality, integrity-driven spaces, Bosa Properties’ portfolio includes more than 23,000 homes built or in development and 5.7 million square feet of managed retail, industrial, office and rental properties.

ERIC CARLSON

CORE FOUNDER & CEO ANTHEM PROPERTIES GROUP

Eric Carlson is CEO of Anthem Properties Group, a real estate development, investment and management company of more than 850 people. Founded in 1991, Anthem’s portfolio includes more than 44,000 homes built, in design or under construction; 12 million square feet of retail, industrial and office space; and 9,100 acres of land across Alberta, British Columbia and California.

JAMES CHENG

FOUNDER

JAMES K.M. CHENG ARCHITECTS

James K.M. Cheng is a Vancouver-based architect renowned for shaping the city's skyline and pioneering "Vancouverism" — a model of high-density, livable urban design. Founder of James K.M. Cheng Architects, his notable projects include Living Shangri-La and the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Cheng was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2012.

NEIL CHRYSTAL

PRESIDENT AND CEO

POLYGON HOMES

Neil Chrystal is president and CEO of Polygon Homes Ltd., one of British Columbia’s leading home builders. He manages all aspects of Polygon’s homebuilding activities in Greater Vancouver and currently serves on the board of governors of the Business Council of British Columbia and the Audain Art Museum.

MICHAEL GELLER

PRINCIPAL THE GELLER GROUP

Michael Geller is a well-known retired architect, planner, real estate consultant and property developer based in Vancouver. As principal of the Geller Group, he provides strategic real estate and planning services to clients in the public, private and institutional sectors. Geller also serves on SFU’s adjunct faculty and is a frequent media commentator on urban planning and development issues.

IAN GILLESPIE

FOUNDER WESTBANK

Ian Gillespie founded Westbank in 1992. The company's work spans residential, hotels, retail, creative workspace, district energy, affordable housing, exhibitions and public art, with more than $50 billion in projects completed or under development. It also owns Creative Energy, Vancouver’s rebranded district utility acquired as Central Heat in 2014.

MICHAEL GREEN

PRINCIPAL

MICHAEL GREEN ARCHITECTS

Michael Green is an award-winning architect, speaker and author known for pioneering sustainable, woodbased architecture. Founder of MGA, he’s completed landmark timber projects worldwide and earned over 50 international awards. Green advises governments on mass timber policy and lectures globally, including two TED Talks on sustainable building innovation.

CARLA GUERRERA

FOUNDER & CEO

PURPOSE DRIVEN DEVELOPMENT

With decades of leadership in real estate development, Carla Guerrera has delivered $2 billion in transformative projects, earning a reputation as a visionary leader in real estate and housing. Founder and CEO of Purpose Driven Development, she leads a firm dedicated to projects with First Nations, governments, investors and non-profits, focused on building equitable, sustainable cities.

BRIAN HARRIS

PRESIDENT AND CEO

BEEM CREDIT UNION

Brian Harris is president and CEO of Beem Credit Union, a new credit union with more than 80 years of history serving over 190,000 members in B.C. Harris has built his career at the intersection of technological innovation and the enduring need for human connection. He previously served as president and CEO of Interior Savings Credit Union. ECONOMIC

TERRY HUI

PRESIDENT CEO CONCORD PACIFIC

Terry Hui is president and CEO of Concord Pacific, the developer behind Vancouver’s Expo Lands and Toronto’s rail lands. With global ventures in real estate, tech and green energy, Hui is a decorated business leader recognized for community engagement and shaping skylines across Canada, the U.S. and U.K. The group’s interests include telecommunications, software and real estate investment management.

RICK ILICH

CEO

TOWNLINE

Rick Ilich founded Townline in 1980, building single-family homes before expanding to large-scale residential, commercial and mixed-use projects across Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Los Angeles and Phoenix. Recognizing socio-economic inequities early in his career, Ilich and his wife, Lauren, co-founded TL Housing Solutions, providing more than 4,000 homes for marginalized communities. He also chairs the Urban Development Institute’s Pacific region.

KHELSILEM

Khelsilem is a member of the Squamish Nation. He is currently in his second term on Squamish Nation Council and is one of the council’s spokespersons. Khelsilem is one of the leading voices in Indigenous language revitalization, sustainability and politics in British Columbia.

DENNIS LOPEZ

QUADREAL PROPERTY GROUP

Dennis Lopez is CEO of QuadReal Property Group, leading its global real estate investment strategy. With more than 30 years of experience across the Americas, Europe and Asia, he has overseen more than $100 billion in transactions. He brings expertise in real estate M&A, acquisitions, lending, development and capital fundraising in both public and private markets.

DAVID NEGRIN

David Negrin is respected as one of the most knowledgeable and credible development and construction minds in the industry. He has focused on the redevelopment of brownfield sites throughout the Greater Vancouver region and has developed strong working relationships with First Nations across British Columbia.

JENN PODMORE RUSSELL

CDO

NCH’KAÝ DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Jenn Podmore Russell has more than 20 years of experience in real estate strategy, portfolio planning and development advisory. An established authority on development in B.C., she brings an in-depth understanding of how to translate informed visions into successful places. She serves on several boards and has public appointments to various expert committees.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SUSAN SENECAL

CEO

A&W FOOD SERVICES OF CANADA INC.

Susan Senecal is president and CEO of A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. Based in B.C., A&W is the second-largest hamburger restaurant chain in Canada with more than 1,070 locations and is one of the country’s leading franchisors. In February 2018, she became the first woman and first fully bilingual person to hold the role.

JON STOVELL

PRESIDENT AND CEO

RELIANCE PROPERTIES LTD.

Jon Stovell has worked in real estate investment and development for more than 35 years. He is involved in all areas of the industry, including acquisitions, finance, civic approvals, construction, marketing, policy and advocacy. At Reliance, he has developed broad expertise in portfolio management, with an emphasis on urban renewal through restoration and heritage building renovation.

BRENT TODERIAN

FOUNDER

TODERIAN URBAN WORKS

Brent Toderian is a globally recognized urban planner and founder of Vancouver-based Toderian UrbanWORKS. With more than 30 years of experience, he has advised cities around the world on advanced urbanism, including Copenhagen, Medellín and Sydney. As Vancouver’s chief planner from 2006 to 2012, he led initiatives such as EcoDensity and the Greenest City strategy.

CHUCK WE

EVP, PNW AND CANADA HUDSON PACIFIC PROPERTIES

Chuck We oversees Bentall Centre in Vancouver and a 2.7-million-squarefoot office portfolio in Greater Seattle. Before joining Hudson Pacific, he was city head for Oxford Properties in Vancouver. He sits on the boards of Destination Vancouver and the Downtown Vancouver BIA, is past president of NAIOP Vancouver and a former board member of ULI British Columbia.

MINDY WIGHT

CEO NCH'KAÝ DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Mindy Wight is CEO of Nch’kay Development Corporation, the economic development arm of the Squamish Nation. A proud Skwxwú7mesh woman, she holds multiple designations, including the ICD.D. Before joining Nch’kay, she was a partner and national leader of Indigenous tax services at MNP LLP. She is a director of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

TODD YUEN

PRESIDENT, INDUSTRIAL

BEEDIE

Todd Yuen, president of industrial at Beedie, oversees all aspects of the company’s industrial business, including corporate planning, site acquisition, sales and leasing. Under his leadership, Beedie Industrial has expanded across North America and is now the largest private industrial developer and landlord in Western Canada.

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Congratulationstoall theoutstanding business leaders recognized in Business in Vancouver’s BC500list, includingour very ownRyanBeedie, President &Owner,and Todd Yuen,President, Industrial.

We’reproud to see their leadership and impact acknowledged among BritishColumbia’s most influential business figures.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ARTS & CULTURE

FINANCIAL & BANKING

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

INDUSTRY

INSTITUTIONS AND NON-PROFITS

MANUFACTURING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PUBLIC SECTOR

REAL ESTATE

RESOURCES

RETAIL

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

Merle Alexander, principal, MT+C, Joe Alphonse, chief, Tsilhqot’in

Jason Alsop, chief, Haida Nation

Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer, Indigenous Tourism BC

Bridgitte Anderson , president and CEO, GVBOT

Christina Anthony, vice-president and director, Odlum Brown

Stu Barnes, executive director, First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia

Ryan Benn , CEO and group publisher Alive Publishing Group and Canada Wide Media

Alexander Bikkers, president, SAAM Towage

Brad Bonner, CEO, Halfway River Group of Cos

Michael Bonshor, managing director, First Nations Business Development Association

Brynn Bourke, executive director, BC Building Trades

Barbara Brink , board member, JABC

Ben Campbell, CEO, Northern Development Trust

Robyn Chisholm , vice-president, head, commercial banking, Scotiabank

Graham Clarke, founder, Graham Clarke Group

Eva Clayton , president, Nisga’a Lisims Government

Wendy Cocchia , lieutenant governor, Province of B.C.

Michelle Collens, director, tourism and destination events, Sport Hosting Vancouver

Peter Cowan , president and CEO, Innovate BC

Bryan Cox , general manager, external affairs PETRONAS Canada

Loc Dao, executive director, DigiBC

Candace Dennis, CEO, Haida Enterprise Corp.

Rehana Din , COO, BC Pavilion Corporation

James Donaldson , CEO, BC Food & Beverage

Laurel Douglas, CEO, Economic Trust of the Southern Interior

Jill Earthy, CEO, InBC Investment Corp.

Jordan Eng , president, Vancouver Chinatown BIA

Karimah Es Sabar, co-founder, former CEO and general partner, Quark Venture LP

Shelina Esmail, partner, PFM Executive Search

Fiona Famulak , CEO, BC Chamber

Jock Finlayson , chief economist, ICBA

Yuri Fulmer, chair and CEO, Fulmer & Co.

Thomas Gaglardi, governor and co-owner, Kamloops Blazers

Chris Gardner, president, ICBA

Stephen Gaskin , senior vice-president, B.C. and Yukon, Scotiabank

Prem Gill, CEO, Creative BC

Michael Goehring , president and CEO

Mining Association of BC

Brodie Guy, CEO, Island Coastal Economic Trust

Brian Harris, president and CEO, Beem Credit Union

Wendy Hurlburt , president and CEO, LSBC

Keith Ippel, Co-CEO, Spring

Jeanette Jackson , CEO, Foresight Canada

Geena Jackson , founder, Bear's Lair

Nicolas Jimenez , president and CEO, BC Ferries

Lennard Joe, CEO, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Laura Jones, president and CEO, BCBC

Tewanee Joseph , CEO, Tewanee Consulting Group Inc.

Karen Joseph , CEO, Reconciliation Canada

Manny Jules, chief commissioner, First Nations Tax Commission

Brittney Kerr, founding partner, Framepoint Public Affairs

Khelsilem , chair, Squamish Nation

Brenda Knights, CEO, B.C. Indigenous Housing Society

Kirsten Koppang Telford , CEO, The Forum

Kleo Landucci, President and CEO, CrescentView Investments Ltd.

Clarence Louie, CEO, Osoyoos Indian Band

Nancy MacKay, founder and CEO, MacKay CEO Forums

Cathy Mackay, CEO, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.

Don Mattrick , co-president, MdGB Capital Inc.

Gordon McCauley, president and CEO, adMare BioInnovations

Jason McDaniel, interim president and CEO, Insurance Corporation of British Columbia

Anne McMullin , president and CEO, UDI

Geoff Meggs, senior adviser, Canadian Strategy Group

Fazil Mihlar, deputy minister, JEDI, Province of B.C.

Pete Mitchell, president, Vancouver Film Studios

Elizabeth Model, CEO, DSBIA

John Montalbano, principal, Tower Beach Capital

Sheila Murray, chair, Teck Resources Limited

Cybele Negris, co-founder and CEO, Webnames.ca

Chris O'Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro

Karen Ogen , CEO, First Nations LNG Alliance

Nancy Olewiler, economist and professor, Simon Fraser University

Sue Paish , CEO, DIGITAL

Walter Pela , regional managing partner, KPMG, LLP

Susannah Pierce, former country chair, Shell Canada Ltd.

Jenn Podmore Russell, executive vicepresident, real estate and development, Nch’kaý Development Corporation

Gwendolyn Point , chair, PavCo

Kam Raman , vice-president, commercial financial services, RBC

Tracy Redies, president and CEO, Science World

Bob Rennie, founder, Rennie Group of Companies

Peter Robinson , chair, Metro Vancouver Zero Emissions Innovation Centre

Neelam Sahota , CEO, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society

John Sandrelli, partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy British Columbia

Judith Sayers, president, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council

Dan Scarrow, president and CEO, Macdonald Realty Group of Companies

Jill Schnarr, chief social innovation, communications and brand officer, TELUS

Willie Sellars, chief, Williams Lake First Nations

Juggy Sihota , senior vice-president, TELUS

Kristine Simpson , partner, assurance, BDO Canada LLP

Marilyn Slett , chief councillor, Heiltsuk Tribal Council

Stephen Smart , head of communications, Vancouver Airport Authority

Merran Smith , president, New Economy Canada

Joel Solomon , co-founder, Renewal Funds

Lisa Sparrow, president and CEO, Corix

Wayne Sparrow, chief, Musqueam Indian Band

Jim Stanford , economist and director, Centre for Future Work

Shaun Stevenson , president and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority

Aaron Stone, CEO, South Island Prosperity Partnership

Rich Sumner, president and CEO, Methanex

Shannon Susko, founder and CEO, Metronomics

Jane Talbot , president and CEO, Downtown Van

Carole Taylor, board member, InBC

Jen Thomas, chief, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

Jill Tipping , president and CEO, BC Tech

Don Tom , vice-president, UBCIC

Wal Van Lierop, founding partner, Chrysalix Venture Capital

Caroline von Hirschberg , co-CEO, Spring

Chuck We, executive vice-president, Pacific Northwest/Canada office operations, Hudson Pacific Properties

Robert Whitney, CEO, Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies

Mindy Wight , CEO, Nch'kaý Development Corporation

Bill Williams, president, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Scott Wilson , managing partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Andy Yan , director, city program, SFU

Bryan Yu , associate vice-president and chief economist, Central 1

Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT

Mark Zacharias, executive director, Clean Energy Canada

ARTS & CULTURE

Bruce Allen , founder, Bruce Allen Talent

Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer, Indigenous Tourism BC

Christina Anthony, vice-president and director, Odlum Brown

Francesco Aquilini, chair, Canucks Sports & Entertainment

Roberto Aquilini, managing partner, Aquilini Group

Michael Audain , chair, Audain Art Gallery

Janet Austin , chair, Fraser Basin Council

Brenda Baptiste, chair, Indigenous Tourism

Ryan Benn , CEO and group publisher, Alive Publishing Group

Michael Bublé, singer and songwriter

Michelle Collens, director, tourism and destination events, Sport Hosting Vancouver

Alan Cosgrave, regional managing partner, B.C. advisory, MNP LLP

Loc Dao, executive director, DigiBC

Meeru Dhalwala , co-founder

Lila and Vij's restaurants

Rehana Din , COO, BC Pavilion Corporation

Tracey Drake, CEO, Royal BC Museum

Angela Elster, president and CEO

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra & VSO School of Music

Ethan Faber, news director, CTV Vancouver

Sam Feldman , co-founder, A&F Music

Thomas Fung Founder, chair and CEO, Fairchild Group

Thomas Gaglardi, governor and co-owner, Kamloops Blazers

David Garofalo, chair and CEO, Gold Royalty Corp.

Frank Giustra , founder, Lion's Gate

Michelle Grady, president, Sony Pictures Imageworks

Tracey Herbert , CEO, FPCC

Harry Hertscheg , executive director

Vancouver International Wine Festival

Bhupinder Hundal, news director, Global BC

Naomi Klein , author

Chad Kroeger, musician

Amy Lang , president, North Shore and Mammoth Studios

Trevor Linden , athlete

Jeff Mallett , co-owner, Vancouver Whitecaps

Gemma Martini, CEO, Martini Film Studios

Sarah McLachlan , singer and songwriter

Sarah McLachlan School of Music

Stuart McNish , founder and president Oh Boy Productions Inc.

Mark Melville, president and CEO, Glacier

Pete Mitchell, president, Vancouver Film Studios

Victor Montagliani, president, CONCACAF

Amir Nasrabadi, head of studio

Walt Disney Animation Studios, Vancouver

Josh Nilson , co-founder and general manager, East Side Games

Kam Raman , vice-president, commercial financial services, RBC

Tracy Redies, president and CEO, Science World

Bob Rennie, founder, Rennie Group of Companies

Liz Shorten , COO, Canadian Media Producers Association

Juggy Sihota , senior vice-president, TELUS Christine Sinclair, athlete

David Sung , executive vice-chair, president of institutional, Nicola Wealth

Jane Talbot , president and CEO, Downtown Van

Ron Toigo, president and majority owner, Vancouver Giants

Jennifer Twiner McCarron , CEO, Thunderbird Entertainment Group

Tom Wright , general director, Vancouver Opera

Bruce Munro Wright , chair, Nature Conservancy of Canada

Andy Yan , director, city program, SFU

FINANCIAL & BANKING

Christina Anthony, vice-president and director, Odlum Brown

Kathy Butler, vice-chair and head of capital markets (B.C.), CIBC World Markets

Robyn Chisholm , vice-president, head, commercial banking, Scotiabank

Matthew Cicci, head, private client group, Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management

Alan Cosgrave, regional managing partner, B.C. advisory, MNP LLP

Ernie Daniels, CEO, First Nations Finance Authority

Jill Earthy, CEO, InBC Investment Corp.

Kelly Edmison , chair, Pender Fund

Karimah Es Sabar, co-founder, former CEO and general partner, Quark Venture LP

Haig Farris, president, Fractal Capital

Yuri Fulmer, chair and CEO, Fulmer & Co.

Gordon Fyfe, CEO and CIO, BCI

Stephen Gaskin , senior vice-president, B.C. and Yukon, Scotiabank

David Gens, president and CEO, Merchant Growth

Paul Geyer, CEO, Nimbus Synergies

Jim Gilliland , managing principal, president and CEO, and head, fixed income, Leith Wheeler Investment Counsel Ltd.

Frank Giustra , founder, Lion's Gate

Brian Harris, president and CEO, Beem Credit Union

Daryl Hatton , CEO, Connectionpoint

Carol Anne Hilton , founder and CEO, Indigenomics Institute

Wellington Holbrook , president and CEO, Vancity

Keith Ippel, co-CEO, Spring

Brenda Irwin , managing partner, Relentless Venture Fund

Andrew Kemp, executive vice-president, property and casualty, and chair, Acera Insurance

Paul Lacerte, managing partner, Raven Capital Partners

Paul Lee, managing partner, Vanedge Capital Partners Ltd.

Jamie Lyons, president and CEO, Westland Insurance Group Ltd.

Calvin MacInnis, president and CEO Coast Capital Savings

Catherine McLeod-Seltzer, chair, Bear Creek Mining Corporation

Tracey McVicar, partner, CAI Capital Partners

Jack Meier, president and CEO, InsureBC

Salil Munjal, managing partner, Yaletown Partners

Laura Nashman , CEO, BC Pension Corp.

Cybele Negris, co-founder and CEO, Webnames.ca

John Nicola , chair and CEO, Nicola Wealth

Karen Ogen , CEO, First Nations LNG Alliance

Maria Pacella , managing partner, Pender Ventures

Susannah Pierce, former country chair, Shell Canada Ltd.

Jenn Podmore Russell, executive vicepresident, real estate and development, Nch’kaý Development Corporation

Kam Raman , vice-president, commercial financial services, RBC

John Sandrelli, partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Jill Schnarr, chief social innovation, communications and brand officer, TELUS

Kristine Simpson , partner, assurance BDO Canada LLP

Julie Skelton , executive director and COO, Insurance Brokers Association of British Columbia

Randy Smallwood , president and CEO, Wheaton Precious Metals

James Speakman , partner, Clark Wilson LLP

Rich Sumner, president and CEO, Methanex

David Sung , executive vice-chair, and president of institutional, Nicola Wealth

Carole Taylor, board member, InBC

Martin Thibodeau , regional president, B.C., RBC

Jen Thomas, chief, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

Wal Van Lierop, founding partner, Chrysalix Venture Capital

Praveen Varshney, director, Varshney Capital Corp.

Hari Varshney, principal, Varshney Capital

Sheila Vokey, president and CEO, Central 1 Credit Union

Mike Volker, CEO, Wutif Capital (VCC) Inc.

Caroline von Hirschberg , co-CEO, Spring

Wayne Wachell, CEO and CIO, Genus Capital

Boris Wertz , founding partner, Version One Ventures

Scott Wilson , managing partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Tolga Yalkin , CEO and chief statutory officer, BC Financial Services Authority

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS

Merle Alexander, principal, MT+Co

Joe Alphonse, chief, Tsilhqot’in

Jason Alsop, chief, Haida Nation

Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer, Indigenous Tourism BC

Brenda Baptiste, chair, Indigenous Tourism

Stu Barnes, executive director, First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia

Brad Bonner, CEO, Halfway River Group of Cos

Michael Bonshor, managing director, First Nations Business Development Association

Cheryl Casimer, political executive member, First Nations Summit

Eva Clayton , president, Nisga’a Lisims Government

Ernie Daniels, CEO, First Nations Finance Authority

Todd den Engelsen , CEO, Tahltan National Development Corp.

Candace Dennis, CEO, Haida Enterprise Corp.

Teara Fraser, founder, Iskwew Air

Yuri Fulmer, chair and CEO, Fulmer & Co.

Sharleen Gale, chair, FNMPC

Howard Grant , executive director, First Nations Summit

Carol Anne Hilton , founder and CEO, Indigenomics Institute

Geena Jackson , founder, Bear's Lair

Lennard Joe, CEO, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Tewanee Joseph , CEO, Tewanee Consulting Group Inc.

Karen Joseph , CEO, Reconciliation Canada

Manny Jules, chief commissioner, First Nations Tax Commission

Khelsilem , chair, Squamish Nation

Brenda Knights, CEO, B.C. Indigenous Housing Society

Paul Lacerte, managing partner, Raven Capital Partners

Stephen Lee, CEO, Musqueam Capital Corp.

Clarence Louie, CEO, Osoyoos Indian Band

Cathy Mackay, CEO, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.

Scott Munro, CEO, First Nations Financial Management Board

David Negrin , CEO, MST Development Corp.

Karen Ogen , CEO, First Nations LNG Alliance

Stewart Phillip, president, Union of BC Indian Chiefs

Jenn Podmore Russell, executive vicepresident, real estate and development, Nch’kaý Development Corporation

Bob Rennie, founder, Rennie Group of Companies

John Sandrelli, partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy British Columbia

Judith Sayers, president, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council

Willie Sellars, chief, Williams Lake First Nations

Marilyn Slett , chief councillor, Heiltsuk Tribal Council

Crystal Smith , chief councillor, Haisla Nation

Lisa Sparrow, president and CEO

Corix Wayne Sparrow, chief, Musqueam Indian Band

James Speakman , partner, Clark Wilson LLP

Terry Teegee, regional chief, B.C. Assembly of First Nations

Don Tom , vice-president, UBCIC

Michael Uehara , president and CEO, Gitxaala Enterprises Corp.

Robert Whitney, CEO, Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies

Mindy Wight , CEO, Nch'kaý Development Corporation

Bill Williams, president, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Scott Wilson , managing partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Kory Wilson , executive director, Indigenous initiatives and partnerships, BCIT

INDUSTRY

Robert Ashton , president, ILWU Canada

Alexander Bikkers, president, SAAM Towage

Brynn Bourke, executive director, BC Building Trades

Glen Clark , chair, BC Hydro

Graham Clarke, founder, Graham Clarke Group

Christine Coletta , co-founder, Haywire Winery and Garnet Valley Ranch Winery

Jennifer Cudlipp, president and CEO, BACAS Family Wines

Lorraine Cunningham , owner, Cunningham Group

Roger Dall'Antonia , president and CEO, FortisBC

Bruce Dean , founder and president, Northam Beverages

John DeLucchi, president and CEO, Madison Group

Amar Doman , president and CEO, The Futura Corporation

Mohammad Doostmohammadi, founder and CEO, pH7 Technologies Inc.

Dave Earle, president and CEO, BC Trucking Association

Karimah Es Sabar, co-founder, former CEO and general partner, Quark Venture LP

Fiona Famulak , CEO, BC Chamber

Jock Finlayson , chief economist, ICBA

Sharleen Gale, chair, FNMPC

Chris Gardner, president, ICBA

David Garofalo, chair and CEO, Gold Royalty Corp.

Michael Goehring , president and CEO, Mining Association of BC

Brodie Guy, CEO, Island Coastal Economic Trust

Kim Haakstad , CEO, COFI

Mark Hicken , principal, Alca Intelligence

Wendy Hurlburt , president and CEO, Life Sciences BC

Lennard Joe, CEO, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Brittney Kerr, founding partner, Framepoint Public Affairs

Shachi Kurl, president, Angus Reid Institute

Kleo Landucci, president and CEO, CrescentView Investments Ltd.

Dave Lede, chair and CEO, Ledcor Group of Companies

Dave Lucas, president, SSA Marine, Canada

Randall MacEwen , president and CEO

Ballard Power Systems

Cathy Mackay, CEO,

EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.

Ian Marr, president and CEO, Nanaimo Port Authority

Stuart McDonald , president and CEO, Taseko Mines Limited

Anne McMullin , president and CEO,

UDI Pacific Region

Alex Meier, president and CEO, Axis Insurance Managers

Elizabeth Model, CEO, DSBIA

Sue Paish , CEO, DIGITAL

George Paleologou , president and CEO, Premium Brand Holdings

Kevin Parkes, president and CEO, Finning Jim Pattison , chair and CEO, The Jim Pattison Group

Susannah Pierce, former country chair, Shell Canada Ltd.

Barry Rivelis, president, PBC Solutions

Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy British Columbia

Sussanne Skidmore, president, BC Federation of Labour

Crystal Smith , chief councillor, Haisla Nation

Douglas Smith , CEO, DP World (Canada) Inc.

Steve Stark , owner, Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc.

Shaun Stevenson , president and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority

Rich Sumner, president and CEO, Methanex

Jill Tipping , president and CEO, BC Tech

Wal Van Lierop, founding partner, Chrysalix Venture Capital

Anthony von Mandl, founder and CEO, Mark Anthony Group

Kyle Washington , Canadian chair, Washington Companies

Bill Williams, president, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Jennifer Woike, president, BC Agriculture Council

Lisa Wolverton , co-owner, Pacific Investment Corp.

Heidi Yang , CEO, Engineers and Geoscientists BC

Susan Yurkovich , president and CEO, Canfor Corporation

Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT

INSTITUTIONS & NON-PROFITS

Merle Alexander, principal, MT+Co

Roberto Aquilini, managing partner, Aquilini Group

Paolo Aquilini, founder, Canuck Autism Network

Jill Atkey, CEO, BCNPHA

Janet Austin , chair, FBC

Benoit-Antoine Bacon , president and vicechancellor, University of British Columbia

Kim Baird , chancellor, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Stu Barnes, executive director, First Nations Fisheries Council of British Columbia

Sheila Biggers, president and CEO, St. Paul's Hospital Foundation

Jeff Bray, CEO, Downtown Victoria BIA

Barbara Brink , board member, JABC

David Byres, president and CEO, PHSA

Wendi Campbell, president and CEO, JABC

Angela Chapman , president and CEO VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation

Queenie Choo, CEO, S.U.C.C.E.S.S.

Wendy Cocchia , lieutenant governor, Province of BC

Sergio Cocchia , president, Crew Group of Companies

Seychelle Cushing , executive director, partnerships hub, Simon Fraser University

Fiona Dalton , president and CEO, Providence Health Care

Loc Dao, executive director, DigiBC

Alan Davis, president and vice-chancellor, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Meeru Dhalwala , co-founder, Lila and Vij's restaurants

Robin Dhir, president, Twin Brook Developments Ltd.

Angela Elster, president and CEO, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra & VSO School of Music

Jordan Eng , president, Vancouver Chinatown BIA

Karimah Es Sabar, co-founder, former CEO and general partner, Quark Venture LP

Fiona Famulak , CEO, BC Chamber

Yuri Fulmer, chair and CEO, Fulmer & Co.

Sharleen Gale, chair, FNMPC

Suzanne Gill, president and CEO, Genome BC

Brodie Guy, CEO, Island Coastal Economic Trust

Celeste Haldane, chief commissioner, BC Treaty Commission

Kevin Hall, president and vice-chancellor, University of Victoria

Rick Hansen , founder, Rick Hansen Foundation

Daryl Hatton , CEO, Connectionpoint

Harry Hertscheg , executive director, Vancouver International Wine Festival

Bev Holmes, president and CEO, Michael Smith Health Research

Keith Ippel, co-CEO, Spring

Joanna Jagger, founder and executive director, WORTH Association

Kristy James, CEO, Burnaby Hospital Foundation

Joy Johnson , president and vice-chancellor, SFU

Robert Joseph , founder, Reconciliation Canada

Lindsay Kislock , president and CEO, WESTAC

Trevor Koot , CEO, BCREA

Kirsten Koppang Telford , CEO, The Forum

Shachi Kurl, president, Angus Reid Institute

Paul Larocque, CEO, Arts Umbrella

Fred Lee, media personality, Vancouver's Man About Town

Carol Lee, Chair, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation

David Long , CEO, Greater Vancouver Foodbank

Stuart Louie, co-president, H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd.

Kevin McCort , president and CEO, Vancouver Foundation

Michael McKnight , president and CEO, United Way B.C.

Catherine McLeod-Seltzer, chair, Bear Creek Mining Corporation

Anne McMullin , president and CEO, UDI

Tracey McVicar, partner, CAI Capital Partners

Geoff Meggs, senior adviser, Canadian Strategy Group

Ruth Mojeed Ramirez , chief equity officer, The Inclusion Project

Jeff Nankivell, president and CEO, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada

Jeff Norris, president and CEO, Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation

Nancy Olewiler, economist and professor, Simon Fraser University

Jeanne-Marie Owens, co-founder and COO, Critical Path Games

Sue Paish , CEO, DIGITAL

Richard Pass, CEO, Ronald McDonald House BC and Yukon

Loring Phinney, CEO, PAFN

Susannah Pierce, former country chair, Shell Canada Ltd.

Gwendolyn Point , chair, PavCo

Tracy Redies, president and CEO, Science World

Judy Rogers, chancellor, University of British Columbia

Sarah Roth , president and CEO, BC Cancer Foundation

Neelam Sahota , CEO, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society

Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy British Columbia

Judith Sayers, president, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council

Jill Schnarr, chief social innovation, communications and brand officer, TELUS

Stephen Smart , head of communications, Vancouver Airport Authority

Crystal Smith , chief councillor, Haisla Nation

Philip Steenkamp, president and vicechancellor, Royal Roads University

Lynn Stevenson , interim, president and CEO, Fraser Health

Tina Strehlke, CEO, Minerva BC

David Sung , executive vice-chair, and president of institutional, Nicola Wealth

David Suzuki, co-founder, David Suzuki Foundation

Terry Teegee, regional chief, B.C. Assembly of First Nations

Praveen Varshney, director, Varshney Capital Corp.

Hari Varshney, principal, Varshney Capital

Caroline von Hirschberg , co-CEO, Spring

Kory Wilson , executive director, Indigenous initiatives and partnerships, BCIT

Bruce Munro Wright , chair, Nature Conservancy of Canada

Andy Yan , director, city program, SFU

Heidi Yang , CEO, Engineers and Geoscientists

BC

Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT

MANUFACTURING

Edward Chiang , co-founder and CEO, Moment Energy

Jennifer Cudlipp, president and CEO, BACAS Family Wines

Bruce Dean , founder and president, Northam Beverages

Peter Dhillon , president and CEO, Richberry Group of Companies

Amar Doman , president and CEO, The Futura Corporation

James Donaldson , CEO, BC Food & Beverage

Allen Eaves, president and CEO, STEMCELL Technologies

Karen Flavelle, chair and CEO, Purdys Chocolatier

Daniel Friedmann , CEO, Carbon Engineering

Robert Mackie, chair and CEO, bioLytical Laboratories

Thomas Martini, president and CEO, Lorval Capital Management

John McCarthy, CEO, Seaspan Shipyards

Arjan Stephens, CEO, Nature's Path

Rich Sumner, president and CEO, Methanex

Shannon Susko, founder and CEO, Metronomics

Brad Thorlakson , executive chair, Tolko Industries Ltd.

Philip Vanderpol, president and CEO, Vitalus Nutrition Inc.

Kari Yuers, president and CEO, Kryton International Inc.

Susan Yurkovich , president and CEO, Canfor Corporation

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Merle Alexander, principal, MT+Co

Kareem Allam , partner, Richardson Strategy Group

Ali Ardakani, founder and managing director, Novateur Ventures Inc.

Julie Armour, Pacific region head, TD Bank Group

Brett Armstrong , managing director, Vancouver, Avison Young

Jill Atkey, CEO, BCNPHA

Cameron Belsher, partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP

Jade Bourelle, chair, YPO BC

Kevin Brennan , managing partner, West and B.C., EY Canada

Ashleigh Brown , group managing director, Robert Half Canada

Lynda Brown-Ganzert , CEO, RxPx

Étienne Bruson , vice-chair, B.C., Deloitte Canada

Brent Cameron , regional managing partner, Western Canada, Boyden Canada

Donald Campbell, senior strategy adviser, Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP

Gigi Chen-Kuo, CEO and executive director, Law Society of British Columbia

Alan Cosgrave, regional managing partner, B.C. advisory, MNP LLP

Radha Curpen , group head, ESG and sustainability, McMillan LLP

Robin Dhir, president, Twin Brook Developments Ltd.

Ryan Douglas, president and CEO, Klohn Crippen Berger

Shelina Esmail, partner, PFM Executive Search

Michael Fitzpatrick , president and CEO, Robert Allan Ltd.

Jenny Francis, managing partner, B.C. region, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP

Kate Furber, vice-chair, PwC

Byng Giraud , president, Sedgwick Strategies Inc.

Frank Giustra , founder, Lion's Gate

Peter Guo, partner, MNP LLP

Matt Hendrick , CEO, GroupHEALTH

Sarah Hoffman , president and CEO, Pacific Blue Cross

Eric Hopkins, president and CEO, BCAA

Martin Jobke, president and CEO, Associated Engineering

Tewanee Joseph , CEO, Tewanee Consulting Group Inc.

Brittney Kerr, founding partner, Framepoint Public Affairs

Kirk Kuester, executive managing director, Colliers International

Stuart Louie, co-president, H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd.

Cathy Mackay, CEO, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.

Nancy MacKay, founder and CEO, MacKay CEO Forums

Mike McDonald , partner, Kirk & Co.

Sarah McNeill, co-founder, McNeill Nakamoto Recruitment Group

Alex Meier, president and CEO, Axis Insurance Managers

Jeffrey Merrick , office managing partner, Vancouver, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

Evi Mustel, president, Mustel Group

Cheryl Nakamoto, president and managing partner, McNeill Nakamoto Recruitment Group

Tina Osen , president, Hub International

Walter Pela , regional managing partner, KPMG, LLP

Clifford Proudfoot , managing partner, Lawson Lundell LLP

Angus Reid , founder, Angus Reid Institute

Thomas Roper, founding partner and chair, Roper Greyell LLP

Bo Rothstein , managing partner, Farris LLP

John Sandrelli, partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Dan Scarrow, president and CEO, Macdonald Realty Group of Companies

Kristine Simpson , partner, assurance, BDO Canada LLP

Sharon Singh , partner, McMillan LLP

Julie Skelton , executive director and COO, Insurance Brokers Association of British Columbia

Crystal Smith , chief councillor, Haisla Nation

Robin Smith , president and CEO, Foodwest Resources

James Speakman , partner, Clark Wilson LLP

Paul Sullivan , principal regional leader, property tax complex, Ryan ULC

Cathy Thorpe, president and CEO, Nurse Next Door

Scott Wilson , managing partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Steve Winder, regional managing partner, Vancouver, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

Alan Winter, partner, Harris & Company LLP

Jill Yates, managing partner, B.C., McCarthy Tétrault LLP

PUBLIC SECTOR

Jill Atkey, CEO, BCNPHA

Kim Baird , chancellor, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Penny Ballem , health advocate, Office of the Premier

David Byres, president and CEO, PHSA

Cheryl Casimer, political executive member, First Nations Summit

Gigi Chen-Kuo, CEO and executive director, Law Society of British Columbia

Glen Clark , chair, BC Hydro

Michelle Collens, director, tourism and destination events, Sport Hosting Vancouver

Peter Cowan , president and CEO, Innovate BC

Fiona Dalton , president and CEO, Providence Health Care

Pat Davis, president and CEO, British Columbia Lottery Corp.

Rehana Din , COO, BC Pavilion Corporation

Jerry Dobrovolny, commissioner and chief administrative officer, Metro Vancouver

Jill Earthy, CEO, InBC Investment Corp.

Vivian Eliopoulos, president and CEO, Vancouver Coastal Health

Angus English , senior project director, AECOM

Paul Finch , president, BCGEU

Jason Grant , president and CEO, BC Assessment

Kevin Hall, president and vice-chancellor, University of Victoria

Lisa Helps, special adviser, housing, Office of the Premier

Matt Hendrick , CEO, GroupHEALTH

Catherine Holt , chair, Insurance Corporation of British Columbia

Eric Hopkins, president and CEO, BCAA

Mark Jaccard , chair and CEO, British Columbia Utilities Commission

Nicolas Jimenez , president and CEO, BC Ferries

Martin Jobke, president and CEO, Associated Engineering

Joy Johnson , president and vice-chancellor, SFU

Tewanee Joseph , CEO, Tewanee Consulting Group Inc.

Manny Jules, chief commissioner, First Nations Tax Commission

Irene Kerr, President and CEO, BC Infrastructure Benefits

Blain Lawson , CEO and general manager, British Columbia Liquor Distribution Branch

Gary MacIsaac , executive director, UBCM

Alex MacLennan , chief executive assessment officer, Province of B.C.

Lori Mathison , president and CEO, Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia

Monica McAlduff, CEO, BC First Nations Health Authority

Jason McDaniel, interim president and CEO, Insurance Corporation of British Columbia

Geoff Meggs, senior adviser, Canadian Strategy Group

Paul Mochrie, city manager, City of Vancouver

Scott Munro, CEO, First Nations Financial Management Board

Anne Naser, president and CEO, WorkSafeBC

Chris O'Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro

Karen Ogen , CEO, First Nations LNG Alliance

Nancy Olewiler, economist and professor, Simon Fraser University

Stewart Phillip, president, Union of BC Indian Chiefs

Judy Rogers, chancellor, UBC

Jim Rutkowski, chief of staff, Office of the Premier

Kate Ryan-Lloyd , clerk, legislative assembly, Province of B.C.

Neelam Sahota , CEO, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society

Shannon Salter, deputy minister to the premier, Province of B.C.

Judith Sayers, president, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council

Allan Seckel, chair, BC Housing

Juggy Sihota , senior vice-president, TELUS

Kristine Simpson , partner, assurance, BDO Canada LLP

Gerri Sinclair, innovation commissioner, Province of B.C.

Wayne Sparrow, chief, Musqueam Indian Band

Philip Steenkamp, president and vice-chancellor, Royal Roads University

Lynn Stevenson , interim, president and CEO, Fraser Health

David Sung , executive vice chair, and president of institutional, Nicola Wealth

Carole Taylor, board member, InBC

Terry Teegee, regional chief, B.C. Assembly of First Nations

Jen Thomas, chief, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

Vincent Tong , CEO, BC Housing Commission

Doug White, special counsel on Indigenous reconciliation, Province of B.C.

Kory Wilson , executive director, Indigenous initiatives and partnerships, BCIT

David Wong , CEO, Powerex

Heidi Yang , CEO, Engineers and Geoscientists BC

Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT

Evan Allegretto, president, Intracorp Homes

Armin Amrolia , deputy city manager, City of Vancouver

Christina Anthony, vice-president and director, Odlum Brown

Jill Atkey, CEO, BCNPHA

Michael Audain , chair, Audain Art Gallery

Ryan Beedie, president, Beedie Development

Christine Bergeron , president and CEO, Concert Properties

Ryan Bosa , president, Bosa Development

Colin Bosa , CEO, Bosa Properties

Dale Bosa , CEO, BlueSky by Bosa Properties

Eric Carlson , core founder and CEO, Anthem Properties Group

James Cheng , founder, James K.M. Cheng Architects

Neil Chrystal, president and CEO, Polygon Homes Ltd.

Glen Clark , chair, BC Hydro

John DeLucchi, president and CEO, Madison Group

Robin Dhir, president, Twin Brook Developments Ltd.

Thomas Fung , founder, chair and CEO, Fairchild Group

Bob Gaglardi, founder and chair emeritus, Northland Properties

Michael Geller, principal, The Geller Group

Mark Goodman , founder, Goodman Commercial

Jesse Gregson , vice-president, operations, Cadillac Fairview

Carla Guerrera , founder and CEO, Purpose Driven Development

Rick Ilich , CEO, Townline

Cynthia Jagger, executive vice-president, CBRE Canada

Khelsilem , chair, Squamish Nation

Brenda Knights, CEO, B.C. Indigenous Housing Society

Trevor Koot , CEO, BCREA

Kirk Kuester, executive managing director, Colliers International

Kleo Landucci, president and CEO, CrescentView Investments Ltd.

Stuart Louie, co-president, H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd.

Anne McMullin , president and CEO, UDI

Jeffrey Merrick , office managing partner, Vancouver, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

Pete Mitchell, president, Vancouver Film Studios

Elizabeth Model, CEO, DSBIA

David Negrin , CEO, MST Development Corp.

Jamie Nelson , president, Pattison Food Group

Walter Pela , regional managing partner, KPMG, LLP

David Podmore, co-founder and chair emeritus, Concert Properties

Jenn Podmore Russell, executive vicepresident, real estate and development, Nch’kaý Development Corporation

Gary Pooni, president, Pooni Group

Bob Rennie, founder, Rennie Group of Companies

Steve Sammut , president and COO, Northland Properties

John Sandrelli, partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Dan Scarrow, president and CEO, Macdonald

Realty Group of Companies

Allan Seckel, chair, BC Housing

Lorne Segal, principal, Kingswood Capital

Gary Segal, principal, Kingswood Capital

Zul Somani, owner, Ocean Pacific Hotel Group

Wayne Sparrow, chief, Musqueam Indian Band

James Speakman , partner, Clark Wilson LLP

Jon Stovell, president and CEO, Reliance Properties Ltd.

David Sung , executive vice-chair, and president of institutional, Nicola Wealth

Norm Taylor, past president, Canada, Newmark

Jen Thomas, chief, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

Vincent Tong , CEO, BC Housing Commission

Lillian Tummonds, senior vice-president, retail operations, Cadillac Fairview

Praveen Varshney, director, Varshney Capital Corp.

Chuck We, executive vice-president, Pacific Northwest/Canada office operations, Hudson Pacific Properties

Peeter Wesik , chair, Wesgroup Properties

Scott Wilson , managing partner, Dentons Canada LLP

Chip Wilson , principal, Wilson 5 and Low Tide

Duncan Wlodarczak , chief of staff, ONNI Group

Andy Yan , director, city program, SFU

Heidi Yang , CEO, Engineers and Geoscientists BC

Todd Yuen , president, Industrial, Beedie

RESOURCES

Merle Alexander, principal, MT+Co

Ross Beaty, chair, Equinox Gold

Rob Booker, CEO, Trigon Pacific Terminals

Keith Carter, senior vice-president, Western Canada, West Fraser

Colin Chapdelaine, president, Whole Leaf (Star Produce Ltd.)

Bryan Cox , general manager, external affairs, PETRONAS Canada

Seychelle Cushing , executive director, partnerships hub, Simon Fraser University

Roger Dall'Antonia , president and CEO, FortisBC

Duncan Davies, president and CEO, Mosaic Forest Management

Dirk de Jong , regional manager, Village Farms

Steven Dean , CEO, Artemis Gold

Peter Dhillon , president and CEO, Richberry Group of Companies

Amar Doman , president and CEO, The Futura Corporation

Gordon Doyle, president, Pacific Northern Gas

Jennifer Dyson , chair, Agricultural Land Commission

Jennifer Foster, senior vice-president, HR and corporate affairs, Western Forest Products Inc.

Markus Frind , proprietor, Frind Estate Winery

Michael Goehring , president and CEO, Mining Association of BC

Brodie Guy, CEO, Island Coastal Economic Trust

Kim Haakstad , CEO, COFI

Lennard Joe, CEO, BC First Nations Forestry Council

Clive Johnson , president, CEO and director, B2Gold Corp.

Don Kayne, special adviser to the CEO, Canfor Corporation

Kleo Landucci, president and CEO, CrescentView Investments Ltd.

Stuart McDonald , president and CEO, Taseko Mines Limited

Catherine McLeod-Seltzer, chair, Bear Creek Mining Corporation

Christa-Lee McWatters, general manager, Time Family of Wines

Nancy Olewiler, economist and professor, Simon Fraser University

Walter Pela , regional managing partner KPMG, LLP

Jonathan Price, CEO, Teck Resources Limited

Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy

British Columbia

Randy Smallwood , president and CEO, Wheaton Precious Metals

Michael Steinmann , president and CEO, Pan American Silver

Eira Thomas, chair, Westhaven Gold

Brad Thorlakson , executive chair, Tolko Industries Ltd.

Susan Yurkovich , president and CEO, Canfor Corporation

RETAIL

John Anderson , CEO, Anderson Group

Christian Chia , CEO, OpenRoad Auto Group

Ajay Dilawri, co-founder, Dilawri Group of Cos.

Karen Flavelle, chair and CEO, Purdys Chocolatier

Thomas Gaglardi, governor and co-owner, Kamloops Blazers

Roger Hardy, CEO, Kits Eyecare Ltd.

Jillian Harris, founder, Jillian Harris Design Inc.

Stuart Haselden , CEO, Arc'Teryx

Brian Hill, chair, Aritzia

Tina Lee, CEO, T&T Supermarket

Cindy Lee, founder, T&T Supermarkets

Stuart Louie, co-president, H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd.

Gregory Louie, co-president, H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd.

Brandt Louie, president and CEO, H.Y. Loue Co. Ltd. and London Drugs

Clint Mahlman , president and COO, London Drugs Ltd.

Congratulations SteveWinder on being recognized in this year’s BC500 –and to all thebusinessprofessionalsrecognized fortheir leadership andcommitmenttoB.C.’sprosperity.

St ev eW in de r

Re gi on al Ma na gi ng Pa rt ne r, BL GV an co uv er

We areCanada’sLaw Firm:1500 professionalsinfive cities whoare committedtoshaping abetterfuturefor ourclients, ourcommunities andour country.BLG is honoured to be atrusted advisortoleading companiesinB.C.and acrossCanada. blg.com| Canada’s LawFirm

©2025 Borden Ladner GervaisLLP.All rights reserved

Calvin McDonald , CEO, Lululemon, Elizabeth Model, CEO, DSBIA

Jim Pattison , chair and CEO, The Jim Pattison Group

Arjan Stephens, CEO, Nature's Path

Jane Talbot , president and CEO, Downtown Van

Vikram Vij , owner, chef and sommelier, Vij's restaurant

Ron Wilson , former president, Best Buy Canada

Jennifer Wong , CEO, Aritzia

Andy Yan , director, city program, SFU

TECHNOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES

Natali Altshuler, COO, EA Sports Studios, EA

Ali Ardakani, founder and managing director, Novateur Ventures Inc.

Jade Bourelle, chair, YPO BC

Lynda Brown-Ganzert , CEO, RxPx

Edward Chiang , co-founder and CEO, Moment Energy

Abi Coman-Walker, COO, Acuitas Therapeutics

Ashley Cooper, CEO, Paladin Group of Cos.

Peter Cowan , president and CEO, Innovate BC

Pieter Cullis, professor, University of British Columbia

Seychelle Cushing , executive director, partnerships hub, Simon Fraser University

Ryan D'Arcy, co-founder and chief scientific officer, Healthtech Connex Inc.

Natalie Dakers, CEO, A2O Advanced Materials Inc.

Roger Dall'Antonia , president and CEO, FortisBC

Loc Dao, executive director, DigiBC

Edoardo De Martin , founder and CEO, Industrio AI

Mohammad Doostmohammadi, founder and CEO, pH7 Technologies Inc.

Jesse Dougherty, vice-president, Amazon Web Services

Justin Dowdeswell, CEO, Relic

Jill Earthy, CEO, InBC Investment Corp.

Allen Eaves, president and CEO, STEMCELL Technologies

Darren Entwistle, president and CEO, TELUS

Karimah Es Sabar, co-founder, former CEO and general partner, Quark Venture LP

Haig Farris, president, Fractal Capital

Daniel Friedmann , CEO, Carbon Engineering

Paul Geyer, CEO, Nimbus Synergies

Alexandra Greenhill, CEO, Caretream Technologies

Kevin Hall, president and vice-chancellor, UVIC

Carl Hansen , founder and CEO, AbCellera

Daryl Hatton , CEO, Connectionpoint

Nicolas Jimenez , president and CEO, BC Ferries

Handol Kim , co-founder and CEO, Variational AI

Michel Laberge, founder and chief scientist, General Fusion

Miranda Lam , president and Chief Legal Officer, Acuitas Therapeutics, Inc.

Claude Letourneau , president and CEO, Svante

Peter Lu , founder and CEO, UniUni

Robert Mackie, chair and CEO, bioLytical Laboratories

Don Mattrick , co-president, MdGB Capital Inc.

Tamer Mohamed , founder and CEO, Aspect Biosystems

Don Murray, co-founder and CEO, Safe Software

Lois Nahirney, founder and CEO, dnaPower Inc.

Cybele Negris, co-founder and CEO, Webnames.ca

Jack Newton , co-founder and CEO, Clio

Chris O'Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro

Jeanne-Marie Owens, co-founder and COO, Critical Path Games

Sue Paish , CEO, DIGITAL

Chris Reid , CEO, Ekona Power Inc.

Andrew Reid , Founder and CEO, Rival Technologies

Barry Rivelis President , PBC Solutions

Warren Roy, CEO and founder, Global Relay

Anna Sainsbury, Co-founder and CEO, GeoComply

Jill Schnarr, chief social innovation, communications and brand officer, TELUS

David Seymour, vice-president, AI strategy and product, Microsoft

Hamed Shahbazi, chair and CEO, Well Health Technologies Corp.

Juggy Sihota , senior vice-president, TELUS

Gerri Sinclair, innovation commissioner, Province of B.C.

Jill Tipping , president and CEO, BC Tech

Praveen Varshney, director, Varshney Capital Corp.

Mike Volker, CEO, Wutif Capital (VCC) Inc.

Ray Walia , CEO, Launch.vc Ventures Inc.

Boris Wertz , founding partner, Version One Ventures

Kay Wong-Alafriz , CFO, Kabam, Inc. and Kabam Games, Inc.

Heidi Yang , CEO, Engineers and Geoscientists

BC

Jeff Zabudsky, president, BCIT

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer, Indigenous Tourism BC

Michael Ballingall, senior vice-president, Big White Ski Resort Ltd.

Andrea Carlson , owner and chef, Burdock & Co.

Royce Chwin , president and CEO, Destination Vancouver

Robert Clark , chief culinary officer, Organic Ocean Seafood

Sergio Cocchia , president, Crew Group of Companies

Christine Coletta , co-founder, Haywire Winery and Garnet Valley Ranch Winery

Michelle Collens, director, tourism and destination events, Sport Hosting Vancouver

Inez Cook , owner, Salmon n’ Bannock

Jennifer Cudlipp, president and CEO, BACAS Family Wines

Meeru Dhalwala , co-founder, Lila and Vij's restaurants

Rehana Din , COO, BC Pavilion Corporation

Daniel Frankel, founder and CEO, Tap & Barrel Group

Teara Fraser, founder, Iskwew Air

Shelley Frost , president and CEO, PNE

Stan Fuller, CEO, Earls Restaurants Ltd.

Jeff Fuller, founder and CEO, Joey Restaurants

Yuri Fulmer, chair and CEO, Fulmer & Co.

Thomas Fung , founder, chair and CEO, Fairchild Group

David Hawksworth , founder and Chef, Hawksworth Restaurant Group

Harry Hertscheg , executive director, Vancouver International Wine Festival

Joanna Jagger, founder and executive director, WORTH Association

Azim Jamal, co-founder and CEO, Pacific Reach Properties

Nicolas Jimenez , president and CEO, BC Ferries

Tewanee Joseph , CEO, Tewanee Consulting Group Inc.

Walt Judas, CEO, BC Tourism Association

Chuck Keeling , executive vice-president, external relations and business development, Great Canadian Entertainment

Ed McLaughlin , executive vice-president and general manager, Rogers Arena

Jens Moesker, regional vice-president nd general manager, Fairmont Pacific Rim

Scott Morison , chair and CEO, Browns Restaurant Group

Sandra Oldfield , partner, Elysian Projects

Richard Porges, president and CEO, Destination BC

Tracy Redies, president and CEO, Science World

Jill Schnarr, chief social innovation, communications and brand officer, TELUS

Susan Senecal, CEO, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.

Zul Somani, owner, Ocean Pacific Hotel Group

Nancy Stibbard , owner and CEO, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Capilano Group of Companies

Jane Talbot , president and CEO, Downtown Van

Ian Tostenson , president and CEO, BCRFA

Belinda Trembath , COO, Whistler Blackcomb

Vikram Vij , owner, chef and sommelier, Vij's restaurant

Tamara Vrooman , president and CEO, Vancouver International Airport

Marsha Walden , CEO, Destination Canada

Emad Yacoub, president and CEO, Glowbal Restaurant Group

TRADE & TRANSPORTATION

John Anderson , CEO, Anderson Group

Robert Ashton , president, ILWU Canada

Rob Booker, CEO, Trigon Pacific Terminals

Brynn Bourke, executive director, BC Building Trades

Lorraine Cunningham , owner, Cunningham Group

Marko Dekovic , vice-president, public affairs, GCT Global Container Terminals

James Donaldson , CEO, BC Food & Beverage

Dave Earle, president and CEO, BC Trucking Association

Jill Earthy, CEO, InBC Investment Corp.

Teara Fraser, Founder, Iskwew Air

Thomas Fung , founder, chair and CEO, Fairchild Group

Sharleen Gale, chair, FNMPC

Paul Hexter, president, Waterfront Shipping Co. Ltd.

Torsten Holst Pedersen , COO, Seaspan Corp.

Nicolas Jimenez , president and CEO, BC Ferries

Lindsay Kislock , president and CEO, WESTAC

Mark Kremin , CEO, Seaspeak

Kleo Landucci, president and CEO, CrescentView Investments Ltd.

Mike Leonard , president and CEO, BC Maritime Employers Association

Dave Lucas, president, SSA Marine, Canada

Joy MacPhail, chair, BC Ferries

Ian Marr, president and CEO, Nanaimo Port Authority

Greg McDougall, founder and CEO, Harbour Air Group

Anne McMullin , president and CEO, UDI

Tracy Medve, president and CEO, KP Aerospace

Elizabeth Model, CEO, DSBIA

Megan Owen-Evans, president, Neptune Terminals

Walter Pela , regional managing partner, KPMG, LLP

Erinn Pinkerton , president and CEO, BC Transit

Kevin Quinn , CEO, Translink

Judith Sayers, president, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council

Daniel Sitnam , president and CEO, Helijet

Stephen Smart , head of communications, Vancouver Airport Authority

Douglas Smith , CEO, DP World (Canada) Inc.

Steve Stark , owner, Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc.

Shaun Stevenson , president and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority

Rich Sumner, president and CEO, Methanex

Tamara Vrooman , president and CEO, Vancouver International Airport

Eric Waltz , president and CEO, GCT Global Container Terminals

Kyle Washington , Canadian chair, Washington Companies

Peter Xotta , president and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority