About Us

Kerriann Coady is the Chief Executive Officer for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of Vancouver Island. An advocate for the residential building industry and leader in builder education. Demonstrating strength in Government Relations voicing concerns with recommended solutions on Provincial, Municipal and Federal Housing policies that can affect the industry and housing affordability.

In my current role, I project managed the first Nanaimo Community Hospice Dream Home Lottery. It was so rewarding to be able to support such an incredible community organization like Hospice. With Community Futures Central Island, I enjoy seeing the full circle of involvement, from client thru to committee member. It is incredible when you see someone who has received a service from the organization that enabled them to go confidently into business and then come and give back to that organization.

When it comes to business, your team is paramount and this extends to your personal support network as well. A strong team is critical. Focus on value first, and always be ready to learn. One of my favorite quotes; “Perseverance – It’s never crowded on the extra mile”.

Favourite books: Think Like A Monk – Jay Shetty

So this is me…my life…born and raised in a small town that could be otherwise referred to as the edge of the earth.  As far west in Canada as you can get before you fall into the ocean.  Born in Tofino on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

Raised in rugged Ucluelet, a small town at that time submerged in both forestry and fishing.  Growing up embracing life on the coast, the simplicity of nature and the call of the ocean.  Growing up in a family that embraced the value of community, I learned that it takes a “village”. “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” ~ Helen Keller.  Following in my father’s footsteps, I started a career in forestry…leaving my home on Vancouver Island and going on to own and manage two very successful companies over the next several years. 

After the birth of my three children and later the sale of my business, I relocated back to Vancouver Island, where the ocean still called to me. As a single father for many years during that period of my life, I pursued a career in real estate and made a commitment to my family, my community and the area that my children and I call home a priority. It is here that I found the value of community. 

I have been actively involved in our community in my support of local organizations like the Oceanside Minor Hockey Association, as an active board member with the Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce and Parksville Qualicum Tourism Association and have remained an active participant and volunteer in local community functions and committees. I am also a graduate of the Leadership Vancouver Island Program.

I continue to strive to be a dedicated REALTOR® that is passionate about helping people achieve their dreams and goals. I pride myself on always putting the best interests of my clients FIRST and offers specialized and complementary value-added services to my Oceanside and Nanaimo clients. I am one of a small number of accredited Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES®) and Accredited Buyer’s Representatives (ABR®) in our region. I work for Royal LePage Parksville Qualicum Beach Realty in Parksville – Qualicum Beach.

We all choose what we value in life and it is our responsibility to not only find it, but to help others find it as well.  It takes a community. “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples” ~ Mother Teresa
“I come to the Community Futures Central Island Board with an unwavering need to help build small businesses in the central Vancouver Island region, which in turn builds strong rural communities.”

Bridget Warner is a Management Consultant with Sharpline Management Inc.

Her most interesting occupation is at her current position as a Management Consultant. She has worked with numerous organizations since 2008, allowing her to engage with interesting people, learn about different industries and sectors, tackle complex problems, and contribute to important causes.

One piece of advice she has for business people is to cultivate your curiosity. Asking questions can improve business performance, increase customer engagement, and reveal solutions and opportunities. As Einstein said, “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”

What has she learned over the years about being in business? Relationships are critical. Establishing good relationships leads to better outcomes and makes work more enjoyable for everyone.

What is her Favourite book? As a curious person, it is hard to choose one favourite book. Essentialism by Greg McKeown challenges the assumption that we can have and do it all and introduces the discipline of pursuing less. This mindset helps us to do the right things at the right time.

What is her major life passion and one life goal? I am passionate about supporting local businesses and the dedicated individuals who operate them. Vancouver Island is an incredible place to live and contributing to my community is important to me. Being a CF Board Member is an excellent match with my values and passion.

What major expertise do you bring to the CF Board of Directors? Data Strategy, Business Intelligence and Data Analysis. Bridget also has an MBA in Executive Management with a specialization in Management Consulting, Royal Roads University, September 2012.

Hollie Quiring is the Business Relationship Manager at Coastal Community Credit Union. She assists small and large businesses with obtaining commercial financing and has worked in the Financial Industry for over 16 years. Her expertise crosses from the personal side of banking and financial planning to commercial lending and therefor brings a well-rounded perspective to the Board. Her most interesting occupation was when she worked on cruise ships for over 5 years. It was where she met her husband! Her favorite book is Becoming by Michelle Obama.

The main things she has learnt about small business owners is:

• Adaptability is crucial: The business landscape is constantly evolving, so the ability to adapt to changes in technology, market trends, and customer preferences is essential for long-term success.
• Customer focus: Understanding and meeting customer needs is at the heart of any successful business. Providing value to your customers is a surefire way to build loyalty and grow your business.
• Persistence and resilience: Business often involves facing challenges, setbacks, and failures. Being persistent and resilient in the face of adversity is a valuable trait for entrepreneurs.
• Planning and strategy: A well-thought-out business plan and strategy are essential for guiding your business’s growth and success. Setting clear goals and regularly reviewing and adjusting your plans is crucial.
• Networking and relationships: Building strong relationships with customers, partners, and other business professionals can open doors and lead to valuable opportunities.
• Financial management: Effective financial management, including budgeting, cash flow management, and financial forecasting, is critical for the sustainability and growth of a business.
• Continuous learning: Staying informed about industry trends and acquiring new skills and knowledge is important for staying competitive.
• Innovation and creativity: Businesses that innovate and think creatively are often the ones that stand out and succeed in crowded markets.
• Leadership and team building: Effective leadership and team management are key factors in building a motivated and productive workforce.
• One valuable piece of advice for business owners is to prioritize your customers. Your customers are the lifeblood of your business, and their satisfaction and loyalty are essential for your success.
• “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, the cornerstones of our communities, and the heartbeat of our cities.” — Janet Reno.

Her favorite moment with Community Futures Central Island was the planning that we did last year at our AGM. The energy in that round was incredible! To feel apart of something so special, an entity that is making a big difference in our community. It was a special moment for me. Hollie is excited to grow her knowledge around non-profits, and this is the main reason that she was eager to join Community Futures!