Mission & Values
Ignite’s mission is to lead integrated economic development growth through diverse initiatives that create an environment for our region and businesses to be successful. Through our diverse programming and service brands, our region will be the preferred location for entrepreneurs and businesses to launch, locate and grow. If that’s something you can get behind, consider working with us!
Our Team Members Are:
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– to our vision, mission, goals, partners, and our team.
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-to a changing environment and priorities.
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– to look for improvements and better ways to do our work.
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– to be open and supportive of people and ideas.
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– to always be transparent, reliable, being a constant compass (Trustworthy >/= Honest).
Meet the Team
Senior Leadership
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What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I love economic development. What I love about it is that traditionally, it’s people focused. No matter how far removed I get from clients, my job still means seeing people succeed in their commitment to their community’s day over day. That is very energizing.
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I am a seasoned workforce development leader with over 15 years of experience in workforce planning, human capital, talent management, and organizational development. At Ignite, I play a pivotal role in shaping initiatives that drive talent attraction, integration, and retention—ensuring they align with the evolving needs of today’s workforce. My leadership is grounded in the ability to bridge the gap between organizational goals and employee aspirations. I’ve led cross-functional teams, implemented comprehensive workforce development programs, and built partnerships that go beyond traditional corporate boundaries.
In addition to my professional work, I’m deeply committed to mentorship and community engagement. My role at Ignite allows me to actively contribute to initiatives that empower emerging professionals and promote diversity within the community. I believe strongly in the transformative power of education and professional growth, and I’m continuously focused on learning and development—both personally and in the programs I help design.
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I am accountable for leading, developing, and conducting activities that support economic and entrepreneurial growth in the region. I studied Political Science at St. Thomas University and hold a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of New Brunswick. I am a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a certified Economic Developer through EDAC. In addition to my role at Ignite, I teach in the MBA program at the University of New Brunswick, where I’ve taught courses such as Venture Creation & Entrepreneurship, Market Opportunity Analysis, and Applied Integrative Studies. I also serve on the Board of Directors for both Partners for Youth and the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC).
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With over 25 years of experience in marketing, I am passionate about helping businesses shine and succeed. Entrepreneurial at heart, I lead Ignite’s Marketing & Communications team, strengthening our brand voice and presence. I chose Ignite to be part of something meaningful—collaborating with leaders in economic development, supporting business growth, and celebrating the success of entrepreneurs and newcomers across our region. I’m proud to work alongside a talented team at Ignite whose passion makes every day exciting and impactful.
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I'm passionate about economic development and love helping people and ideas grow. Over the past decade, I’ve worked with all kinds of organizations to build strong relationships, bring teams together, and support big-picture decision-making. My background in Interdisciplinary Studies, Adult Education, and Disaster Management has shaped how I approach challenges—with a focus on collaboration, practical solutions, and making things work better. At the heart of it all, I’m driven to support entrepreneurs and business leaders in building resilient, thriving businesses.
Start-up Support
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I support entrepreneurs in launching, scaling, and sustaining their ventures through tailored business coaching, strategic planning, and funding readiness. With over 10 years of international experience across consumer durables, retail brand building, distribution management and manufacturing, I bring a global perspective to regional economic development.
I hold two MBAs—one from the University of New Brunswick. My business administration background equipped me with skills like strategic analytics, project management, marketing and financial management.
Before joining Ignite, I worked in leadership roles in multiple MNC’s managing cross-functional teams, launching products and strategic business units, and developing market strategies across the globe.
I’m driven by the impact we create—helping founders turn ideas into action, connecting them with the right resources, and building a vibrant, inclusive startup ecosystem in New Brunswick. Being part of the Ignite team allows me to combine my industry knowledge with a purpose-driven mission to empower entrepreneurs.
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Being an economics graduate with an MBA in Management Analytics from the University of New Brunswick, I bring 5+ years of experience in consulting, marketing, and data analytics. Skilled in advanced data analysis, forecasting, model building, financial modeling, and funding strategy for startups, I joined Ignite to support Canada’s startup ecosystem. As a startup founder, I enjoy helping ventures grow through strategic and insight-driven solutions.
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With a Business Administration degree, I’m passionate about community & entrepreneurship. As Planet Hatch’s Administrative & Program Coordinator, I support entrepreneurs via membership, events, referrals, and programming. My retail, dance, and wellness experience honed my communication, leadership, and trust-building skills. I am eager to connect and collaborate with like-minded professionals for a positive impact in our community.
Marketing & Communications
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As the Marketing & Communications Manager at Ignite, I tell stories of growth and success from across the region. It is a constant inspiration to see the impact our team has on individual lives, businesses, and communities. I have a BA from St. Thomas University with a concentration in English and Journalism as well as experience in freelance writing and editing. At Ignite I use my love of storytelling to highlight everyday people and businesses finding success and creating opportunities across the Capital Region.
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I'm part of the Marketing & Communications team with several years of experience in marketing and a strong passion for the field. I specialize in paid advertising and digital strategy, and I'm certified through the Canadian Marketing Association. I joined Ignite because of the meaningful impact we have on the community, the workforce, and the support we provide to local businesses.
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I’m part of the Marketing & Communications team, with a background in retail operations, client relations, and marketing-driven environments. My journey into marketing grew through hands-on experience, including my internship at Ignite, where I brought my NBCC studies to life. I’m passionate about supporting local businesses while also contributing to community initiatives that create meaningful impact.
Business Development
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What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I am a Business Development professional with an MBA from the University of New Brunswick and experience supporting organizations across non-profit, private and public sectors. I am particularly passionate about economic development, and the role strong local businesses play in building resilient communities. I have worked with diverse stakeholders including founders, community partners and public sector leaders and I understand the importance of clear processes, measurable outcomes, and collaborative execution. I chose to join Ignite because of its commitment to strengthening the capital region through business support. I believe that accessible guidance, strategic connections and strong ecosystem partnerships are critical to helping businesses start, grow and scale successfully. Ignite's focus on empowering businesses aligns closely with my commitment to impact-driven work.
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What motivates you in your role at Ignite?
I’m an economic development specialist and strategic advisor with 15+ years of experience supporting businesses and organizations to grow, adapt, and navigate change. While my career has taken me across sectors and around the world, I’m excited to now apply that global perspective to the opportunities and challenges of economic and enterprise development in New Brunswick’s Capital Region. I listen closely, ask thoughtful questions, and bring curiosity, pragmatism, and collaboration to my work at Ignite. I enjoy working alongside entrepreneurs, partners, and municipal leaders to strengthen businesses and support thriving communities. Outside of work, you’ll find me exploring the region with my family and am always looking for recommendations of favourite camp sites, ice cream stops, and other hidden local gems!
Capital Region Integration Network
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Having worked in the non-profit sector for the last two decades, people are at the heart of everything I do. Driven by a passion for connecting people to resources, services, and each other, I strive to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where individuals feel empowered to shine. As Project Specialist for the Capital Region Integration Network, I’ve found true alignment with this passion—both within the supportive team at Ignite and through my collaborations with dedicated community partners and the immigrant community I’m privileged to engage with.
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Connecting with people to drive change in the Capital Region is at the heart of what I do. As CRIN Coordinator, I collaborate with partners on projects that improve life for newcomers. I arrived from Guayaquil, Ecuador in 2017 and hold an Honours BA in International Relations and a minor in Economics. I chose Ignite for its values, reflected in both its community work and internal culture, and am proud to work alongside such inspiring individuals.
Integration & Retention
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With extensive experience in program management, newcomer settlement, integration, and retention, I am committed to delivering empowerment programs where individuals can thrive. Driven by a passion for positive change, I empower others to reach their full potential. I focus on equipping newcomers and international students with the tools, resources, and support needed to navigate their transition to Canada, fostering integration, workforce development, personal growth, and long-term career success. Ignite’s mission to drive inclusive economic growth aligns perfectly with my passion. I’m proud to contribute to this mission every day and grateful to be part of such meaningful work.
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I am the coordinator for Integration and Retention on the Workforce Team, with an MBA from the University of New Brunswick. I’m driven by a desire to build strategies that empower individuals and create opportunities for growth. At Ignite, I support people in their integration and development, because I believe in its mission to foster newcomer success, promote economic development, and make a lasting community impact.
Workforce
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Driven by a strong commitment to newcomer success and career growth, I serve as a Workforce Development Coordinator at Ignite. With over 12 years of experience in business development, marketing, and education and a Master’s degree in Marketing, Merchandising, and Design, I support job seekers, international students, and newcomers in navigating the Canadian job market. My work focuses on building employer connections, designing meaningful training opportunities, and creating pathways to long-term career success. As a newcomer myself, I’m passionate about helping others build confidence, find community, and thrive. At Ignite, I’m proud to be part of a team that’s shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for our region.
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With a PGDBM in CRM and an MBA from UNB, I have extensive experience in workforce development and team leadership. My background in operations has helped me design and deliver programs that empower job seekers, newcomers, and international students to thrive in the Canadian job market. As a Workforce Development Coordinator at Ignite, I focus on employer engagement, training, and creating pathways to long-term career success. Ignite’s mission deeply resonates with me.
Core Services
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With extensive experience in administration and bookkeeping, I take pride in supporting the team and ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the office. My focus is on efficiency, accuracy and a commitment to creating a well-organized and welcoming workplace. It’s especially meaningful to contribute to an organization that is driven by a passion for economic development and works to create lasting, positive change in our region. I’m proud to work with a team driven by a shared dedication to excellence, collaboration, and creating impact.
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My personal experience as a newcomer to Canada equips me with a unique empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by others in similar situations. I will leverage this perspective to ensure that newcomers receive tailored, compassionate support throughout their transition. By actively listening to their needs, providing clear and practical guidance, and offering a welcoming and supportive environment, I aim to enhance their overall experience and help them feel more at home. My goal is to make their journey smoother and more positive, drawing from my own experiences to provide meaningful and effective assistance.
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I like knowing I work for a company that helps guide businesses to reach their goals and ultimately help our community grow. I come from an extensive background of executive coordination, digital media and events and I utilize my skills daily as Administrator at Ignite and look forward to making the lives of my coworkers easier on a daily basis.