Photo: Contributed
Laurel Douglas was named Kelowna General Manager of the Year.
The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce appoints the winner each year in advance of their Business Excellence Awards, which will be held practically next week. The winner will be determined by an independent jury.
Douglas is a longtime nonprofit and nonprofit leader who has supported many corporations and community organizations and has served as a mentor and resource to many individuals over the years. She is currently CEO of the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust after serving in the same role for the Women’s Enterprise Center.
She has lived in the Okanagan since 1997 and was founding director of what is now Accelerate Okanagan.
“Laurel has enriched our city and region through their longstanding community support,” said Jeffrey Robinson, Kelowna Chamber President, in a press release. “She has stood up for entrepreneurs and has provided valuable leadership in economic development and in the post-secondary sector.
“She continues to leave a legacy of strategic thinking, impact and collaboration in her roles. In her new role at SIDIT, we are confident that her steady hand and clear planning will bring great results for this important regional economic development organization. “
Douglas will receive the award at the 33rd Annual Business Excellence Awards, which will be held online next Thursday evening from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
“I am honored to have helped develop the Okanagan technology sector in recognition of the work I have done in this area over the past 23 years, to support women entrepreneurs across BC and now to help the South The Interior Development Initiative Trust goes to the next chapter, “said Douglas.
“When I arrived in Kelowna, I wanted to use my business background to give entrepreneurs easier access to capital, knowledge and markets, and to create the conditions to foster economic development in our region.
“I have had the privilege of working with wonderful team members and volunteer board members over the years, all of whom are committed to making a difference and working very hard during this difficult time to support resilience and recovery in businesses and communities.”
