After spending 30 years in the military living overseas and across Canada, Malcolm chose the Edmonton Metropolitan Region as the place where his children and grandchildren could achieve their full potential without having to move elsewhere. Formerly the CEO of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board, Malcolm joined the newly-formed Edmonton Global in 2018. He’s proud of the region’s welcoming and inclusive community. It’s a region where people can grow, enjoy and thrive.
Mustafa Sahin is a senior international business and economic development leader with 28 years of experience in trade and investment, sales, and marketing. Sought after for his investment and trade knowledge, Mustafa is a Canadian thought leader who attracts interest to Canada while also bringing Canadian brands to international markets.
An experienced leader and active community volunteer, Chris has a strong track record of bringing people and ideas together. He has an impressive portfolio and expertise in economic development, community-building, marketing, strategy, and business engagement. An avid cyclist and volunteer ski patroler at Jasper’s Marmot Basin, you can usually find him flying down the nearest mountain side.
“There must be a better way!” is Sarah’s motto for lifelong learning. As a proud Chinese Canadian calling The Edmonton Region home all her life, she can mix Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and English all into one sentence. With 20+ years of leadership experience combined with a results–driven personality, she is known for her creative and collaborative approach to problem solving. She has successfully built her own business, helped 500+ businesses, mentored budding entrepreneurs, and supported many charities and not-for-profit organizations along the way. Outside of work, you may find her active in the outdoors, reading in a coffee shop, wining and dining with great friends, or trying something frighteningly new!
With a long background in international business, Brent is a Mandarin speaker who has a wealth of experience ranging from supply chain and wine logistics, to corporate training and facilitation. A University of Alberta alumni and current Senate member, he loves to network and identify business opportunities both locally and abroad. In his free-time you will often find Brent swinging a hammer or working on anything with an engine – glass of vino in hand.
A life-long champion of the Edmonton region, Jeff believes in the importance of evidence-based decisions that are founded on collaboration, transparency, humility and accuracy. He enjoys looking at maps and pondering the trade-offs between good information now and better information later. His diverse background includes international experience working with academia, private sector, not-for-profits and the public sector. When Jeff is not neck deep in some spreadsheet or research report you can find him exploring local art galleries and music venues – or stopping to smell the wildflowers in the North Saskatchewan river valley.
Manisha has long had an interest in travelling and seeing the world and has called the Edmonton region home for 14 years and counting. Her wanderlust steered her to study International Relations at the University of Calgary, which has since given her the opportunity to represent the province of Alberta around the world. Naturally collaborative, she is passionate about building networks and guiding people toward achieving a greater goal. Over the last decade, she has been instrumental in expanding Alberta’s role on the international stage and supporting local companies in seeing their export potential. As Edmonton Global’s Director of Trade, Manisha is excited to grow the already vibrant export ecosystem of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Outside of work, you can find Manisha with her family, enjoying a book, or planning her next adventure.
Brent has been leading clean energy initiatives within Alberta for over three decades. His knowledge of Alberta’s innovation ecosystem and experience in forging industry-government partnerships will help position the Edmonton Metropolitan Region as Canada’s preeminent net zero hydrogen hub. Brent runs, bikes, and skis on Edmonton’s extensive trail network in his free time.
Madison Côté is a skilled business professional with a strong background in marketing and communications. Born and raised in Edmonton, Madison received a degree in Political Science from Carleton University before obtaining a CSPO designation and business diploma from MacEwan University.
In her free time, Madison enjoys playing video games and spending time with friends and family. She is also a Women in Games Ambassador, advocating for greater representation and inclusivity in the gaming industry. In addition to her passion for gaming, Madison is also a strong supporter of small and local businesses and enjoys a good bowl of ramen. In region, you can find Madison exploring our incredible river valley, attending or volunteering for one of our festivals, or navigating the world of esports.
A born and raised Edmontonian, Robert has a deep love of his city and its people. You can find him running one of the many river valley trails with his dog Max or golfing at one of the local courses. With an education in BioChem, Robert has diverse in-depth experience and knowledge advising, overseeing, and growing companies internationally in the biotechnology, petrochemicals, and nutraceuticals industries. Along with a rich history in international travel, particularly overseeing European and South-East Asian markets, he’s brought new business opportunities and initiatives abroad, growing Canadian companies and establishing and maintaining partnerships—and he’s bilingual in English and French. His success in business comes not only from his technical knowledge and expertise but that he enjoys helping and seeing those around him succeed. Robert brings his skills in long-term relationship building, investment, international business development, and trade initiative enhancement to any table.
Amanpreet is a charismatic, driven self-starter with a passion to help organizations grow. Born and raised in Sherwood Park, Alberta, she was drawn to the business development world early as she watched her parents succeed in running their own businesses. After completing her BCom degree with a management major, she knew that she wanted to be a leader. When she’s not supporting Edmonton Global’s investment attraction activities, Amanpreet is pursuing her passions for reading, fashion, travelling, and trying any and every new restaurant or café in the region.
A born storyteller, Sherri loves the thrill that comes from taking complex issues and translating them into simple messages that are easily understood. Having lived in and around Edmonton all her life, she’s excited to be able to use her love of the written word to promote the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. A true Edmontonian, Sherri lives for the summer months when you can often find her hitting up the various Edmonton festivals, camping with friends or hanging out in a park with her nose in a book.
Brianna is a master at breaking down difficult concepts and encouraging others to consider the big picture. She’s excited to help our region improve its global competitiveness by developing policy solutions and providing thought leadership on economic transformation.Brianna has several years of experience working at public policy think tanks and has had her work featured in media outlets and institutions across the country. She grew up in Calgary, earning a Master’s degree in political science at the University of Calgary, and has since made the Edmonton region her home. A lover of learning as well as of travel, Brianna has sought out opportunities to learn about economics, philosophy, politics, and history throughout the world, including the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Brianna has an eclectic range of hobbies, from playing the flute to snowmobiling with her family in the mountains.
Michelle has lived and worked in the Edmonton region for over 25 years supporting new business opportunities, research and innovation. She is passionate about building connections between partner organizations, businesses, governments, academia, Indigenous communities, and regional municipalities. She believes that if we do it together, it will be better! Away from the office, Michelle enjoys watching and participating in sports, travelling to new destinations, and spending time at the family cabin.
Almas was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan and moved Canada in 2015. With a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Almas has more than 15 years of experience in higher education teaching and research. She is also a Microsoft certified Data Analyst and certified Professional SCRUM Master. Her problem solving and analytical skills enables her to tell stories through data and numbers. Almas is a family-oriented person who loves to spend time with her family and enjoys cooking food from different cuisines. Gardening and exploring Edmonton’s beautiful trails are her favourite past times in the summers.
Amanda has a knack for finding creative solutions. If she doesn’t know something, she knows who does. With over 15 years of hands-on regional experience working with the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA), the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board, and now Edmonton Global, Amanda’s portfolio includes executive and operational support, as well as programs and event management. An enthusiast of triple espresso and non-fiction, Amanda can be found discovering new adventures in literature and movies.
Maria loves to create things from scratch and make them beautiful. She’s a master at finding efficiency and enjoys exploring new technology. Maria immigrated to Canada from the Philippines in 2010 when she first landed in Ontario. Since 2013 she’s called Edmonton her home. She recently received her diploma as an administrative professional. Maria enjoys spending her time volunteering at her church, honing her baking skills, hiking, exploring in nature and playing the ukulele.
Born and raised in the Edmonton region and a proud MacEwan University Griffin Alumni, Victor played for the Men’s ice hockey team while studying Economics. Victor is driven by fact-based research and believes that the truth can always be found if one is diligent in its pursuit. Now, he is furthering his education and studying Political Economy. Victor has a passion for economics, but also enjoys reading classical economic literature on his spare time. In his time off, Victor is on the ice with his team, coaching minor hockey, or giving back to his community.
Before joining Edmonton Global, Kessia regaled travellers with tales of the natural and cultural history of Jasper National Park as she navigated the waters of Maligne Lake as a boat captain. In 2020, she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from NAIT. And during an obvious lull in the travel and tourism sector in 2021, she completed her Public Relations Diploma at MacEwan University, translating her love of storytelling into a career where she can share the successes of the Edmonton region. An outdoor lover, you can find Kessia backcountry camping, snowboarding, hiking, or biking on weekends.
A proud Edmontonian, Ben believes the Edmonton Metropolitan Region is the best place for the economy of the future to be built. Born and raised in St. Albert, Ben attended the University of Alberta and upon graduation, worked in multiple capacities for elected officials at both the federal and provincial levels. Prior to joining Edmonton Global, he worked as a Policy Advisor in the Alberta Government for the Minister of Jobs, Economy, and Innovation, and he is excited to bring his experience to Edmonton Global to help develop and grow the Edmonton Region. When not at work, you can find Ben running in the river valley, hiking in the Alberta Rockies, or checking out the latest trendy restaurant in town.
Kristen is a native of central Alberta that loves Edmonton’s vibrant culture and tight-knit community. Originally from Stettler, Kristen came to Edmonton to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology at the University of Alberta. Prior to joining Edmonton Global, she worked in the non-profit sector, specifically in charitable organizations, and her most recent role was serving as the Interim Executive Director of the Realtors Community Foundation. Throughout her career, she has excelled in public relations, stakeholder engagement, non-profit leadership, and communications, leveraging her expertise to drive meaningful change. Kristen’s love for Edmonton extends beyond her career aspirations, as she adores the city’s stunning river valley, where seeks out new outdoor spaces to immerse herself in. In her free time, Kristen loves finding good deals at thrift stores, visiting local farmer’s markets, and spending time with family.
Enzo is a partner and former managing partner of Bennett Jones LLP, a top-tier national and international law firm and co-head of Bennett Jones’ Government Affairs and Public Policy group. He has extensive experience in commercial electrical power and gas transactions, mergers, and acquisitions with a focus on transactions in the pharmaceutical sector, forestry purchase and sale transactions, major commercial leases, and major commercial and financing transactions. He also acts on airport management and operations transactions and related joint ventures.
Adam is the Founder and CEO of Bitcoin Well, the first publicly traded Bitcoin ATM company globally. He is recognized as a true visionary in the field and strives to bring bitcoin to the mainstream, making it easy, approachable, and accessible for all. Adam is a leading advocate for education, consumer protection, and financial services decentralization.
Ms. Kollman is a dedicated community builder in our region having served on the Boards of Travel Alberta, Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, Compute Canada and the United Way of the Alberta Capital Region. Bernie retired from IBM Canada Ltd., where she served as vice president of IBM’s public sector business in Alberta and senior executive for Edmonton contributing to that organization for over 30 years. She is currently a forum chair of MacKay CEO Forums, a peer mentoring group of CEOs and executives working with their biggest challenges and opportunities to drive stronger business results.
Mr. Randhawa is the founder and President of Randhawa Consulting Ltd., a boutique analytics and strategy firm. Prior to this, Mr. Randhawa served as Vice President, Marketing & Sales at Finning (Canada), Chief Marketing Officer/Chief Strategy Officer at SCM Insurance Services, and co-founder and President of First Foundation Mortgage Corporation. Mr. Randhawa currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation and the board of First Foundation Inc.
Paul is the past President & CEO of the Clark Builders Group of Companies – a commercial, industrial, and institutional builder operating throughout Western and Northern Canada. Paul’s respect for his colleagues, visionary leadership and industry knowledge combine to provide clients, trades, and employees foundation for sharing in a great experience. Presently, Paul participates on several advisory board’s bringing his expertise and market knowledge to these private companies.
Sheetal has 20 years of international experience in VC and technology; she created the VC strategy for Bill Gates at Microsoft globally and served as Deal Maker for the UK Government’s Global Entrepreneur Programme. She facilitated fundraising of 1 billion GBP for over 900 companies. In 2020- 2021 Sheetal was appointed as Chief Strategy Officer, Ministry for Jobs, Economy and Innovation in Alberta. Most recently, she was appointed Senior Advisor to the President of the University of Alberta to focus on spin-outs, access to smart capital, and innovation.
Dr. Blade was born in Alberta where he was raised on a dairy and grain farm, and now serves as Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences (ALES) at the University of Alberta. He previously served as CEO of the Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions Corporation during which time he led the management and disbursement of their investment portfolio worth $75 million, supporting projects totalling $250 million.
Tanis is the Vice President and General Manager at Direct Energy – one of Alberta’s largest natural gas and electricity retailers. She is a member of NRG’s Home Leadership Team and is a Direct Energy Marketing Limited Board Director & Officer. In addition to over 20 years of experience in retail energy, Tanis has held senior roles in operations, sales, product development, strategy and enterprise project management with TELUS, EPCOR and ADC Telecom – Systems Software Division.
Sharilee is currently the Chief Operating Officer of Dialog Design in Edmonton Alberta, and an active board director. In addition to the advisory board of Annelida, she serves on the board of Alberta Enterprise Corporation, Alberta Safety Codes Council, and Pilgrims Hospice, and until recently Farm Credit Canada, Alberta Jubilee Society Auditoria, and as Chair of the TELUS World of Science Edmonton. Sharilee has a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta, a Master of Business Administration, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation, and is a graduate of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD.D). Sharilee Fossum is a versatile leader drawn to building organizations, driving innovation, and leading teams through change to enhance performance culture. She has been privileged to lead in profit and non-profit organizations across a variety of industries. An experienced executive in operations, corporate services, and finance, Sharilee has held CEO, COO, and CFO roles.
William (Billy) Morin Nahtokitopi (Sacred Rider) was elected as the youngest Chief in Enoch Cree Nation’s modern history in 2015, and served three consecutive terms leading one of Alberta’s most progressive indigenous communities. During his tenure, Morin honored the original spirit and intent of Treaty Six by working with all levels of government, private sector, and international investment to build a more a prosperous Enoch, Edmonton and Alberta. Morin championed Reconcili-Action by creating unprecedented new business partnerships in commercial development, infrastructure, gaming, carbon capture, municipal relations, health care, gas and utilities major infrastructure development for Enoch, and local First Nations – projects that required over $750 million in total investment for Enoch alone. He was appointed Grand Chief of the 17 First Nations of the Confederacy of Treaty Six for the year 2020; a position responsible to be the leading voice for the nearly 80,000 First Nations people in the region. He has most recently served as Special Advisor to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith for Indigenous Relations; and is Managing Director for Axxcleus Capital Corporation, a financial firm dedicated to facilitating Indigenous ownership in large economic projects across Canada.
Frank Mannarino, P.Eng., MBA, ICD.D is the Senior Vice President, Water Services with EPCOR Utilities where he responsible for the operation of the integrated water cycle in Edmonton, including water production and distribution, and wastewater collection and treatment. Before this position, Frank held other executive positions in EPCOR, including Senior Vice-President of Corporate Services, where he was responsible for the Human Resources, Information Services, Health, Safety & Environment functions, along with the Energy Services business providing billing, energy procurement and customer care. Prior to this role, Frank was Senior Vice-President of Electricity Operations, responsible for power distribution and transmission in Edmonton. Before joining EPCOR in 2010, Frank held a number of senior roles in business and operations at Shell Canada. He holds a BSc in Chemical Engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Alberta. Frank is also currently Chair of the Board of Directors of the Telus World of Science Edmonton.
