PFM Executive Search is recognized for its ability to work with diverse boards and committees on senior leadership roles and was delighted to be engaged by Small Business BC (SBBC) to recruit its first CEO in ten years. SBBC has appointed Tom Conway to the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and PFM Executive Search conducted a national search for this leadership position.
Tom Conway brings nearly 25 years of experience in advocacy, fundraising and governance, as well as personal experience as an entrepreneur. Previous to Conway, SBBC CEO George Hunter served the organization for 10 years before stepping down from the leadership position.
“I’m extremely excited to join Small Business BC and to start helping entrepreneurs; as a former small business owner myself, I know how essential it is to have support,” said Conway. “It can feel like you’re out there all by yourself, and to know that an organization like Small Business BC exists and can help, is life changing.”
Conway ventured into small business when he started a partnership with his husband and launched a food service company in Chicago, Illinois. Later they moved to California where Conway became the president and CEO of Easter Seals Central California. He then served as the Pacific U.S. Regional Director of YPO, part of a global network of over 25,000 CEOs where he managed two Boards, 60+ chapters and a global management team. After moving to Vancouver three years ago, Conway served as the Executive Director for the British Columbia Schizophrenia Society before being recruited by PFM Executive Search to Small Business BC.
Small Business BC has been providing entrepreneurs with the information and guidance necessary to build a solid foundation for their business since 2002. After being established as an independent non-profit organization, SBBC has grown to serve almost 250,000 clients a month through their website, in-person and over the phone. SBBC’s core services are provided in partnership with Western Economic Diversification Canada and the BC Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology.
PFM Executive Search has been identifying talented senior leaders for organizations for over 25 years. The firm is one of Canada’s most respected executive search firms and is part of a global alliance with Panorama Search Partners. The firm is highly valued for its work with organizations who seek innovative leaders and for its ability to create a proactive search process that nets real value for its client groups in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors.