PFM Executive Search is excited to announce that Dennis Thomas-Whonoak has accepted the role of Executive Director, Indigenous Business Initiatives and Engagement with the UBC Sauder School of Business effective August 28th.
Dennis is deeply connected to his community and culture, where he serves as an elected councillor for his Nation. He is a member of səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) in Deep Cove, North Vancouver. He also has ancestral ties to Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish Nation), Welsh ancestry and close familial ties to xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Nation). Dennis has an MBA from SFU and brings 15+ years of professional experience from his work with his community, Tsleil-Waututh Nation. During that time, he led new business opportunities and explored future business partnerships, programs and projects. He has extensive experience Indigenizing business initiatives – from large residential developments to sports facilities. As an active community member, Dennis has served on various Boards of Directors, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Museum of Vancouver and City of Vancouver UNDRIP Task Force.
Dennis prides himself on bringing people together and is committed to leave a legacy that strengthens Indigenous peoples and, in turn, strengthens our entire society. He has won several awards for his work including the 2022 Enduring Award from Capilano University Alumni Awards of Excellence, 2021 Business in Vancouver’s Top 40 Under 40, 2021 Award for Planning Excellence in the category of Planning for Reconciliation by Canadian Institute of Planners for the Heather Lands project.
On behalf of PFM Executive Search, congratulations Dennis!
PFM Executive Search is recognized as a leader in executive search and has been working with some of the most prominent Canadian private, public, and not-for-profit clients over the past 30-years. We are known for our ability to recruit senior leaders from around the world to top management positions.