Cynthia’s approach to excellence is grounded in a strategic focus on positioning and implementation, aiming to achieve breakthrough results. She leverages both education and hands-on experience to drive success, applying these principles to lead organizations and communities toward sustainable growth. Her commitment to this approach has resulted in her becoming a respected leader in the field of First Nations economic development.
Cynthia’s educational background is extensive and diverse. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration at Athabasca University, with a focus on First Nations economic development. She holds an MBA from Athabasca University, earned in 2019, and a Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Management at a Masters letter, which she completed in 2017. Cynthia also holds a Bachelor of Business in Marketing and Management from Vancouver Island University, as well as a Business Management Diploma from Malaspina University College. Her education has laid a solid foundation for her work and provided her with the expertise necessary to excel in her career.
In addition to her formal education, Cynthia is a Subject Matter Expert at Athabasca University, where she designed a 4th-year course in Indigenous Economic Development. Her designation and involvement in shaping educational curricula highlight her authority and expertise in the field.
With over 28 years of professional experience, Cynthia has built a successful career working with First Nations governments. She spent seven years as an Economic Development Officer, specializing in First Nations economic development. Her expertise spans a wide range of areas, including business plans, business cases, labour market studies, marketing plans, HR plans, operational plans, tourism destination plans, and economic development plans. These skills have enabled her to create tangible, impactful results for the communities she serves.
Cynthia’s core competencies include administration, economic development, financial management, human resources, and business planning. She is also skilled in marketing plans, tourism destination planning, education and health administration, and event planning. These areas of expertise, combined with her leadership ability, make her a highly effective manager and strategist.
One of Cynthia’s key achievements includes reversing a failing non-profit organization, transforming it from a deficit into a 1.2 million dollar surplus. She also helped turn a First Nations, 1.3 million dollar deficit into a 2.2 million dollar surplus, showcasing her ability to navigate complex financial challenges and deliver results. These successes underscore her capacity to drive change and lead organizations to financial stability and growth.
Cynthia’s leadership is characterized by her ability to build collaborative teams and motivate individuals to meet organizational goals. She has earned the trust and respect of the First Nations communities she has worked with over the years. Known for her ability to bring people together and inspire action, she has had a lasting impact on the organizations she has led.
Cynthia’s diverse heritage—comprising Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw, Gitk’san, English, and Scottish roots—adds a unique layer to her leadership and approach to economic development. Her rich cultural background gives her a distinct perspective, which she brings to her work with First Nations communities, helping to create solutions that are culturally informed and sustainable for the long term.
First Nations Management Consulting 