Jessie brings extensive experience leading strategic and operational change across public and private sectors, with a track record of delivering innovative and transformative results in complex organizational environments. She has held senior roles with the Government of Canada, Finning International, HSBC, and the City of Vancouver. Jessie currently serves as the Host Committee Lead for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Vancouver, where she oversees city-wide planning and delivery efforts.
Ryan is a tech entrepreneur, AI strategist, and an advocate for Indigenous leadership in innovation. As Founder and CEO of the Indigenous Tech Circle, he leads Canada’s largest Indigenous-led tech network. He previously co-founded BCjobs.ca and Jobcast, and has worked across HRTech, EdTech, and AI. Through his work with Foresight, New Ventures BC, and Raven Indigenous Capital, he mentors early-stage founders on AI, product development, and building inclusive, high-impact ventures.
Amanda is a seasoned finance executive and board director with over 25 years of experience in governance, strategy, and risk management across public and private sectors. She is the co-owner and CFO of Cratex Industrial Packing Ltd. and currently serves on the board of BCAA as audit committee chair. Amanda has previously held board positions with BC Hydro, Powerex, and the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation.
“We’re so pleased to welcome Jessie, Ryan, and Amanda to Innovate BC’s Board,” said Emilie de Rosenroll, Board Chair, Innovate BC. “Bringing a wide range of perspective and expertise, they will be crucial in delivering on Innovate BC’s strategic goals as we support British Columbia’s innovation landscape through impactful programming and initiatives that help companies start, scale and succeed.”
As we welcome new voices, Innovate BC also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing board members Amy Rae and Lauren Kelly for their dedicated contributions through their terms. Their commitment helped shape Innovate BC’s role as a key driver supporting innovators and entrepreneurs across the province.
A Crown Agency of British Columbia, Innovate BC works to foster innovation across the province and bolster the growth of the local economy through delivering a wide range of programs that help companies start and scale, access talent and encourage technology development, commercialization, and adoption. Innovate BC also harnesses crucial data collection and research, and works to forge strategic industry and community partnerships that create more opportunities for B.C. innovators.
Michael Gleboff
Communications + Community Manager
mgleboff@innovatebc.ca
604-602-5210