Leaders 2017

2017 Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

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Honouring Edmonton’s Visionary Business Leaders

BY NERISSA MCNAUGHTON

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usiness in Edmonton is pleased to celebrate five years of honouring Edmonton’s top Leaders. These are the men and woman that have created successful companies while showing integrity and initiative in everything they do, giving back to the community and grooming the next generation of entrepreneurs.

The judges for the 2017 Leaders competition are: Dustin Sundby, managing partner – Edmonton region, MNP; Dale Beaudry, managing director, high growth market – North, business and agriculture, ATB; and Elsie Elford, dean, School of Business, MacEwan University.

The Judges

Beaudry concurs that “Edmonton is an outstanding market. It gives the people the ability to fulfill their dreams and grow their business beyond their expectations.”

DUSTIN SUNDBY

“A great business leader is one who has passion, curiosity, focuses on what is essential, recruits/ trains/empowers and surrounds themselves with a great team,” says Sundby.

Beaudry agrees, “A great business leader brings out the very best in others, assisting their team(s) in achieving outstanding results. The individual is a strong connector, translator and collaborator, and is agile. Great leaders are able to set a vivid and compelling vision, and to set clear expectations. They lead continuous learning to accelerate growth and agility. They notice others and celebrate successes with their teams.”

“From my experience,” adds Elford, “the really great business leaders are those that make a positive impact in the community. They understand that there is a higher mission than the profit motive. They are committed to ethical business practices and to making the community a better place. I reference the words of Dr. J.W. Grant MacEwan – ‘leaving the vineyard better than they found it’.”

“Operating a business is not easy,” smiles Sundby. “Thank you for taking the risks associated with that. Your success has created a better community and provided opportunities for so many people living in the Capital Region.”

ELSIE ELFORD

DALE BEAUDRY

“Edmonton is positioned very favourably,” notes Sundby.

“It is one of the largest cities in Canada, which provides the Gold Partners

“A young and vibrant population and an incredible spirit of innovation” is what Elford is pleased to see in Edmonton. “Post-secondary institutions are part of this entrepreneurial spirit through the recent development of innovation/entrepreneurship hubs on campuses throughout the city.”

The three judges thank all the Leaders for making Edmonton a better business community.

The judges agree that the Capital City is a great place for business.

Platinum Partner

required infrastructure for entrepreneurs. It is also the gateway to the North, which presents a unique opportunity.”

“I was honoured to have the privilege of reviewing and learning more about the business leaders within the Edmonton market place,” notes Beaudry. “I was in awe of how these leaders not only give back to their industries, but to the community as well through sponsorship, donation of time and manpower. It is also interesting to see their determination and pure grit to succeed at what they set out to accomplish. Edmonton’s business community is in great hands.”

“Congratulations on contributing to the triple bottom line in our community,” praises Elford.

“It never ceases to amaze me to discover the talent and entrepreneurial spirit in this city.

From new business leaders just making their mark in our community to well-established companies that are testing the boundaries of international growth and innovation, you are building an exciting future for the Capital Region!”

Official Airline Partner

Kirby Anderson Company: Alberta Sound Group of Companies

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lberta Sound Group of Companies is a one-stop shop for general construction needs in Edmonton and area. With a keen interest in multiplex job sites, Kirby Anderson started his company by targeting this market and has grown Alberta Sound into one of the largest exterior finishing companies, working on multiplex sites in Edmonton. The company is also driving towards becoming a leader in renovating condo sites. “At Alberta Sound Group of Companies, our success is thanks to a wonderful team of people, and the loyal customers that support us.� ~ Kirby Anderson, Owner

Company snapshot

12 Years in Business

115 employees

Real Estate Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2017 Leaders Awards.

Thank you to all our staff and clients who help make this all possible.

• Alberta Sound Exteriors Ltd. • Alberta Sound Framing Ltd. • Alberta Sound Construction and Management Ltd. • Alberta Sound Properties Ltd.

6235 Wagner Road, Edmonton, AB T6E 4N4 tel: (780) 430-9353 • fax: 780-430-9392 absoundexteriors.com

Marie Soprovich Company: Aquarian Renovations

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start up with an arts-based focus, Aquarian marketed its work across Canada and the U.S., even having products in the Adventureland Store in Disneyland. A few construction projects were on the side, but in 1998, the company went into home renovation in a serious way. Now the customer-centric inventive design-built home renovator with a boutique style of construction is an award winner with an outstanding reputation.

“Success is a journey, not a destination. Success for me is about finding my courage and moving forward when situations in life and business are deeply challenging, holding a vision that I believe in, and working with an amazing team of people who also believe in and actualize that vision.

Success is about knowing when to ask for help and surrounding myself with others who also work to make the world a better place. Be present, show up, live fully – that is success.” ~ Marie Soprovich, President & CEO

Company snapshot

26 Years in Business

20

employees

Custom Home Renovations Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

THIS IS YOUR BOTTOM LINE. AND HELPING YOU GROW IT IS WHAT WE DO.

ZGM.CA

George Cantalini Company: Beaverbrook Group of Companies

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he Beaverbrook Group of Companies is a fully integrated residential real estate company with three entities: Beaverbrook Communities, Dolce Vita Homes and InHouse by Beaverbrook. An award-winning land developer and home builder operating in the Edmonton Capital Region and Fort McMurray, the company’s business model is to be innovative and cutting edge, with projects and homes that inspire and incorporate unique elements.

“My greatest inspiration is my mentor and former business partner, the late Tony Cairo. He was a lawyer and a man of great character, wit, intelligence and integrity, and I aspired to earn the same respect of others. He looked at risk very differently than I did; but this continues to inspire me to analyze the tough decisions before me in the way that he taught me. I respect him greatly and always ask myself whether my actions would make him proud.” ~ George Cantalini, CEO

Company snapshot

21 Years in Business

90

employees

Real Estate Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

THANK YOU TO OUR AMAZING TEAM, CLIENTS AND VENDORS FOR ENABLING US TO BECOME LEADERS IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY.

WE ARE A FULLY INTERGRATED REAL ESTATE COMPANY

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:

A LOT

A NEW HOME

A CONDO

BEAVERBROOK.CA

DOLCEVITAHOMES.CA

INHOUSEYEG.CA

Dr. Jianhua Zhu Company: BioNeutra Global Corporation

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ioNeutra Global Corporation is an award winning life sciences company with a patented process and 30-country approval of its lead product, VitaFiber™ IMO (low calorie, natural sweetener, prebiotic dietary fibre used by B2B makers of health bars, beverages and ice cream). This year, BioNeutra plans a retail roll-out of its product. To meet phenomenal growth, a production plant housing a suite of three labs, a quality control centre, training and corporate headquarters, is being built in Edmonton.

“I owe my university professors a great debt. They inspired me to become a scientist to investigate how science can help improve public health. I began a 20-year journey to develop a patented process to turn cereal grains into a low calorie sweetener, prebiotic, dietary fibre with some health benefits called VitaFiber.” ~ Dr. Jianhua Zhu, Founder, President & CEO

Company snapshot

14 Years in Business

34

employees

Biotechnology Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2017 Leaders Awards!

AMVIC Licensed

Jayson Barclay Company: Carlson Construction Ltd

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arlson Construction is an Edmonton-based service oriented construction company, founded in 1927. The company operates as construction manager, general contractor and design builder, providing commercial, industrial, light industrial, tenant improvement, public/ institutional, renovations/additions and self-performed concrete work.

This year marks Carlson’s 90th anniversary, and the entire company is looking forward to celebrating the history that established Carlson as a leader in the Alberta construction industry.

“Once I realized that being a successful business owner or entrepreneur didn’t mean I had to do it all on my own, my work no longer felt like work. It is through the incredible support and guidance of my peers and colleagues that I’ve been able to shape my career into what it is today.” ~ Jayson Barclay, Vice President, Project Development

Company snapshot

90 Years in Business

100 employees

Construction Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

CHOOSE FROM THREE CLASSES OF COMFORT ON INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS.* With Economy, Premium Economy and International Business Class categories, there’s a perfect comfort level for every traveller.

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Tim Latimer Company: Cashco Financial

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im Latimer seized the opportunity to create a new business model when impending regulatory measures threatened to destroy the alternative lending industry, and with it, the opportunity to serve the underbanked. In early 2017, Cashco made an historic agreement with ATB to provide meaningful savings and chequing accounts created especially for Alberta clients. Banking services and the pivot to providing longer-term lower interest installment loans over payday loans is driving Cashco to become a world-class alternative financial service provider in both its brick-and-mortar and online locations. “I realized early in my career that my success and personal happiness would arise from what I could give to others rather than what I could get from them. I’ve learned that leadership means to listen before I speak, to be empathetic and genuine and to try to connect on a deeper, emotional level.� ~ Tim Latimer, CEO

Company snapshot

8

Years in Business

220 employees

Alternative Financial Services

Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Ryan Vestby Company: CompuVision

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ompuVision changes the way businesses use technology. By inheriting the risk of technology, they have created predictable results for businesses to flourish. CompuVision was built around the focus of service delivery. With a 14-year evolution from tech to company CEO, Ryan Vestby and his team now carry the goal to “Reduce the Chaos in 500 Companies by 2025.” CompuVision is well on its way, with its recipe to create a predictable result for their clients.

“I’ve had a unique journey from employee to employer in my 20 years with CompuVision. When I started my career as the third employee hired, I never dreamed that one day I would become the CEO and be responsible for over 140 employees across North America.” ~ Ryan Vestby, CEO

Company snapshot

25 Years in Business

140 employees

Technology Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

SHARING YOUR VISION. BUILDING SUCCESS.

We are more than builders. We are solution providers who work with our partners to understand their goals, overcome challenges, and deliver an outstanding experience. PCL is proud to be part of Edmonton’s business community, and proud to continue working with the leaders in our city.

Watch us build at PCL.com

Dan Duckering Company: Duckering’s Transport Ltd

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ounded in 1971 by Clarence Duckering, Duckering’s Transport started as a carrier between Red Deer and Edmonton. Now in its third generation as a family business, with branches in Edmonton, Red Deer, Calgary, Medicine Hat, Brooks, Lethbridge, Camrose and Fort McMurray, Duckering’s provides daily overnight service to all points, with an aim to have complete provincial coverage with overnight service from border to border.

“My defining moment came when I was in a dark place and a mentor of mine was challenging my mindset. He said, ‘It doesn’t matter where you are coming from; it matters where you are going!’ I posted that on the wall in my office and it serves as an encouragement to me and to the people I work with. Amongst the best laid plans, life happens; how we choose to deal with that, pull ourselves up and move on is what really will defines our future.” ~ Dan Duckering, President & CEO

Company snapshot

46 Years in Business

100 employees

Transportation Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

On behalf Of the entire Scandi family, we wOuld like tO cOngratulate all Of the hard-wOrking

leaderS in edmOntOn! ruSSell hay, PreSident

terry hay, ceO

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF CLEANING EXCELLENCE

Kevin Kuly Company: ENGAGE Construction Management & Consulting Inc

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construction management firm offering select owners’ groups construction management services on an ‘agent’ basis, ENGAGE’s model places the control of projects back in the hands of owners, deviating from the EPC/EPCM model. With extensive experience providing construction and project management services for industrial facility maintenance and the heavy industrial construction industry, ENGAGE ensures projects/ turnarounds are executed safely, within budget and on schedule.

“The defining moment for me was seeing what started as an idea turn into a culture within ENGAGE. Our employees possess a very strong pride of ownership that resonates in long-term relations with our valued clients, how we interact with each other and the multiple charities we support.” ~ Kevin Kuly, President

Company snapshot

5

Years in Business

24

employees

Asset Management & Oil and Gas Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Ryan McGovern, General Manager.

Photo by Smiley Eyes Photography.

WINDSHIP MAKES YOUR ADVERTISING SOAR

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ow do companies in North America rise above the competition? With Windship® Advertising’s innovative displays, banners and large-scale printing for signs, building wraps, flags, tents and inflatables.

“We are pleased to be celebrating more than 35 years of excellence in advertising,” says Ryan McGovern, General Manager. “Our high-quality displays effectively drive traffic to our client’s businesses and ultimately boosts sales. It’s impossible not to notice our eye-catching work! We couldn’t be prouder of our displays in Edmonton and around the world.”

McGovern is a third-generation entrepreneur, stepping into a leadership role at Windship on short notice, when the previous general manager retired overnight due to a cancer diagnosis.

Building on the work of his predecessors, McGovern has largely contributed to the company’s success. Like their products, the company is strong, durable and resilient.

“In addition to our unmatched level of creativity in building truly effective advertising products for our clients, Windship has also invested heavily in research and development, which has led to the proprietary Windcoat V® vinyl and ultraviolet protectants we use in all of our outdoor displays. Not only does each client get their own account manager, customized campaign and high-quality products, those products are also guaranteed to have a long and vibrant life.”

This business model of superior products combined with personalized service, all backed by the most creative minds in the industry finding new ways to promote established brands, has enabled Windship to design advertising for the best-known corporations in the world, such as: Ford, adidas®, Budweiser, Lay’s, ROGERS™, Tim Hortons®, Sony Corporation, Android, McDonalds and many more.

“Our philosophy includes continuous learning,” McGovern points out. “In order to provide the best service while improving industry standards, gaining feedback and staying on top of the latest technologies, Windship works with several organizations. We offer special pricing to non-profit organizations, and we are members of the Advertising Club of Edmonton, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, the Speciality Graphic Imaging Association, and the Inflatable Advertising Dealers Association. We are proud of the community we live and work in, and like to help out whenever possible.”

In a world where companies of all sizes have to stand out to get noticed, Windship is leading the way. A solid foundation spanning decades proves that they understand the evershifting advertising market, and the constant innovation means a high ROI on investment for each product and service.

Don’t let your competition get above you. Let Windship Advertising elevate your business to where it belongs.

18119 107 Ave, Edmonton, AB T5S 1K4 Phone: (780) 438-0111 Visit www.windship.com to see their impressive portfolio of advertising displays and print products.

Mike Rogiani Company: The Ice Cream Depot

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ce cream! A dynamic product that needs to adapt to trends in the marketplace – this is how Mike Rogiani has approached his business as he’s grown his company over the last 36 years. A distributor of ice cream products to convenience and grocery stores in Western Canada and the Territories, The Ice Cream Depot, with its responsive, consumer-driven supply chain and continual offering of new confections, enjoys sweet success. Now available is a new product: Mike’s Ice Cream!

“My career can be compared to my favourite flavour of ice cream: rocky road. That’s dark chocolate with a ribbon of marshmallow and walnuts running through it. Dark moments, but a continuous stream of sweetness and light, with a few stumbling blocks thrown in along the path. If there is one thing being the ice cream king has taught me, it’s never quit; never give up…and eat a scoop of ice cream every day!” ~ Mike Rogiani, Owner & President

Company snapshot

36 Years in Business

65

employees

Consumer Products Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

GREAT

CANADIAN

#CANADABIG

Doug Laird Company: McLean & Shaw Insurance Brokers

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cLean & Shaw Insurance Brokers is an independent general insurance brokerage specializing in commercial, home and auto insurance. In business for over 60 years, this brokerage firm has been built on a strong referral platform: word-of-mouth endorsement is a privilege Doug Laird will never take for granted. Delivering premium insurance products at highly competitive pricing with superior coverage and the foundation of unforgettable service keeps McLean & Shaw in the forefront of the industry!

“My son opened a card from my father and a quote inside read ‘Positive thinking will let you use the ability which you have, and that is AWESOME.’ I thought of the times my dad provided me with the same kinds of messages and realized he had been doing this for my entire life; always encouraging, never criticizing. Those moments and messages built my foundation for leadership. My father is the person who influenced and inspired me, and has had the greatest impact on my life.”~ Doug Laird, President

Company snapshot

61 Years in Business

26

employees

Insurance Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

We know what it takes to be a leader.

We work with a whole network of them every day.

At Intact Insurance we work with a strong network of brokers across the country to provide property and casualty insurance to close to 4 million customers.

Brokers like McLean & Shaw Insurance, who are leaders in our community and experts at what they do. As the largest insurance company in Canada, we’re proud that together with them, we’re able to provide the responsive service, comfort and continuity you deserve.

Because at Intact Insurance, we believe that insurance is not about things; insurance is about people.

www.intactinsurance.com

HOME • CAR • BUSINESS

The BIP logo is a registered trademark of the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC). All other trade-marks are property of Intact Financial Corporation used under license. © 2017, Intact Insurance Company.

Paul Burgess Company: Mud, Sweat and Gears

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ud, Sweat and Gears offers all of the top performing brands in the cycling, ski and snowboard industries. After 15 years of operating his home-based bike business, Paul Burgess opened his first retail location. Recognizing the need to become a year-round operation, he plunged right into the winter snow sports industry as well. Mud, Sweat and Gears now operates in three locations: Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove and Red Deer.

“With any business venture, there are many “defining moments.”

Without question, these have been the times of greatest difficulty that require immense struggle and perseverance. Overcoming these challenges has been the motivating factor to push the business to the next level.

Sharing the journey with so many key people has only added to the satisfaction these achievements bring.” ~ Paul Burgess, President

Company snapshot

11 Years in Business

36

employees

Consumer Products Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Set your course for Opportunities North 2017

Empowering economic, social and cultural exchange between businesses in Edmonton and the North, Opportunities North attracts hundreds of private and public sector guests interested in creating and expanding economic partnerships and opportunities between the regions.

This dynamic conference unites the interests of visionary business, government and community leaders to chart a bold new course for Economic Exploration and Exchange. An annual joint initiative of the Yukon Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Territories Chamber of Commerce and Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, the Opportunities North business conference features: industry renowned speakers, a dynamic tradeshow, and integrated tours affording numerous networking opportunities for local and traveling attendees.

Set your compass today for:

Save $50 when you register before July 31st See site for details.

Edmonton, AB

Register today at OpportunitiesNorth.com

Scott Voisey Company: Nurse Next Door® Home Care Services

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urse Next Door® provides personalized care for clients of all ages where they live. Scott Voisey bought his first Nurse Next Door franchise in 2009, and with his dedication to high hiring standards and the desire to provide Happier Aging® and quality health care, this company is now looked at as a premium home care service in Edmonton and area, serving over 130 clients on a monthly basis.

“As I began this journey into home health care, I never realized the positive impact we could have on people’s lives. Whether our client is a young child or senior wanting to stay home, we have been able to make their lives better. Everyone that works for this organization is very passionate about making a difference, and this shows in the success we have experienced.” ~ Scott Voisey, Owner

Company snapshot

8

Years in Business

187 employees

Health Care Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

We do senior home care differently

Thank you to all of our clients and their families for trusting us to help make their lives better everyday...

Also, to our wonderful caregivers who make this possible.

Congratulations to all of 2017 Business in Edmonton Leaders Awards Winners.

1.877.588.8609 • www.nursenextdoor.com

Kevin McKee Company: Pangman Development Corporation

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evin McKee’s vision for Pangman is two-fold: to offer a specific niche where clients can grow their real estate investments, and to build a portfolio of assets through acquisitions and greenfield development. With a reputation for quality, reliability, transparency and integrity, Pangman conducts business with its valued partners and ensures a talent pool of best-in-class professionals that support creativity, and innovation.

The new Enbridge Centre is a testament to Pangman’s dedication to excellence.

“I would have to say that the defining moment in my journey was the opportunity to build Enbridge Centre. This tower was the first new downtown financial district tower in 25 years. It’s a state-of-the-art building boasting environmental advancements, yet it still preserves its historical heritage. It is very humbling to stand on the street, look up and say ‘I helped build that’.” ~ Kevin McKee, CEO

Company snapshot

21 Years in Business

12

employees

real Estate Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

History inspires our future.

G R E AT L E A D E R S — A N D G R E AT B U I L D I N G S — H AV E S H A P E D E D M O N T O N F R O M T H E V E R Y S TA R T. T H E Y ’ R E W H AT I N S P I R E U S T O C R E AT E I M A G I N AT I V E D E V E L O P M E N T S T H AT W I L L E N R I C H O U R C I T Y F O R D E C A D E S T O C O M E .

Our recent flagship project, ENBRIDGE CENTRE, combines innovative modern design with meticulous historic restoration.

A U G U S TA N A , o u r n e w r e s i d e n t i a l t o w e r, begins construction in mid 2017.

P A N G M A N D E V. C O M

780.424.1330

A U G U S TA N A

Craig Wilson & Raj Dhillon Company: Pivotal Physiotherapy With high standards of practice and a determination to make a difference in the area of physiotherapy, Craig Wilson and Raj Dhillon are business owners and active practitioners who have an aim to help people perform to their highest levels. They strive to be at the forefront of a movement that challenges the perception that physical rehabilitation is simply pain management, and to that end, the Pivotal Physiotherapy’s three clinics focus on delivering a full rehabilitation spectrum.

“It is hard to define a singular moment that is responsible for success.

Other than the natural milestones of student, professional, husband and father, what has come unexpectedly is the need to become a leader.

The ongoing effort to develop the skills to lead our team has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. ~ Craig Wilson, CEO “I am inspired to live my greatest life by enjoying the small moments of every day and challenging myself and those around me to consistently improve and reflect. I have been inspired by clinical and entrepreneurial mentors along the way, one of whom I am lucky enough to say is my business partner and friend, Craig.” ~ Raj Dhillon, CEO

Company snapshot

36 Years in Business

60

employees

health Care Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Catherine Vu Company: Pro-Active IT Management Inc.

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he heart of Pro-Active IT Management Inc. is in helping businesses make sense of their computer systems. Catherine Vu has built her company on a foundation of best-in-class practices, honour and integrity, providing customer-centric computer solutions for clients. The ability to help clients with unique needs comes from a contractor base that holds deep talent and benefits from the administrative hub and tools made available to them. This business model is highly sustainable – a bonus during economic swings. “My focus in life is identifying the gem in every person or situation. I relentlessly seek the best moment, idea, value, expression, contribution or lesson in all that I do and in everyone that I interact with.� ~ Catherine Vu, President & Chief Uptime Officer

Company snapshot

13 Years in Business

1+8

1 employee 8 Subcontractors

Technology Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Craig Harder Company: Raptor

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privately-held design and manufacturing firm headquartered in Edmonton, with CISCs (Continuous Improvement Service Centers) located in Ontario, Florida, Utah, the Netherlands, Peru and Australia, Raptor designs high-quality industrial parts with a heavy focus on incorporating new technologies for use in mining, dredging, power generation and construction applications. Craig Harder works closely with Raptor’s employees and customers to increase the performance of their operations through developing and implementing new technologies and increasing efficiencies within products currently offered.

“Innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship and execution are the principles that define the dynamic GSD culture at Raptor. My goal is to be the chief communicator of those principles, which in turn helps me create the direction and vision at Raptor. Communicating with, listening to and being challenged by my team motivates me to continually push forward with the GSD culture. GSD: Goal Setting Discussion or Getting S#!t Done - you decide.” ~ Craig Harder, CEO & Founder

Company snapshot

13 Years in Business

75

employees

Mining and Metals & Technology Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Joe Ammar Company: River City Events and Big Top Tent Rentals

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iver City Events is a full-service event planning and rental company, providing clients with a broad spectrum of services, including event logistics, strategic event consultancy, creative event production and rentals to fully support any event. President and CEO Joe Ammar founded the company in 2007, driven by a desire to create unique and memorable event experiences that build brands and relationships while celebrating special milestones.

“I’ve met some incredibly smart and inspiring entrepreneurs in my life, but I have to say that some of the best business lessons I’ve learned were from working with my father in the grocery store he owned for nearly two decades. He taught me about the importance of relationships in business, and that patience, hard work and resilience are one of the key ingredients to success.” ~ Joe Ammar, President & CEO

Company snapshot

10 Years in Business

50

employees

Events Rentals Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Brett Desroches Company: Unicon Concrete Specialties Ltd

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nicon is a distributor of construction materials with an emphasis on concrete-related accessories. Since 1989, Unicon has been a supplier to industrial, commercial and residential companies. With specialty concrete finishing tools, machinery and power tools, concrete repair, forming, cutting and coring and decorative concrete products all available in his large showroom, Brett Desroches has built his company to serve contractors in as timely and complete a manner as possible. “The most defining moment in my career was in December of 2011, when I purchased the remaining shares of Unicon and became its sole owner. For the first time ever, Unicon had one leader and one clear vision. I immediately formed a management team with responsible and skilled people, and then gave them the power to manage their teams.

Together, we have made Unicon a much better company to work for and to deal with. The results can be seen at our flagship location on the corner of 118 Avenue and 156 Street. What Unicon is today has become my greatest inspiration; it is a company I could not be more proud of.� ~ Brett Desroches, CEO

Company snapshot

28 Years in Business

40

employees

Distribution Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE 2017 BUSINESS IN EDMONTON LEADERS AWARD WINNERS!

Thank you to our customers, suppliers and staff for helping us become a leader in concrete and construction supplies.

Alberta Owned and Operated since 1989

Edmonton 11740 - 156 Street NW 1-800-588-1191 Calgary 1311 25 Ave NE 1-888-221-2251

unicon.ca

Alyson Hodson Company: zag creative

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ag creative provides expert marketing resources to develop solid marketing strategies backed by graphic design, creativity, digital presence and communication for clients across Canada, the United States and the UAE. Alyson Hodson and her partners have created a company that leads through a business approach to marketing and advertising, is very client centric and places an emphasis on obtaining tangible results for clients. “My greatest inspiration is the drive to always be growing and learning from those around me. Edmonton is such an amazing community filled with brilliant people. We are all lucky to be a part of this city.� ~ Alyson Hodson, President & CEO

Company snapshot

8

Years in Business

18

employees

Marketing & Advertising Industry Sector Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

Platinum Partner

Gold Partners

Official Airline Partner

Dale Wishewan - Booster Juice | 2016 Leaders Alumni

Booster Juice — Then and Now

Photo by EPIC Photography Inc.

L

ast year, Booster Juice was featured as a Leader. One year, several store openings, and a variety of new flavours later, the company is being featured again—but new flavour combinations aren’t all Dale Wishewan, president and CEO of Booster Juice, has been up to.

Booster Juice is an international quick-service restaurant chain with a leading-edge product line: premium real fruit smoothies that combine natural ingredients with new products to create menu items that are as nutritious as they are delicious.

The Edmonton-based franchisor didn’t have an easy start.

With no restaurant experience, and the original Alberta based location placing it thousands of kilometers away from the retail power centre of Toronto, things easily could have gone in an entirely different direction. However, Wishewan had discovered a void in the Canadian fast-food market: the need for a product for those with fast-paced, active lifestyles who were looking for a nutritious alternative to the traditional fast-food options.

Wishewan launched Booster Juice in 1999, and the company hasn’t stopped growing since.

Within a year of opening his first location in Sherwood Park, Alberta, Wishewan had opened 15 more locations. By the end of year two, 50 Booster Juice locations had opened across Canada.

Now it isn’t just Booster Juice; it’s Booster Nation. Seventeen years later, Wishewan has more than 350 locations spread across Canada—as well as in the U.S., Mexico, and the Middle East.

By 2016, Booster Juice was already considered the number one smoothie and juice bar in Canada. Wishewan was named EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2013 and was inducted into the Global Hall of Fame. He was also the 27th recipient of the Dr. Charles Allard Chair in Business honorary teaching position at MacEwan University School of Business in 2014—and that’s just naming a few of Booster Juice’s achievements.

Of course, Wishewan’s drive hasn’t stopped there. Since last year’s Leader award, Wishewan, a pioneer of the superfood movement, has continued to bring new innovations to

Booster Juice. Beyond adding new flavours like the Pea(not) Butter 2.0, a long-awaited peanut-butter-flavoured smoothie, made with WOWBUTTER, the company has also invaded the digital world with its new Booster Juice stickers and interactive games, located at the Pearson International Airport in their Fit & Fun Zone. In addition, Booster Juice has most recently partnered with top young Canadian golfer on the PGA tour, Mackenzie Hughes.

The brand is continually giving back to the community. Two of Booster Juice’s charities of choice are the JDRF and Easter Seals Foundation. Booster Juice also held a fundraiser for the Mike Weir Foundation that generated $160,000 for kids and supported those affected by the Fort McMurray forest fires in 2016.

It’s been a busy year for a company that continues to expand its product offerings and meet customer demand, and it isn’t showing signs of stopping. With new flavours to innovate and new products to add to the menu, Booster Juice continues to work towards its goal of becoming the number one smoothie and juice bar in Canada and the world.

boosterjuice.com

Jacqueline Jacek - JACEK Chocolate Couture | 2015 Leaders Alumni

Greg Christenson - Christenson Group of Companies | 2014 Leaders Alumni

GREG CHRISTENSON CHRISTENSON GROUP OF COMPANIES

G

reg Christenson is the president and owner of Christenson Developments, a company that was originally founded in the early 1970s by Greg’s father, Lloyd.

Christenson Developments is an Edmonton-based company with over 45 years of building experience. The company has created more than 5,000 multi-family homes in Edmonton and the surrounding areas, specializing in building communities that offer a variety of adult and seniors’ homes within an urban village concept. · Greg is a 1979 graduate of University of Alberta’s civil engineering program. · Greg is the past president of the Canadian Home Builders Association. · Greg serves on the municipal affairs committee of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce and has participated on the housing committee of the Capital Region Growth Plan. Greg is a past chair of the Canadian, Alberta and Edmonton Home Builders Association, and Greater Edmonton Chambers of Commerce. · Greg has recently co-chaired the Social Housing Revitalization Advisory Group (SHRAG) for Mayor Don Iveson. · Southwoods Village was recently named a pilot project by the Capital Region Board for modest market affordable housing. · Christenson Communities currently owns and operates over 1,500 luxury senior and rental units in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert and Red Deer.

The Name in Active Adult Living Builders of award winning Villa Bungalows and Estate Condos Enhance your quality of life in our innovative Urban Villages.

Choose from a variety of lifestyle options: Active Adult - Adult Communities for the young at heart.

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5410 97 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 5C1 (780) 436-2980 • www.cdlhomes.com

Aleksa Mrdjenovich - Nova Hotels | 2014 Leaders Alumni

“Edmonton’s Largest Conference Hotel”

THE EDMONTON INN MAKES ITS RE TURN Previously the Ramada Kingsway, this hotel is returning to its roots and is once again the iconic Edmonton Inn. Feel the changes happen around you with the new updates, all the while remembering and reliving the moments. 428 guest rooms and suites, Graze Restaurant, Arbour Lounge, 6000 sq. ft. of newly renovated conference space and over 20 meeting rooms makes the Edmonton Inn a great place for business or leisure!

MAKE NEW MEMORIES

INTRODUCTORY RATE starting at

$109

/night

*subject to availability, blackout dates may apply

W W W. E D M O N T O N I N N . C A 11834 KINGSWAY AVENUE NW, EDMONTON, AB | 780.454.5454 owned and operated by

1.866.401.6682 WWW.NOVAHOTELS.CA

Amplify : Courage

Dave Cree is reinventing social enterprise at CMNGD. See his story at atb.com/cmngd

YOUR VISION GOT YOU THIS FAR.

Where do you go from here?

The mark of a true leader is the ability to embrace today’s challenges head on while uncovering opportunities to shape a successful tomorrow.

The mark of a visionary is defined by a leader’s ability to capitalize on those opportunities while effectively using their available resources to do so. Our national scope and local focus positions leading organizations – and the visionaries behind them – for success, no matter where business takes you.

MNP proudly congratulates the Business in Edmonton 2017 Leaders. We celebrate your achievements and anticipate the positive impact you’ll have on our business community.

Contact Dustin Sundby at 780.453.5382 or dustin.sundby@mnp.ca