Did you know that chambers of commerce have a long history as pillars of healthy democracies? By supporting free enterprise, we serve the varied voices of our entrepreneurs and speak up for innovation that benefits everyone.
This year offers British Columbians a chance to be part of a historic election that could have profound implications for Greater Victoria and for businesses in the province. You have to go back to 2017 for the last time B.C. elected a government in a non-pandemic — a.k.a. normal — year. If you recall, the 2017 election was one of the tightest races the province has ever seen. The B.C. Liberals won the most seats with 43, but the B.C. NDP worked out a deal to combine their 41 seats with the B.C. Green party’s three seats to form a minority government. That was under former Premier John Horgan, the longtime Langford MLA, who brought remarkable stability to government. Horgan’s leadership was beneficial for Greater Victoria as our region had strong representation in cabinet. Then, in 2020, when we were all facing a common fight against COVID, the B.C. NDP called a snap election and won a significant majority. Fast forward to 2022 and Horgan steps down for health reasons, allowing David Eby to be acclaimed as the B.C. NDP leader and the 37th Premier in B.C.’s history. Now, with an election scheduled for Oct. 19, Premier Eby has a chance to affirm his leadership by being formally elected by British Columbians. And while formal campaigning doesn’t officially begin until the writ drops, it’s fair to say that candidates are already working to get their messages in front of voters. Over the years, I’ve hosted numerous all-candidates meetings and election information panels. Every one of those events was aimed at providing the electorate with good information they could use to make their choice in the ballot box. For many years, we could count on packing whichever community hall or repurposed rink we were using for the event. People were hungry for information from those who sought their vote. That’s changed, of course, as the world has moved online. There’s no shortage of digital spaces to talk politics or hear partisan rhetoric. It’s more convenient but a far cry from the connection you feel when you’re in the same room as others — regardless of their opinion. In fact, I would argue that gathering together for town halls or events like Chamber Business Leaders Luncheons is the balm the world needs right now. Engaging in conversation with people over a meal helps bring civility to our discourse. It gives us a chance to consider perspectives that can expand our understanding of an issue. And it helps us get to the root of issues that all of us want to solve, such as housing supply, safe communities and workforce retention. Democracy takes work and the more you put into it the more you get out. If you’re concerned about the future of our province and about what our economy will be like for our kids and grandkids, be the change you want to see. I hope you can join me and Greater Victoria’s business community as we host leaders from B.C.’s major parties, starting April 30 with B.C. Premier David Eby of the B.C. NDP. Our members have many questions for the current Premier and those who want the job, and we’re always grateful for the opportunity to hear directly from these leaders about how they see government working with the private sector to strengthen our economy. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column originally appeared in the Business Examiner on April 26, 2024
0 Comments
This is a provincial election year, which means it’s an excellent time to get the ear of candidates who will represent British Columbians in the 43rd Parliament of B.C.
What do you want to hear from government, and better yet, what do you want done to improve life in this province? It is a challenging time for many businesses. Rising costs are squeezing already tight margins and high interest rates have made it harder to invest in the new equipment and staff necessary for staying competitive. I speak with business owners daily and hear their stories about how they’re working hard to make ends meet. Thankfully, there is good news on the horizon as many economists, including the team at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, are optimistic that better days await. We can all help make sure conditions improve by continuing to call on our elected officials to understand what businesses need to innovate and create jobs. Last month, I was thrilled to see the province finally listened to The Chamber and B.C. business associations who have been calling for an increase in the exemption to the Employer Health Tax. The 2024 B.C. Budget changed the EHT to only affect employers with payrolls above $1 million instead of $500,000. We’d like to see the exemption even higher, or the EHT removed completely, as there’s good evidence showing that productivity increases when businesses can increase wages or promote staff without concern of triggering a higher tax bill. Another concern for our business community and our region in general is the lack of success the government is having addressing street crime and toxic drug overdoses. Currently, we’re working with more than 90 organizations concerned with the state of downtowns across the province. The Save Our Streets coalition recently released a statement calling on the province to heed the findings of B.C.’s Auditor General. The report by Michael Pickup found that decisions regarding harm reduction programs were being based on outdated information and did not accurately reflect the shift in dangerous street drugs. That, as well as other concerns, led the AG to suggest a policy rethink is needed. We agree it's time for a new approach. Anyone who has spent time with Greater Victoria’s business community knows how incredibly compassionate and caring it is. Businesses are often on the frontline of street disorder. They are the ones who interact directly with people in distress outside their storefronts. We hear daily about how aggressive shoplifting and senseless property crime shatters the sense of safety people need to have in their workplace. We’ve been calling for government to fix our broken legal system to make sure repeat offenders are kept off our streets. We also want adequate investment in addiction treatment facilities so they can be accessed faster, as well as involuntary care made available for people who are unable to care for themselves. Yes, these are complicated solutions, but the alternative has proven devastating. If the public wants this change, there is no better time to give our public officials the mandate to do so than an election. You can hear more about work being done to promote Safe Communities and how supporting employee mental health can increase productivity at The Chamber's AGM on April 16 featuring Jonny Morris, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association B.C.; Carolina Ibarra, CEO of Pacifica Housing Advisory Association; and Chief Del Manak, Victoria Police Department. You can also join me for a seat at the table with B.C.'s Premier, as The Chamber hosts the Hon. David Eby on April 30 for a breakfast and discussion about business in B.C. Our members have many questions for the Premier, and I'm grateful for this opportunity to get answers and learn more about the government's plans to help the private sector strengthen our economy. Register at victoriachamber.ca. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
VICTORIA, BC – After 161 years as western Canada’s first chamber of commerce, we know the mere mention of the word “taxes” is a good way to get a reaction. We also know that businesses recognize the value of the public service and what rankles them is wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money. This is why our work never ends helping elected officials understand how their decisions affect businesses and the economic vibrancy of their community. This year, Chamber Chair Kris Wirk and I have reached out to all of our member municipalities offering to engage with them on their ongoing financial planning. Local governments have a long list of traditional services they are responsible for delivering to their citizens, and any additional programs promised by politicians must be costed out and added to their budgets. Often these early proposals read like a holiday wish list that would require large tax increases to fund. The final budgets are almost always much leaner, and less politically risky, because councils and their committees work with city staff to whittle down the promises. Eventually they arrive at a budget that covers the basics with a few new expenses that were promised to the electorate. At that point, after accounting for revenue from sources such as user fees and grants from higher governments, municipalities use property taxes to ensure they can balance their budgets. This is a very high-level explanation, of course, but I think it’s important for business people to understand the process so we can offer our experience and expertise in budgeting discussions. Over the years we’ve seen some councils play favourites by increasing taxes on business in an attempt to reduce the burden on residents. Typically, this happens because residents can vote while businesses can’t — or at least have a very narrow opportunity to do so. The obvious problem with this is it’s short-sighted. Businesses vote with their feet and will eventually relocate to jurisdictions where they can thrive. And once they leave, it’s hard to get them back or to convince other businesses to set up shop. This affects the quality of life in a community in many ways — fewer nearby jobs and a loss of goods and services that residents had come to expect. Of course, this leads to residents voting for politicians with a longer-term view of their community. Fortunately, in my experience, it’s rare to meet a municipal councillor or mayor who doesn’t appreciate the value that good business brings to their constituents. Getting elected and being an effective member of a local government is not easy, and the people who choose this service do so because they genuinely have the best interests of their community at heart. As the region’s chamber, we work closely with the other community chambers to help local councils understand the tools they have available. For example, we make sure they are conscientious of the gap between residential and commercial tax rates, as well as the percentage of revenue they are asking businesses to contribute to the municipal budget. Fair rules and a chance to thrive is not too much to ask, but it’s important for business that we make that point with government The province mandates that municipalities adopt their annual tax rate before May 15 each year. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
VICTORIA, BC – A new year means a new Board of Directors for the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. Board elections are held every summer, with terms officially beginning Jan. 1 every year. Kris Wirk enters his second year as Chair. A partner at Dusanj & Wirk Chartered Professional Accountants, Kris is a seasoned professional with more than 15 years of experience in accounting and tax services. He brings a clear vision to the table, honed during his three years as an understudy on the board. His tenure as Past Chair of The Chamber’s Public Policy and Advocacy committee positions him well to drive positive changes in response to the challenges facing the regional economy. Christina Clarke continues as Vice Chair. The Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Centre, Christina's dedication to Indigenous reconciliation aligns with The Chamber's commitment to fostering connections with First Nations for the betterment of the entire community. Her role as the nominee for the Victoria Esquimalt Harbour Society showcases the Chamber's commitment to meaningful engagement on multiple fronts. Also back for a second year are John Wilson as Past Chair and James Gatsi as Secretary. New to the Board Executive this year is Treasurer Deborah Huelscher. John, President and CEO of The Wilson's Group of Companies, provides steadfast leadership, which was instrumental over the past three years during challenging times. His unwavering dedication to the community is reflected in his role supporting new leadership. As Secretary, James brings his dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and IT expertise to the board. James is the CEO of CL Web Developers Inc., and is committed to fostering a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive business environment in Greater Victoria. Deborah brings more than 20 years of public sector financial knowledge as the Vice-President, Administration, and CFO at Camosun College. We’re very grateful to have someone with her extensive experience acting as The Chamber's financial steward. Family Business Committee Chair Dean Clarke, owner of Tru Value Foods, begins his first full year as a Director. The ensemble of Directors includes accomplished professionals from various sectors, each adding a unique perspective to the board's dynamics and bringing a wealth of expertise from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a well-rounded and inclusive representation. Returning Directors include Rose Arsenault (Branch Manager at Agilus Work Solutions), Judith Ethier (CAO for the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority), Pedro Marquez (Professor, Strategic Management & International Business at Royal Roads University), Richard Michaels (president of MACCRIM Solutions), Josue Dubon (Co-Founder and Wealth Mentor at DesignWealth), Ann Squires Ferguson (CEO of Western Design + Build) and Jessica Stigant (Associate Director of Government Relations and Partnerships at Ocean Networks Canada). Captain (Navy) Kevin Whiteside also returns as an appointed Director because of his role as CFB Esquimalt Base Commander. Non-voting members Bruce Williams, Chamber CEO, and Frumsa Ibrahim, Chair of the Emerge Committee and Regional Director of Operations for Scandinavian Building Service, further enrich the leadership team with their unique insights and experiences. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is poised for another year of promoting progress, building connections with energetic entrepreneurs and remaining a vital force in the region's business community. As the torch passes to this exceptional board, The Chamber looks forward to navigating the future with resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the prosperity of Greater Victoria. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Normally at this time of year, columns such as this offer a retrospective of the past 12 months. However, do you really want to read yet another opinion on inflation and interest rates? I’m guessing not. The good news is we might finally be able to stop fixating on these two economic specters, which have haunted discussions about the economy and business matters all year. It seems the tide is turning. It won’t happen overnight, but the consensus among most analysts is the fiscal tightening has worked and we can look forward to loosening our belts a little in 2024. That said, as we’ve learned from the past four years, no one really knows what the future will bring and what potential new challenges might arise. In fact, some economists, such as Benjamin Tal and Ali Jaffery at CIBC, are sounding a new warning for businesses. They say the economic events of the last few years have revealed a fundamental shift business need to consider. After decades of underinvesting in infrastructure, our new era of tighter margins means many organizations will be forced to make major capital investments to remain profitable. It's a new paradigm that requires embracing new tech — specifically generative artificial intelligence —as well as modernizing key tools and rethinking management styles. It’s something we’ll be speaking more about as Greater Victoria’s business community continues to face challenges with finding and keeping staff while balancing rising input costs that are eventually borne by customers. Another part of this modernization, which I hope all organizations are already embracing, involves building resilience by looking honestly at our business. Do we accurately reflect the diversity of our communities, or can we be better? In the past, there was a view that DEI initiatives were “nice to have” or an accessory to daily operations. But they really are so much more than just doing the right thing. Smart businesses are choosing to invest in inclusiveness because it pragmatically increases productivity and resilience. In 2023, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce was recognized for being ahead of the curve on this work. Since then, I’m hearing from more organizations that are experiencing growth because they’ve adopted inclusive initiatives. The world is changing, and to stay successful we need to change with it. That theme was driven home for us this year as The Chamber celebrated our 160th anniversary. Looking back at why we were founded in 1863 — and how we managed to stay relevant over the decades — the overarching lesson has really proved that old saying, “the past is a foreign country.” We have thrived for 160 years because we have always tried to think ahead to support the next generation. In 2024, you can count on The Chamber to continue the services we have always provided. We’ll be advocating on behalf of business:
Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
As we head into December and the start of winter, the morning commute is definitely getting chillier. The rituals of scraping your windshield before driving and packing a warm sweater to wear until the office warms up symbolize the changing season. If you grew up in a colder clime — I was raised in Southern Ontario — there’s something exciting about the sharpness of the cold air that takes me back to being a kid. It’s a sign the holidays are near, and snow is on its way. And it means a new hockey season is underway and a fresh chance for your team to bring home a championship. Hockey is known as Canada’s game (sorry lacrosse). Even Canadians who aren’t diehard fans get caught in the hype that builds with every new season. The game has seeped into our culture and our boardrooms. How often do hear hockey-isms away from the rink?
In Greater Victoria, hockey is a huge part of our culture — even though outdoor skating and winter snowscapes are fleeting compared to the rest of Canada. In January, our region will celebrate all things hockey as Victoria hosts Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada, happening Jan. 17-20 at Ship Point. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is one of many organizations lending their support. This is our moment, our power play where we’ll score on a national level. The opportunity to show off our spectacular region during a national broadcast is invaluable, as is the chance for Canadians to hear from First Nations — including the Songhees Nation who will bring the Stanley Cup into the Inner Harbour in a canoe! The power that sports has to bring people together is invaluable. Ask anyone who has played, there are so many fascinating and important stories that people will have a chance to share as they gather to watch an alumni game or strap on skates to take a glide across the ice themselves. Events like this make a difference to our downtown businesses. Hockey is a great unifier (unless of course you’re supporting the other team) and a wonderful excuse to encourage thousands of people to gather together in Downtown Victoria for a common love. It is a fabulous place for a fun time, even in the middle of January. The extra foot-traffic will benefit retailers and restaurants and help animate the area for visitors and locals. The boost can’t come too soon, either. After many months of economic uncertainty, some positive activity will be welcomed by businesses still waiting for better times ahead. And economic forecasts look good, with many experts calling for the economy to spring back to life by the end of winter. We will get there, one step at a time. Let’s stay optimistic and make sure to check in on everyone in our lives who might need a little encouragement right now. The start of winter is known to be difficult for many people. I’m happy that the coming festival of hockey will also help shine a light on the importance of mental health. The event’s local charitable beneficiary is the Courtnall Society for Mental Health, which works to promote a better understanding of mental health. The society has raised more than $3 million since 2003 to fund the opening of the Archie Courtnall Centre at Royal Jubilee Hospital and support the Patient Care Centre. The society’s goal now is to help other organizations through grants that help provide mental health programming. We’re looking forward to a hat trick of great events in January and February that unify our region, showcase our downtown, and add a little something to look forward to as we embrace changing seasons and better days ahead. .Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
What does it mean to do good business? Saying “business is good” has traditionally meant an operation is profitable and the outlook for remaining so is positive. But good business also speaks to the powerful force for positivity businesses have on our communities. They drive innovation, create jobs and set the pace needed to keep up in a competitive world. For the most successful organizations, doing good business means operating in an ethical way that doesn’t shy away from social and environmental responsibilities. Quite honestly, I’m convinced that all businesses can benefit from including social and environmental outcomes as key measures of their bottom line. The reality of our times is that climate action leadership is critical to our health and safety. Weather events that had been labelled as once in a generation or 100-year occurrences now happen regularly. Heat domes and atmospheric rivers threaten to disrupt supply chains and overwhelm infrastructure we rely on daily. Many businesses also have room to improve how their organization reflects our social reality. Our social reality also can be better reflected in our organizations, especially in governance. Our community consists of people who bring many different experiences and cultures that enrich the values we all share. The multitude of perspectives offers context needed to make sense of complex situations. We are especially lucky to have Indigenous knowledge that, if we listen, can teach us about how precious life is in our region and what we can do to support a sustainable landscape for our kids. We won’t get this if we wear blinders and insist our way of knowing is the best or only way. In some ways, we can compare it to what we’ve learned about economic resiliency. There was a time when courting single industries was considered the key to ensuring economic prosperity. How many Canadian towns doubled down on a big resource company or major manufacturer in order to preserve jobs? In Greater Victoria, we’ve been a government and navy town for most of our official existence and our robust public sector is arguably the foundation of our economy. In some ways it’s a blessing as government jobs are less sensitive to the ebbs and flows of economic cycles. But can you imagine what life would be like without our tourism, industrial and tech sectors? The work done over the decades to diversify and promote our destination now provides residents and visitors with world-class attractions, accommodation and experiences. Those attributes helped attract top talent in the tech sector and, in turn, those workers with advanced skills are helping rejuvenate traditional industries such as the marine sector. We welcome this month’s news that the province is heeding calls from business groups such as The Chamber to recognize certifications and skills people bring with them when they come to BC. Employers have jobs that need to be filled to help our economy reach its potential. All of these parts add up to a sum that now provides future generations with an exceptional array of opportunities. Diversification and diversity give us strength. The evidence is undeniable. The more options, the more opportunities. The more perspectives, the better our context for making good decisions. At the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, we believe in diversity, equity and inclusion and our efforts are being recognized. Earlier this month, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce honoured us with an Inclusive Growth Award. I was also personally honoured with the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada as Executive of the Year. Both awards are feathers in our cap for our remarkable board of directors, our staff and all of our members. But, most of all, it reflects our community. I encourage all organizations to learn more about initiatives such as the 50/30 challenge that empower you to make positive changes and help you do good business. This column originally appeared in the October edition of the Business Examiner. September marks the official shift from summer into fall.
For many businesses, it’s a time to shift gears on their annual strategies. A lot of organizations slow down in July and August as staff and clients spend time on holidays, before ramping back up in September to finish their year with a productive fourth quarter. Other businesses make hay while the days are long, catering to visitors and the summer crowds that keep our hospitality sector healthy. For them, the start of school and slower nights can add to the challenge of finding and keeping staff. And, for some, the slower season is their chance to take a break before planning for the year ahead. Any time your business experiences a shift, it’s important to be prepared for the change. I’m thinking specifically about two areas that are becoming more important than ever and deserve a good roadmap. The first is climate action leadership. Fall might be here, but many regions of British Columbia are still experiencing the effects of ongoing forest fires. The province has experienced an extended stretch of dry weather, which means drought conditions could impact farmers’ future harvests. Dry watersheds can also leave communities prone to flooding when the rain does finally arrive. These events are devastating and, sadly, part of our new paradigm. Climatologists tell us we can longer dismiss catastrophic events as “once in a lifetime” or “100-year” events. The truth is, we don’t know how often these events will occur going forward. That means we need to plan for realities that past generations never imagined. Food security, for example, has proven to be much more of a vulnerability than expected. The good news is that there are innovators in our business community who recognize the challenges and are doing amazing work to provide solutions. This is an opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs. The demand for sustainability is growing, and I’m excited to see how the market responds to supply the goods and services that the public wants. At The Chamber, we’re planning to support this shift by showcasing how businesses thrive as part of this change, while continuing our advocacy for investment in innovations led by the private sector. We also see an increasing opportunity to learn from Indigenous ways of knowing by supporting the growth of First Nations entrepreneurs. Their perspective on the centering sustainability in the vision statement of all organizations is truly invaluable. The other seismic event occurring in the business world is the need for succession planning. Almost every country is facing an aging population as my generation, the baby boomers, looks to wind down after many decades in the workforce. For family businesses, this can mean that parents who have been hands on in day-to-day operations begin to delegate more duties to the children who have grown into larger roles within the organization. It’s a beautiful transition, though one ripe with pitfalls. Thankfully, there exists a wonderful and supportive community of family business owners on Vancouver Island. I’m proud to announce that The Chamber has formally joined the mission to help future generations find harmony and success. This summer, we created a new Family Business Committee to take on the work of the former Family Business Association of Vancouver Island. The shift was the result of succession planning and is a positive change for both organizations. For example, we are proud to host a special dinner this month with David Bentall, one of B.C.’s top experts on family businesses. David has experienced a lot in his career, including the traumatic fracturing of a powerful family empire and the joy of leading one of the province’s most iconic property developers. He’s now an author and speaker and we’re thrilled to host him on Sept. 27. I hope you’ll join us. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce The column originally appeared in the September edition of the Business Examiner. A few years back, before the pandemic rewired so much of our daily routines and outlooks, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce began the process of renewing our website. We brought in a project manager who was familiar with the region — its quirky governance and the diversity of communities that make up Greater Victoria. We also hired a tremendously bright university student who knew what was needed under the hood to make sure the site looked and worked like we wanted.
The site’s layout started with a focus on membership, members and events. Fair enough. Every organization is dependent on revenue and The Chamber does not receive a penny from government. But as the site was built out, it was our advocacy efforts that truly shone. They are embedded in everything a chamber does. Yes, we offer great deals on insurance and powerful connections that are so much more than transactional relationships. We are also deeply connected to our communities, giving us authenticity when we speak as the Voice of Business. Advocacy is why the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1863, the first chamber in what would become Western Canada and it’s why chambers across the Island work so hard to help their communities. Look at almost any initiative, policy or investment that benefits local economies and you won’t have to dig too deep to find a connection to the local chamber. However, as we saw with our website redesign, the work done behind the scenes is not always obvious. We can’t confuse political theatre with effective advocacy. Making noise for noise’s sake is great for headlines and viral news but it’s rarely the most effective way to bring about positive change or attract investment. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has a sterling reputation for advocacy. We work on behalf of business to nurture relationships with all levels of government as well as representatives of all industries and all communities. When policy makers need help understanding what business needs, they turn to us. And when an individual business needs answers, we help them get through to the people who have those answers. It’s why Belleville Terminal is finally on track for modernization, why our marine borders were opened in time to salvage the 2021 tourism season, why child care is now understood to be an investment that helps employers and why thousands of businesses were able to find a way through the darkest of days of the pandemic. If the advocacy efforts of chambers weren’t evident before, they were front and center during a time of great uncertainty. To build a better future you have to roll up your sleeves, not just pointing out issues, but getting to work providing options and connecting government and business to build strong communities. It’s what the Island Chamber Policy Alliance continues to do, even if it doesn’t get a lot of fanfare. We work together to identify common challenges and then work even harder to solve them. Housing supply, supply chain solutions, safe communities and systemic labour shortages are big, complex issues that will take time to solve. You can bet that local chambers are in the thick, finding ways to move the needle bit-by-bit. One day, new concerns will be on our minds and we’ll forget about the work done to solve yesterday’s problems. Over the decades, chamber members have pushed for investment or policies that led to many of the icons and landmarks we continue to enjoy across the region: The Empress, shipbuilding facilities, ferry service to the mainland and to Washington State, the airport, the first parking garage in the city, E&N rail and the University of Victoria are a few of our accomplishments. The Chamber also initiated or helped with establishing the South Island Film Commission, South Island Prosperity Partnership, VIATEC and Destination Greater Victoria. Similar stories can be heard in every community with a chamber — if you’re willing to listen. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
I hope everyone is enjoying summer and has had a chance to shift gears to new projects in your professional and personal lives. A change of pace can offer a new perspective, allowing for course corrections that keep you and your business on track. The work never ends at The Chamber. There is always something next on our list — and I wouldn’t have it any other way. As a 160-year-old organization, we thrive by staying in a constant state of renewal. One way we do this is through annual elections that add fresh voices to our Board of Directors. Every summer, we open up applications for candidate nominations ahead of a fall vote by our members. This year, we have four seats up for election. Whoever is elected will serve a two-year term. We stagger the number of positions up for renewal each year to balance continuity with new voices. The quality of our board members is phenomenal, with business and community leaders representing organizations of all sizes. We have also recently made strides in our reputation as a welcoming place for all people amplifying a diversity of voices. I’m proud of our efforts to become an organization where everyone who shares our vision and mission can belong. We believe in working together to build good business and great community for all, and we strive to be the region’s most diverse and influential business association. That focus is reflected in the composition of our current Board. It is composed of strong individuals, passionate about business, 47% of whom identify as women, 33% from communities that have been under-represented in the past and 20% are new Canadians who chose to build their lives in our region. It takes effort to do the right thing, but the payoff is well worth it. I might be biased, but our Board continues to amaze me with how it overcomes challenges with inspiring creativity and innovative thinking. This year has been fraught with an economy beset by punishing interest rates and pervasive inflation. It’s a confusing time for businesses and, thanks to the support of our Board, The Chamber has worked to shine a light into the shadows of uncertainty. We hosted the Bank of Canada’s Economic Progress Report in June and B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation in May. We continue to seek information so we can share it with our members and, hopefully, help them make sense of the confusion. This year’s Board has also delivered a major win for our region. Funding is finally in place for the redevelopment of Belleville Terminal. This is big news that has huge importance for the future of Greater Victoria. The Chamber has been working to modernize this facility for decades. It’s the gateway to Canada for international visitors arriving in the Inner Harbour and a key transportation link with the United States. Finally, after many years of advocacy efforts, we can expect a new Belleville Terminal to be open for business by 2028. If you’re a member of Greater Victoria’s business community and want to make a difference by joining the region’s most influential business association, I encourage you to learn more at victoriachamber.ca. The column originally appeared in the July edition of the Business Examiner. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
I’m recently back in Greater Victoria following a vacation to Europe and a visit with Amanda’s family. It’s been a few years since we were there, and I was impressed by the massive scale of clean energy projects as we flew over the continent. The wind turbine farms cover miles of pastoral landscapes that were once home to medieval waterwheels and grain mills. Some of these ancient power generating sites still exist as tourist attractions and reminders of the past. But today’s massive, ultramodern turbines are definitely symbols of our ongoing shift to a cleaner energy future. In British Columbia, where almost all of our power in our province is generated by water, BC Hydro is part of our culture. Many BC small towns were built around hydroelectric stations. Their reservoirs have become recreational areas beloved by boaters and anglers. On Vancouver Island, BC Hydro has four hydroelectric systems with six generating systems built between 1911 and 1971. The facilities produce about 471 megawatts, or about four percent of the total energy produced by BC Hydro. Of course, our world is not the same as it was leading up to the 1970s. The demand for electrical power to replace fossil fuels gets stronger every day. We see a good example of this in the rapid adoption of electric vehicles — almost 20 percent of passenger vehicles sold last year were electric. Part of the reason for their popularity can be linked to incentives offered by the federal government as well as Clean BC and the provincial government. The province had been offering a $350 rebate for EV chargers, but the program was so well received it has recently run out of funding. It makes you wonder how British Columbia plans to meet the growing pressure on our electrical grid. To find out, and to learn more about the future of clean energy, The Chamber is hosting BC Hydro CEO Chris O’Riley at our June 28 Business Leaders Luncheon. These events are always high value, with great opportunities to share a table with like-minded business and community leaders. The conversations are illuminating and leave attendees inspired to get back to building their business and improving our community for everyone. BC Hydro has been doing great at educating the public on energy conservation and methods for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Their ongoing work is fascinating as they take a leadership role in generating and delivering electricity in environmentally and socially responsible ways. Hydropower produces energy that does not pollute the air and has negligible greenhouse gas emissions — as low or lower than wind power. Hydropower converts 90% of energy to electricity. That compares to about 60% for the most efficient fossil fuel power plants. Canada has the potential to double the amount of hydropower it currently produces. Doing so will be necessary to make sure there is enough energy to supply the demand from the public and private sector. Governments, public transit and commercial transportation are transitioning to electric vehicle fleets. Individuals and business owners are choosing electric options to cut back on emissions. And there is an insatiable thirst for energy to power the Internet, cryptocurrencies and the myriad devices we have all come to rely on. The world is changing before our eyes — it’s always electrifying to see it change for the better. The column originally appeared in the June edition of the Business Examiner. Submitted by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association, Downtown Victoria Business Association, and the Urban Development Institute – Capital Region.
There has been a lot of talk lately about Downtown Victoria. Who hasn’t chatted about downtown issues with work colleagues, or on the sidelines of our kid’s soccer games? We’re certainly seeing it in our news scrolls and online commentary. Some of the talk is positive. Greater Victoria often ranks highly in lists of desirable places to live, work and visit. Our region has a sterling reputation — especially to people who aren’t from here. The climate is the mildest in Canada, and we’re the main city on an Island oasis covered in magnificent rainforests and facing the vast, enigmatic Pacific Ocean. There are an unlimited number of reasons for locals to get to know their downtown again and use their experience to amplify all the amazing reasons we are so lucky to have a world-class centre in our region. But it would seem many of us believe our own bad publicity. Have we taken on an inferiority complex? Unfortunately, a lot of what we’re hearing about downtown has become disparaging. That’s a concern, especially in today’s world where it’s easy to become trapped in an echo chamber of our own making. There is a cognitive dissonance between our real-world experiences and the stories we hear about property crime and random violence, or of people struggling to survive a life on the street. It’s a discourse that ends up frightening ourselves and each other and makes us ask why nobody is doing anything about it. Crime and violence are real but not rampant as some would have us believe. And at the root of these issues are housing and mental illness. Of course, as with many complex challenges, if there was a simple solution it would have been implemented by now. The reality is that to fix downtown, we first and foremost need to decide that we want to invest in change and then be honest about where things have gone wrong. The most important rethink needed is that Downtown is somehow the sole responsibility of the City of Victoria. Our arbitrary municipal borders are absurd to outsiders because they don’t reflect how we live our lives. Few of us notice when we’re crossing lines drawn on maps as we commute to work and school or go about visiting parks or do our shopping. Downtown Victoria is a place that belongs to everyone who lives in the region. It is, in fact, our collective regional downtown. Even if we don’t experience it daily, it’s always there for us. It’s where we go when entertaining out-of-towners or when we’re celebrating important occasions. Thousands of people come downtown every single day and have fantastic experiences. When we’re out in the city, letting your hair down to have fun should not make you a target. Businesses, their staff and the public all support the role that our police play in building safe communities and neighbourhoods. Stepping up police patrols and increasing bylaw enforcement are part of the solution, and areas that can be addressed by the Police Board and the City of Victoria. The other parts of the solution require the provincial and federal governments to invest in the infrastructure and workforce needed to deal with repeat offenders, and to help people with profound mental illness and addiction challenges. We need to house them and help them on the path to recovery. We urge the provincial and the federal governments to act quickly to deliver these services needed to improve the lives of people on the street, which, in turn, will also improve conditions for businesses and their staff who encounter these issues every day. Much of that talk has tried to address the growing visibility of people in distress on our streets and sidewalks. There is no denying there are challenges in Greater Victoria’s downtown core, as there are in every North American city. We are a compassionate community, and, regardless of political stripes, no one wants to see human beings suffering on city streets. The solution is exceptionally complex and difficult. We need the provincial government to accelerate housing in all areas of the province and also to massively increase support for mental health care and addiction treatment. Let’s keep moving forward with programs such as complex care and find a way to compassionately house and help people who, through illness or addiction, are unable to care for themselves. Homelessness isn’t unique to Victoria. In many West Coast cities, the situation is much more dire. Let’s learn from those jurisdictions so we don’t repeat their mistakes. The ongoing opioid crisis is devastating, but we need to face it head on and not retreat. We need a society-wide commitment to invest in funding the specialized roles required to help people when they need it — not months later when it’s often too late. We are currently unaware of any meaningful plans or actions being taken by the provincial or federal governments to directly address these Downtown issues. This reinforces the emerging public narrative that our downtown is in disarray and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. Faith in our elected leaders is being lost. We are requesting more open and collaborative dialogue so we can come up with a plan together to start the undoubtedly long journey of solving these issues. Also, if you are someone who worked Downtown before the pandemic, don’t you wonder about the people who operate businesses you used to frequent? How are they doing? Maybe it’s time to check in and say hello again. This column originally ran in the May 18 edition of the Times Colonist. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Last June, the Bank of Canada met with the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce to release its June 2022 Economic Progress report. The news was bracing when it came out, and it seems like we’ve been living with the repercussions for a long time. This year that report will be presented at a Greater Victoria Chamber luncheon event happening June 8. Interest rates needed to go up, we heard. For the third straight month, the Bank raised its policy interest rate by 50 basis points, to 1.5%, in an effort to throw cold water on an overheated economy. Inflation threatened to become a runaway train, striking fear in financial circles. The Bank was clear. They could not allow the idea of inflation to become entrenched. The lessons were harsh with history showing the destabilizing potential of persistent inflation as it reduces the value of your savings and erodes purchasing power. One year ago, the Bank of Canada’s Economic Progress Report noted that “interest rate moves can take at least a year to have their full impact on inflation.” We’re seeing that impact now with talk of a coming recession and a plummeting Gross Domestic Product. What do the next 12 months hold for Canada’s economy? Time will tell. The Bank of Canada goes out of its way to be very clear — they are not in possession of a crystal ball (at least not one that can accurately predict the future). But they do try to communicate as clearly as possible. They want to help more Canadians understand the role of the Bank, and the tools it has to protect our economy. Their written promise is to “give Canadians confidence to pursue opportunity.” And they do it by “fostering economic and financial stability,” by “navigating relentless change” and by “helping grow our shared prosperity.” The Bank’s last Economic Progress Report was released in March at a well-attended event hosted by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. At that time, the Bank had already raised its policy interest rate eight times and was starting to see positive signs that inflation was no longer rampant. Household spending was down, and the forces of supply and demand seemed to be returning to balance. However, near historic unemployment rates and ubiquitous concerns about labour shortages make it hard for the Bank to know if the economy has cooled enough. Inflation has dropped but will take many more months to reach its 2% target. In March, the Bank stopped increasing interest rates in a move that made national headlines. What will it do in June? And what will the next Economic Progress Report have to say when it is released in Victoria by Bank of Canada Deputy Governor Paul Beaudry? I’m looking forward to this historic event and hope to see many of our community’s business leaders in attendance. What a great opportunity to say, “I was there.” I’m sure it will be a story you can tell clients and colleagues for a long time. Better yet, it’s a chance to share a moment of history with clients and say “we were there.” As well as the speech from the Bank of Canada, which will be attended by national media, the Chamber is hosting a fabulous luncheon, sponsored by Odlum Brown, City of Victoria and Grant Thornton. The Chamber Business Leaders Luncheons are renowned for connecting Greater Victoria’s business community and providing opportunities for deep insight from subject matter experts. Don’t miss your chance to be there! The column originally appeared in the May edition of the Business Examiner. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce I speak with many business leaders every day and I’m always impressed by the innovative initiatives they’re finding to address common challenges. As the voice of business in the region since 1863, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce stays current by listening and then amplifying what we hear to all levels of government. One of the most effective approaches has been our Business Leaders Luncheons, featuring high-level decision makers. The Chamber’s events team is currently working overtime to prepare for a great series of guest speakers. We hosted B.C.’s Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon at our April Annual General Meeting and are preparing to welcome B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation in May. I’ve had the pleasure of attending a BC Black Business Association event with Minister Brenda Bailey, who is an up-and-comer in government. She’s an experienced business leader and an engaging speaker whose history as a tech entrepreneur helps her understand the types of innovations businesses are making to adapt and thrive in a shifting economy. For those readers who might not be familiar with Minister Bailey, here are three reasons why you want to be there when she speaks with Chamber members on May 8 at the Union Club of B.C. The first is to hear what initiatives her ministry has planned to address labour shortages. Greater Victoria employers have been saying for years that a lack of qualified workers is impacting their business. It’s an issue facing most Canadian cities and many regions across the planet. In Greater Victoria we recently saw the economy add 14,000 jobs. That squeezed our unemployment rate, making our labour market the second tightest in the country. We need to optimize the skills of people in our community, which means things like micro-credentials and faster recognition of certifications that have been earned in other provinces or countries. It’s one way government can help get foreign doctors out of driving a cab and into vital roles in our health care system — no disrespect to taxi drivers as we also need skilled drivers! Another way the province can help B.C. employers grow our provincial economy is by wooing elite talent in the high-tech and creative industries. Greater Victoria is renowned for its quality of life. We need infrastructure like film and sound studios and smart transportation strategies to attract companies and their best people. The third reason you’ll want to hear from Minister Bailey is to find out how government is promoting inclusive workplaces. Changing outdated language in legislation and documents isn’t simply about doing the right thing. It also shows potential employees that they are welcome in your workplace. The sad truth is too many people have been kept on the outside looking in. Even if bias is unintentional, there’s no longer any reason employers should be unaware of it, especially when it’s keeping them from untapped pools of labour. Becoming more diverse and inclusive is what smart leaders are doing, and what we all need to do to stay competitive in our modern economy. If any of these topics interest you, I hope you can join us. It is going to be a dynamic afternoon and a great chance to connect with your peers and colleagues in Greater Victoria’s business community. and make sure to mark your calendar for our June 8 luncheon with the Bank of Canada’s Deputy Governor as he unveils the latest Economic Progress Report for the nation. And, on June 28, we’re hosting an electrifying event with Chris O’Riley, CEO of BC Hydro, as he talks about how B.C. will accommodate surging demand for electricity. See you there! The column originally appeared in the April edition of the Business Examiner. Spring has returned to southern Vancouver Island!
The Chamber was proud to usher in the new season with the 48th annual Flower Count. This evolving tradition began as a fun way to market Greater Victoria to folks in Canada’s prairie cities. Over time, Flower Count has turned into a spirited contest between municipalities to earn the title of Bloomingest Community. This year, Sidney narrowly outpaced North Saanich to take the crown, while a Grade 4 class from Saanich won the elementary school challenge that runs concurrently. Spring also means it’s time for The Chamber to review our own business and gather support from our board and members for the year ahead. The Chamber Annual General Meeting, sponsored by Fortis, is April 18. Our guest speaker is B.C.’s Minister of Housing Ravi Kahlon, who was given a mandate in December to refresh the province’s housing strategy. Many of the details in the mandate are also priorities for business, specifically the initiatives aimed at increasing the supply of accessible and affordable housing for people of all incomes. We know that the cost of paying rent or mortgage as well as the difficulty finding a suitable home are major deterrents for people who want to build careers and start families in our region. That’s a major concern for employers and the top advocacy priority for our chamber. The pressure is only going to build. WorkBC’s 2022 Labour Market Outlook forecasts 176,700 new employees will be needed by 2033 to fill expected job openings on Vancouver Island. Some of those employees will find homes in existing housing stock as people move into different phases of life. However, with a current housing shortfall, we face a major challenge ensuring our region will have enough homes for every middle-income family and individual, including seniors. Minister Kahlon is someone who knows Greater Victoria well having grown up here and attended UVic. I’m looking forward to hearing the government’s ideas for helping industry build more housing. We need more supply to meet demand for buyers and renters. I’m also interested in hearing more about the minister’s mandate to streamline housing approval processes. Talk to people who work in construction or development and you’ll hear maddening stories about the various levels of municipal red tape that can bog down projects. The idea for a one-stop shop for getting all provincial permits is a great idea. Working with municipalities to fast-track permit approval and construction is another. It's going to be an informative event, and I hope you can join us. Until then, get outside and enjoy the feeling of renewal that comes with the blooming of flowers and the end of winter. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column was originally published in the March 2023 edition of the Business Examiner. Valentine’s Day was an appropriate date to hear from Chamber partners hoping for a little something special as all levels of government announce their financial plans for the year ahead.
I’ve written in the past about the Royal BC Museum and Belleville Terminal, which should both gain a little clarity from provincial budget day on Feb. 28 and the federal budget sometime after (no date has been announced yet). Another ongoing concern that impacts communities from Victoria to Courtenay is the fate of the Island Corridor. On Feb. 14, I facilitated a discussion with Paul Robinson of the Vancouver Island Transportation Corridor Coalition and Larry Stevenson, CEO of the Island Corridor Foundation. The meeting was held over Zoom and we invited members of chambers from across Vancouver Island. This is something we’re trying to do more, as the largest business association on the Island. By joining together we have a stronger voice to speak to government on behalf of business. Our goal is to strengthen Island economies by working locally and as a community of chambers. Transportation is a major issue for many communities and the idea of rail has been talked about for years. The Island has also seen an end to inter city bus service creating yet another barrier to safe travel between communities for those who do not own or have access to a vehicle. The Chamber has asked the Federal Government to subsidize a return of that service. There’s an urgency right now as the March 14 deadline approaches for the province to address the future of the Island Corridor. No question — the infrastructure needs a lot of TLC. But it did support an active railway for more than 100 years, until service was suspended indefinitely in 2011. Since then, train enthusiasts as well as some environmentalists and transportation planners have been vocal in calling for the return of rail. They argue that a modern passenger train will reduce the number of cars and transport trucks on Island highways, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and offering an efficient and even pleasant alternative for commuters. Others have been just as vocal against the return of rail, instead calling for the corridor to become a hiking trail or be used in other ways. Meanwhile, more questions have been raised by the fact the corridor runs through the territories of 14 First Nations. A lawsuit by the Snaw-naw-as First Nation wants to reclaim the land that runs through its territory. They say the right-of-way granted by Canada to E&N Railway in 1912 is no longer being used as intended. On Sept. 14, 2021, a BC Court of Appeals judge gave the federal and provincial governments 18 months to renew their commitment to improve the infrastructure required for rail. If no commitment is made, then an entirely new discussion will need to begin. As we heard Feb. 14, there are no simple solutions and the costs will be high whether rail service returns or the land is rehabilitated to be repurposed. Now we wait for government to make difficult decisions with limited public funds to see which way the story will go. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column was originally published in the February edition of the Business Examiner. VICTORIA, BC – I still catch myself whenever I hear someone note that we are now in 2023. It seems like a year from the future and, I guess, in some ways it is. There has been so much anticipation for this year.
It’s the first January since 2020 that businesses aren’t facing major public health restrictions. A weird sense of normalcy is returning, though we know the world will forever be much different than it was before the pandemic. At the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, 2023 also marks the 160th anniversary of the founding of our organization. That’s a long time to bear witness to history and a remarkable testament to the important role The Chamber continues to play supporting the business community. The secret to our successful longevity has been our willingness to adapt and grow with the times. And that can be directly accredited to the amazing board of directors who are elected each year by our members. This year, we welcome Kris Wirk as our new board chair. Kris is a partner with Dusanj + Wirk Chartered Professional Accountants and takes over from John Wilson, of the Wilson’s Group of Companies. John served stoically over the past three years, and I can’t thank him enough for his guidance and steady hand during turbulent times. There is no one who cares about our community more than John, who remains with the board in the role of past chair. I know he’s looking forward to passing the torch and Kris brings a vision that is laser focused after three years as an understudy. He is clear eyed about the challenges facing our regional economy, and, after three years as chair of The Chamber’s Public Policy and Advocacy committee, Kris is well-positioned to drive positive changes. Christina Clark of the Indigenous Prosperity Centre steps into the role of vice-chair. Christina is a go-getter who understands the work and benefits of Indigenous reconciliation. The Chamber, on behalf of our members, is committed to working with First Nations to facilitate connections that will improve life for everyone in our region. Our forward-thinking approach is being adopted by chambers across Canada due to my active participation in the national chamber network. Our initiative to create an Indigenous Economic Reconciliation Table has resonated with Canadians who want to do better. We have embraced the value of diversity and inclusion — and our economy and society have benefited as a result. We’ve seen this firsthand as The Chamber’s board has become much more reflective of the community at large. The other members of our board are: James Gatsi, CEO, CL Web Developers Inc., (secretary); Moira Hauk, Regional Manager South Island, Coastal Community Credit Union (treasurer); Rose Arsenault, Branch Manager, Agilus Work Solutions; Judith Ethier, CAO, Greater Victoria Harbour Authority; Fallon Lindsay, Director of Finance and Administration, Kinetic Construction; Pedro Marquez, Vice President of Vice-President, Research and International, Royal Roads University; Richard Michaels, President, Maccrim Solutions; Ann Squires Ferguson, CEO, Western Interior Design Group; Jessica Stigant, Associate Director of Government Relations and Partnerships, Ocean Networks Canada; Capt. (N) Jeff Hutchinson, Base Commander, CFB Esquimalt and Josue Dubon, DesignWealth, Co-Founder and Chair of the Emerge Committee (ex-officio). So, as we prepare to celebrate 16 decades of serving Greater Victoria’s business community, I look forward to working with our tremendous board to build connections with every energetic entrepreneur attracted to this amazing region we are grateful to call home. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column was originally published in the January edition of the Business Examiner. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Small business is called the backbone of a community, but there is nothing small about a sector that employ more than half of all British Columbians. When you shop at a locally owned business, you are investing in the quality of life of your hometown. The dollars that go to local businesses recirculate in the community about 4.6 times more than the same money spent at corporations that have head offices far away or even in other countries. Throughout October, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is celebrating Small Business Month, sponsored by Grant Thornton LLP. They provide some great insight and data on the state of the economy. For example, a report published this summer provided businesses with a well-informed forecast of how rising inflation will affect costs. Research included in the 2022 Grant Thornton International Business Report, which surveys mid-market companies, showed the biggest constraints are staffing and the cost of energy. These expenses have increased considerably. For example, the survey found that transportation, material costs and utility bills have jumped an average of 18% for respondents. Increases to wages, equipment and interest payments were close behind. It all adds up to more challenges to a sector that is vital to Canada’s economy. And it won’t get easier anytime soon. The expectation that inflation will continue is enough for the Bank of Canada to suggest interest rates will go higher before they eventually come back down. Operating a small business has never been easy. It is a pursuit full of risk and requires a tremendous amount of courage. But the rewards can be incredible for those who choose to follow their dreams. The goods and services provided by small businesses are also what create a great community — all of us rely on the retailers and restaurants that animate our downtown and our neighbourhood hubs. And those businesses, in turn, need the support of accounting firms, notary publics, property managers and so many other small companies who specialize in helping create good business. Of course, without customers and clients, none of this is possible. Over the last few years, we really experienced how important it is to spend locally. Our support of businesses operated by friends and neighbours makes a real difference during challenging times. I encourage everyone to express their support by doing business locally — and by expressing gratitude to business owners during Small Business Month for all they do to support our community. To learn more about the events and activities The Chamber has planned for Small Business Month, go to victoriachamber.ca. This column was originally published in the October edition of the Business Examiner. GREATER VICTORIA – Last November, I went shopping for a new tie. It was more exhilarating than it probably should have been, but my excitement wasn’t really about the tie. Sure, it was sweet and looked great with my suit. But the real thrill of the purchase was that it was part of preparing for the biggest gala celebration in years. Certainly bigger than any gathering I’d been to during the pandemic and arguably as grand as any gala in The Chamber’s recent history — and we’re known for hosting some pretty fun parties.
Alas, Omicron had other ideas. The COVID-19 variant brought renewed restrictions and my tie stayed tucked away until it could debut on a less auspicious occasion. It was difficult to ask Chamber staff to stand down after so much work had gone into planning for the launch of a brand-new Business Hall of Fame, presented by RBC. Since then, we’ve had time to refine our plans as we patiently waited for a return to certainty. We settled on Oct. 5. And now, as that date quickly approaches, I’m feeling the same anticipation I had last fall. I have a sense I’m not alone. We need this as a business community. We need to celebrate each other and our long history of businesses serving as the backbone of our city. So, for those of you who agree, here’s a refresher on what’s planned for Oct. 5. As this is our inaugural Business Hall of Fame event, we are essentially inducting two cohorts to create a solid foundation for the hall. The first cohort is comprised of everyone who has been awarded a Chamber Lifetime Achievement Award. This was an annual honour that was part of our Business Awards gala until 2020, and winners being inducted into the hall are: Bill McCreadie, Gordy Dodd, Eric Charman, Mel Cooper, Murray and Lynda Farmer, Naz Rayani, Bob Skene, Keith Dagg, Terry Farmer, Cedric Steele, Gordon Denford, Alex A. Campbell, Robert H. Wright and John Chew. In 2021, we actually moved away from this category to include leaders who are in the prime of their working life. Since then, the Award of Distinction has “highlighted a business person who has contributed to Greater Victoria through leadership and vision as a positive role model and a sustained commitment to a prosperous community.” Of course, we also want to pay tribute to people whose lifetime of work deserves to be commemorated. I believe the Business Hall of Fame is the best way to do this going forward. This year, we have five inductees entering the hall: Chief Robert Sam, Ian Maxwell, Helen Beirnes, Clare Copeland and Ron Lou-Poy. They were selected by a committee of community leaders based on their roles as pioneers and innovators. Each has a unique story that helped pave the way for others to follow. These are all pioneers who helped build our economy and paved the way for today’s entrepreneurs and organizations. Innovators who broke through barriers to blaze new trails and help our region become the extraordinary place it is today. I hope you will be able to join us on Oct. 5 at the Victoria Conference Centre to celebrate the tremendous history of business in Greater Victoria. I promise it will be a milestone marking the start of a promising future where we can work together to build good business and great community for all. Time for me to find a new tie! To register for the Business Hall of Fame, presented by RBC, go to victoriachamber.ca. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column was originally published in the September edition of Business Examiner I was able to take a few days off in August, and it was a great time to rejuvenate, reflect on the past year and look ahead at the next few months. It is amazing how far we’ve come. A sense of certainty has returned for many businesses with retailers and restaurants enjoying the steady stream of customers they typically expect during peak tourist season. The Coho and Clippers ferries have returned to the Inner Harbour, and hotels are once again filling with happy visitors to our destination. After two years of not knowing if up was down or we were coming or going, life seems to have gotten back to the plan. We’re experiencing this at the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce with sold out events for the last few months. We knew people were missing the chance to connect with others in the business community, but the demand has been exceptional. There is a sense of optimism in the future, and an eagerness to celebrate successes and embrace opportunities as they arrive. There is a sense of optimism in the future, and an eagerness to celebrate successes and embrace opportunities as they arrive. Even rising inflation seems to have peaked and begun its expected decline back to more typical levels. This is a relief for every business planning to make investments in the coming year. I’m getting a sense that the turmoil is settling into something better.Old ways of thinking are being replaced by initiatives that are more inclusive and sustainable. We really are stronger together and it takes work to change outdated attitudes and embrace ideas that are different than our own. I’m part of a new national committee created to better welcome entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. The committee has a similar mandate to our own Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Advancement (IDEA) Committee, which we created last year. It offers advice and guidance to The Chamber to help ensure Greater Victoria’s business community truly represents the diversity of our region. Like all the best committees, it provides as much to me as I provide to it. I’m continuing to learn and grow, and the experience has me excited about many new opportunities for our economy that come with opening ourselves up to more people. From an increased workforce to global connections, I truly believe the next decade is bright for Canadians because of the diversity of our multicultural society. We’re also taking action on reconciliation with Indigenous nations. By listening to how we can help, there is an opportunity to do better. All of us need to be accountable and respect the will of those who were here long before colonization. We have so much to learn from Indigenous ways of knowing and the more we embrace that, the better we will be at addressing many of the major issues of our times. From climate change to economic resilience, we have much to learn from First Nations. There’s definitely a sense we’ve moved on from the storm that shook us for the past two years and, more importantly, we’re becoming more resilient. That’s a good thing. Now, with autumn closing in, I’m looking forward to a major new initiative happening this October. The Business Hall of Fame was initially planned for last February — until Omicron forced our hand. It was supposed to be a spectacular kickoff to the start of the year and a celebration of business resilience over the decades. Fittingly, we reset, and our tribute to barrier breakers, entrepreneurs and philanthropists who helped build our region is now set for Oct. 5. Get your tickets soon, as this will be a party you don’t want to miss. We’ve come a long way since last year, and much of the credit goes to the business leaders whose steady hands helped guide us through the uncertainty. This year, more than ever, we need to work together to build good business and great community for all. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This column was originally published by Douglasmagazine.com. The power of being grateful has been a consistent theme over the past few years. To appreciate what we have rather than pine for what we want. I’m sure you’ve noticed expressions of gratitude in social media posts, and maybe it’s something you practise in your daily life. It’s a powerful tool for having agency and for letting go of all those things we have no control over.
Greater Victoria has plenty to be grateful for. Our weather, of course, the natural beauty of our region, a stable economy and our long history as the traditional territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) speaking peoples. We also have a system of governance that has somehow resulted in fabulous neighbourhoods, a world-class downtown and a vibrant business community. It’s remarkable because it can seem so counterintuitive to our challenges. We have too many local governments, for one. And hardly a day passes when we don’t hear about a politician behaving badly or a half-baked government decision. But somehow this imperfect system keeps working. Democracy, as Winston Churchill famously said, is the worst form of government other than every other system ever attempted. One of the ways many people first interact with democracy is with the government that plays the biggest role in our daily lives. Municipal councils make decisions that literally affect the street we live on. They can play a huge role in the success of your neighbourhood’s businesses, and it’s not uncommon to know personally the person sitting in the mayor’s seat or around the council table. We’re fortunate in Greater Victoria to live in a region that values compassion, generosity and goodwill. People here get elected because they want to do the right thing. They are passionate about their neighbourhoods and campaign on doing a better job of fairly and transparently improving life for everyone. And then they get elected. The reality of the role is much different than what they anticipated and typically takes up to a year to understand processes and constraints. Take, for example, the experience of Allison Habkirk, who now has more than 30-years’ experience in local government as an employee, an elected official and as an educator. Habkirk is a former mayor and councillor of Central Saanich currently working as a consultant specializing in municipal politics. She understood the inner workings of municipal government in her role as a city planner, yet, after deciding to seek election and winning a seat on council, she says she was woefully unprepared for the realities of the role. The experience for newly elected officials is typical. Habkirk started her first term in office with confidence because she understood the language of government. What she wasn’t prepared for was the amount of energy spent serving as a vessel of constituent opinions, staff recommendations and group decision-making. She tells a fascinating story about moving from city staff to city hall, eventually serving her community as mayor before taking a job at the University of Victoria to teach others about local governance. The experience is also why we’ve asked Allison to join us for a free event to share her learnings with prospective candidates in this fall civic elections. The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, like chambers across the continent and, indeed, around the world, is deeply intertwined with the evolution of governance systems. Most people are familiar with the traditional all-candidates meetings typically hosted by your local chamber. It’s something we do as a service to our communities, and something that is expected because of our role as the voice of business. I’ve emceed more of these types of meetings than I can count, and, to be honest, for many years it felt like housekeeping. As if democracy only required a bit of dusting off, and a quick vacuum to keep it tidy and functioning well. I’m not sure that’s still the case. We can’t assume that democracy will continue to grow and enlighten more of the world as it has our little corner. And while I don’t think Canadians will allow their democratic privileges to slip away anytime soon, I also think we can do better. It starts with participating. Something as simple as exercising your right to vote can help you feel less powerless against the forces affecting your life and our future. You never know, voting might lead to campaigning for a candidate you admire, or even choosing to run for office yourself. Let’s hope that democracy can make a comeback in the 21st century. It needs to be nurtured like all of the other things we value. Education and participation are small prices to pay for the privilege of being governed by the best, or, at least, the least-bad system humanity has ever known. To learn more about what everyone should know about local governance, I hope you’ll join me from noon to 1:30 p.m., on June 29, for a virtual conversation with Allison Habkirk. You can find more details at victoriachamber.ca. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce This op-ed was initially published in the Times Colonist on June 25, 2022 Instead of looking back on 2021, let’s choose to focus on what’s ahead in 2022.
The new year is a time for hope and a chance to reenergize and prepare for the year ahead. If we’ve learned anything from the last two years, it is how to carry on when plans change. Immunization is helping us put the pandemic behind us, but we know better than to declare it’s over. Variants and vaccine holdouts continue to put pressure on our health-care system and our mental health. Let’s be ready for the curveball while also enjoying new opportunities. With that said, here’s a look at a few things we’ll be watching. Provincial funds for Citizens Assembly The pandemic has understandably required everyone to focus on staying safe and finding ways to get back to business and reclaim our lives. However, it’s time to carry on with this important journey, which has already made historic progress toward examining a merger of Greater Victoria’s two largest municipalities. Voters in Saanich and Victoria have given their respective councils a mandate to cover the costs of a Citizens’ Assembly. The Chamber will reach out to the provincial government to encourage the third funding partner to ante up so that the process can continue as soon as possible. It’s time for a fresh look at the pros and cons of arbitrary borders that divide our region. Let’s work together to continue improving governance to make our streets safer and our economy more sustainable. Climate change innovations Businesses are responding to the public’s demand for sustainable goods and services. The Chamber continues to call on all levels of government to work with, and invest in, innovations led by businesses. We’ve seen this work well with regulations restricting the single-use plastics. Customers wanted alternatives to plastic shopping bags and throwaway containers that were ending up in landfills. Businesses responded by sourcing biodegradable packaging and providing reusable bags. When municipalities decided to create regulations, they smartly asked businesses what they were already doing. The result was a set of rules that worked with public demand rather than against it, and the outcome has been an outstanding success. Businesses are finding solutions — that work needs to be supported. Action on Indigenous Reconciliation Last summer was an awakening for many Canadians who had been unaware of darker chapters of our nation’s history. The Chamber is committed to acknowledging the truth of our relationship with First Nations. We have started to take action on reconciliation and will continue to do so in 2022. For our communities and our country to grow stronger, we need to take on our share of the burden unfairly placed on Indigenous people. We must act now to address centuries of discrimination and bias that has kept First Nations from fully participating in our economy. The Chamber’s Indigenous Business Task Force is being created by Indigenous entrepreneurs and local First Nations to provide direction on moving forward together. Sufficient staffing for all employers Before the pandemic, employers were having challenges finding and keeping workers. Forecasts by WorkBC showed that the combination of economic growth and a reduction in the eligible workforce will add to this challenge over the next decade. The last two years have greatly accelerated this issue. The solution is not simple, but it starts with governments doing more to increase housing supply so we can welcome new arrivals. We need homes for families and individuals at every income level. We also need transportation options for moving commuters more conveniently around our region. Attempts so far to address affordable housing by stifling demand through taxation haven’t lowered costs. It’s time to get building. A secure and resilient supply chain Living on an Island, we are always conscious of the precariousness of our connections with the rest of the world. Recent climate events have shown why we need to be prepared. There are opportunities to invest in the future of Vancouver Island by expanding transportation infrastructure. In 2022, the Greater Victoria Chamber will work with chambers across the Island to identify ways to make our supply chain more resilient. Some of the ideas include expanded port facilities, renewal of rail and — last but not least — local agriculture production, which is critical for our food security. This column was originally published in the January 2022 edition of the Business Examiner. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
After a year of heart-wrenching stories that cast a shadow on our country’s colonial history, Canadians are wondering how we can do better. How can we move forward without leaving anyone behind? It’s a challenge we need to face together, but I believe we have been given an opportunity to be better. Having more voices on the record will only benefit future generations as they learn from, and improve on, those who came before. The new Business Hall of Fame, presented by RBC, shines a light on those leaders. People from diverse backgrounds who broke barriers, built communities, and created opportunities for the future. This was an initiative I came up with shortly after taking on my role as CEO of The Chamber. The idea grew out of a need to acknowledge the importance of small business in shaping our modern economy and the character of our region. It builds beyond the Business Awards, which celebrate the hard work done every day by entrepreneurs. Those winners and finalists represent organizations that have achieved excellence over the last year or decade. Their success inspires others and encourages all of us to strive to do good business and build a great community for all. The Business Hall of Fame takes a look at a lifetime of work and inspires us to try to be that next leader that will be looked at in several decades as being the catalyst for change. Earlier this fall, we announced the inaugural cohort and are well underway in planning for a gala ceremony on Feb. 3, 2022. It’s going to be a great night celebrating the diversity of our region’s business history. A committee of community leaders chose five people to be inducted in 2022: Chief Robert Sam, Ian Maxwell, Helen Beirnes, Clare Copeland and Ron Lou-Poy. All of them have unique and inspirational stories that illuminate a history that includes diverse perspectives of the past. These are all pioneers who helped build our economy and pave the way for today’s entrepreneurs and organizations. They were innovators who broke through barriers blazed a new trail and helped our region become the truly extraordinary place it is today. The five inductees for 2022 will be joined by previous winners of The Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Business Award: Bill McCreadie, Gordy Dodd, Eric Charman, Mel Cooper, Murray and Lynda Farmer, Naz Rayani, Bob Skene, Keith Dagg, Terry Farmer, Cedric Steele, Gordon Denford, Alex A. Campbell, Robert H. Wright and John Chew. Every year, the Hall of Fame will induct positive role models who have shown regional leadership, insightful vision and a sustained and significant commitment to the prosperity of our region. The selection process recognizes and respects the diversity of leaders who helped build business in Greater Victoria over the decades. I truly believe that getting together this February will be an evening of joy and renewal, helping us work together to build economic resilience and growth for all. I hope you’ll join us there! This column originally appeared in the November 2021 edition of the Business Examiner Chamber Events Thursday, Nov. 18 | November Prodigy Group Mingle | 5 – 7 p.m. | Swans Pub (506 Pandora Ave.) Thursday, Dec. 2 | Chair’s Holiday Reception | 4 – 6 p.m. | Lion’s Den Restaurant (1925 Blanshard St.) Thursday, Feb. 3 | 2022 Business Hall of Fame | 5 – 9 p.m. | Victoria Conference Centre (720 Douglas St.) Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce The Chamber is pleased to announce the election results for our 2022 Board of Directors. Jessica Stigant, Associate Director of Government Relations and Partnerships for Ocean Networks Canada, and James Gatsi, founder and CEO of CL Web Developers Inc., have been elected to two-year terms on The Chamber Board. Incumbent candidates Rose Arsenault, Agilus Work Solutions and Tom Plumb, Kinetic Construction were also re-elected. The Chamber holds staggered elections every fall, so we can maintain continuity while ensuring fresh voices are able to join the table. This year, there were 11 candidates vying for four open positions. That level of competition is a good indication of just how interested Greater Victoria’s business community was in this election. That’s not surprising, given the work The Chamber and its board have been doing on behalf of business. We’ve been going full-out since the pandemic started to try and help businesses get through the uncertainty and prepare for recovery. Our efforts have shaped government relief programs and championed innovations that businesses were able to embrace as the way forward. I’m grateful for the expertise and guidance I’ve had from our current board and look forward to working closely with the new board, which formally begins its term on Jan.1, 2022. Jessica, James, Rose and Tom will join John Wilson, Kris Wirk, Christina Clarke, Moira Hauk, Judith Ethier, Pedro Marquez, Richard Michaels, Ann Squires Ferguson as well as past chair Dan Dagg as members of the 2022 board. On a related note, the board will also have two other new faces. The Chamber maintains a seat at the table for whoever is the current Base Commander of CFB Esquimalt. So, when Capt. (N) Sam Sader was re-assigned to a new post in Ottawa, we welcomed new Base Commander, Capt. (N) J. Jeffery Hutchinson to the table. As well, the incoming chair of The Chamber’s Prodigy committee, Paul van Koll, will join the board in 2022. It really is an outstanding cast of diverse community leaders with decades of experience in successful organizations. Put them together on our board and they became a remarkably influential group that can get the ear of decision makers at all levels of government. It’s a blessing for me, as CEO of the organization, and a true benefit for our members. Even beyond that, the work our board does improves conditions for entrepreneurs and businesses — and even other chambers — across Vancouver Island. Thank you to everyone who put your name forward as a candidate for The Chamber board, and to all our members who voted. The work never ends, and we know that many challenges lie ahead. We’ll keep doing what’s right for the entire business community as we continue down the recovery runway. This column was originally published in the October 2021 edition of the Business Examiner Chamber Events Celebrate Small Business Month sponsored by Grant Thornton! Tuesday, October 19 | Annual General Meeting – Speaker Min. Ravi Kahlon | 11:30am – 1:00pm | Union Club (805 Gordon St.)* Wednesday, October 20 | Data for Better Business Efficiencies with Grant Thornton | 12:00 – 1:00pm | Webinar Thursday, October 21 | Virtual Membership 101 | 12:00 – 1:00pm | Zoom Thursday, October 21 | Modified Business Mixer | 5:00 – 6:30pm | Max Furniture (3460 Quadra St.)* Tuesday, October 26 | International Students and Local Business Connector |5:00 – 6:00pm | Zoom Wednesday, October 27 | What Comes Next? Plan Your Exit with Grant Thornton | 12:00 – 1:00pm | Webinar Thursday, October 28 | Small Business Month Networking Breakfast | 7:30 – 9:00am | Victoria Sandman (2852 Douglas St.)* *Pre-registration and double-vaccination required to attend all in-person events. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
The end of summer has brought renewed concern over COVID numbers and new challenges for organizations. When the provincial government announced on Aug. 23 it was bringing in a proof of vaccination requirement, there were strong reactions across the province. And businesses reached out to their local chambers of commerce to do our jobs as powerful vehicles for advocacy and bringing people together. For employers, the shared concern was frontline staff. who already struggle with backlash to current rules. With so many organizations struggling to bring back enough workers to meet the demands of a recovering economy, there is little capacity or desire to have staff enforce new restrictions. In our region, where the population has one of the highest rates of immunization in BC, the attitude was we can do this — but we need to know training and help will be there if needed. At the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, staff went to work engaging with our members and decision makers in government. I reached out to other community leaders and chambers of commerce across the province. The response was illuminating and, I believe, helps us better understand the different approaches required in urban and rural communities. We don’t need divisive discourse that takes away from efforts to protect ourselves and each other from the current and future waves of COVID-19. The protests outside hospitals that, rightfully, attracted so much negative attention don’t reflect the attitudes of business. As chambers, it’s in our nature to believe in people. We talk about building good business as the way to create a great community for all. We want business with good values to prosper so they can offer the products and services and provide the jobs and the tax base necessary for a community to be great. This is the same whether we live in cities with diverse populations or small towns where everyone knows your name. During my outreach to other chambers, this was clear and helps explain why chambers might initially seem to have conflicting opinions about requiring proof of vaccination. However, all chambers represent the interests of their members and are working for the return of a healthy and inclusive economy. For example, one rural chamber said they needed better solutions for members who face a Sophie’s Choice between protecting their livelihood and turning away a client that is integral to their business. Both have value but the choice can be difficult especially when differing points of view are in play. The difficulty of course is when that client is a neighbour and a friend or relative who has different politics about the medical advice they should be following. In that situation, the priority needs to be ensuring COVID is not being transmitted. Period. Businesses in Greater Victoria won’t typically face that dilemma. We’ve had great success already following the advice of BC Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry. With 83% fully immunized in Greater Victoria (as of Aug. 31), 78% on the West Shore and 87% on the Peninsula, we’re well protected by vaccine coverage. The proof is on our relatively low case counts and hospitalizations. But COVID is unpredictable, and vaccines are not magic. The longer the virus sticks around the more likely it is for even fully vaccinated people to be part of the chain of transmission. And with fall expected to bring a typical upturn in respiratory illnesses, we need to stay focussed on the best outcome more than ever. We can do this. We have the experience and knowledge that we can do what it takes for a temporary period to stop the spread. Vaccines work, and masks are a helpful layer of protection. But respect for each other and the safety of our community is what will get us to the finish line. This column was originally published in the September issue of Business Examiner |
Archives
April 2024
Categories
All
|