Ottawa Board of Trade Announces New Board of Directors
Ottawa, ON – June 24, 2022 – Ottawa Board of Trade (OBOT) hosted its 165th annual general meeting at the Brookstreet Hotel on June 23, 2022. Members of Ottawa’s primary business association gathered to reflect on the achievements of last year, discuss plans for the future, and thank those who have dedicated their expertise, time and passion to the vision of cultivating a thriving world class business community through leadership and partnerships.
Remarks from the Board Chair, Ian Sherman, Mayor Jim Watson, OBOT President and CEO Sueling Ching as well as the panelists; Shirley Westeinde, Jessica Greenberg and Sam Laprade – all followed the same theme of the importance for the business community to be involved in local agenda setting. Business drives community prosperity and vice versa, which is why OBOT is launching a municipal elections strategy called BUILD UP OTTAWA! To inform candidates and voters of the city building priorities of the business community.
After highlighting the work of the board in the challenging last year and excitedly reporting on the future priorities, Ching shared, “As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan, member driven organization, this work is only done through the dedication, hard work and passion of our staff and volunteer team. It is my honour to work alongside this team of community builders. And to all our members – thank you for your continued support. I encourage you to share the important work of the board within your networks. Moving forward, we need the vision and strength of the business community if Ottawa is to reach its full potential as the best capital city in the world.”
OBOT extends a warm welcome to the new board members:
Devinder Chaudhary, Aiana Restaurant Collective
Sacha Gera, Calian Group
Hugh Gorman, Colonnade BridgePort
Kayla Isabelle, Startup Canada
Julie Lupinacci, Hydro Ottawa
John Proctor, Martello Technologies
Melissa Reeves, Linebox Studios
And we are thrilled to continue to work with returning board members:
Andrew Arnott, RBC
Erin Benjamin, Canadian Live Music Association
Priya Bhaloo, TAG HR
Karla Briones, Karla Briones Consulting
Rick Chase, Canada Life
David Coletto, Abacus Data
Yasser Ghazi, Meridian Credit Union
Bree Jamieson-Holloway, Jamieson Law
Brendan McGuinty, Strategy 360
Robert Rhéaume, BDO
Ian Sherman, EY
Nita Tandon, Dalcini Stainless
Megan Wallace, Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall
Ruby Williams, Deloitte
We also extend deep appreciation to the outgoing board members for their important contributions to Ottawa, many of whom led the legacy move of consolidating the Ottawa Chambers in 2018. The fruits of their labour will be known for many years to come.
James Baker, Keynote Group
Craig Bater, Perley-Robertson, Hill & McDougall
Erin Crowe, Ottawa Senators
Sally Douglas, GSD and Co
Wayne French, Waste Management
Joelle Hall, Richardson GMP
Shelley True, TRUEdotDESIGN
As the voice for business and key advocate for economic growth, OBOT has been working closely with local business and community leaders at all levels of government to recommend policies, priorities, and programs that foster a competitive business environment. The new board members are all excited to work together to support the success of Ottawa businesses and ensure we build an affordable, inclusive, and sustainable city. One that is a model for leadership in the world and will attract the best in talent, investment, and entrepreneurs.
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About the Ottawa Board of Trade:
The Ottawa Board of Trade is the voice for business and key advocate for economic development in the Ottawa region. Our mission is to cultivate a thriving world class business community. We are an independent, non-partisan, non-profit member driven association representing the interests of all businesses at every level of government to ensure a competitive business climate, economic growth, and community prosperity. For information, visit www.ottawabot.ca.