2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
2014 Greater Victoria Business Awards
Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award Winner BOB SKENE Past President, Royal Roads University
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Congratulations to all nominees in the category of “Never had to deal with an upset customer”!
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Businesses already using Online Dispute Resolution include:
TM ROGERS & Design is used with permission of Rogers Communications Inc. All rights reserved.
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Chair’s Message
CEO’s Message
It is an amazing time for businesses in Greater Victoria. As Chair of The Chamber I couldn’t be more excited about our business outlook. Around the room tonight are many people and businesses that together make this region great. Their hard work and determination exemplify what it means to be a successful business. Congratulations to Bob Skene, the Lifetime Achievement Award winner. His career has spanned 35 years, including hours of dedication to volunteer work. With Bob’s inspiration, the high-tech sector in our region is booming. Bob co-founded the Vancouver Island Advanced Technology Centre (VIATeC), which has put Greater Victoria on the high-tech cities map. I am honoured and proud to be here tonight to celebrate the successes and achievements of our business community. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners, your successes contribute to the success of our community, making Greater Victoria a wonderful place to live and do business.
accomplishments.
The Greater Victoria Business Awards are about celebrating the hard work of individuals and businesses in Greater Victoria. As the CEO of The Chamber, I get to see firsthand the dedicated entrepreneurs behind new and established successful businesses. This amazing group tonight highlights many areas of success – leadership, innovation and customer service – the business community in our region should be proud of its
In the day-to-day work of running a business, we can sometimes take for granted the hard work it takes to keep things running. I hope everyone here tonight shares in the pride that I take in celebrating Greater Victoria’s very best. To those of you being honored tonight, please take a moment and share in the perseverance and dedication that brought you here tonight. Congratulations to all!
– Bruce Carter, CEO
– Frank Bourree, Chair
CE YE LEB AR RA S I TI N NG BU SIN E
20
SINCE 2003 CHARD HAS BUILT OVER 300 DOWNTOWN VICTORIA HOMES WITH ANOTHER 172 UNDER DEVELOPMENT AND 200 MORE BEING PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE.
CHARD: HELPING TO RESHAPE VICTORIA, ONE BUILDING AT A TIME
SS
Thank you to The Chamber for the honour of being nominated for the Business Leadership Award. Chard Development is committed to future development projects that bring new residents and employment to Victoria.
For information and links to current projects visit
charddevelopment.com 2014
business awards 3
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Board of Governors’ Message It is a privilege to be honouring Bob Skene here tonight. Bob has demonstrated his ongoing commitment to business leadership over his illustrious career. Bob was the senior vice-president, business development and chief financial officer of WCG International Ltd. up until his retirement. His vision in leading VIATeC has changed the technology landscape in Greater Victoria, helping make the high-tech sector one of the top industries in our region’s economy today. Bob’s passion for our community is shown in his tireless work on various committees and boards in all areas of our community including his tenure as past president of Royal Roads University, his role in establishing the Jericho Hill Legacy Trust, and an active member of The Chamber’s Board of Governors. Bob has been a positive role model to numerous business leaders, offering help and advice to many. His successful career is matched only by his commitment to the community, making him an ideal role model for all business leaders today and tomorrow. On behalf of The Chamber Board of Governors, congratulations Bob!
Board of Governors Induction Ceremony 2013
– Darlene Hollstein, Chair - Board of Governors 2013 Greater Victoria Business Awards Winners
CHEERS TO YOU!
deltavictoria.com
4 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
CONTENTS
7
Business Leadership Chard Development Lifetime Networks
9
New Business Innovative Fitness Victoria PBX Engineering Ltd.
10
Business of the Year (1-10 Employees) Atomique Productions Ltd. Cedarwood Productions Inc.
11
Business of the Year (11-25 Employees) National Courier Service Ltd. Triangle RV Centre Ltd.
12
Business of the Year (26-75 Employees) Outset Media Corp Spinnakers Brewpub & Guesthouses
13
Business of the Year (76+ Employees) Epicure Wilson’s Transportation Ltd.
15
Employer of the Year Accent Inns Seaspan Victoria Shipyards
17
Innovation AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy Inc. BC Cancer Agency – Vancouver Island
18
Outstanding Customer Service
19
Sustainable Business Practices
20
Business Person of the Year
Your host: Jim Beatty
26
Balance Home Cleaning ICE - Island Centre of Hockey Excellence
Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
Big Wheel Burger Oughtred Coffee & Tea Ltd.
Bob Skene
Dan Dagg, Hot House Marketing Sybil Verch, The Verch Group at Raymond James
21
Young Entrepreneur
24
Employee of the Year
Andrew Higginson, Higginson Consulting Janna Malo, Fired Up! Paint Your Own Ceramics Studio Chris Loran, The Q! and The Zone Paul Rudd, Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours
Past President of Royal Roads University,
22
Thank Yous
25
Past Lifetime Achievement Winners The Chamber
#100 – 852 Fort St. Victoria, BC V8W 1H8 Phone: 250-383-7191 Fax: 250-385-3552 chamber@victoriachamber.ca
2014
business awards 5
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
JOIN THE PEOPLE WHO
GET THINGS DONE
“
Since joining we have taken advantage of many of the perks including - gas discounts, credit card processing preferred rates, email marketing, and web design discount with Island Net… All in all the benefits far outweigh the membership dues.” -Jamie Sellar President West Coast Artisan Foods
Become a member today!
(250) 383.7191 victoriachamber.ca
Promotional Space Sponsored by:
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
BUSINESS LEADERSHIP Coast capital savings sponsored by
Chard Development
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Chard Development is a boutique real estate development firm that has built high-quality residential, commercial and mixed-use projects across Canada. Since 2003 Chard has focused on Victoria, bringing over 400 new homes to the city. Chard’s success can be attributed to consistently delivering attractive building design, high-quality suites, and developing projects that contribute positively to the rejuvenation and growth of downtown Victoria. Run by a small team of experienced professionals led by David Chard, the company prides itself on consistently exhibiting quiet competence, dependability and excellent customer service. Chard’s hands-on approach has helped the company earn its reputation as a trustworthy member of the community and over the past decade has built strong relationships with homeowners, local government, businesses and community associations.
Mind your own business. And we’ll mind it too.
www.charddevelopment.com
Lifetime Networks
Just like the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, we’re here to help all
Lifetime friendships…Lifetime supports…Lifetime Networks.
kinds of businesses. Whether you’re
Lifetime Networks is a not-for-profit organization started in 1998 by a group of determined parents trying to create a viable organization to secure the future of their children with disabilities by establishing personal support networks. Through the services Lifetime Networks provides, the team works to increase the number of relationships in the lives of people with disabilities. They build networks of friends, provide continuing education, community engagement support, employment preparation and more. All within an inclusive, safe, and welcoming setting.
offer a range of business products and
starting out or hugely successful, we services. Plus, we have a friendly and helpful team to help you along the way. Find out how we can help your business by visiting a branch, or www.coastcapitalsavings.com. You can also contact us at 250.483.7000.
Thanks to the continued persistence, determination, love and commitment of all the people who have contributed to our growth along the way, Lifetime Networks is an organization we are proud of and that makes a difference in our community.
www.lifetimenetworks.org
2014
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS Lifetime Friendships Lifetime Supports Lifetime Networks. lifetimenetworks.org
You're invited to our
11th Annual Gala Dinner & Auction May 9, 2014 at The Union Club
Building lasting friendships and supports for people with disabilities.
Reception: 6:00pm | Dinner: 7:00pm Tickets: $75/person
proud sponsor Receive 20% off your visit to The Bengal Lounge after the Greater Victoria Business Awards!* Valid 04/23/2013
*
fairmont.com/empress 250 384 8111
Appetizers, Dinner, Wine, Entertainment, and Auction
For Ticket Information or to make a Silent Auction Donation, call
250.477.4112
Info at lifetimenetworks.org or call
Introducing, for the FIRST time ever
robert bateman puzzles! available at your local puzzle retailer and the robert bateman centre
Thank you GVCC for selecting us as a Finalist!
Congratulations to all the Award Finalists
www.outsetmedia.com
250.477.4112
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
NEW BUSINESS peninsula co-op sponsored by
As a leader in executive class personal training, Innovative Fitness Victoria works to ensure its customers are receiving an experience, with regards to their health and fitness needs, that is unparalleled in the industry. Innovative Fitness Victoria focuses on facilitating personal reinvention though the use of physical challenges, supporting diversity and celebrating customer victories. Committed to one-onone or one-on-two, 60-minute training sessions are specific to individual needs and capabilities. Whether you want to lose weight, gain strength, rehabilitate an existing injury, hike the Grand Canyon or bike the Tour de Victoria, Innovative Fitness will create a specific program for you and support you every step of the way. Take control of your health, live the life you want.
GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
COMMUNITY
MINDED.
LIFETIME
www.innovativefitness.com
WINNER! 2014
LOCALLY INVESTED.
PBX Engineering Ltd.
PBX Engineering is a full-service consulting electrical engineering firm providing expertise for a diverse range of applications. Our suite of services covers the full life-cycle of projects and encompasses project management, design, specification, systems integration, costing, software development and field services.
MEMBERSHIP
BENEFITS. JOIN TODAY.
As experts in our field, our solutions continually blend leading-edge technology with proven approaches that consistently result in industry-leading designs that stand the test of time. Our breadth of expertise covers a vast spectrum of electrical engineering. We take a high degree of pride in the work we complete and are continually focused on ensuring we provide the most innovative and practical solutions for our clients.
www.peninsulaco-op.com
Innovative Fitness Victoria
Engineering excellence through innovation is our passion.
www.pbxeng.com
2014
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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (1 - 10 Employees) sponsored by
GREATER VICTORIA DEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Atomique Productions Ltd.
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Operating since 2000, Atomique Productions has had an indelible impact on the arts and culture in Victoria. Atomique produces an average of 150 concerts per year. This extensive programming provides invaluable support for the local music community — and has brought iconic performances into the region from The Tragically Hip, Queens of the Stone Age, Metric, and many others. The company has a proven eye for talent, a mandate for diverse programming, and a commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Atomique’s success has also been founded on building strong, long-term relationships with local and international businesses, and with the community at large. In addition to supporting numerous community events at the new company headquarters – HQ – Atomique produces Rifflandia Festival, Rock the Shores, and The Phillips Backyard Weekender.
www.atomiqueproductions.com
Cedarwood Productions Inc. Cedarwood Productions is a video production company offering everything to take your video project from script to screen. Established in 2003, Cedarwood has a reputation for outstanding quality, creativity and a friendly approach.
1-10
With over 250 corporate video productions and an evergrowing client base stretching across North America, Cedarwood has also produced several successful broadcast programs. After three years of Flavours of the West Coast, and the first season of The Hard Way, the latest Cedarwood series to air is Realty Reality. Cedarwood is proud of its many successes, including winning a prestigious international Remi Creative Excellence Award, and its involvement with the community and local businesses. The team remains committed to serving their clients with the highest levels of creative excellence, caring and integrity.
www.cedarwoodproductions.net
PRODUCTIONS
10 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (11 - 25 Employees) sponsored by
National Courier Service Ltd.
farmer construction ltd.
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
National Courier Service Ltd. (NCS) is a successful family business formed in 1984 by a couple from India. This year marks its 30th anniversary. NCS serves the community six days a week, specializing in same-day and express deliveries, including pallet service and dangerous goods. It serves major industries both locally and on the island, with frequent daily service to Sooke, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Courtenay and Campbell River. NCS’s mission is to provide its customers with a highly personalized experience, by delivering first-class service at a reasonable cost. NCS serves individuals and major industries including industrial and manufacturing, professional services as well as government agencies. NCS values the role that the community, dedicated staff and loyal customers have played in helping achieve 30 years of success.
www.nationalcourierservice.ca
Triangle RV Centre Ltd. For over half a century, Triangle RV’s focus has been selling family adventures and memories. Triangle RV sells and services a full range of RVs, from tent trailers to motorhomes, parts, accessories, propane, sani-station, RV/car wash, rentals, used and consignment sales, on-site financing, detailing service and much more. The smiles and enthusiasm of the Triangle RV staff have created generations of return customers. Based on their reputation for integrity and customer service, Triangle RV has earned the distinction of being the first selected Canadian dealer to be invited to join the Route 66 RV Network. Triangle RV has been named BC Dealer of the Year three times as well as nominated for Canadian Dealer of the Year.
www.trianglerv.com
2014
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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (26 - 75 Employees) sponsored by
Grant thornton LLP
Audit • Tax • Advisory
Good advice is our business. Supporting our community is our pleasure. Grant Thornton LLP is proud to be a sponsor of the “Business of the Year” (26-75 employee) Award with the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce! As the winner of last year’s Business of the Year Award, we congratulate all the finalists for 2014! Contact the Victoria office for more details. Victoria 888 Fort St. | V8W 1H8 | BC T + 1 250 383 4191
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Outset Media Corp Outset Media has manufactured family fun for 16 years! Originally founded to distribute one board game - All Canadian Trivia - Outset Media has grown into an important player in the toy industry with more than 500 games and puzzles. In addition to its head office in Victoria, Outset Media operates a distribution facility in Brampton, Ontario. The company supplies North America as well as several international markets. Outset’s best known brands include Professor Noggin, Cobble Hill Puzzles, and the WHAT party game. Outset Media manufactures a minimum of 80 per cent of its products in North America. The company appeared on Profit magazine’s list of fastest-growing companies six times, and was voted Supplier of the Year six times by the Neighbourhood Toy Store of Canada.
www.outsetmedia.com
Spinnakers Brewpub & Guesthouses
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Brewing since 1984, Spinnakers has been a pioneer in the renaissance of craft brewing in North America. Canada’s oldest brewpub, Spinnakers became a leader in the revival of farm-gate and artisan foods in the early 1990s. With over 20 taps on each two floors, Spinnakers provides an unparalleled range of beers and beer styles, a locally focused wine list, and features local-craft, distilled spirits all designed to accompany a seasonally inspired menu featuring the products of over 35 nearby farms and producers. Named Best BC Brewpub four of the past five years by Northwest Brewing News readers’ polls and featured among the 10 Best Micro Breweries by Canadian Geographic Traveler, Spinnakers provides a quintessential slice of Victoria’s lifestyle. Go for a pint, stay overnight!
www.spinnakers.com GrantThornton.ca © Grant Thornton LLP. A Canadian Member of Grant Thornton International Ltd
12 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR (76+ Employees) sponsored by
Capital magazine presented by TIMES COLONIST
Epicure
Capital HOW VICTORIA WORKS
Founded in 1997 by Sylvie Rochette, Epicure was born out of love and an effort to provide fast, delicious, healthful mealtime solutions. Epicure is passionate about good ingredients and sharing food products without additives, dyes, allergens, preservatives, excess sugar or sodium. Epicure is 100 per cent gluten-free, 100 per cent nut-free, and is enrolled in the Non-GMO Project. Joining Epicure in 2006, Amelia Warren, Sylvie’s daughter, is one of Canada’s youngest female CEOs. Amelia founded the Epicure Foundation, which has donated over half a million dollars to Canadian charities to improve food security. Epicure has expanded into the largest Canadian direct seller with over 250 products and 16,000 fabulous entrepreneurs across Canada, supported by a dedicated team of 180 home team members at its home office in Victoria.
Our première issue featured
www.epicureselections.com
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Wilson’s Transportation Ltd.
Wilson’s Transportation Ltd. is a 100 per cent locally owned and operated family business, with three generations of Wilson family members working for the company today. Wilson’s has over 40 years of industry experience, and more than 100 vehicles, to meet Greater Victoria’s transportation needs. Wilson’s offers charter and rental services for their entire fleet, and recently launched Gray Line Sightseeing and YYJ Airport Shuttle operations. In addition to transportation services, Wilson’s also houses a government-licensed repair and service facility for heavy duty mechanical and auto body repairs. We are active members of our community, and give generously to various organizations, schools, and charities across Vancouver Island. We believe being part of our community is our key to long-term success
67 members of
Join them by advertising in the next issue October 25, 2014 Call TC Advertising 250.995.4464
www.wilsonstransportation.com
www.timescolonist.com/capital
2014
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Congratulations to tonight’s winners and nominees!
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
88% of Chamber employers hiring from Camosun and UVic’s co-op programs rated their experiences with co-op students as good or excellent.
Top five reasons for hiring our co-op students:
56% 54% 53% 47% 46%
Students bring new perspectives, ideas and skills. It’s a cost-effective way to “test-drive” potential employees. Co-op students are highly motivated and productive. Students are a good fit to work on short-term projects. It’s the right thing to do — it’s my responsibility to society.
Work terms start in January, May and September. Learn more about how co-op students can help your business today.
www.camosun.ca/cese 250.370.4410
www.uvic.ca/hireacoop 250.721.7628
Data from March 2013 survey of Chamber businesses by UVic MBA students: Aligning Co-operative Education Programs with the Human Resources Needs of Small Business
Tel 416•696•2853
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Production Contact: Daniel Abebe
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR B:3”
T:3” sponsored by S:3”
Accent Inns
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Accent Inns is not your typical stuffy hotel chain. Yes they have modern, clean rooms, free parking and free wireless, but they’ll also tell you where to go – in a good way ;) Accent Inns will give you the lowdown on where the locals hang. The hot spots for shopping, dining and hitting the town. They’re different in a good way; pet friendly, bike friendly, and,
motorcycle friendly.
Air Canada
Experience Air Canada’s award-winning service from Victoria. •Daily non-stop flights to Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto with convenient connections to more than 175 destinations worldwide
Not bad for a pint-sized, boastfully BC hotel chain with five locations; Victoria, Burnaby, Vancouver Airport (Richmond), Kelowna and Kamloops.
•Book now at aircanada.com
Accent Inns: Stay local. Stay real.
www.accentinns.com
S:9.5”
Seaspan Victoria Shipyards Since 1994, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards (VSL) services a wide variety of vessels that come to Victoria from around the world based on its high-quality facility, dedication to customer satisfaction and specialized repair capabilities. VSL is also conveniently located to support the Pacific Northwest Marine fleet, and has a long history of providing service to the Royal Canadian Navy. The company’s commitment to quality work and timely delivery is proven by the high number of repeat customers that choose Seaspan Victoria Shipyards as their preferred repair facility. The core work-force of 800 production employees and 150 managers love to meet new challenges, and pride themselves on their flexibility and ability to meet the changing demands of the industry.
www.seaspan.com
2014
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ACRT-14-57_Victoria Bus Awards Mag.indd 1
14-03-26 3:51 AM
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
JOIN THE PEOPLE WHO
GET THINGS DONE
“
After over 30 years of membership, we still value the contacts and referrals. Just recently we needed a new courier, and found one based on the recommendation of several Chamber members. Couldn’t be happier with the service and standard of excellence.” - Janice Solotki, Comptroller, Parker Johnston Roofing
Become a member today!
(250) 383.7191 victoriachamber.ca
Promotional Space Sponsored by:
The Employment Program of BC: Connects businesses with the right employees Benefits employers and employees though our Wage Subsidies Program
Reduce the time and cost for your next hire Let us help you! For further info contact: Garth Yoneda 250.708.2462 g.yoneda@gthiringsolutions.ca
www.gthiringsolutions.ca The Employment Program of British Columbia is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
INNOVATION
sponsored by
UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA PETER B. GUSTAVSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy Inc.
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
AOE Accumulated Ocean Energy Inc. is developing patented technology to capture the immense power of ocean swells and waves, and transposing this energy into usable “green energy.” AOE buoys are used to compress air in stages, with the end product of highly compressed air being stored in reservoirs. This environmentally benign high-energy air is later used to power systems for electricity, hydrogen gas, potable water, aquaculture and oxygenation.
The world looks different from here.
AOE’s environmentally focused team plans to take this innovative technology to market and make our planet a better place for future generations. AOE systems support marine life habitat creation and atmospheric cleaning through carbon sequestration, with the mandate: “No negative impact on any marine life, any life, anywhere, in any manner.”
www.aoecanada.ca
BC Cancer Agency Vancouver Island The BC Cancer Agency is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. The agency provides a comprehensive cancer control program by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The Vancouver Island Centre is one of six centres across the province, offering a spectrum of cancer-care services, including state of the art radiation therapy and chemotherapy treatments, and innovative research trials.
Peter B. Gustavson School of Business students shape ideas and send them into the world. If you’re ready for a completely different outlook for your business, talk to us about how our students can help. uvic.ca/gustavson
The Trev & Joyce Deeley Research Centre, within the Vancouver Island Centre, is dedicated to researching immunotherapy that focuses on harnessing the body’s own immune system to combat cancer.
www.bccancer.bc.ca
2014
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE sponsored by
The Chamber
Balance Home Cleaning YOUR MEMBERSHIP MEANS BUSINESS Congratulations to all the
2014 BUSINESS AWARDS FINALISTS! RECOGNITION. CONNECTIONS. ADVANCEMENT.
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Balance Home Cleaning offers a fresh perspective in residential cleaning by providing a level of personalized service usually reserved for the finest of hotels. Recognizing that each client is unique, with specific needs and service requirements, Balance Home Cleaning operates on a foundation of trust, accountability, service and passion. These core values are personified by the hardworking individuals of the team and their commitment towards providing exceptional cleaning services for each of their customers. Balance Home Cleaning provides people with the comfort of a healthy, clean home and the luxury of free time. Balance Home Cleaning’s mission is simple: to help people enjoy life through better balance.
www.balancehomecleaning.com
ICE - Island Centre of Hockey Excellence “We strongly believe our unique rink design enables a higher degree of learning at all levels. Learning in a small environment creates faster/better skill development.” ICE is a family-owned and operated business dedicated to providing the best hockey experience for both players and the people who drive them around, tie their skates, round up their gear and pay all their bills. Now in its third year, ICE has the best team possible to deliver its vision of a facility worthy of declaring, “Hockey lives here.” Come visit ICE on Wilfert Road out in Colwood and get to know the ICE family and what they have to offer!
www.icevictoria.ca
victoriachamber.ca
18 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS PRACTICES sponsored by
Big Wheel Burger
FortisBC
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Since 2012, Big Wheel Burger has strived to provide the best quality burgers, shakes, sodas and fries through local, sustainable and environmentally friendly resources. A Big Wheel Burger is made from the best quality ingredients – using free-range meat that is antibiotic and hormone free, grass-fed and ground fresh every morning in-house, farmfresh produce and cheese made from real dairy. We top it all off with a locally made classic burger bun. Big Wheel Burger was founded on the idea that FAST food doesn’t have to mean JUNK food. This goes for all aspects of the business, from what our customers are served, to how our shops are run and the related impact on the environment and local communities. We are a 95 per cent sustainable restaurant!
www.bigwheelburger.com
Oughtred Coffee & Tea Ltd. Oughtred Coffee & Tea is a local, small-batch roasting company that has been providing specialty coffees to businesses on Vancouver Island for more than 40 years. Originally founded in Nanaimo by John Oughtred in 1973, this family-run, second generation business is now owned by his sons, Michael and John Oughtred. For more than four decades, Oughtred has worked to foster the growth and awareness of specialty coffee through education, customer service, relationship building and sustainability.
Moving forward with energy solutions At FortisBC, we work hard to provide the energy you rely on every day. From electricity and natural gas, to propane and thermal energy solutions, our more than 2,260 employees are dedicated to the communities where they live and work. Together, we are moving energy solutions forward to meet the unique needs of B.C. Discover more at fortisbc.com.
Carbon neutral since 2008, Oughtred has taken important steps to dramatically reduce its environmental footprint while never once compromising on quality. Oughtred’s commitment to quality and sustainability has always been fueled by the passion to give back to the community that has supported it.
www.oughtred.com
FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (14-101.3 3/2014)
2014
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR sponsored by
united way of greater victoria
Dan Dagg,
Hot House Marketing
Changing lives Building strong communities
Hot House Marketing is a Victoria-based marketing communications firm that specializes in cause marketing. Its vision is simple, to be a “global calibre cause marketing firm.” Hot House works with a variety of local, regional and national clients such as the BC Games Society, Inclusion BC, The David Foster Foundation, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and the Oak Bay Marine Group. Forward thinking, Hot House strives to stay at the leading edge of communications trends and technologies. Their in-house video production department has shot and edited in HD for web and mobile applications for almost five years. Combined with strategic, media, digital and creative services – Hot House creates integrated campaigns that deliver results.
www.hothousemarketing.com
United Way is a proud leader and partner in making Greater Victoria a great place to live, work and play. When you invest in United Way, it is an opportunity for your business and its employees to come together and raise funds for vital programs that sustain our social and economic fabric. It’s about moving individuals from poverty to possibility, ensuring kids grow up healthy and building strong communities. Thanks to support from over 400 workplaces, United Way funded more than 90 community programs and served 40,000 individuals, 16,000 families and 8,000 children and youth in 2013.
Change starts here. uwgv.ca 20 2014 business awards
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Sybil Verch,
The Verch Group at Raymond James
Sybil Verch of The Verch Group of Raymond James Ltd. entered the financial services industry in 1994 and is passionate about empowering women to take control of their finances by providing mentorship, financial advice and seminars. Sybil believes in giving back to her community and is actively involved in various charitable organizations such as chair of the YM/YWCA – Victoria as well as her own Verch Group Fund. As the chair of the Women’s Advisory Council at Raymond James, she plays an active role in mentoring women in finance. Sybil is one of four mentors on The Hard Way, a reality TV series on CHEK TV focused on helping struggling businesses succeed.
www.theverchgroup.com
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR sponsored by
ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY
Andrew Higginson, Higginson Consulting
Ziplines? Check. Climbing walls? Definitely. Adrenaline? More than enough to share. At Higginson Consulting our measure of success is laughter, infectious smiles and frequent highfives. Our team of engineers work hard, so our clients can play hard. Whether it is an indoor climbing wall, a zipline or an aerial adventure course, we provide detailed engineering services to ensure that our structures are safe so participants can stay focused on having fun. As licenced professional engineers across Canada and in the USA, our team combines a love of the outdoors with sound technical practice to provide professional services both locally and abroad. Did we mention that we love turning crazy ideas into reality?
www.higginsonconsulting.ca
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Janna Malo,
Fired Up! Paint Your Own Ceramics Studio
Fired Up! Paint Your Own Ceramics Studio is a warm and inviting art studio where anyone can create beautiful pieces of ceramic or fused glass. Customers can choose from over 100 different pieces of ready-to-paint molded clay. People of all ages can enjoy painting pottery with guidance as needed from well-trained staff. Once finished, the pottery is left at the studio where it is dipped in a clear glaze then fired in a pottery kiln. The result is a stunning work of art that is both appealing to the eye and functional as regular dishware or decoration. Fired Up! provides an outlet for the “weekend warrior” artist using an art form that is simple, functional and beautiful every time, even for the youngest of artists.
www.firedupceramics.ca
Question the answers. and yourself. At Royal Roads University, students are challenged to question everything, especially themselves. Whether they’re learning to be more effective entrepreneurs, leaders, educators, or communicators, RRU brings out the best in students, while delivering content that’s immediately relevant in the workplace. After graduation, you’ll be surprised at how much you’ve learned and accomplished, and also how you’ve changed and grown as an individual. When you’re ready, we’ll be waiting. Take the next step at royalroads.ca 1.877.778.6227
life.changing 2014
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Publication Name
Chamber of
Created By
RRU Brand Creative
THANK YOU
TO OUR SPONSORS AND SUPPLIERS FOR THEIR GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS
event sponsors
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
award sponsors
Unwind in style. Following the awards, join us in The Bengal Lounge for live music, innovative cocktails and late night snacks. fairmont.com/empress | 250 389 2727 emp.diningres@fairmont.com
We are a team of creators, organizers and makers who build relationships that result in great work. When you need it, we can design it, build it, and support it. Web • Print • Video Interactive • Identity • Strategy
thenumber.ca
22 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
suppliers
award judges
Kathleen Burton
Executive Director, Mount St. Mary Hospital Foundation
Lise Gyorkos
President, Page One Publishing
Al Hasham
President, Maximum Express Courier, Freight & Logistics
Gregg Meiklejohn Co-founder and President, Enrollment Resources Inc.
Murray Tough
Director, Serenity Home Care Ltd. Poppies Floral Art 108-800 Yates St. Victoria, BC poppiesfloralart.com 250-383-0743
flowers@poppiesfloralart.com
Weddings Events Weekly Flowers DĂŠcor Business Gifts Special Occasions We Deliver
2014
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR sponsored by
CHEK NEWS
Chris Loran,
The Q! and The Zone with Jim Beatty
WEEKNIGHTS 5 and 6:30pm
In December 1987, the island’s rock was born! The Zone began in 2001 and Victoria has been rockin’ ever since. The Q! and The Zone connect with Victoria consumers on the air, online and in the community, every day, for the last 25 years! We know that “business goes where business is invited” and we bring businesses together with consumers through live broadcasts, events and of course through the airwaves. In addition to supporting local businesses, The Q! and The Zone support organizations such as The Lions Society, St. Vincent de Paul, Mustard Seed, BC Children’s Hospital and The TLC Fund for Kids. Fundraisers such as The Q!’s Help the Homeless and The Zone’s Toy Drive help those most in need.
www.thezone.fm www.theq.fm
WINNER! 2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Paul Rudd,
Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours
Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours offers a two-hour, fully-guided zipline tour through the majestic forests of Sooke, BC. Experience an exhilarating ride up to 60 km/hr as you soar up to 150 feet off the ground on eight scenic ziplines ranging in length from 150 feet to an unforgettable 1,000 feet. Our professional guides emphasize safety and comfort, ensuring a ride full of thrills, awesome beauty and fond memories. In operation since June 2007, Adrena LINE attracts guests from all over Vancouver Island, across Canada and the USA, and beyond.
www.adrenalinezip.ca
24 2014 business awards
2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
Past Lifetime Achievement Winners 2012
2013
2011
Keith Dagg
Terry Farmer
Cedric Steele
Keith Dagg Consulting Inc.
Accent Inns
Cedric Steele & Associates
2010
A REASON TO CELEBRATE!
2009
THE STRATHCONA WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE ALL FINALISTS AND WINNERS
2008
Gordon Denford Berwick Retirement Communities
Alex A. Campbell Thrifty Foods
Robert H. Wright Oak Bay Marine Group
2007 John Chew
THE STRATHCONA HOTEL 919 DOUGLAS STREET
Chew Excavating
www.strathconhotel.com
2014
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2014 GREATER VICTORIA BUSINESS AWARDS
GOVERNORS’ LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD selected by
THE CHAMBER’S BOARD OF GOVERNORS AND DIRECTORS
profile
“
Get involved in the community, the more you contribute the bigger the payback [...] I have seen so many people be successful and happy following this idea.
”
The only thing that Bob Skene has ever really failed at, is trying to retire. His first attempt at retirement was in ’89 as CEO of High-Tech Systems but it didn’t stick. Neither did his retirement after heading VIATeC or WCG or even most recently his work with Royal Roads University. Bob is once again easing back into retirement – give or take his work on a few high profile boards – and with the support of his lovely wife Judy, there is a possibility he just might succeed this time around. Growing up in Vancouver, Bob received his first job at the age of 12 as a paperboy with the Vancouver Sun. With a glimpse into what the future would hold Bob quickly moved into a management position overseeing 12 delivery boys. Shifting from paper delivery to working with his father in trucking was an easy transition that happened shortly after he got his driver’s licence. Bob’s father is one of the people he most admires. “My dad had to leave school in grade eight to pick rags for a junk dealer in Vancouver, he had little education but he started a used truck and parts business, bought property and became very successful.”
26 2014 business awards
Bob attributes his time spent disassembling trucks with a cutting torch as a primary reason that he became a Chartered Accountant. Becoming a Chartered Accountant in 1965, Bob spent the majority of his career working in the technology sector. Leaving Vancouver and heading east, Bob spent three years as chief accountant for CarlingO’Keefe Breweries and ten years in Ottawa working with technology companies before taking a job as the vice president of finance for the relatively new BC Systems Corporation in Victoria. Bob was a member of BCSC for three-and-a-half years before he organized 125 employees to privatize a portion of the organization. This became HighTech Systems Ltd. (HTS). As chairman, president and CEO of the new company, he oversaw HTS, managing the data centre for the provincial government and building the company for the next seven years. Bob’s time with High-Tech Systems came to an end in 1989 when he was diagnosed with colon cancer. After being told he only had a 30 per cent chance to survive the next five years Bob took on his cancer as another challenge and immediately set out to defeat it. “I did a lot of research
6 years Director, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce 4 years Governor, Greater Victoria Hospital Society
7 years Director, Greater Victoria Airport Authority 7 years Governor, Royal Roads University 4 years as Chancellor and Chairman 1 year as President 2008 Awarded Honorary Doctorate from Royal Roads University
2014 and learned about the impact of being positive and educating GREATER VICTORIA yourself about your disease and basically doing what you can.” BUSINESS AWARDS Remaining positive and focusing entirely on beating his cancer, Bob underwent surgery and 52 weeks of chemotherapy. He reached his goal and he beat his cancer. Bob is now using his experience to help those around him. “At my age, some friends are now experiencing different types of cancer and because of my experience I am able to provide them support and advice while going through a challenging period,” says Bob.
In the midst of his battle with cancer, Bob came out of his first retirement and started the project he is most proud of and most well-known for, participating in the founding of Vancouver Island Advanced Technology Council (VIATeC). As the organization’s first CEO, Bob envisioned exponential growth in membership and at the end of his 10 years of leadership grew the organization to over 1,000 members. Even after leaving in 2000 for his second retirement, Bob was pleased with the growth of VIATeC and the technology industry in general. “Now seeing the tremendous work that’s been done by Dan Gunn and his staff since I left, and to see that the technology sector is so successful in Victoria, I like to think that I had a little bit to do with that.” After leaving VIATeC Bob wasn’t ready to stay retired. “I was golfing a lot and spending time with friends but I needed more to satisfy my drive and requirement to do something that I could be reasonably successful at.” Bob found his next opportunity after his close friend Ian Ferguson established West Coast Group (WCG), a company that places people on social assistance into long-term sustainable employment. “Ian came to me with a proposal that I get involved and become the senior VP of business development and CFO. It was an offer I couldn’t refuse.” Putting his professional expertise to use, Bob and WCG were able to help over 100,000 people get back to work over a seven-year period. WCG was eventually sold to a US company and Bob retired once again. Even though Bob was incredibly busy forging new businesses, creating an organization to drive a previously fallow economic sector, he always found time to volunteer. This passion for helping others might have been passed down from his mother. “One of the reasons I have done a lot of volunteering is because of my mother, she was a volunteer of immense talent and energy and I saw the fun that she had with that in terms of forming relationships.” Bob was the president of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in 1989 and remains on the Board of Governors. “If you want to get ahead in Victoria it’s a huge step forward if you belong to The Chamber.” Bob truly believes in being involved in the community, he advises everyone to “get involved in the community, the more you contribute the bigger the payback, not necessarily from a financial perspective but in terms of friendships, networking and enjoying life by being part of what’s going on in this city. I have seen so many people be successful and happy following this idea.” Royal Roads University has benefitted from Bob’s drive to contribute. He is proud to have been on the Board of Governors at Royal Roads University for eight years serving during the last three-and-a-half years as Chancellor and
Chairman of the Board. During that time, the president left the university and while the search for a new president began, Bob volunteered to be the acting president for a one-year term. “That was fun, I really enjoyed it and this partially explains my passion for Royal Roads University,” says Bob. “I love it in terms of what they do and what they do for the students, and how successful they are.” Bob was on the Board of the Greater Victoria Airport Authority for eight years and held the position of treasurer during the time that the airport was going through a major expansion. He was on the Board of the Greater Victoria Hospital Authority when it began amalgamating hospitals in Victoria and held the position of chairman of the operations committee for four years. Now as close to being retired as Bob will let himself get, he spends time doing what he loves. Golfing at the Uplands Golf Club (where he is the current treasurer), and traveling to over 50 countries and counting. “My wife Judy and I just got back from New Zealand and Australia, celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary.” Bob attributes much of his success to his wife Judy. “She has been a rock, a lot of the time in my career I traveled and it fell to her to look after the home, the family and keep the fire burning,” says Bob. “Without her I wouldn’t be where I am today.” Bob’s family has grown over the years and he has three children, eight grandchildren, and enjoys spending time with his family at Lake Cowichan. The impact of Bob’s outstanding career and community service is seeded deeply in Greater Victoria’s business community through the development and growth of the technology sector, ensuring the sustainment of education and healthcare, expanding the airport gateway to Victoria and giving back to the community in so many ways. Thank you Bob for continuing to fail to retire and continuing to succeed at everything else that you do so well.
Congratulations on your award of merit. It is long overdue! Thank you for your decisive leadership on the Board of the Victoria Airport Authority. -Terry Stewart, Victoria Airport Authority
Bob makes himself available to the community. He really listens and gets to the heart of issues; with the community’s best interest at heart. Congratulations! - Michael Weston, Founder Cube Global Storage
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Find the traits we admire Creativity Ambition
Ingenuity Initiative
Perseverance Perspective
Curiosity Collaboration
At Royal Roads University, we pride ourselves on a lot of things – our diverse and inclusive learning model, our stunning, pristine location, and our steadfast commitment to facilitating personal growth. But most importantly, we pride ourselves on the people who make up our school, people like you. When you’re ready, we’ll be waiting.
life.changing 1.877.778.6227 royalroads.ca