
Mary Lou NewboldVice President
Outside the office, Mary Lou is a strong supporter of community engagement, and is heavily involved with the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, Power to Be and the Victoria Chamber of Commerce. Mary Lou is the current Chair of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation Visions Gala Auction Committee, and is an Ambassador on the Member Engagement Committee with the Victoria Chamber. Past achievements include BC Section Coach of the Year (Figure Skating), Times Colonist Readers Choice Award, Business of the Year (11 – 25 Employees) Victoria Chamber of Commerce, and Top 3 Finishes in Victoria Best of the City Awards, Best EyeGlass Shop, and Best Eye Care and 2022 Victoria Chamber of Commerce Member of the Year.

Ben CramBoard Member
Ben and his wife were in the Parsonage Caf in Fernwood, when the owners joked with them about buying it before actually offering them the opportunity. They took the jump and love it!
Ben has since become a certified judge for the World Barista Competitions which are happening in Dublin, Ireland in 2016.
Ben has since become a certified judge for the World Barista Competitions which are happening in Dublin, Ireland in 2016.

Jack AdamsonBoard Member
Whether it’s video production, scriptwriting, or marketing design, Jack’s passion is helping local businesses grow through strategically motivated storytelling.
As a board and marketing committee member, Jack brings that same passion and experience to Think Local First to help promote its continued growth in terms of membership and local audience awareness

Nicole MackieBoard Member
Nicole brings an extensive background in sales, marketing, and communications. In her current role, she’s involved in Victoria’s booming tech sector, enabling businesses of all sizes with innovative banking & payment solutions. Building win-win relationships is what drives her work!

Karen IturbideManaging Director
Karen’s background is in international commerce and public relations. She is currently taking a Master’s program in Intercultural and International Communication at Royal Roads University. Karen is convinced most of the global challenges should involve small local solutions.