Board of Directors

Joining our team of seasoned directors, the Board welcomes four newly appointed members, each of whom bring a unique perspective and background to the table. These newcomers are already applying their years of House Committee experience and professional acumen to help lead the Club forward. President Jeff Thorsteinson remarks, “The pandemic took a toll on us personally and as a Club. These last few months have allowed the Board to refocus as we embark on a new chapter post-pandemic. The new Board and Committees are aligned and hard at work. I can confidently say that the Club’s future is bright.”

Club Member Since: 2017

Profession: Entrepreneur

Current Committee(s): Membership and Ad-hoc Membership Committee.

Your Family’s Current Club Usage: Gymnastics, tennis, Pilates, the pool, and Food & Beverage.

What have you learned during your time in the House Committee system? I'm very impressed with our committee members' dedication, professional acumen, and sheer commitment to improving the Club. I've learned the level of care and standards required to maintain the integrity, reputation and service offerings for our members.

What do you appreciate most about The Arbutus Club? I appreciate how safe it is for my 12 year old daughter Meera to socialize with her friends and attend activities independently. I drop her off without any worry or hesitation.

Club Member Since: 1984 (COM)

Profession: Commercial Real Estate and Property Management

Current Committee(s): Membership

Your Family’s Current Club Usage: Almost every day!

What is one of your fondest Arbutus Club memories? Being a member of the Swim Team during my youth.

What do you appreciate most about The Arbutus Club? I appreciate the staff. They are one of the many reasons why my Club experiences have been so memorable, dating back to the age of 2.

What is something the membership may not know about you? I have a twin brother and we are polar opposites.

Club Member Since: 1981 (COM)

Profession: Registered Architect of BC, Faculty at BCIT's Architectural Building Technology Program

Current Committee(s): Planning and Facilities Committee

Your Family’s Current Club Usage: Tennis, squash, the pool, gym, Fitness Centre, and Food & Beverage.

In what areas of the Club do you spend the most time? The tennis courts! And, my two kids at the squash courts, gym, fitness and The Bistro.

What do you appreciate most about The Arbutus Club? I appreciate that the programs and facilities meet the needs of my entire family – multigenerational.

What is something the membership may not know about you? That I lifeguarded and taught swimming lessons at the Club in 1996. Club Member Since: 1997

Profession: Retired

Current Committee(s): Ad-Hoc Membership Finance

Your Family’s Current Club Usage: Pickleball and entertaining my grandchildren.

What have you learned during your time in the House Committee system? I was on the Finance Committee for several years and I have come to appreciate the high quality and accuracy of the Club's accounting and management systems. We are in the third year of no monthly dues increase when almost every other family expense has increased materially. Think about that and the value members are receiving.

What is something the membership may not know about you? I am a full-time student at UBC earning a second degree, so I will have one from last century as well as this century. Also, Past President David Williams is not a relation, but my godfather was the 3rd Club President. ♦