Mary Lou Newbold
Mary Lou NewboldPresident
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 part 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.
Steve Pearce
Steve PearcePast President
Steve is passionate about what local really means, and how he can make a difference in his community.
Ernest Bednarz
Ernest BednarzTreasurer
Ernest is passionate about business and entrepreneurship. Doing the deals has always driven Ernest to get involved in early-stage business ventures during his career. Ernest is passionate about business and entrepreneurship.
Matt King
Matt KingBoard Member
Matt is the co-owner of Robinsons Outdoor Store and an expert fly fisherman.
Ben Cram
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.
Will Gillis
Will GillisBoard Member
Advertising consultant and avid fly fisherman. Graduate of the University of Victoria with interest in sales, marketing, leadership and small business growth as well as a demonstrated history of working in sales and advertising. Currently working with an incredibly bright and hard working group of people who are devoted to helping Vancouver Island Businesses connect, prosper, and succeed within their community.
Gary Hollick
Gary HollickBoard Member
Specializing in marketing, branding, and promotions, we create opportunities for businesses and individuals to promote and brand themselves through publications, new media, internet, public events and traditional media.
Nicole Mackie
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 Iturbide
Karen IturbideManaging Director
Karen’s background is in international commerce and public relations. She has recently concluded the 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.