Meet Bruce Williams

Bruce Williams – Biography

Bruce Williams, CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, is one of Vancouver Island’s most recognizable faces. As a public figure and former broadcaster, he is known for his integrity, altruism and unique ability to create successful partnerships and collaborations.

In 2023, Williams was named Executive of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada, and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce awarded the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce a prestigious Inclusive Growth Award for helping advance economic reconciliation and foster diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the Canadian business landscape.

Williams is well known for his impeccable communication skills. His in-depth knowledge of economic development and strong connections to leaders and decision makers have made him an effective engagement and development strategist for business, non-profits and First Nations. Williams’ background includes experience as a CEO, as well as diverse roles on senior management teams. He has chaired non-profit boards and spearheaded fundraising campaigns.

Bruce has been the lead on The Chamber’s advancement of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity and is a member of the Canadian Chamber DEI Committee. He has also been central in The Chamber’s enhanced engagement with Indigenous owned business in the South Island.

Career Highlights:

• Interim CEO, South Island Prosperity Partnership
• On air host and producer for TV and Radio in Ontario and British Columbia
• Senior Management Team member (client and community relations, facility manager – CTV Vancouver Island)
• Strategic Mentor, Leadership Victoria and Leadership Vancouver Island
• Greater Victoria United Way Campaign Cabinet Chair (three terms)
• Fundraising Chair for Jeneece Place, a Children’s Health Foundation Vancouver Island project
• Named Executive of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada in 2023.

Board Member:

• BC Pavilion Corporation
• College of Chiropractors of BC
• Vancouver Island University Foundation (two years as Chair)
• United Way of Greater Victoria
• Greater Victoria Economic Development Agency (now South Island Prosperity Partnership)
• Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation
• CFAX Santas Anonymous

Accolades

• Named one of the Top 20 Influencers on Vancouver Island by Douglas magazine
• Named one of the region’s 20 Most Powerful People by the Nanaimo Daily News
• Recipient, Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for community service
• Recipient, Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce Award as Citizen of the Year
• Chairs Award of Distinction, United Way Centraide of Canada