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Rich Harries is the Chief Operating Officer with Access Credit Union and has spent more than twenty years in the financial services industry.  Rich provides executive oversight for the retail, business & agricultural banking functions as well as the wealth management and real estate division of the credit union.  Rich is a lifelong learner having earned the MBA and ICD.D designations as well as having completed various formal education programs in the areas of Executive Leadership, Strategic Leadership and Innovation.

Rich resides in Morden with his wife and 3 children. When not at work he enjoys fishing, golfing, coaching or watching his kids play sports, and spending time at the cottage.

As the largest credit union in Manitoba, Access Credit Union is committed to innovation and continued strength in its financials, communities, and people. With over $12 billion in assets, serving over 203,000 members, and with 60 branches spread across Manitoba, we continue to be a financial institution that puts its members and clients first.

One of Manitoba’s Top Employers for nine years in a row and one of Canada’s best employers for recent graduates, we are a group of like-minded employees who volunteer more than 8,000 hours each year and donate annually to support our communities.

Our engaged, highly competent staff are inspired to achieve their personal best while reflecting our purpose, priorities, and values. Our friendly and talented employees make our credit union what it is, and our members benefit from their best efforts.

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accesscu.ca

Bell MTS

Bell MTS is a division of Bell Canada, Canada’s largest communications company. Bell MTS provides residential communications services including fibre-based Fibe TV and Fibe Internet, home security services, and home phone; and an unparalleled range of business communications services across Manitoba including data networking, managed IT solutions and cloud computing.

For more information on Bell MTS products and services, please visit bellmts.ca or call 204-225-5687.

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Rob Read is the owner of Bison Fire Protection Inc. He has been in the fire protection industry since 1991 growing from refilling fire extinguishers to owning Bison Fire Protection. During this time Rob has been involved in many committees dedicated to improving fire protection in Manitoba. He is a past director for The Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce, MB Chapter of the Canadian Fire Alarm Assn. (CFAA), is the past president of the MB Fire Extinguishing Equipment Assn. (MFEEA), and previously served on The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Rob has done many educational presentations to Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), and associations related to the fire protection industry. He has taught the Pre-Engineered Commercial Kitchen Fire Suppression course at Red River College. He currently hosts Bison Bits a YouTube show highlighting business experiences.

Rob has always believed in giving back to the community that has given so much to him, and Bison Fire supports many charitable community events such as The Teddy Bear Picnic, Teen Challenge, The Wpg Folk Festival, and many walks for the cure.

Success with Bison Fire Protection comes in many forms. From making the Profit 500 list of Canada’s fastest growing companies 2012-2018, to many manufacturers’ awards for sales and service, to the greatest award of all, repeat and referred business from his customers.

While his background is in fire suppression using a variety of products to extinguish fire in many difference types of hazards. “If you can make it burn, I can put it out!” He takes pride in having developed solid fire alarm, and sprinkler divisions, adding three branch offices covering 2 provinces, and increasing the staff from the original five people to the current seventy five.

Rob lives just North of Winnipeg, and enjoys spending time at the lake with his family.

Bison Fire Protection Inc.

Since our establishment in 2001, Bison Fire Protection has grown rapidly to help meet the fire safety needs of our customers. We began as a fire extinguisher and automatic suppression provider, and have since grown into a full-service fire suppression business, which includes fire alarm and automatic sprinkler systems.

In 2006 our family expanded to include Thompson Extinguisher Service. In 2010 we expanded once again to meet the needs of our customers in Regina, Saskatchewan. In 2016 we opened a full service shop in Brandon MB.

Our locations are regularly inspected by Transport Canada, and are certified by Intertek to service fire extinguishers, pre-engineered, and engineered suppression systems. Our team is committed to not only providing professional fire protection service and solutions, but also to helping educate our customers and train them on how to stay safe.

As part of our commitment to you, we ensure that all Bison Fire Protection technicians are trained and certified by each of our suppliers, as required by the fire code. This commitment to training in every aspect of our company is just one of the reasons we remain a strong Winnipeg based company.

We put a high value on excellent customer service because we know that there is no substitute for a fantastic service experience, which is why our technicians are efficient, pleasant, and always happy to take the time to show you how to stay safe using our systems.

Bison Transport

Founded and deeply rooted in MB with solid leadership base and central to Canada, with easy access to USA. Bison Transport is a privately held, professionally managed transportation company established in 1969.

Bison is a leading asset-based freight solutions provider with a network of terminals throughout North America. With its fleet of over 2,100 tractors and 6,000 trailers, Bison delivers transportation services to its customers throughout Canada and the United States. One of the largest carriers in Canada today, Bison Transport serves Canada and 48 nearby states.

As a high-service, dependable and value-creating supply-chain partner, Bison Transport offers full truckload service, full-service logistics, dedicated fleet operations, yard management, and warehousing and distribution.

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As Senior Vice President & Head, BMO Commercial Bank, Canada for the Prairies, Mr. Hillyard has oversight for all aspects of performance for the region. Mr. Hillyard is the former Senior Vice President & Head, BMO Commercial Bank, Canada for the Atlantic Provinces, and Head, Cross-border Banking for BMO’s North American Commercial Bank, and Regional Leader for Treasury and Payments Solutions for the Prairies. Also, a former Managing Director for our Corporate Finance Diversified Industries group where he was responsible for managing relationships with a large group of Prairies clients in the agriculture, mid-Stream Energy, retail, municipal, professional services, university, school, and hospitality sectors.

Mr. Hillyard has also held Regional Leader, Treasury & Payment Solutions and Director roles within Corporate Finance at BMO. He has a wealth of experience attained over a 25-year career that includes experiences at Deloitte Incorporated where he was a leader in the Deloitte Finance and Performance Management group, managing a private company and public sector book of business that consisted of high-profile clients in the Ottawa region. He was also the Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Director, Finance and Administration, with Allbritton New Media of Washington, DC, where he led the finance and operations teams through various acquisitions.

Mr. Hillyard holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Dalhousie University), Bachelor of Arts (Economics) (Dalhousie University), a Master of Business Administration, Finance (Saint Mary’s University), and he is Certified Professional Accountant.

Mr. Hillyard is a Board member for Feed Nova Scotia, and a Campaign Advisor for The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and the Arthritis Society of Canada.

About BMO Financial Group 

Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a highly diversified financial services provider – the 8th largest bank, by assets, in North America. With total assets of $974 billion as of July 31, 2020, and a team of diverse and highly engaged employees, BMO provides a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management and investment banking products and services to more than 12 million customers and conducts business through three operating groups: Personal and Commercial Banking, BMO Wealth Management and BMO Capital Markets.

John Bockstael is the CEO of Bockstael Construction Limited, a fourth-generation company and one of Manitoba’s largest regional general contractors. John joined Bockstael Construction Ltd. in 1985 and has worked in all areas of the family-owned company that was started by his grandfather in 1912. The company grew with the railway and grain industry expansion into western Canada and settled into the development of the province of Manitoba with his father at the helm.

Together with his brothers, they drove organic growth through projects in health, education and special structures. The growth was partially fueled by John’s mission to deepen the technical expertise of the company by making education and training in construction technologies and processes available to all employees.

John was the 2019 chair of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA). He joined the CCA board in 2005 and has chaired the CCA General Contractors Council and Standard Practices Committee. He joined the CCA executive in 2010, serving the last three years as an elected officer prior to his term as the chair. He has also held the position of president of the Manitoba Chapter of the American Concrete Institute, served 14 years on the board of the Winnipeg Construction Association including two as president, and is the outgoing chair of Canadian Construction Innovations.

A founding member and first chair of the Friends of Engineering of the University of Manitoba, and a supporter of trades and technology programs at Red River College, John is committed to developing people, including women, for success in the world of construction and engineering.

John obtained the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors in October 2018.

My leadership style comes from a stewardship perspective. A steward takes what has been intrusted to them, makes it better before they hand it off to the next. I thrive on continuous improvement, am collaborative, encourage people to set high standards for themselves to achieve their full potential.

I enjoy business books, board work and strategic planning. I enjoy my grandkids, the outdoors, geography, golfing, fishing, and exercise to offset my chocolate diet.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bockstael-0a2315194/

Bockstael Construction

Bockstael Construction is a fourth-generation company and one of Manitoba’s largest regional general contractors. What distinguishes us is our commitment to creating Clients for Life – we look beyond the delivery of the immediate project to develop a mutually-beneficial relationship for years to come. We are founded on family values of trust, reliability, and integrity; and fueled by an unwavering commitment to exceptional client service and innovation.

Bockstael Construction was founded in Manitoba in 1912 and has continued to grow and operate within the province. We have found continued success in a stable and growing economy, as we build across all sectors and industries.

Bockstael Construction offers Construction Management, Design Build, General Contracting, Concrete Formwork

http://bockstael.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bockstael-construction/

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https://twitter.com/bockstaelconhttps://www.facebook.com/BockstaelConstructionLimited

Ryan Kehl has worked for the Boyd Group for 25 years. He started his career with Boyd as an auto glass technician and now has managed for Boyd since 1999. He has overseen the Manitoba region since 2011.

Ryan believes working his way up in the organization has given him a great deal of understanding of the business, and what it entails at every level. His leadership style is simply to lead by example, have a strong moral foundation, and treat all his fellow team members with respect.

The storied history of the Boyd Group begins with the opening of the first Boyd Autobody collision repair facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada on November 1st, 1990. Founder Terry Smith made his vision of clean, bright, professional, and welcoming autobody shops a reality, and ensured the company’s focus was squarely on customer service. Guided by an astute, dedicated group of industry professionals, Boyd began to flourish. Expansion followed in various cities across western Canada, and by 1995 Boyd had grown to twelve locations. The Boyd Group became incorporated in 1997, opening a new chapter in the company’s history. With a goal of becoming the true leader of the autobody industry in North America, plans for growth continued.

In 1999, Boyd gained the title of largest collision repair operator in Canada, and confidently opened the company’s first U.S. locations. In 2004, Boyd expanded its U.S. footprint, acquiring Gerber Collision & Glass and its sixteen locations, which was followed by several other multi-shop acquisitions in subsequent years. Boyd also pursued growth of its auto glass business by acquiring Glass America in 2013, which significantly expanded Boyd’s auto glass business in the U.S.

Boyd continues to pursue accretive growth through a combination of organic growth as well as acquisitions and new store development. Acquisitions will continue to include both single-location acquisitions as well as multi-location acquisitions. Through organic growth, acquisitions and new store development, Boyd expects to generate growth sufficient to double the size of its business (measured against its 2019 revenue on a constant currency basis) over the five year period from 2021-2025, implying a compound annual growth rate of 15%.

After over 30 years in business, Boyd operates in Canada and the U.S., with more than 10,000 employees at over 800 locations. The company continues to be guided by the principles of customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and sound financial management. The leadership team of the Boyd Group believes that there is a significant opportunity to continue to grow the business and enhance shareholders’ value.

The Boyd Group

The Boyd Group company’s mandate is to become the true leader of the auto body industry in North America. We provide collision and auto glass repair & replacement. 

With the story of The Boyd Group originating in Winnipeg, Manitoba over 30 years ago, it was only fitting that its head office be located in the city and province where it all began.

www.boydgroup.com

https://ca.linkedin.com/company/the-boyd-group-inc

We are deeply saddened by the passing of BCM board member, colleague, and friend Al Babiuk. Al was the first to offer help with anything and to anyone at the Business Council. He was highly involved in all initiatives and truly wanted the best for our province and its people. 

Al’s journey with the Council began in 2010 when he assumed the role of President and CEO of Loewen Windows. We were fortunate to benefit from his valuable insight when he joined the Council board in May 2021 and became Co-Chair of the Competitive Business Environment Committee from its inception in 2020. His active involvement, along with his generous sharing of time, experience, and expertise, made an invaluable contribution to all our initiatives.

Al and his wife Cindy were longtime donors and supporters of the Council’s Indigenous Education Awards (IEA). Al always championed IEA students and often bought tickets and tables to events, inviting students to be his guests. He wanted everyone to have equal opportunities and experiences. Most recently, he purchased a table at the annual IDEA (International Distinguished Entrepreneur Award) and invited IEA Asper students to attend the event with him.

Al was an active member of the community and was involved in many organizations as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association and former Director of Associates of the Asper School of Business, Centennial Development Committee of the Winnipeg Art Gallery and longtime Board Member and Chairman of the Winnipeg Boys and Girls Club. 

Al’s professional journey was marked by significant achievements. He joined Loewen Windows in 2003 and served as its President and CEO from 2010 until 2022. His career path included roles such as Vice-President Finance and Vice-President and Treasurer at Investors Group Inc., Corporate Controller at Ceridian Corporation, and Divisional Controller at Standard Aero Limited. His career in public practice accounting with Touche Ross laid the foundation for his subsequent roles. Al has a Chartered Accountant (CA) designation, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation in the United States, and a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) degree from the University of Manitoba. 

Al was kind and generous and always had the best intentions for his community and province. He will be greatly missed by the Business Council team and membership. Our deepest condolences to Cindy, and Al’s loved ones. 

Barry Rempel served as President & CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc. (WAA) from April 2002 to January 2022. Under Barry’s leadership the airport campus has transformed and become Canada’s greenest major air terminal and the campus is the heart of Winnipeg’s intermodal Airport City.   

Made in Manitoba – Barry has a long serving career in aviation.  Prior to joining Winnipeg Airports Authority, he was President & CEO of Tradeparks Development Corp. He also served as Chief Executive for two Canadian Airlines International operating divisions:  Cargo and Canadian North.

Barry believes in community.  Currently serving as Vice Chair of the Manitoba Strategic Corridors Advisory Council, Chair of the Consular Corps of Manitoba, Strategic Advisor to two privately held aviation corporations, and continues to be a member of the RCAF Commander’s Council.

Barry was formerly on the board of the Business Council of Manitoba and now sits as a distinguished member. Barry is past-chair of the Airports Council International — North America Division, and the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s Inuit Art and Learning Centre Capital Campaign.

Barry also serves as Honorary Consul for the Republic of Korea and was the first-ever Honorary Colonel of 1 Canadian Air Division.

Barry and Janice Rempel reside in Winnipeg.  When not involved in community activities, they enjoy touring the many magnificent communities of Manitoba, with special attention to Carman, Manitoba…Barry’s birthplace. 

Darryl Levy is the former President & Chief Executive Officer of Wynward Insurance Group.  Headquartered in Winnipeg, Wynward is a subsidiary of James Richardson & Sons, which is highly regarded as one of the most prominent privately owned companies in Canada.

Prior to joining Wynward in 2011, Mr. Levy was President-Western Canada at Rogers Communications and served in various senior executive positions at Rogers from 1994-2011. Mr. Levy is Chair of the Business Council of Manitoba, Trustee of the Richardson Foundation, and a Board Director of FP Canadian Newspapers- the Publisher of the Winnipeg Free Press & Brandon Sun. He has served as a member of the Winnipeg region United Way Cabinet since 2012 in various Chair capacities, most recently as Co-Chair of the Major Corporations division, in addition to serving as a member of the Major Donor Cabinet. He has also served on the Boards of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Junior Achievement of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg Faculty of Business Advisory Board, and “Tell Us About Us”, a Winnipeg based tele-service Company. Mr. Levy is also a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO).

Edward Kennedy is President and CEO of Eskay Partners Limited, an advisory and private capital enterprise. He is also CEO of Livlite Co. a zero waste e-commerce grocery business.

Edward recently retired after 25 years as CEO of The North West Company. Prior to becoming CEO, Edward worked in senior management positions at North West for five years, including Chief Operating Officer of North West and Chief Executive Officer of the Alaska Commercial Company, the Company’s U.S. subsidiary located in Anchorage.

Edward is from The Pas, Manitoba and attended high school as a boarding student at St. John’s-Ravenscourt in Winnipeg.  He holds an Honours Degree in Business from the Ivey School at Western University and a Bachelor of Laws Degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. Prior to joining North West, Edward practiced law briefly in Toronto and then worked in investment banking. 

Edward is a board member of Canada West Foundation and Canada’s History Society. He is a member of the World Presidents’ Organization, the Associates of the Asper School of Business as well as a member and past officer of the Business Council of Manitoba. He was the Chair of the 2011 Winnipeg United Way Campaign and is a past board member of several for-profit and non-profit organizations. He currently participates on advisory committees for the United Way and the Build Winnipeg Partnership Taskforce.
 
Edward has received several national industry and community recognitions over his career. 

Edward is a competitive athlete, and his other pursuits include writing and public policy, with a focus on socio-economic development. Edward and his wife Stella make their home in Winnipeg and have four children.

John MacAulay is the former Regional President of Prairies Central with BMO Bank of Montreal. He was responsible for Personal Banking services across the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Northwestern Ontario.

John joined the Bank of Montreal in 1992 and throughout his tenure has held various senior leadership positions including District Vice President for Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario and District Vice President for the Greater Toronto West area. In 2013, he relocated to Winnipeg in the role of Senior Vice President and Division Head of Prairies Central Canada. In 2015, he was appointed as the acting Head of the Commercial Banking Business, a position he held for nine months. In the summer of 2018, John relocated to Calgary to assume his current role.

John is a distinguished member of the Business Council of Manitoba, a unique group of Chief Executive Officers of leading Manitoba companies who demonstrate a commitment to Manitoba’s economic growth and community development.

He lends his experience to several charitable causes including as a volunteer with the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s leadership team since 2015; in 2017 he joined the Capital Campaign Executive for the Inuit Art Centre as Chair of Leadership Gifts. He’s also served as a Campaign Cabinet Member for the Manitoba Museum’s Bringing Our Stories Forward Capital Campaign.

John currently serves on the Boards of Heritage Park Society, Theatre Calgary, where he co-chairs the Development Committee, and Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. He also sits as a Director on the Manitoba Health Sciences Centre Foundation Board and as an Honorary Campaign Member of Manitoba Opera..

John has a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) degree and Master of Business Administration in International Business from the University of Manitoba.

Steve was born and raised in Winnipeg Manitoba. After receiving his undergraduate degree from the University of Manitoba, he attended UBC Law School where he graduated with his J.D. in 1992.  Upon graduating, Steve returned to Winnipeg where he practiced law as a commercial litigator for five years at Fillmore Riley before making a career change from law to business in 1997.

Steve joined Conviron, a company founded by the Kroft family, in 1998 where he operated the business and its associated companies (the CEL Group) as President, CEO and then Executive Chairman until its sale in September 2022.

Under Steve’s leadership, the CEL Group had significant growth and became widely recognized as the world leaders in the supply and manufacture of controlled environment equipment used primarily in agricultural research and high value plant production applications. Today, their engineered solutions are relied on by the world’s most prestigious universities, government, and private research institutes, and Ag biotech multinationals in more than 90 countries. Conviron remains based in Winnipeg, with sales and service offices on four continents.

In 2012, the company was named Manitoba’s Exporter of the Year by the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, and in 2016 was named Life Science Company of the Year by the Life Science Association of Manitoba. 

Steve now dedicates most of his business time to Falcon Capital Corporation, his family investment office, which specializes in investing in a diverse range of companies and real estate.

Steve’s passion for Manitoa and Canada is evident in the considerable amount of time he devotes to the community. He serves on the Board of Directors of the North West Company (NWC.TO) and the True North Youth Foundation where he chairs the Audit Committee. He is also on the Board of Directors of the recently established Manitoba First Fund.

Steve is the past chair of the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Manitoba Gold Chapter of the Young Presidents’ Organization, and is a Director Emeritus and Past Chair of the Business Council of Manitoba.

Steve held the position of Vice Chair of Manitoba Hydro for two years and has also served as the past chair of the Manufacturing division of the United Way. He has held positions on the Boards of the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, the Asper Jewish Community Campus, St. John’s-Ravenscourt School, and the Manitoba division of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters. Additionally, he has served on the President’s Advisory Council at the University of Manitoba and on the Premier’s Innovation Council. Steve is also a member of the Associates of the Asper School of Business.

Steve is the recipient of the 2024 University of Manitoba Distinguished Alumni Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.

Aside from his Juris Doctorate degree, Steve is a graduate of the Directors Education Program within the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, obtaining his ICD.D designation. He is also an alumnus of Singularity University in Palo Alto, California and a member of the Manitoba Bar.

Murray J. Taylor holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree from the University of Manitoba majoring in Actuarial Mathematics (1976) and he became a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (1980).  He retired after 12 years as President and CEO of IG Wealth Management (previously Investors Group) in 2016 – the final part of his 40-year career with the Power Financial Group of Companies.   He served in various industry and business leadership groups in Manitoba and nationally.   He encouraged companies to be involved in corporate responsibility roles in their communities.   Over the years and especially in retirement, he and his wife devote their personal energies to support many non-profit Christian charities in the good work they do.

Sanford Riley was born in Montreal in 1951 and attended high school in Toronto and Winnipeg.  He is a graduate of Queen’s University in Political Science and Osgoode Hall Law School.  Mr. Riley began his law career in Toronto in 1975 and went on to serve as a partner in the Winnipeg law firm of Taylor McCaffrey.

In 1985, Mr. Riley left the practice of law and began a career in the financial services industry by joining the Toronto-based Great Lakes Group.  He later became Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer of Trilon Financial Corporation.

In 1992 Mr. Riley became President and Chief Executive Officer of Investors Group, Canada’s largest distributor of mutual funds, diversified financial products and financial planning services.  In May 2001, after 9 consecutive years of record growth, Mr. Riley was appointed Chairman with the responsibility for leading the transition process following Investors Group $4.0 billion acquisition of Mackenzie Financial Corporation.  He retired as Chairman in April 2002 and as a director in April 2003.

Mr. Riley became the first independent, outside director of James Richardson & Sons, Limited when he joined its Board in 2000.  In May 2003 Mr. Riley established Richardson Financial Group Limited (“RFG”) in partnership with James Richardson & Sons, Limited, at which time he stepped down as a Director of James Richardson & Sons, Limited.  He serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of RFG which has built and acquired significant interests in several successful financial services businesses over the past 19 years. RFG owns indirectly over 40% of the common shares of Richardson Wealth, Canada’s leading independent wealth management firm, with offices across Canada and over $36.5 Billion in client assets under administration.     

His past and present involvement in community activities is extensive.  An avid sailor, Mr. Riley was a member of the Canadian National Sailing Team for 10 years and competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics. He became a member of Manitoba’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2012. He is a former Chairman of The North West Company, Manitoba Business Council, Manitoba Sports Federation and in 1999 served as Chairman of the Board for the highly successful Pan American Games, which were held in Winnipeg.  After  9 years of service as Chancellor of the University of Winnipeg he was appointed Chancellor Emeritus in 2013.  In 2021, Mr. Riley led a successful campaign to raise $70 million for the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s Qaumajuq.

Over the course of his business career, Mr. Riley has served on 15 public company boards, a number of successful private enterprises and from 2016 to 2018 as Chairman of Manitoba Hydro.  In 2007, he was inducted into the Manitoba Business Hall of Fame.

Mr. Riley presently is Chairman of the University of Winnipeg Foundation.  He is also a member of several boards of directors, including, RF Capital Group, Molson Coors Brewing Company and Rideau Hall Foundation.  A recipient of a number of awards, Mr. Riley was appointed to the Order of Canada in July 2002 and the Order of Manitoba in 2013.

Mr. Riley and his wife Deborah have been married for 47 years and have three children and 6 grandchildren.

Polly Craik 

Polly is a co-founder of Vexxit Inc., an exciting new start up that is democratizing the world of professional services, making it easy for people and professionals to find, connect and work together. Prior to Vexxit, Polly grew FineLine Solutions into a recognized brand serving the non-profit industry across North America. FineLine was acquired in 2015. Polly is a Director of Exchange Income Corporation (EIC), the Lake of The Woods Water Sustainability Foundation and the Business Council of Manitoba. 

Polly is a past chair the board of the Business Council of Manitoba as well as CentreVenture Development Corporation. In 2007 she chaired the IIHF world Women’s Hockey Championship Tournament in Winnipeg and was named one of the most influential women in sport and physical activity by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women in Sport and Physical Activity. In 2005, she became the first female to be named Manitoba Business Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2016 Polly received the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, Lieutenant Governor’s award for outstanding contribution by an individual to the community. Polly served as Board Chair for Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries, a provincially-owned crown corporation from 2016 to 2019.

Vexxit

As a leading Canadian tech company, Vexxit is transforming the way professional service industries find new clients and build their brands. Vexxit’s proprietary matching technology connects lawyers, accountants, financial advisors and consultants with people across Canada who need their distinct service. The brand also co-creates content with these professionals to highlight their expertise and bring their personal brands to the perfect audience. 

Ranging from thought-leadership articles to webinars to videos to podcasts, the digital content is housed in two information-rich websites, Vexxit Life and Vexxit Business. Vexxit Life serves individuals by providing content on relationships, work and finances and Vexxit Business serves business owners and managers by providing insights on strategy, process, people and technology.

Vexxit is a proud partner with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and also partners with companies to provide meaningful employer-sponsored benefits that connect their employees with a discovery destination to help them learn, grow and manage life events. It is a co-branded resource that gives employees access to leading expert advice found in Vexxit Life.

Tune into the Vexxit podcast, Ask a Vexxpert with host, Polly Craik for a glimpse into the life and expertise of Canada’s leading professionals. Connect with the team and the brand @vexxit across social and at vexxit.com. 

Catherine Metrycki is the Founder and CEO of Callia Flowers. She is proudly born-and-raised in Winnipeg and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) from the University of British Columbia.

Catherine sits on the board of the Manitoba Technology Accelerator and is a mentor through the Start-Up Visa program, bringing entrepreneurs from around the world to Manitoba. She is passionate about coaching and development, both within the business community and in the pool, as a water polo coach. She has taught Sales and Marketing at the University of Manitoba and Red River College. She is also the proud mom of a one-year-old, her “second” child after Callia!

Callia does flowers differently. Founded in 2017, venture capital-backed Callia has grown rapidly from its roots in Winnipeg and now delivers in more than 55 cities across Canada. Their commitment to a seamless, delightful experience has won a loyal following of customers based on a simple recipe: high-touch online ordering, limited high-quality seasonal options, perfect delivery, and a signature blue box. Callia was featured on CBC Dragons’ Den in both 2019 and 2021, and was named the 44^th fastest growing company in Canada through the Globe and Mail’s Top Growing Companies in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Most recently, it was also recognized by the Great Place to Work certification program as one of the Best Workplaces in Canada.

Cambrian Credit Union

Everything we do at Cambrian is guided by our core values: Integrity and honesty; Member Focused; Competitive; Community involvement; Community spirit. We strive to help each of our members build strong financial foundations for making their dreams come true.

Cambrian Credit Union opened its doors to members on January 1, 1959 as Co-operators Credit Union, formed from an amalgamation of the Co-operators and Service Credit Union. We now have 11 branches proudly serving the Winnipeg and Selkirk marketplaces.

We provide Personal & Commercial Banking, Loans & Mortgages, Saving & Investing, Wealth Management, Advisor Services

http://cambrian.mb.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cambrian-credit-union

Facebook: @CambrianCreditUnion  

Twitter: @CambrianCU,

Instagram: @CambrianCreditUnion,

Lea Ledohowski is the President of Canad Inns, Manitoba’s largest hospitality provider.   Lea grew up in Winnipeg where she attended High School at St. Mary’s Academy, and graduated from the University of Manitoba with a B.A. Honours.  She also holds a Master’s in Architecture from the University of BC, is a LEED Accredited Professional, and holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Real Estate Development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

As first born child of Canad Inns founder Leo Ledohowski, Lea grew up talking Manitoba Business. Over the years, she has had lived and worked as in a variety of cities domestically, and abroad, and brings a unique leadership perspective to a home-grown company that prides itself on being Manitoba Owned, Manitoba Grown and Manitoba Proud.

Canad Inns

Canad Inns is Manitoba’s largest Hospitality Provider, one of Manitoba’s Top Employers, one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for two decades, winner of the

Manitoba Hotel Association Impact Award, and the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Outstanding Large Business Award.

Canad Inns Destination Centres feature the finest in accommodations, food and beverage, entertainment, banquet and conference facilities and so much.

Their Mission is to provide their valued guests with the Best Service and the Best Value in the Hospitality Industry. 

Canad Inns operates seven destination centres in Winnipeg, one in Portage la Prairie, one in Brandon, and one in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Canad Inns is also the owner and operator of the Radisson Winnipeg Downtown, Tavern United Bell MTS Place, Garbonzo’s Sports Pub Polo Park, The Metropolitan Entertainment Centre, three Canad Centre commercial properties and Canad Place (formerly known as the Somerset Building).

Canad Inns is Manitoba Owned, Manitoba Grown, Manitoba PROUD.

Website: Canadinns.com

Facebook/canadInns.com

Twitter:  @CanadNation

Instagram.com/Canadinns

Linkedin:  www.linkedin.com/company/canad-inns

Paul Mahon is President and Chief Executive Officer of Great-West Lifeco and Canada Life, positions he has held since May 2013. Additionally, he serves as a director of Empower and Putnam Investments, Great-West Lifeco’s subsidiaries in the United States.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Paul has been with the company for over 35 years, having joined the company after earning his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree at the University of Manitoba. In the past two decades he has held a number of roles with increasing responsibility, with a primary focus on distribution and strategy for the companies in Canada and abroad. Most recently, he led Great-West, London Life, and Canada Life through a historic rebrand and amalgamation under the single brand, The Canada Life Assurance Company.

A member of the Business Council of Canada, he is also a proud member of the United Way Resource Development Committee. In addition, Paul is a member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) and the Misericordia Health Centre Corporation. Paul previously served as a director of the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation board and chair of the CLHIA.

About The Canada Life Assurance Company
Founded in 1847, The Canada Life Assurance Company (Canada Life) was Canada’s first domestic life insurance company. Today, the company operates in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Germany, and in Ireland through Irish Life. As a diversified international financial services company, Canada Life offers a wide range of insurance and wealth management products for individuals, families, and businesses. The company also provides reinsurance products and operates primarily in the U.S., Barbados, Bermuda and Ireland.

In January 2020, Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life became one company – Canada Life and proudly serves over 12 million Canadians.

Whether handling policy claims, growing and protecting clients’ retirement and investment savings, providing workplace mental health support for all employers, or helping build stronger communities by investing in community projects, Canada Life is committed to putting the customer first in all that we do. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About Great-West Lifeco Inc.
Great-West Lifeco is an international financial services holding company with interests in life insurance, health insurance, retirement and investment services, asset management and reinsurance businesses. We operate in Canada, the United States and Europe under the brands Canada Life, Empower, Putnam Investments, and Irish Life.

At the end of 2021, our companies had approximately 28,000 employees, 215,000 advisor relationships, and thousands of distribution partners – all serving our more than 33 million customer relationships across these regions. Great-West Lifeco trades on the Toronto (TSX) Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GWO and is a member of the Power Corporation group of companies. To learn more, visit greatwestlifeco.com.

About Cando

Cando Rail & Terminals is Canada’s leading provider of specialized rail operating services that allow industrial shippers to optimize their supply chains and connect to Class 1 railways by leveraging Cando’s operating capabilities and network of owned multi-purpose rail terminals. The company provides a wide range of rail services including short line operations, industrial switching, material handling, terminal & transload services, railcar staging, train assembly, and related services. Fully embedded in their customers’ supply chain, Cando Rail & Terminals ensure their customers’ products get to where they need them, when they want them.

Cando is committed to working with our customers, employees, and communities in the safest, most respectful, and responsible way possible. Sustainability of our community, environment, and natural resources is essential to our operations, but it runs even deeper than that. Cando was founded as a small rail salvage company in rural Manitoba and more than 40 years later we remain dedicated to our roots. Our Corporate office remains in rural Manitoba and a sense of community is built into the foundation of our company. We have since grown across North America, but we are committed to maintaining that community mindedness in every region we operate and ensuring we are helping build a sustainable future.

For as long as Jeff can remember, agriculture was life. Growing up on cattle farm in rural Manitoba, from an early age, Jeff understood how important farmers were to nourishing communities, but also how challenging life on a farm can be. He became passionate about helping farmers succeed and pursued a career in building connections between farmers, producers and business, from field-to-fork.

As President of Cargill Limited, Jeff has dedicated his career to supporting a strong food supply chain in Canada and fulfilling the company’s core purpose: to nourish the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way.

Cargill Limited is a subsidiary of Minneapolis-based Cargill, Incorporated, an international provider of food, agriculture, and risk management products and services. Cargill links farmers to markets, customers with ingredients and people and animals with the food they need to thrive.

In Canada, Cargill operates 88 locations and employs around 8,000 people across six provinces. Our Canadian operations have been named one of Canada’s Top Employers, Canada’s Top Diversity Employers and Canada’s Top Employer for Young People.

Cargill partners with farmers, ranchers and food companies of all sizes to support a strong and dependable food system in Canada. Cargill processes meat and oilseed, and manufactures livestock feed. In addition, Cargill is involved in crop input product retailing, grain handling, salt distribution and merchandising.

Jeff began his career at Cargill in 1996 as a facility assistant at the Yorkton, SK grain elevator. During his tenure, Jeff has held several leadership positions with Cargill’s grain and Oilseeds business, including General Manager of business in Australia, leader of Canadian operations, and global leader of Operations and Supply Chain. Today, in addition to his role as President of Cargill Limited, Jeff serves as the Managing Director of Cargill Agriculture Supply Chain Canada.

Jeff is a proud alumnus of the Assiniboine Community College Agribusiness program and is a member of the Business Council of Canada. Jeff also volunteers his time coaching youth sports and sitting on community boards. Jeff lives in La Salle, Manitoba with his wife Lori and their three sons.

Cargill Limited (Canada)

Cargill provides food, agriculture, financial and industrial products and services to the world. Together with farmers, customers, governments and communities, we help people thrive by applying our insights and more than 155 years of experience. We have 160,000 employees in 70 countries who are committed to feeding the world in a responsible way, reducing environmental impact and improving the communities where we live and work.

Cargill Limited is headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba and operates 88 locations across six provinces, employing around 8,000 people. Our Canadian operations have been named one of Canada’s Top Employers, Canada’s Top Diversity Employers and Canada’s Top Employer for Young People.

Cargill partners with farmers, ranchers and food companies of all sizes to support a strong and dependable food system in Canada. Cargill processes meat and oilseed, and manufactures livestock feed. In addition, Cargill is involved in crop input product retailing, as well as grain handling, salt distribution and merchandising.

We join with community leaders, non-profits and others to enrich the places where we live and work in Canada, building a strong, sustainable future for agriculture. We support local food banks, school meals, food safety and community gardens. We strengthen farmer livelihoods through development programs for future farmers and ag-education programs in classrooms. We work to safeguard the environment for future generations through a number of programs protecting wetlands, supporting youth environmental education and community cleanups.

At Cargill, everything begins with our purpose to nourish the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. We help farmers grow more, connecting them to broader markets. We are continuously developing products that give consumers just what they’re seeking, advancing nutrition, food safety and sustainability. And we help all of our partners innovate and manage risk, so they can nourish the world again tomorrow.

After finishing his U of M Commerce degree in 3 ½ years versus 4 he joined Proctor  & Gamble in Toronto and became the youngest area manager in the history of the company.  But 3 years later he was back in Winnipeg to start the first family business, Carlyle Computer Products, from his parents’ basement in 1980. Under Derek’s Leadership Carlyle was twice recognized as Canada’s 50 Best Managed Private Companies. And in 17 years went from a basement business, to the largest computer supplies specialist in Canada with 7 offices across the west.  Then in 1997 it was sold to Boise Cascade who merged it with Grand & toy that they had acquired the year before.

Derek was a Top 40 under 40 recipients, and regional winner of the E&Y Entrepreneur of the year award.  He has been at the heart of 7 start-ups, and held over 20 Board Director positions.  Including most recently the Vice Chair of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority ($3 billion budget), and the finance chair of the Wpg. Police Board. In 2006 Derek’s 8^th start up with his sons brought a new business model in the desktop printer fleet management market with Carlyle Printer, Service, & Supplies Ltd.  In 15 years it has gone from zero to becoming the largest company of its kind in Manitoba.

Working with his son Eric is one of the highlights of his business career.  Starting the second Carlyle would not have been possible without his commitment to our Corporate Values that are an extension of our family values. 

Outside of work Derek enjoys golf and member of St Charles Country club, and travel.  He has been to 92 countries in the world with the plan to reach 100.  In the summer his weekend retreat is to Lake of the Woods where is taking up the sport of fishing.  The go to location for long weekends for his two son’s families (which include 6 grandchildren).  Proud to be celebrating 40 years of marriage to Mary and looking toward the next 40.

Carlyle Printers Service & Supplies LTD.

We are a company with deep roots in the computer supplies industry.  The original Carlyle name comes from Carlyle Johannson who started Carlyle Computer Products in 1980 with his son Derek.  At its peak it was the largest computer supplies company in western Canada with offices in the 7 major cities in the west.  In 1997 it was sold to Boise Cascade, and merged with Grand & Toy that they had acquired a year earlier.  Its success was in being specialists in the consumable part of the IT industry, products like paper, ribbons, diskettes, magnetic tapes, and toner cartridges.  When version two Carlyle Printers, Service & Supplies was formed in 2006, we looked at the marketplace of the new millennium and decided that being a supplies specialist was not enough.  The key difference between the original and the new Carlyle is that the new Carlyle Printers, Service and Supplies Ltd. brings together a one stop shop for not only supplies, but for hardware and service as well.  Carlyle has grown dramatically over the last 15 years managing devices throughout North America. 

In March of 2015 Carlyle acquired Canon Canada’s direct business unit located in Winnipeg.  Canon was confident in this reversal of the typical manufacturers buying dealers trend, due to a thorough vetting of Carlyle’s financial and service delivery capabilities.  The result was that Carlyle would become solely responsible for servicing the devices of Canon Canada’s corporate customers located in Manitoba.

Carlyle introduced to the Manitoba market the cost per page for companies’ entire printer fleet.  In the past Copier vendors sold the equipment and charged a cost per page for the service agreement that included parts, toner, and service labor.  Carlyle took that a step further and included all the desktop printers in the office.  Up to 50% of office printing happened on desktops and that area was not being managed.  For the first time a company could identify how much it cost to print a page and could start working on ways to save money by reducing how much they print.

Today Carlyle Printers Service and Supplies provides printer and copier equipment, along with service of those devices, and supplies blended down to a cost per page.  Servicing over 1,200 customers throughout North America Carlyle is responsible for managing service to over 7,500 devices.  With 5 out of 5 of the largest law firms in Winnipeg, 6 out of 7 of the largest credit unions in Manitoba and 62% of the largest private employers headquartered in Manitoba as customers, Carlyle is building on a solid foundation.

We pride ourselves on working with our customers to fully understand their office printing environments and propose solutions that will fit their unique needs and bring them financial savings, while meeting or exceeding the expectations of the users.  Working with our customers to find unique solutions and exceed expectations is core to what Carlyle does.

Recognizing that over all print volume has been and continues to decline Carlyle has diversified into workflow software.  Square 9  is the leading solution in this space helping companies to digitize the office workplace by  replacing paper based manual processes with digital ones.   We are excited to explore this new service with our customer to continue to bring them value-based solutions.

Jason Stefanson is Vice Chairman, CIBC World Markets Inc. with offices in Winnipeg, Calgary and Toronto.  At CIBC Capital Markets, Mr. Stefanson coordinates client coverage in several industry sectors and across the Bank’s various products and services including equity and debt markets; M&A advisory services and corporate lending.  Prior to joining CIBC in January 2007, Jason was involved in the formation of Canterbury Park Capital LP, a private equity firm based in Winnipeg. Previously, he spent three years with ENSIS Capital Corp. as a Vice-President. In addition, Jason has served as a Vice-President of Corporate Development at Assante Corporation and practiced corporate and securities law at Pitblado & Hoskin.  Jason attended the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Arts and received his Bachelor of Laws degree from Osgoode Hall Law School.

Jason lives in Winnipeg and is married to Heather Stefanson and they have 2 children. Family hobbies include politics, sports, travelling and enjoying their time together at their summer cottage at Lake of the Woods.

CIBC World Markets

CIBC (CM: NYSE, TSX) is a leading Canadian-based global financial institution with a market capitalization of $41 billion and a Basel III Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 11.8%. Through our major business units – Canadian Personal & Small Business Banking, Canadian Commercial Banking & Wealth Management, U.S. Commercial Banking & Wealth Management and Capital Markets – our more than 45,000 employees provide a full range of financial products and services to 10 million individual, small business, commercial, corporate and institutional clients in Canada, the U.S. and around the world.

CIBC’s Capital Markets business provides best-in-class insight, advice, and execution across global markets, investment banking, corporate banking and research to corporate, government and institutional clients in key markets globally.

Rob Coghlan is the president and CEO of Coghlan’s Ltd, a third generation family owned company. Rob joined Coghlan’s Ltd in 1979 and has worked in all areas of the company that was started in 1958 by his father Norm Coghlan in a small retail store located in downtown Winnipeg .

Rob is a life long Winnipegger  and has been actively involved  in various community organizations and events in the city and the province, currently sitting on the board of Take Pride Winnipeg and previously The Frontier Center For Public Policy.

Married [Sandi] with two daughters [Natalie, Cailey], Rob’s interests include rec league hockey [Winnipeg Winter Club], golf [St Charles C.C.] along with tennis and downhill skiing.  Rob and Sandi  enjoy time with family and friends at their Lake Of The Woods Cottage .

Rob is a true believer in Winnipeg, its people, and the life it has afforded him and his family “I wouldn’t want to call anywhere else home” is a statement often used.

Coghlan’s Ltd

Coghlan’s Ltd owns and operates leading brands in the Outdoor Industry, with distribution in 30 countries around the world .

From humble beginnings in a small retail store located at 285 1/2 Fort St [currently Yoga Public] Coghlan’s has grown in to be a world leader in the outdoor recreation industry with brands Coghlan’s, Gear Aid and Mawaii .

Coghlan’s Ltd is based in Winnipeg Manitoba, with offices and distribution centers in Winnipeg  , Minneapolis MN., Bellingham WA., and Walsrode Germany.

Curtis joined the Credit Union Central of Manitoba as President & CEO in October 2021. In his most recent role, Curtis served as Chief Operating Officer of Manitoba Public Insurance, leading operations and customer service through a team of 1,200 people. In his five years at MPI, Curtis oversaw significant changes which helped to provide lower insurance rates, increase customer satisfaction, and evolve the culture of the firm.

Curtis grew up in Winnipeg, and holds a B.Comm from the University of Manitoba and an MBA from the London Business School in England. He spent a large part of his career in senior level positions in financial services, with RBC, HSBC, and GE Capital within Canada and Australia. He has held executive roles for businesses in credit cards, commercial finance, consumer finance, strategy, and marketing. He was also the Chief Business Development Officer for the Canadian Depository for Securities as it underwent the acquisition by the Toronto Stock Exchange Group. His collaborative leadership style will serve him well as he leads CUCM into a new era of stakeholder collaboration and execution.

Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM)

Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM) is the trade association and a service provider for Manitoba’s credit unions. Manitoba credit unions jointly own CUCM, and representatives from five peer groups sit on its board of directors. CUCM is financed through assessments and fee income derived through its operations.

CUCM is governed by Manitoba’s Credit Unions and Caisses Populaires Act.

Our organization has 70 employees working to assist credit unions from our downtown office at 317 Donald Street in Winnipeg.

Connect with Credit Union Central of Manitoba (CUCM) at: https://www.cucm.org/

Doug Harvey is a true Winnipegger. He was raised in Fort Garry and later graduated with his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Manitoba before launching his career as a sales rep in the Truck Division of International Harvester.

In 1981, as International began privatizing its dealerships, Doug seized the opportunity to become a business owner by buying into his first truck dealership in Winnipeg.    

Today, Doug’s enterprises have grown to include companies in Retail & Distribution, Manufacturing and Land Development. In total, Doug’s businesses employ 800 people across Canada including over 350 in Manitoba. 

Doug is extremely active in the community and encourages all his employees to do the same. He serves on numerous boards and industry committees including the Chair of the FortWhyte Legacy Society, The MazerGroup and CentreVenture Development Corporation.

Doug has also served as Chair of CancerCare Manitoba Foundation,

Chair of the Business Council of Manitoba, Chair of FortWhyte Alive, Chair of Yes! Winnipeg, Twice Chair of Idealease, Twice Chair of International Dealer Council, Chair of Economic Development Winnipeg, Vice Chair of Winnipeg Airport Authority, Co-Chair of Homecoming 2010, Board Member of Manitoba Hydro and Board Member of Children’s Museum.

As a result of Doug’s philanthropic and community leadership, he has been honored with the following awards…

2014      The Manitoba Museum Tribute Award

2015      Outstanding Manitoba Philanthropist of the Year Award

2017      Golden Dragon Citizen of the Year Award

2019      The Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for outstanding contribution to the community

2020      Inducted into the Manitoba Business Hall of Fame

2022      University of Manitoba Distinguished Alumni Award

2022      Awarded The Order of Manitoba

Doug and his wife Jan, are proud life-long Winnipeggers whose three children, spouses and six grandchildren all work, play and reside in “The Peg”.

DLH Group

Doug’s enterprises are rolled up into the DLH Group which includes the following businesses

• Maxim Truck & Trailer – a tuck, trailer dealership and lease & rental network with 17 locations across Canada
• Tereck Diesel – a heavy duty repair facility in Winnipeg

• Summit Trailer Ltd. – a trailer dealer and fabrication business with three locations in Alberta and BC

• Arne’s Welding Ltd. – a trailer manufacturer based in Winnipeg 

• Toowoomba Land Company – a real estate developer based in Winnipeg

• Trout River Industries – Trailer manufacturer based in Coleman, Prince Edward Island

In total, Doug’s businesses employ approximately 1,000 people across Canada.

My name is Michelle Cameron, I was born and was raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With strong pride, I am a treaty status woman, a band member of Peguis First Nation, and a mother of five beautiful children. I am the owner and founder of Dreamcatcher Promotions, INAC and Dreamcatcher Executive Offices.

In 2011, I started my first business Dreamcatcher Embroidery as a home-based business. In 2013, Dreamcatcher Embroidery was changed to Dreamcatcher Promotions to better establish and describe Dreamcatcher Promotions as a business which offered much more services beyond embroidery. We broadened our services’ which included a variety of printed promotional products and apparel for businesses, agencies, and organizations.   

The first five years of business were difficult, and we were met with many struggles, and many days were often filled with self-doubt. There were times of financial strain, long hours, self and family sacrifices and feelings of wanting to give up. Thankfully we persevered throughout the hardships and put in the hard work and stayed committed to keep growing and turn into the successful company I knew we could become.

In 2018, Dreamcatcher Promotions was gaining strong brand awareness, and increasing its client base and became well recognized within the Indigenous and non-Indigenous business community.  We launched our Dreamcatcher Promotions website for online ordering and were focused on advertising and promoting our products and services through social media. 

To date, Dreamcatcher Promotions continues to be successful.  I continue to be the sole proprietor and manage the day-to-day operations, with 56 staff members. Dreamcatcher Promotions has evolved into becoming the largest Indigenous-owned promotional company in Canada and is one of the largest promotional companies in Winnipeg.

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Ray Bouchard is the President and CEO of Enns Brothers Ltd., a 68-year old agricultural equipment dealer in the Province of Manitoba. Ray is also a board member of Protein Industries Canada, the pan-Prairie supercluster, and board chair of the Manitoba-based Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI).

Ray has been involved in the agriculture industry for over 35 years and served as director, then president of the Canadian Association of Agricultural Retailers. Ray’s passion and vision for the future of Canadian agriculture is ambitious as he sees the long-term benefits for Canadians, the economy and the environment. Ray is committed to life-long learning and in 2017 received the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. He is currently the co-chair of the Business Council of Manitoba Integrated Water Strategy.

Mike is the Chief Executive Officer of Exchange Income Corporation (“EIC”). Together with Mr. Duncan Jessiman, Mike developed the initial concept of EIC in 2002. He has held the position of CEO since 2006.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (Economics) and a MBA (Finance) from the University of Manitoba. He served in positions of increasing seniority culminating as President of The Arctic Glacier Income Fund (and its predecessor, The Arctic Group Inc.) from 1998 to 2002. He previously worked with Roynat Capital in Winnipeg from 1990 to 1996 and from 1997 to 1998. Mike was employed as the Vice-President of Corporate Development for Westsun International Inc. in Winnipeg from 1996 to 1997.

Mike is currently a director & vice chair of CentrePort Canada Inc. and a director and Chair of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Football Club. He is a member of the ICD and received the ICD.D designation in 2017.

Exchange Income Corporation

Exchange Income Corporation (“EIC”) is a diversified, acquisition-oriented corporation focused on opportunities in aerospace and aviation services and equipment and manufacturing.  The business plan of the company is to invest in profitable, well established companies with strong cash flows operating in niche markets.  The objectives of EIC are:  i) to provide shareholders with stable and growing dividends; ii) to maximize share value through on-going active monitoring of and investment in its operating subsidiaries; and iii) to continue to acquire additional companies, businesses or interests therein in order to expand and diversify EIC’s investments.

www.exchangeincomecorp.ca

Ida is a trailblazer and one of Winnipeg’s biggest industry leaders and community supporters. Her generosity, civic pride and vision drive her to improve the quality of life for all Winnipeggers. As managing partner and co-owner of the iconic Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre since 1994, she worked tirelessly to restore the 1913 landmark and transform it into one of the city’s top hotels, with in-demand event spaces and the luxurious Ten Spa. Her entrepreneurship and passion for yoga led her to become co-founder of Yoga Public, Canada’s largest yoga fitness studio located in downtown Winnipeg. She also seized the latest advancements in dermatology with the opening the Face Bar. Ida is a community booster who rolls up her sleeves and gets involved to strengthen the fabric of our city.

As a civic booster, she has given her time and energy to numerous community and charitable organizations, among them: CentreVenture Development Corporation, CancerCare Manitoba, Canadian Tourism Commission, Winnipeg Symphony and Business Council of Manitoba. Ida received the 2020 Tourism Winnipeg Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2016 Ogimakamik Leadership Award, the 2012 B’nai Brith Award, she was named a member of the Order of Canada in 2015, received an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Winnipeg in 2016, was inducted into the Manitoba Business Hall of Fame in 2018 and received the Pan Am Clinic Philanthropy Award of Distinction in 2019, to name a few. Currently, she serves as Board Director of Economic Development Winnipeg , Telus Community Foundation and the RRCC Culinary Task Force.

Fort Garry Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre

A beloved landmark, the Fort Garry Hotel & Spa is a modern mix of contemporary style and old world elegance. This historic hotel gives off a vibe from another era, while featuring all the modern amenities that today’s travelers seek.

The Fort Garry Hotel, built in 1913 by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway, is designated a National Historic Site of Canada, and features chateau-style architecture. The monogrammed, brass doorknobs, wide hallways and 10-foot high guestroom ceilings are features of the past that remain in the present at Fort Garry.

Renowned for its food and extraordinary ability to cater small meetings, grand galas and everything in between, the Fort Garry has been, and continues to be a gathering place in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. The Fort Garry Hotel provides it all – beautiful rooms, intimate dining opportunities, exceptional catering services, wellness retreats and a world class spa. It continues to be Winnipeg’s ‘Grand Dame” hotel and a favorite for business travelers, weekends away, weddings and corporate events.

Jamie began his career as a lawyer with the prominent Toronto law firm McMillan, where he focused on corporate finance and entertainment law.  Jamie was the first recipient of the Lions Gate Innovative Producer Award, was one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, received the I.H. Asper Broadcast Entrepreneur of the Future Award, was nominated as the New Media Visionary at the Canadian New Media Awards and was named the CFTPA’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2008.  He believes a focus on running the company well is as important as the quality work Frantic creates.  The company has been named one of Canada’s Hottest Start-Up’s and was later named to the Profit 100 list of the fastest growing Canadian businesses three separate years and was twice named one of North America’s fastest growing businesses by Deloitte.  Jamie has been proud to see Frantic become one of Canada’s leading production companies.  The first program he created and produced was also the first “living-history” program in North America, and the Quest series went on to critical acclaim and set many ratings records.  His most important skill is surrounding himself with the creative professionals needed to make every program something to be proud of.

Frantic Films

Since its inception, Frantic Films has had a reputation for creating outstanding programming for a global audience. In addition to its success in Canada and the U.S., Frantic’s award-winning TV series, features and documentaries have sold to well over 100 countries worldwide winning over 150 awards for quality and creativity.  The team has had incredible success in virtually every genre, winning over a hundred awards and setting numerous ratings records in lifestyle, factual, reality, sports, comedy, drama, lifestyle and documentary programs.  Its TV movies and mini-series have attracted top talent including Judd Hirsch, Danny Aiello, Mercedes Ruehl and Gil Bellows. Frantic made its first feature film, Lucid, and the co-production, Stand! based off the musical “Strike” about the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919.  Frantic has over 20 years’ experience collaborating with a wide variety of partners. We take great pride in our excellent relationships with co-producers, creatives, and networks alike. Our team understands the needs of various stakeholders and we ensure productions are brought in on time, on budget and to the highest creative standards.

Chad is the President & CEO of Friesens Corporation. While he is the fifth Friesen to lead the company, he is not related to the original Friesen family. Since joining back in 1993, he has played many roles in the company; He has worked on the shop floor, served customers, marketed the firm, and sold the products. In many ways, he himself is a product of the company.

From 2009 to 2014 Chad briefly stepped away from Friesens to join the executive team of Red River Mutual. After five years in the insurance business, he returned to Friesens to become CEO in 2017.

Chad is a community builder at heart having served on numerous committees and was a founding member of several organizations focused on economic development and charitable work in Southern Manitoba. He is currently a Director on the Boards of Friesens Corporation, Red River Mutual, and Supporting Entrepreneurs through Economic Development (SEED).

Friesens Corporation

Established in 1907. Friesens helps others share their best story with the world through the power of print. The company is 100% employee-owned and is made up of four businesses that serve book publishers, self-publishers, school yearbook programs, and consumer brand packaging. The company employs 600 people, most of whom work in Altona, MB (pop. 4,200) or at FriesenPress in Victoria, BC. The company’s secret to success has been enabling great people to do greater things through a relentless investment in technology.

James Cohen is the President and CEO of Gendis Inc. www.gendis.ca , a formerly TSX-listed and now 100% privately-owned company involved in the management of several commercial real estate properties as well as investments in energy infrastructure, agribusiness and a chain of independent drug stores. James worked in all sectors of the business prior to being named CEO in 2010 and has led the transformation of the company from the sale of its former retail subsidiary to the recent privatization of the business after nearly 60 years on the TSX.

As a volunteer, James has led two of the Province’s major arts and culture organizations having served as Chair of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet from 2005 – 2007 and Chair of the Manitoba Museum from 2018 – 2020 and he currently sits on the Executive Committee of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors and is also a member of the Young Presidents Organization.

James is also a major philanthropist to numerous organizations across the Province of Manitoba involved in a wide variety of activities.

In addition, James is a signed musician and song writer whose band James Cohen and the Prairie Roots Rockers www.prairierootsrockers.com released their debut album on Soccermom Records / Warner Music Canada in 2011 and featured several songs that charted nationally.

Hockey is another of his passions and he normally plays between 65 and 75 games of organized competitive hockey per season.

James has been married to his wife Linda since 1995.

Richard joined Globe as a property manager in 1983, after spending time as an accountant in Alberta, eventually becoming President and CEO. Globe presently has 7,500 units under its administration across Canada, with a market value of $1.6 billion. As President and CEO, Richard has undertaken philanthropic endeavours with some of Winnipeg’s most important institutions, such as the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, the University of Manitoba, and United Way.

Richard’s leadership of Globe is based on his vision of continual growth for the company. Under his initiatives, Globe has been successful and continues to seek new acquisitions every year. In his spare time, Richard enjoys travelling the world and spending time with his family. Richard earned his bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of Manitoba, receiving his CPM designation in 1988.

Globe Property Management

Globe Capital Management is a real estate development, acquisition and holding company. Through our subsidiary, Globe Property Management, we provide services to our valued residents.

Globe’s mandate is to identify real estate that will benefit from strategic investment combined with the capacity to implement the firm’s proven management platform. Globe Capital Management seeks to develop, acquire, and manage Canadian concrete high-rise residential rental properties poised for revenue growth.

Globe was founded in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The firm has always been a proud member of the community. Winnipeg is not only a vibrant place, but also rife with real estate opportunities. For Globe, Winnipeg is a great place to be headquartered because we are in the middle of the country. The city is an ideal home base for the company’s national aspirations.

Web link: www.globecm.ca

HyLife

Headquartered in La Broquerie, Manitoba, HyLife employs over 4,500 people in multiple countries. HyLife’s commitment to service, integrity, and sustainability has set the company apart as Canada’s leading pork producer and global exporter of high-quality pork products. HyLife produces 3 million hogs and processes 3.2 million hogs annually, with the pork sold to over 20 countries. HyLife consistently exceeds expectations in the marketplace, earning Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies – Platinum Member recognition based on the company’s commitment and dedication to its employees, customers, and communities. 

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Damon Murchison is the President and Chief Executive Officer of IG Wealth Management, effective 2020, where he has responsibility for Canada’s oldest and largest independent wealth management organization, serving more than one million Canadians through relationships with 3,000+ financial advisors across the country.

Previously, Damon was the Executive Vice-President, Head of Retail Distribution at Mackenzie Investments, where he led Mackenzie’s retail sales, alliance and group sales businesses and was responsible for planning and sales effectiveness, training and development, sales experience and analytics teams, along with the private wealth, tax, estate and practice management teams.

Damon has over 25 years of financial services leadership experience and previously held progressively senior positions, including Head of Sales for Retail Markets, at Manulife Financial and Head of Alliance National Sales at Fidelity Investments.

Damon has a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Western University in London, Ontario and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western.

Damon is a member of the Board of Directors at George Brown College Foundation, the BlackNorth Initiative and the United Way of Winnipeg.

IG Wealth Management

Our holistic approach to financial planning is comprehensive and goes beyond traditional investment advice to consider all aspects of your financial life.  We are committed to providing the right information and advice you need to feel confident about your family’s future.

From planned to unplanned, the IG Living Plan Snapshot gives you  a financial well-being score that shows how prepared you are. You’ll answer a series of questions based on five dimensions of financial well-being and then receive a result out of 100 and recommendations on how best to meet your goals. These insights will help you create a comprehensive financial plan that evolves and adapts with your life.

At IG Wealth Management, we strive every day to deliver long-term value to our stakeholders.

As a company of IGM Financial, we have a long-standing commitment to responsible management, which we believe is fundamental to long-term profitability and value creation. We conduct our business in a way that emphasizes good governance, operational integrity, ethical practices and respect for our people, our community and the environment.

Our aim is to act responsibly in everything that we do, and we know that our success also comes from our emphasis on client satisfaction, the development and support of our people, and constructive involvement in the communities in which we operate.

IG Wealth Management is committed to building strong communities across Canada. We believe this starts with Canadians feeling confident about their finances so they can achieve their goals. The IG Empower Your Tomorrow program gives Canadians the resources and confidence they need to own their financial future. Inspiring the financial confidence of Canadians is IG’s vision and the basis for our commitment to building communities.

Grant Cockshott is a graduate of the University of Manitoba, with a Bachelor of Commerce, as well as a Balanced Scorecard strategic planning designation from George Washington University, and for the last 6 years has attended the Executive Education program of Harvard Business School.  Grant’s passion is the family business, and the vital role it plays in the lives of communities, people, and nations.  He is particularly interested in human performance as it relates to strategic planning, engagement, continuous improvement, and customer service.

During his 27 years with his family’s 3^rd generation family business, Grant has overseen a dramatic shift in the culture of his business by practicing principles of engagement, consultation, inclusion, and communication.  By adopting a ‘bottom up’ strategic execution model, the Group continues to see year over year improvements to financial results, customer service, process improvement, and organizational capacity.  However, it’s non-financial outcomes which are the greatest motivator for Grant and the Innovair Group leadership team, such as furthering the skills and experience of Innovair team members, so that together they are able to provide better outcomes for patients, customers, and companies.

Innovair Group

Innovair is primarily a packager and distributor of compressed gases such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and argon used in a wide variety of sectors including the healthcare, manufacturing, education and service industries.  In addition, our four operating companies provide a wide range of related products that use these gases for respiratory care, sleep therapy, welding, robotic automation, metal fabrication, and food production.   Our mandate is to provide patients and customers with timely delivery, technical support, and innovative ideas that improve personal health and organizational productivity.

Manitoba has been our historical base of operations since our inception in 1946.  While our business takes us across Canada, Manitoba has provided the Innovair Group of companies – including Innovair Industrial, Innovair Automation, Innovair Medical, and Medigas Manitoba – with a stable economic footprint founded on a wide variety of industries that have supported our growth these last 75 years.  Exposure to a diverse industrial base such as that found in Manitoba, has allowed us to acquire deep technical skills across multiple industries, which we’ve applied to similar customers across Canada.  A consistent population of ready labour allows our customers to succeed, and enables access to skilled team members in our operating companies.

Tina Jones is owner of Jones & Company Wine Merchants and principal of Wine & Drinks College Manitoba (WDCM). With a mission to inspire a great wine culture by connecting wine lovers with real people who make great wine, Tina has directed the company’s growth into the largest private wine store and destination wine school in Manitoba. She has reached for the highest international standards, creating opportunities for advanced wine and spirit studies at WDCM through the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers, and the Wine Scholar Guild. She has expanded the impact of wine education to develop the award-winning magazine, The Cellar Door.  https://joneswines.com/   

Tina is also an active partner in the dynamic concept The Rink Training Centre, providing innovative individual skill development to all levels of hockey players.  Tina and her partner Brad Rice are also pioneers in Winnipeg, with the first Canadian Sports School Hockey League teams with the Rink Hockey Academy and a newly completed $25 million Center of Excellence project.    https://www.therink.ca/   Tina is also a partner in Winnipeg’s popular Green Carrot Juice Company, a concept for fresh, cold-pressed juices. https://www.greencarrotjuice.com/

Tina’s life and work have centred in Manitoba, where her community service, innovation and accomplishments have been recognized with the Order of Manitoba, Manitoba’s highest honour (2020). The designation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement, benefiting in an outstanding manner the social, cultural or economic well-being of Manitoba and its residents. She has also been named by the Women’s Executive Network with a Top 100 Award as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women (2018); the Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year (2017) from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Manitoba; and the Distinguished Alumni Award (2018) from the University of Manitoba. In early 2021 she received the honour as one of the Nellie McClung Manitoba 150 Women Trailblazer award recipients, a special, historic recognition awarded to women leaders of today and throughout Manitoba’s history.

Tina’s energy and creativity have also made her a tireless community builder. Most significantly her distinguished work as Chair of the Board of the Health Sciences Centre Foundation Board of Directors has raised record funds and touched thousands of Manitobans. https://www.hscfoundation.mb.ca/

A native of Australia with a Master of Risk Management (Business and Economics) from Melbourne’s Monash University, Benjamin Graham brings a global perspective to his position as President & CEO of Manitoba Blue Cross.

Before arriving to Manitoba in 2018, where he made his first imprint in the local business community as President & CEO of Manitoba Public Insurance, Benjamin held executive positions at QBE Insurance Asia Pacific in Hong Kong and both Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company and Deloitte & Touche in the United Arab Emirates.

While Benjamin’s strong business acumen and expertise in medical models, insurance and risk management have helped shape his career, his transparent and inclusive leadership style are contributing factors to his continued success leading business transformation and growth.  

Benjamin has developed roots in the province and is committed to the community, both as a business leader and a citizen. He’s a member of the Winnipeg Humane Society Board of Directors and is working hard to become as comfortable in hockey skates as he is in golf shoes.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-graham-31930241/?originalSubdomain=ca

Manitoba Blue Cross

Manitoba Blue Cross was born out of a desire to protect our fellow Manitobans during life’s most unexpected and sometimes challenging moments, and to ensure our community members have the supports they need to live their healthiest lives. This remains our driving force today and fuels our commitment to providing superior health and wellness benefits that are delivered with compassion and excellence in service.

We are proud to be a made-in-Manitoba company. Our local status ensures we’re keenly attuned to what’s happening in the province. We follow Manitoba’s drug formulary (which keeps drug costs low and promotes stable renewals) and we’re aware the moment a provincial budget or other health care event impacts our services.

The fact that we serve our fellow Manitobans – our neighbours, the people we sit on parent council with, our kids’ hockey coaches – keeps us connected to what’s important. We make it our priority to understand what coverage Manitobans need and strive to keep our finger on the community pulse so that we can continuously evolve to meet the needs of Manitobans.

Manitoba Blue Cross has been Manitoba’s leading health benefits provider for over 45 years. Our comprehensive understanding of health care fuels our commitment to service. Together with our subsidiary Blue Cross Life, we provide health, dental, employee assistance, life, disability and travel coverage to over half a million Manitobans.

Web: https://www.mb.bluecross.ca/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MBBlueCross

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ManitobaBlueCross/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manitoba-blue-cross?originalSubdomain=ca

In 1959 Bob’s Father, Ed Mazer Sr., moved to Brandon and purchased Brandon Implements, the Massey Ferguson dealership. Bob started working at the dealership at a very young age and at one point worked both on his family farm and at the dealership. The dealership then became Mazer Implements in 1975 when Bob Mazer and his brother Ed purchased the business from their father. Over the next three decades, business flourished and the opportunity to buy the New Holland Franchise came about in 1988.

In 1994, Mazer Implements started their expansion by purchasing Atkinson Implements in Hartney, Manitoba. The business has continued to grow since then and there are now 18 locations across Manitoba and Southern Saskatchewan. 

Bob is a true leader in agriculture and is dedicated to helping the industry expand. Bob has been awarded Business Person of the Year from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and has received an honorary diploma from Assiniboine Community College among many other accolades. His partnership with technical colleges, business councils, fair boards and agricultural organizations have ensured that our industry remains at the forefront of technological advances and economic policies. 

Mazergroup

Mazergroup is a privately owned group of machinery dealerships offering agricultural, construction and commercial turf equipment sales, parts and service. Mazergroup was established in 1959 as a single agriculture dealership in Brandon, Manitoba, now expanding to 18 locations across Manitoba and Southern Saskatchewan. We support our industries by offering world class equipment including: New Holland, Hyundai, Kobelco, Toro Commercial Turf, Brandt Agriculture as well as various other lines to meet our customer’s needs. To learn more, visit www.mazergroup.ca.

Jason Yates is President and CEO of McMunn & Yates Building Supplies Ltd.  Having grown up in the business that was co-founded by his father, Jason gained a solid understanding of the building supply industry.  After high school, Jason attended the University of Manitoba and obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree.  He furthered his educational pursuits and received his Master in Business Administration from the University of North Dakota. 

Jason has been an active member in both the building supply industry and community.  He is currently the President of one of Canada’s premier building supply buying groups, the Independent Lumber Dealers Cooperative.  Jason has also been active in the Western Retail Lumber Association and served as the Chair of the Education Committee.  On a local level Jason has served as the President of the Dauphin and District Chamber of Commerce and is a past recipient of its Business Person of the Year award.   Jason was also honoured to receive an Honorary Business Diploma from Assiniboine Community College for his contributions to the community and business.

McMunn & Yates Building Supplies Ltd.

McMunn & Yates Building Supplies Ltd., headquartered in Dauphin, MB, is a supplier of hardware and building materials to retail customers, contractors, home builders and commercial builders.  The company was formed in 1972 and through continued growth has expanded to include 20 lumber yards, 2 roof truss manufacturing plants and 2 flooring stores.  The company also operates a distribution centre in Headingley, MB that serves its stores’ product and supply needs through a dedicated fleet of transport trucks.  McMunn & Yates employs over 600 individuals and prides itself on partnering with its customers to help build the communities in which it operates.

www.mcmunnandyates.com

Albert D. Friesen holds a Ph.D. in protein chemistry from the University of Manitoba. He has been instrumental in the founding and development of several health industry companies, including ABI Biotechnology (now Apotex Fermentation), Canada’s first profitable biotech company, and the Winnipeg Rh Institute, where he led the development of Canada’s first biotech product, WinRho. Dr. Friesen has also played a key role in a number of regional and national organizations, including a founder and first Board of Director Chair of the Industrial Biotechnology Association of Canada (now BIOTECanada). He is President and founder of Genesys Venture Inc. (GVI), which provides the expertise for launching and managing emerging health and biotechnology ventures. He has served as CEO and Chair of Medicure Inc. since he led its formation in 1997.

Medicure is a pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative and affordable therapeutics for the U.S. market.

Medicure’s sales force markets to physicians and other healthcare professionals and with E-Commerce integration offering patients and providers direct online ordering and home delivery. Our vision is to become a leading pharmaceutical company within the U.S, offering a growing portfolio of products that improve patients’ lives.

Paul joined New Flyer as President and Chief Executive Officer in January 2009.  Mr. Soubry holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from the University of Manitoba and completed the executive development program at Harvard Business School.  Mr. Soubry has a sales, marketing, business development and operations background in businesses held by both trade and private equity owners, with substantial experience in business transformations and LEAN operational practices. 

Prior to joining New Flyer, Mr. Soubry worked for StandardAero for 24 years where he held a variety of increasingly senior positions including President in 2001, Chief Operating Officer in 2006, and Chief Executive Officer in 2007.  Mr. Soubry currently serves on the board of True North Sports and Entertainment Limited/Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club and the Wawanesa Insurance Company.  He has also served on the board of the Winnipeg Airports Authority, Mondetta Clothing Company and Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. and chaired the University of Manitoba’s Front and Centre Capital campaign.    

In 2003, Mr. Soubry was named one of the recipients of “Canada’s Top 40 under 40” award, was inducted in the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Hall of Fame in 2014, recognized as Canada’s 2016 CEO of the Year by the Financial Post, and a recipient of the 2018 University of Manitoba Distinguished Alumni Award.  Mr. Soubry is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and a graduate of the Directors Education Program.

NFI Group Inc.

With over 7,500 team members in nine countries, NFI is a leading global bus manufacturer of mass mobility solutions headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba.  NFI currently offers the widest range of sustainable drive systems available, including zero-emission electric (trolley, battery, and fuel cell), natural gas, electric hybrid, and clean diesel. In total, NFI supports its installed base of over 105,000 buses and motor coaches around the world.

We exist to move people and to enable the future of mobility with innovative and sustainable solutions.  Our Mission is to design and deliver exceptional transportation solutions that are safe, accessible, efficient, and reliable.  We seek long-term success through industry-leading transportation solutions and commit to continuous investment in our people and processes to optimize, defend, diversify and grow our business. Our products, services and our company are built to rely on.

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Terry Brown – B. Comm (Hons), a proud member of Peguis First Nation, is the Cofounder & CEO of Okimaw Community and HR Solutions, a member of the EDIP Sovereign Wealth Solutions Group of Companies. His focus is on providing Indigenous communities with the tools to foster economic reconciliation and grow their sovereign wealth.

With extensive experience working with First Nation, Métis, Inuit, and Native American communities, Terry is a respected Indigenous businessperson. His expertise lies in capacity building and facilitating connections between mainstream and Indigenous businesses. Terry’s dynamic understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing companies operating in traditional Indigenous territories and Indigenous communities entering mainstream markets drives his passion for business development.

Terry is a confident, award-winning business leader who takes pride in being a strategic problem-solver, An award-winning business leader, Terry excels in strategic problem-solving, envisioning innovative solutions, and executing with efficiency across all areas of an organization. He has had experience with Federal, Provincial, Municipal, and American Indian and First Nations governments, Fortune 100 and 500 corporations, including consumer goods, manufacturing, banking, transportation, hospitality, marketing, wholesale, energy, procurement, and healthcare. Terry has successfully closed hundreds of business deals on behalf of both Indigenous and Fortune 100 companies, contributing to over half a billion dollars in sales throughout his career.

Terry is a dedicated volunteer and serves as the co-chair of the Economic Reconciliation Committee at the Business Council of Manitoba, actively contributing to the advancement of economic reconciliation initiatives. He also holds a position as a board member at Building Urban Industries for Local Development (BUILD) and serves on the Peguis Governance Committee.  Over the course of his career, Terry has served on numerous boards and committees including as a Commissioner with the Province of Manitoba Commission on Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education in 2019.

Outside of his professional achievements, Terry finds fulfillment in his role as a partner of 19 years and a proud father to a wonderful 10-year-old daughter. His traditional name, “Who-Zu Ski Geezhig Ininini,” meaning “Blue Sky Man,” reflects his unwavering optimism even in the darkest times. Bestowed with the name of “Red Star Turtle Man” by elders, Terry carries the responsibility of sharing this knowledge throughout North America, a duty he embraces wholeheartedly.

Okimaw Community & HR Solutions

Okimaw Community and HR Solutions is a service-based business that works exclusively with First Nations and related Indigenous entities to assess, train and support their teams as part of a broader effort to build capacity in indigenous communities.  

Okimaw specializes in community well-being through helping clients be more effective with their planning, governance and management, especially their management of people and how they collectively make organizations more effective.

Okimaw strives to combine traditional nation values with a modern approach to community planning and HR challenges. Using experience combined with best practices for learning, and customized solutions, the company appreciates and understands the various challenges that are faced running the affairs of the nation. They have experienced these challenges firsthand.

Peter Tielmann is the President & CEO of Palliser Furniture, the largest residential furniture manufacturer in Canada. Under his leadership, Palliser has undergone various improvements and integration initiatives that have given Palliser a leading position in the industry. Peter is an entrepreneurial leader who founded EQ3 in 2002, a successful vertically integrated lifestyle brand, and has been involved in various startups both in the for profit and not-for-profit sectors. He holds a degree in Architecture, and a graduate degree in Business Economics, both from Germany. He serves on several boards, including the Michaëlle Jean Foundation and the International Institute for Sustainable Development.

Palliser Furniture

From a modest start in a basement workshop over 75 years ago, Palliser has grown to be one of the largest furniture manufacturers in North America. Its obsession with quality of products and excellence of service has been the constant catalyst of the company’s success.

Today Palliser remains a family owned business with its headquarters in Winnipeg, employing over 3000 people across its locations in Canada, USA, Mexico and Indonesia.

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As cofounder of Payworks, Barb Gamey has overseen the strategic direction and development of the company since its inception.

In 2000, after 15 years of senior level experience in the payroll services industry, Barb recognized that there were gaps in the industry and resulting opportunities that could be gained if she created a unique value offering that encompassed the latest in technology combined with a truly customer-centric service philosophy.

As a result, Payworks’ proprietary payroll application was developed by expert individuals who truly understood the needs of the customer and had a proven track record in the outsourcing industry. The organization has grown to over 300 employees in 10 regional locations coast to coast.

Barb has been honoured with awards for her entrepreneurial work, including receiving the Momentum Award at the 2012 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards (CWEA) and being named to the Profit W100 in 2009.

Barb is dedicated to community involvement: she sits on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Board of Directors, the Business Council of Manitoba’s Board of Directors, the TELUS Manitoba Community Board, and served as United Way Winnipeg’s 2018 Campaign Chair. Barb is also the Chancellor of the University of Winnipeg and sits on the board for both the University of Winnipeg Foundation and UM Properties. She is an ongoing supporter of numerous other community and charitable organizations.

PAYWORKS

Doing business to business, person to person. Payworks is a leading expert in the field of total workforce management solutions, providing cloud-based Payroll, Human Resources, Employee Time and Absence Management to businesses across Canada. We’re a Platinum Club member of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, having held the Best Managed distinction every year since 2012, and were designated one of Canada’s Top Small & Medium Employers for 2021. Let us show you how we’re different: visit payworks.ca for more information.

Social links:

https://www.facebook.com/payworks

https://www.linkedin.com/company/payworks-payroll-services-canada

https://twitter.com/Payworks

https://www.instagram.com/payworksinc/

https://blog.payworks.ca/

As vice president and district manager at PCL in the Winnipeg district, Kelly is responsible for the district’s operations, overseeing buildings, civil and Special Projects across Manitoba and Northern Ontario.

Kelly brings more than 29 years of industry experience and has held various leadership positions throughout PCL across Canada for more than 25 years. He began his career in Winnipeg in 1998, progressing to senior project manager before transferring to Edmonton to take on a construction manager role on some very high-profile healthcare projects. Thereafter, he took on the role of Special Projects manager. He transferred to Toronto as operations manager in 2013, progressing to vice president and district manager in Toronto, before returning to his roots in Manitoba to oversee the Winnipeg district as vice president and district manager. 

Kelly is a graduate of the civil engineering technology program at Red River College. He was the recipient of the 2004 Robert Stollery Construction Leadership Award, one of the highest awards of excellence given out by PCL to recognize exemplary leadership qualities and contributions to the growth of the PCL family of companies. He is also Gold Seal Certified, a LEED Accredited Professional and a member of the Certified Technicians & Technologists Association of Manitoba.

CONTACT Kelly Wallace • 204-449-6004 • kwallace@pcl.com • Watch us build at PCL.com

Pamela Kolochuk was named CEO of Peak of the Market Ltd. in July 2021. Pamela began her career at Peak of the Market Ltd. as Chief Financial Officer four years ago.  A CPA, MBA and Certified Change Leader with over ten years of experience in senior financial leadership, Pamela is renowned for her innovative growth strategies and for creating engaged, productive employee teams.

Born and raised on a dairy farm south of St. Claude, Manitoba, Pam is grateful for her grower and industry connections that have served her well throughout her education and work-life. After earning her accounting degree, with a double major from the University of Manitoba, she went on to gain significant accounting and high-level project experience, while developing friendships and enjoying extensive success in various positions at Cargill, Parrish & Heimbecker and G3 Canada. That knowledge, coupled with unique roles in the tech sector, round out her breadth of experience.

Pam is steadfast in her belief that agriculture is the foundation of the economy emphasized by the daily commitment to excellence shown by Peak of the Market’s grower-partners and her team of 65 employees in Winnipeg and Calgary.

A life-long learner herself, Pam has been a school trustee in Winnipeg’s Louis Riel School Division since 2018, where she dedicates much of her time to ensuring that children have access to quality, inclusive and accessible education.

Peak of the Market Ltd.

Peak of the Market is an inclusive and diverse company driven by a dedicated group of Growers and staff that has marketed quality produce for 80 years; supplying a wide variety of fresh, quality vegetables across Canada and throughout the United States. Peak of the Market, along with Growers, employs over 1,000 Manitobans and injects over $130 million into the economy each year. Peak of the Market has earned the reputation for, not only ensuring the produce grown exceeds the national standard for safety and quality, but that customers receive the same attention and superior service.

Everyone at Peak of the Market takes pride in working toward a collective commitment to excellence, in everything we do, all year long.

www.peakofthemarket.com

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Abdo (Albert) El Tassi is a well-known Manitoba businessman and philanthropist who works tirelessly to promote understanding, tolerance, and respect not only in Winnipeg but globally. Albert has called Winnipeg home since 1969 when he started in the shipping department of Peerless Garments Ltd. As of June 2006, he has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of Peerless Garments LP, which is a garment manufacturer and importer carrying two main businesses: leather and cold weather garments. For over 45 years, he has worked closely with Department of National Defence staff working on the design and development of specialized garments for the military.

Giving back to the nation in which he lives; the community which he serves; and the world to which he belongs is a fundamental part of his beliefs.  Mr. El Tassi is a pillar in the Muslim community, having been a major donor to the Islamic Social Services Association, a mosque in Thompson, and the Alhijra Islamic School, among others. His support for the school is especially important to him because, as he has said, “education helps to eliminate ignorance and it fosters understanding of different cultures while promoting a better life.”

He gives generously of his time and money to many charitable organizations.  At home or work, his door is always open to those in need; help in finding housing, a job, or providing counselling to new immigrants adjusting to the Canadian way of life – he is there to help. The opportunity for success that he has enjoyed has also been an opportunity to reach out to others in need around the world. His philanthropy extends far beyond his community. Over the years he has supported UNICEF; the Canadian Museum for Human Rights; the Canadian Diabetes Association; World Vision; the United Way; Variety, the Children’s Charity of Manitoba; Winnipeg Harvest; the Winnipeg Foundation; and many, many more. He has also supported international disaster relief efforts and has sponsored nearly 50 immigrants to Canada.

Recognized for his prominent and selfless philanthropy and community service, he was a recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal; he is a Member of the Order of Canada; he was named to the Order of Manitoba; and he was named Humanitarian of the Year in 2012 by the Canadian Red Cross, among numerous other honours.

Along with a long list of charity work and continued growth of a successful business, Albert is first and foremost a family man and considers with great pride and honour to have had the privilege of making Winnipeg his home since 1969 for himself, his children, and his grandchildren. 

PEERLESS GARMENTS LP

PEERLESS GARMENTS LP is a Canadian limited partnership located in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada.   Founded in 1940, Peerless Garments has been a significant supplier to the Government of Canada since its inception.  Peerless Garments also specializes in the manufacture of men’s and ladies cloth and leather outerwear garments.

Peerless Garments has serviced the many military clothing requirements of the Canadian Department of National Defence for over 60 years.  During this long-term relationship, Peerless Garments has developed the expertise to fulfill the needs and requirements of the Department of National Defence and our design staff is active in the development of new products for today’s armed forces.

Peerless Garments specializes in cold weather outerwear, with the main objective of creating garments that will keep the user warm, dry and comfortable.  Technological advances allow us to provide the end user with garments for more specific needs.  We produce such items as soft body armour, garments with static reduction, as well as garments with fire protection.  Peerless also produces the highly sensitive Chemical Warfare Protective Coverall (Toxicological Agent Protective) for the armed forces.

Peerless Garments has been instrumental in the development of many prototype samples for various government departments such as Fisheries & Oceans, Canada Customs & Revenue Agency, Transport Canada, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as the Department of National Defence.   Over the past several years, Peerless has worked closely with various military departments to design and manufacture the new high tech clothing system being developed for both Army and Air Force personnel.  The incorporation of state of the art clothing and textile technologies has resulted in adaptable, lightweight components offering protection against a wide range of climatic conditions.

We are proud of our dedication to quality and were one of the first manufacturers in Canada to receive ISO 9001 certification.

Peerless Garments LP is a union shop – our employees are members of “WORKERS UNITED”.

Laurie Goldberg is the Founder and Executive Chairman of People Corporation. Prior thereto, as CEO, Laurie was responsible for providing leadership and overall strategic direction to the corporation and its subsidiaries. Laurie’s experience also includes the positions of Chief Operating Officer and President of Assante Corporation, formerly a TSX-listed company. Before joining Assante, Laurie was Managing Partner with Arthur Andersen (now Deloitte).

In 2014, Laurie was recognized as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Prairies Division, in the Professional and Financial Services category.

Laurie graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from the University of Manitoba and is a Chartered Accountant.

People Corporation

People Corporation is the leading national provider of group benefit consulting, group retirement consulting, third-party benefit administration and human resource services. The company delivers customized and innovative solutions to help organizations attract, engage, and reward their employees. Headquartered in Winnipeg, People Corporation employs over 2,000 industry experts located in 21 cities across the country.

www.peoplecorporation.com

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Brian Lowes is a licenced red seal automotive technician and a graduate of the North American Auto Dealer Association Executive Education Program in Boston.  Cars have been Brian’s passion from his earliest years, and he feels exceptionally fortunate to combine his love of cars with his dedication to contribute to developing the next generation of leaders.  Brian, being the first in his family to be in the industry, believes wholeheartedly in being generous with his time and making investments in future leaders around him. He is currently the Chairman of the Mercedes-Benz Canada Dealer Advisory Board and holds Past President titles for the Manitoba Motor Dealer Association as well as The Entrepreneurs Organization, to name a few.  He led the foundational culture shift in all organizations he oversees to be one of values driven leadership.  His relentless focus on empowering his people to “do the right thing when no one is looking” has propelled these organizations to win multiple manufacturer and industry awards and build an engaged community of team members and customers.  In 2016 Brian was recognized a winner of the Automotive News North American top 40 under 40 and in 2018 was named the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association Laureate award winner, the highest honour in the Automotive retailing business, by his peers. 

Pinnacle Automotive Group

Pinnacle Automotive Group is comprised of Mercedes-Benz Winnipeg, Focus Hyundai, Kenora Hyundai, Focus Autobody and Pinnacle Collision.  We represent 3 brands across 5 locations and provide certified repair services for numerous other brands.  Operating primarily in Winnipeg and Northwestern Ontario we create an innovative and engaging community of team members and customers while retailing and servicing some of the safest and most renowned vehicles in the world.  Our mission of creating a meaningful customer experience through inspired staff and innovation is complimented by our unwavering commitment to “doing the right thing.”  Our deeply engaged and connected team members foster a culture of entrepreneurial spirit and humility.  This allows us to connect with our customers in a unique way.  The organization has been recognized with a variety of Manufacturer and Industry Awards.

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Gerry Price was born in Winnipeg and holds a B.Sc. and a M.Sc. degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manitoba as well as a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. Following graduate studies, he worked as a Defense Scientific Services Officer for the Defense Research Board in Alberta; he then joined E.H. Price Limited (now Price industries Limited) in 1977.  In 1986, he became President of Price Industries following their start up in Asia Pacific, and began to lay the foundation for their expansion into the US market.  During his tenure he has launched many new product lines, factory expansions and new business units in Canada and the US, and has grown the company to 22 times the size, scope and reach it was when he became President. 

Price Industries Limited

The Price Group comprises seven companies, operates 14 factories, seven in Canada and seven in the US. Manufactured products range from HVAC mechanical products to transit windows, aluminum extrusions and other industrial products.  The company’s workforce numbered approximately 3,000 employees in 2020, 50% in the US and 50% in Canada, with approximately 1,200 in Winnipeg, MB.

Price is a market leader in air distribution, critical controls, and noise control products.  Price also offers state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics services that analyze how the HVAC system interacts with the indoor environment and the occupant. 

 The founding principles of Price have never changed – business integrity, first-class service, innovation and a commitment to people. After more than 70 years, Price remains a privately held family company with a deep heritage and commitment to innovation and service. Our long-standing vision, traditional values, and the Price way of doing business are the cornerstones of our leadership position in the non-residential air distribution industry.

Price Industries was founded in Winnipeg and remains loyal to Manitoba.  Price remains fully committed to Winnipeg as it is our home and an ideal market for world-class engineering and engineering technology talent.

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Ken Larson started with Princess Auto over 20 years ago as a part-time cashier while he went to university. After working in various operational roles over those 20 plus years, he became President and CEO in December 2019.  His personal philosophy is that in leading by example and empowering those around him, we can create an environment that allows boundaries to be pushed and innovations to be made.  

Together, he and his Team have been able to grow the company and be recognized as a top employer.  The non-traditional and quirky approach of Ken and his Team has attracted attention from others.  Whether it is delivering craft beer to Team Members on long weekends, Canada Day parties, or creative events where Team Members decide how they want to give back to their community, it is all about creating relationships and building community.

Ken is a lifelong Winnipegger with deep roots in the community.  He is passionate about Winnipeg and a constant champion making Winnipeg and amazing place to live and work.  When he’s not at work, Ken can often be spotted cheering one of Winnipeg’s professional sporting teams or cheering on his own kids.

Princess Auto

Princess Auto is a private, Canadian-owned company employing over 3,400 Team Members, with our Home Office in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Princess Auto provides hard-working Canadians with a unique assortment of tools and equipment through 55 stores coast-to-coast, 3 Distribution Centres and a National Call Centre, and an online store.

As a co-founder of Private Pension Partners (“P3”), Don has provided the leadership and direction for P3 since inception in 2010, serving as the President and CEO of the Asset Manager and Limited Partnerships.  Don also serves as a Management Representative, Trustee, and CEO of Apartment Plus Real Estate Investment Trust (commonly referred to as A+ REIT) which was launched in the fall of 2020 as a private real estate investment trust with the mandate to acquire and hold multi-family rental properties providing that it may also hold a maximum of 20% of its net assets in strategic street-front commercial properties.  Don is also a member in good standing with the CPA Association as well as the CFA Society in Manitoba and graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1993 and 1994 respectively earning his Bachelor of Commerce Honours and Masters of Accountancy degrees.

Private Pension Partners (“P3”) is a leading private equity real estate investment firm launched to provide its clients with access to private and direct pension-grade real estate investment opportunities. After a decade of sound real estate investment management, P3 has nearly 2.3M square feet of real estate, 1,600+ apartment units, and $725M of total property assets under management or development. P3 collaborates with industry-leading real estate professionals to develop or refurbish sustainable and amenity-rich, built-for-rent multi-family or tactical street front commercial assets that bring lasting value to tenants and investor partners.

Kim Ulmer is the Regional President for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, and Western Ontario.  Responsible for achieving a best in class sales and service experience for all clients in business and personal banking, Kim is thrilled to lead and is inspired by a talented workforce of over 2600 employees from the radiant fields of Saskatchewan to the vibrant city of Sudbury to the vast tundra of Canada’s north.    

Kim Ulmer, an over 30 year veteran of RBC, has dedicated herself to a variety of roles in various markets and fields.  Having proudly begun her career as a summer student in Regina as a Client Advisor, Kim has held progressively senior roles including Regional Vice President for Regina and Parkland Region, Vice President Commercial Financial Services for Southern Saskatchewan, and Vice President Small Business for RBC’s Canadian Banking division.

Passionate about youth, the entrepreneurial spirit, diversity & inclusion, and the arts, Kim is active in the community and a strong supporter of employee volunteerism.  Kim is a member of the Business Council of Manitoba.  Kim serves on the Winnipeg Art Gallery Board and plays an active role in the Asper MBA Executive Mentorship Program at the University of Manitoba. Kim is also part of the National Learning Partnership Board for Take our Kids to Work Day, Saskatchewan’s Polytechnic It’s about time Capital Campaign, and is a founding member of the International Women’s Forum new Winnipeg chapter.

Kim proudly serves as the Executive Champion for two RBC Employee Resource Groups within her region, The Black Professionals Network and RBC Pride.

Kim holds an MBA from Dalhousie University and a diploma in Business Administration from SIAST, and received an honorary degree from Saskatchewan Polytechnic in the spring of 2018.

Kim and her husband Garnell, together with their son Lucas reside in Winnipeg, Manitoba surrounded by family, friends, and a spirited community. 

RBC Royal Bank

RBC thrives on helping clients and communities prosper.  Our Regional Office, located in Winnipeg, serving Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, and Western Ontario recognizes that Manitoba is rich in entrepreneurs, innovation, and diverse talent.  Manitoba is the home to many sectors and industries contributing to a vibrant and dynamic economy.  What truly makes Manitoba an extraordinary place is the resilience of its people from Canada’s first peoples to the newcomers who now call this province home.  From sport to the arts to the collaborative business community, it is not a question of why are we headquartered here, it is a question of why, in a province like this, wouldn’t we be.    

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 86,000+ employees who bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 34 other countries.  Here in Manitoba, RBC brings RBC Insurance, RBC Dominion Securities, PH&N, Private Banking, Business Financial Services, and our expansive branch network to our clients and communities to provide a diverse portfolio of financial services and so much more beyond banking.  We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteerism.

RBC Thought Leadership: https://thoughtleadership.rbc.com/

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Curt sets the mission, vision, and direction for the company and manages this alongside the expectations of the board, stakeholders, and employees. He measures elements that drive performance and matches talent to value to ensure organizational alignment, growth, and stability. He leads an executive team in the successful implementation of Richardson’s overall growth strategy, matching capital to opportunity. 

Curt Vossen graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in agricultural economics and has dedicated his career to Canadian agriculture. Before joining Richardson as President in 1995, Curt held various merchandising and operational management positions in the grain industry. 

Curt is an active member of both the business and arts communities. Curt is a board member of the Business Council of Canada and the Rabobank North American Advisory Board. He is also chair of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Board and past chair of the Manitoba Business Council. Curt is the board chair of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and is also chair of the Performing Arts Consortium. He is also a board member of the Misericordia Health Centre in Winnipeg. In addition, Curt is a trustee to the Richardson Foundation.

Richardson International Limited

Richardson International is a global leader in agriculture and food processing and one of North America’s largest agribusinesses. With a legacy of service going back more than 160 years, Richardson has 3,000 employees in over 100 locations across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Downtown Winnipeg is home to Richardson’s head office and its new Innovation Centre, a state-of-the-art food product and quality testing facility.

Richardson is a worldwide handler and merchandiser of all major grains and oilseeds and a vertically-integrated producer of food and ingredients. Richardson exports Canadian grains and oilseeds to over 50 countries around the world through seven export terminal facilities in BC, Ontario, and Quebec.

Richardson operates a network of strategically-located modern, high-throughput elevators and crop inputs retail locations across Western Canada and North Dakota. In addition to its canola and oat processing facilities, in 2021 Richardson acquired Italgrani USA, North America’s single largest durum mill located in St. Louis, Missouri. Also in 2021, Richardson acquired Calgary-based Control Chemical, manufacturer of plant oil-based drilling lubricants and hydraulic fluids.

www.richardson.ca

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Arni Thorsteinson is President and principal of Shelter Canadian Properties Limited. Shelter Canadian
Properties owns and manages a diversified portfolio of real estate including hotels and senior’s housing
located in Canada and the United States.

He has 50 years experience in real estate development and finance. Arni is a founder of Lanesborough, Huntingdon, Temple and White Rock Real Estate Investment trusts. He is also a founding Director of Onex Corporation and a director of Bird Construction Company and Waters Senior Living Group LLC. He also serves as Chair of Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and on the boards of the Fraser Institute, the Michaëlle Jean Foundation, Historica Canada, International Curling Centre of Excellence, and International Peace Garden Capital Campaign. He is the President of the University of Manitoba Business Foundation.

Arni obtained his Chartered Financial Analyst designation in 1974 and also holds Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) and Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) degrees from the University of Manitoba. He was appointed to the Order of Manitoba in 2021.

Arni is married to Susan Glass and both are active volunteers in the non-profit sector.

Shelter Canadian Properties Limited

Shelter Canadian Properties Limited is a private Canadian corporation which is beneficially owned by the family of Arni Thorsteinson. The company was established in 1990 and is the successor to various Canadian real estate companies which have been in operation since 1947.

The company employs approximately 350 administrative, accounting and operational personnel who work at Head Office, the regional offices and on site at the Shelter-managed rental, condominium and commercial properties.

The overall objective of the company is to provide its clients with excellent investment opportunities which are supported by comprehensive fee and asset management services. Shelter Canadian Properties Limited, in conjunction with its U.S. equivalent, Shelter American Holdings, Inc., is currently responsible for the management of approximately 120 multi-unit rental, condominium, commercial and hotel properties, comprised of more than 12,000 suites and in excess of 3 Million square feet of commercial space.

Ben Sparrow is the CEO of Sparrow Hotels. Ben has been involved with many community groups including serving as President of Entrepreneurs Organization Winnipeg, and is a past board member of the Winnipeg Executives Association, and Manitoba Chapter of the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise. Recently Ben was a founding member of the committee to make Winnipeg a Fairtrade City and currently serves on the board of YPO Manitoba.

Ben holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Ryerson University and is a graduate of the General Management Program at Wharton, University of Pennsylvania.

Sparrow Hotels

Established in 1937, Sparrow Hotels draw on more than 80 years of experience as one of Canadas most reputable hotel management companies. Employing more than 400 full and part-time staff in Winnipeg Sparrow has a proven track record in the management of luxury and upscale full and select-service hotels, as well as conference and institutional food service facilities, spas, and restaurants.  The company has provided hospitality consulting services to a wide variety of clients for over 25 years.

In 2015 Sparrow Hotels was named the Winnipeg Large Tourism Business of the Year by Tourism Winnipeg.

Kevin Gill is the founder and President of the Staffmax group of companies. Kevin was born and raised in Winnipeg and is a proud graduate of RRC Business Administration program. Under his leadership and vision, he has grown Staffmax into one of the largest staffing & recruiting firms in Canada, led expansion into USA, Australia & Europe and has expanded service offerings into the Healthcare Staffing and EOR/PEO services field (Employer of Record/Professional Employer Organization). Kevin is a recognized expert and requested speaker in the Staffing, Recruitment, Executive Search and Employment Industry.

Kevin is a member of the Board of Governors at Red River College Polytechnic, the Manitoba Employers Council, Canadian Staffing & Recruiting Association (ACSESS), a member of Business Council of Manitoba, Winnipeg Executives Association (WEA), U of M Associates and a founding Investor in YES! Winnipeg. He is a recipient of the CPHR of MB Visionary of the Year Award. He has participated in the Prime Minister of Canada’s federal budget consultation process. Kevin supports the Bear Clan Patrol, MS Society, KidsSport, United Way and others.

Staffmax Staffing & Recruiting

Founded in 2007 and proudly headquartered in Winnipeg, the Staffmax group of companies is comprised of 4 companies and 3 brands in Canada, USA, Australia and Europe. Staffmax is a leading provider of High-Quality Temporary Staffing, Full-Service Permanent Recruiting, Executive Search, Healthcare Staffing, EOR/PEO services (Employer of Record/Professional Employer Organization) and HR Services.

Staffmax Staffing & Recruiting is known for providing ready, reliable, & experienced employees across all roles and disciplines. Using advanced recruitment technologies, custom Apps, AI and a team of dedicated specialized recruiters, Staffmax is able to quickly find talent to fill roles on their client’s timelines.

Staffmax is one of the largest staffing & recruiting agencies in Canada. With the number of assignment employees at clients’ locations everyday, Staffmax is one of the largest employers in Manitoba.

Staffmax Healthcare is a provider in the USA of Travel Nurses, Per Diem Nurses, Locum Tenens and Allied Health Professionals. Staffmax EOR/PEO services, available in over 120 countries, provides on behalf of their client’s employees and contractors international payroll, benefits, taxes and compliance.

Staffmax gives back to the community through numerous charitable organizations and is a Chamber Champion with the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.

Dan McConnell joined The North West Company in 2002 in the role of Manager, Real Estate and Store Development. He quickly advanced to the position of Director in April 2004, promoted to Vice-President of Real Estate & Store Development in September 2008. He then became Executive Vice-President, Chief Development Officer in 2014 and in 2018 became President, International Retail relocating to Boca Raton before returning to Winnipeg in July 2021 as President and Chief Executive Officer.

Dan has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Wales and many years’ experience in retail development.

Dan is a board member of The North West Company and United Grocers Inc.

Dan and his wife Kirsten now make their home in Winnipeg with their 3 children Liam, Matthew and Brynn.

The North West Company

North West is multi-billion dollar retailer serving rural and developing regions of North America, the Caribbean and the south Pacific. North West’s vision is to help people live better by offering a superior range of everyday products and services ranging from food, apparel, home and outdoor products as well as health, financial, transportation and other core lifestyle services. North West’s customer base is over 80% BIPOC and our operations are within areas most affected by climate change, making social responsibility a business sustainability imperative that we are proud to be leaders in.  

https://www.northwest.ca

Derek Lachaine was appointed President of TransX Group of Companies in April 2024.

Derek brings a wealth of experience to this role, having been an integral part of the TransX team since 2001. His journey within the company includes notable achievements in Linehaul operations, before progressing to more senior roles, including Vice-President Truckload Sales and Operations and then as Chief Operating Officer.

Derek holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Bio Systems Engineering and has successfully completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard University.

TransX is a leading provider of premier integrated transportation services across North America. CN acquired TransX on October 30, 2018.

Mark Chipman is the Executive Chairman of the Board of True North Sports & Entertainment Limited and Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club. 

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Mark attended the University of North Dakota where he earned an Honors B.A. in Economics and a Juris Doctorate in Law. 

Mark entered the business of professional hockey in 1996 through the acquisition of the Minnesota Moose. In 2001, Mark led the development of Bell MTS Place and the acquisition of the Atlanta Thrashers in 2011. In December of 2016, Mark was named to the Executive Committee of the NHL’s Board of Governors as well as the Selection Committee of the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019.

Mark has been the recipient of the Order of Manitoba and the University of North Dakota’s Sioux Award. He is a founding member of the Hockey Canada Foundation, established the True North Youth Foundation and Gonzaga Middle School.

True North Sports & Entertainment

True North endeavours to be recognized as a preeminent organization within the National Hockey League, the American Hockey League and the North American entertainment industry.  We further strive to establish ourselves as an integral asset to the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba and to be a consistent source of pride for our entire community. 

We are relentless in our pursuit of providing a superior patron experience in all of our facilities, developing championship caliber hockey teams, nurturing and providing opportunities for our colleagues and collectively making a meaningful and consistent contribution to our community.

Ms. Mactaggart received her Bachelor of Sc. Physics (Honours) degree from Edinburgh University in Scotland and has 36 years of industry experience in both technical and management roles, spanning international, Canadian, large and small cap organizations.

She co-founded Iteration Energy in 2005 and served as VP Exploitation for five years. Ms. Mactaggart joined Tundra Oil & Gas as VP Reservoir/Exploitation in 2010 and was appointed President & CEO in 2018.  Ms. Mactaggart currently leads a team focused on operating and maximizing returns in the SW Manitoba and SE Saskatchewan Williston Basin area. In addition to participation in the Business Council of Manitoba, Ms. Mactaggart sits on the Board of Governors of The Explorers and Producers of Canada (EPAC), currently as Past Chair and serves as a Director of STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Services).

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Tundra Oil & Gas

Tundra Oil & Gas recognizes that operating in its communities and provinces is an opportunity as well as a responsibility. We are committed to achieving a balance of economic, social and environmental sustainability. This commitment underlies the way we conduct our business across all our operations.

Since its inception in 1980, Tundra Oil & Gas has delivered above average returns on private equity capital through the discovery and recovery of light oil resources in the Williston Basin in a safe and environmentally sustainable manner.

At Tundra, we continuously strive to minimize our impact on the environment, and as a company, we are committed to finding innovative and integrated solutions to delivering environmentally responsible energy.

Tundra’s goal is to reduce the environmental impact of our operations, using techniques such as monitoring of air quality and water wells, as well as, an active program to address end of life asset closure. With the development of new technologies, Tundra’s facilities are continuously upgraded. Historic facilities are decommissioned and replaced with new facilities to minimize waste gas production, enhance spill prevention methods and reduce energy consumption.

www.tundraoilandgas.com

Guided by cooperative principles, we are committed to delivering a quality customer experience and to achieving growth through investment by leveraging technology, the strength of our people, our partners and our infrastructure. We will be a customer- focused leader, enabling communications and entertainment services, for the benefit of our cooperative Members and the communities we serve.

https://westmancom.com/about-us/company-profile/vision-mission-and-values

Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.

Winnipeg Airports Authority’s vision is to lead transportation innovation and growth to serve our community. The company’s mission is to provide excellent airport facilities and services in a fiscally prudent manner.

Manitoba offers a prime geographic location for Winnipeg Airports Authority and the air transportation sector to flourish as it is in the heart of Canada and North America. Cargo operations thrive in the centre of the mid-continent trade-corridor with the ability to move essential goods to global markets within 48 hours.

Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) is responsible for operating, managing, maintaining and strategically investing in Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. The company also leverages its diverse structure to oversee and operate Iqaluit International Airport, while simultaneously providing aviation services and solutions at more than 30 other airports across Canada to help benefit communities across the country.

WAA enhances connectivity within the region, including in Manitoba and Canada’s North, by facilitating the movement of people and goods to reach different local and global markets.  Under WAA’s management, Winnipeg Richardson International Airport has evolved to become a leading cargo hub in North America and is a key component of Canada’s air cargo activity. WAA continues to drive the expansion of the airport campus in Winnipeg to develop a thriving network of industry partners all working together to lead the future of the sector and further serve the community.

Ken Bolt joined Wynward Insurance Group in 2012, and after nearly two decades in the property & casualty insurance industry in a variety of roles including underwriting, operations, distribution management and analytics, was named President of Wynward in December 2023.

Ken received his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Degree from the University of Manitoba and completed his Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP) designation from the Insurance Institute of Canada.

A lifelong Winnipegger, Ken is proud to raise his family in the city where he grew up. In his spare time, he enjoys staying active and coaching his kids’ basketball and soccer teams. Ken is honoured to be a trustee of the Richardson Foundation and is a strong supporter of the United Way, being a part of the leadership team that has led to Wynward achieving 100% donor participation for many years running.

Wynward Insurance Group

Established in 1920, Wynward Insurance Group is a national commercial property & casualty insurer operating in all provinces and territories. Headquartered in Winnipeg, Wynward is a subsidiary of James Richardson & Sons, which is highly regarded as one of the most prominent privately owned companies in Canada. With team members throughout the country, Wynward proudly serves businesses from coast to coast and insures over $55B in client assets.