2024 MNL Conference Speakers and Presenters
A listing of presenters at the 2024 MNL Conference, Trade Show and AGM.
View the agenda here
Corrine Proux
Acting Unit Head, Wastewater Operations Unit, Environment and Climate Change Canada
Corinne Proux, ing., P.Eng, M. Sc., is a chemical engineer with more than 15 years of experience in industrial and domestic wastewater treatment. Corinne works as the Acting Unit Head for the Wastewater Operations Unit of Environment and Climate Change Canada. Before joining the federal government 7 years ago, Corinne worked as an environmental engineering consultant.

Doménica Lombeida
Project Coordinator
Doménica (Dome) Lombeida (they/them) holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography with a minor in Oceanography from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador (MUNL), Dome collaborates with organizations like the Anti-Racism Coalition Newfoundland & Labrador (ARC-NL) where they lead a project addressing barriers in healthcare for migrants. They are active in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, conducting research on healthcare barriers and working with groups like Quadrangle NL and the YWCA. Passionate about creating inclusive community spaces, Dome envisions a better future for marginalized individuals in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Don Hearn
CEO, Municipal Assessment Agency
Don Hearn is the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Assessment Agency, where he plays a pivotal role in overseeing the organization’s vital assessment services for 236 municipalities across the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a career that spans over 30 years, Don has built a distinguished reputation in the field of real property assessment, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the valuation of residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional properties. Throughout his professional career, Don has been deeply involved in every aspect of property assessment, constantly honing his skills and expanding his understanding of the industry. As CEO of the Municipal Assessment Agency, Don is not only responsible for managing the organization’s overall operations but also serves as the primary representative in engaging with stakeholders. He leads an executive team dedicated to fostering diverse groups that deliver exceptional results, building long-lasting client relationships, and driving the organization toward excellence in service delivery and organizational effectiveness. Don holds the M.I.M.A. designation and is a recognized member of the Institute of Municipal Assessors, where he has actively contributed to the local executive as a director for District 10 and as chair. His commitment to the profession extends nationally as the Vice-Chair of the IMA’s Accreditation Committee. In September 2023, Don completed the Institute of Corporate Directors Program and received his ICD.D accreditation, a testament to his lifelong commitment to excellence in the boardroom and his aspiration to be a more effective director. With a passion for continuous improvement and a dedication to the advancement of the property assessment industry, Don Hearn remains a respected leader and advocate for best practices in municipal assessment.

Dr. Pat Parfrey
Deputy Minister of Health Transformation
Patrick Parfrey is the Deputy Minister of Health Transformation with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Having co-chaired Health Accord NL, Pat’s new role as Deputy Minister is to work across government departments to engage in the implementation of the Health Accord to improve health outcomes in the province.
Pat is a clinical epidemiologist and John Lewis Paton Distinguished University Professor at Memorial University and has an international reputation for patient related research in kidney disease and in genetic disease. He is an officer of the Order of Canada, member of the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador, Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, and Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.
His extra-curricular activities include coaching and managing rugby in the province and in Canada.

Lynn Taylor
Special Advisor, Health Transformation, Executive Council, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Lynn Taylor is a Special Advisor, Health Transformation within Executive Council of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. Lynn was extensively involved in the development of Health Accord NL, a 10-year plan to improve health outcomes in Newfoundland and Labrador, and transitioned to her role as Special Advisor to help advance the Health Accord Calls to Action.
In this role, Lynn is responsible for working across government departments and with many stakeholders to progress action on the social determinants of health and well-being with the goal of making Newfoundland and Labrador one of the healthiest provinces in Canada by 2031.
Lynn holds a bachelor of Kinesiology (cooperative) degree and a Master of Business Administration degree from Memorial University.

Dr. Sobia Shaheen Shaikh
Co-Chair, Anti-Racism Coalition of NL
Sobia Shaheen Shaikh (she/her) is a social work educator and community-engaged scholar at Memorial University in St. John’s, N.L. She is also an activist, mother, creative writer, and playwright who has deep ties with anti-racist, Indigenous, arts, women’s/gender diverse, queer, disability, youth/student, transformative and environmental justice communities across Canada. She serves as co-chair of the Anti-Racism Coalition NL, co-lead of the Addressing Islamophobia in NL project, and co-president of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women-NL. As well, Sobia is a founding member of The Quilted Collective of Racialized NL Writers and of The Creators’ Collective NL: Indigenous, Racialized and Migrant Artists and Arts Workers.
Jayna Green
Associate, Stewart McKelvey
Jayna’s experience working with municipalities pre-dates her legal career and began with her early involvement as a part-time summer recreation coordinator and volunteer with her local municipality. Now as a junior associate, Jayna is committed to expanding her expertise in labour, employment, and municipal law. She has supported municipal clients with matters involving self-represented litigants and has contributed litigation support in expropriation cases. Jayna has also worked with public bodies on issues related to access to information requests and privacy. Finally, her labour and employment practice includes assisting clients with policy and agreement drafting and workplace disputes, including wrongful terminations and discrimination claims.
Kelly Smith
Director, Corporate Services
Kelly Smith is an accomplished senior executive serving as the Director of Corporate Services at the Municipal Assessment Agency, where she expertly oversees the Corporate Services Division. With a diverse portfolio that encompasses financial management, information technology, corporate programming, policy and legislative compliance, geographic information systems, data maintenance, administrative support, internal and external communications, human resources management, strategic planning, and regional office management, Kelly is dedicated to driving efficiency and effectiveness across all operational facets. Kelly’s academic credentials include a Diploma in Public Administration from the College of the North Atlantic and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources and Labour Relations from Athabasca University. Her commitment to excellence in her field is further demonstrated by her credentials as a Registered Professional Recruiter and Canadian Management Professional. Before joining the Municipal Assessment Agency in 2017, Kelly amassed over 15 years of progressive experience in human resources, strategic planning, financial management, and business administration in both the public and private sectors. Her extensive background equips her with a unique perspective and skill set, enabling her to navigate complex challenges and implement innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and support the Agency’s mission.

Shaun Majumder
Actor, Comedian, Keynote Speaker
Shaun Majumder, a renowned actor and comedian, hails from the small town of Burlington, NL. While Shaun is widely recognized for his work in the entertainment industry, his deep connection to his hometown has driven him to embark on a different kind of journey—one focused on community revitalization.
In 2014, Shaun founded ‘OME, an eco-tourism operation born from a desire to create something new in Burlington, a place where hope for economic growth once seemed scarce. What started as a modest idea—a place to stay and eat—has since evolved into a premier glamping and accommodation destination, drawing visitors from around the world. Shaun’s initiative has sparked a wave of interest in tourism within his community, inspiring others to explore new opportunities and contribute to Burlington’s transformation.
OME is more than a business; it’s a symbol of resilience and innovation in rural Newfoundland. Shaun’s work exemplifies how one person’s vision can inspire a community to rewrite its story, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and prosperity. Shaun now shares his journey, highlighting the impact of eco-tourism on Burlington and the broader implications for rural communities across the province.

Rudy Norman
Mayor, Town of Burlington
Mayor Rudy Norman, along with his council, has been a driving force behind the revitalization of his hometown of Burlington, NL. With a strong background in business, economic development, and marketing, Rudy also played a crucial role in the early days of ‘OME, the eco-tourism venture founded by Shaun Majumder. His expertise were instrumental in developing a sustainable business model for ‘OME, which has since become a cornerstone of Burlington’s tourism industry.
Born and raised in Burlington, Rudy is deeply committed to the sustainability of rural Newfoundland and Labrador. His passion for showcasing the unique charm and hospitality of his hometown drives his work as mayor. Since taking office in 2021, the current Burlington Town Council has embraced new ideas and tackled new challenges, leading to significant beautification efforts that aim to boost tourism and secure a prosperous future for the community.
Rudy’s vision is to ensure that every visitor to Burlington experiences the same sense of home and comfort that he cherishes. His dedication to his community continues to inspire positive change, making Burlington a model for rural renewal in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Nicole Kieley
Deputy Mayor, Mount Pearl
With over 20 years of working experience leading community-based organizations, Nicole has contributed to the empowerment of people and communities within the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Her roles have included Executive Director for Women in Resource Development Corporation and the NL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre, Special Advisor to the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and currently she is the Deputy Mayor of Mount Pearl. In all her work, listening, connecting, and advocating for people was foundational. Earning a Master of Women Studies degree from Memorial University, Nicole understands the value, strength and business case for equity in our neighborhoods and at the decision-making table. In addition to being a community- minded advocate, Nicole is also a successful entrepreneur and businesswomen. She co-founded and created Escape Quest, a thriving escape room business that celebrates local history and culture. She values and understands that our local economy and business owners are critical to the health and vitality of our city. Most recently Nicole has become an above knee amputee and wheelchair user. For the past 18 months rehabilitation and recovery has been her key focus. Learning to navigate the world with her new disability, while difficult and challenging, has deepened her understanding and commitment to independent living, diversity and inclusion. Together with many community allies, Nicole has led provincial projects and coordinated initiatives that contribute to resilient communities. She is a firm believer that to address complex issues we need many good people from all expressions and experiences working together with respect, meaning, and purpose.

Mona Rossiter
Director NL Operations & Communications, Atlantic Used Oil Management Association
Mona Rossiter is the NL Program Manager for the Atlantic Used Oil Management Association. She worked with the offshore energy sector for over 20 years. Mona holds a M.A. from Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador. She is a past-president of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) and has served on the Board of Directors of the East Coast Trail Association.

Viviana Ramírez-Luna
NL Paint Recycling Program Coordinator, Product Care Recycling
Viviana Ramírez Luna is a Colombian/Newfoundlander & Labradorian, environmental scientist, mom, and social entrepreneur. She plays multiple roles in supporting individuals and organizations in their waste reduction and climate action efforts. Since 2022, she has been the NL Field Coordinator for the Paint Recycling Program, which has provided her with a profound understanding of the role of municipalities in Extended Producer Responsibility Programs and the conviction that we have all the resources to move towards zero waste, starting right here.

Michelle Marley
Program Director, Electronic Products Recycling Association
Michelle is the Program Director of the Electronic Products Recycling Association (EPRA), Newfoundland and Labrador. Michelle joined EPRA in 2022, after eight years at Newfoundland Power, managing multiple energy conservation and customer-centric program initiatives. She is also the former Director of Sustainability at Indigo Books & Music, and former Director of Environmental Affairs at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, both headquartered in Toronto.
Michelle has worked with a variety of organizations including the International Tourism Partnership (Executive Committee), the United Nations Foundation World Heritage Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (Governing Body), the Retail Council of Canada’s Environment Committee, and EcoNext (board member).
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a Master of Environmental Science from Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Michael Warr
Director, Valuation Services
Mike Warr is a seasoned professional in the field of property valuation, currently serving as the Director of Valuation Services at the Municipal Assessment Agency. In this pivotal role, Mike provides strategic direction for the overall valuation process, ensuring that high-quality assessment services are delivered to clients throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Before joining the Municipal Assessment Agency, Mike worked as a Fee Appraiser for more than a decade. During that time, he developed his expertise in representing property owners during assessment appeals, handling expropriations, and appraising a diverse range of residential and commercial properties. Mike’s extensive background equips him with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in property valuation and assessment processes. Mike earned his designation as an Accredited Appraiser with the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AACI, P.App) in 2016 and holds a Bachelor of Business degree from Memorial University, which he received in 2003. Beyond his professional achievements, Mike is dedicated to giving back to the community, actively volunteering on the boards of the Pippy Park Golf Course and the Newfoundland Association of the Appraisal Institute of Canada (NAAIC), where he contributes his insights and expertise to enhance local initiatives. Mike’s passion for his work and community involvement reflects his commitment to excellence in the field of valuation services.

Chris Torraville
Town Clerk/Manager, Peterview
I’ve been a Town Clerk/Manager for over 5 years, before that I spent 25 years in the business world. I’ve been a PMA Board member as Central Director and now Treasurer for 4 years serving on several committees and serving as chair on the Convention Committee, Professional Development Committee and Finance Committee.

Kieran Hanley
CEO, econext
Kieran Hanley is the CEO of econext, an association of over 200 working towards accelerating clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. Kieran has worked within the clean technology, green economy, and environmental services sector for over ten years – making him one of the province’s subject matter experts on clean growth and the economic development associated with it. Kieran has an MBA (Community Economic Development) from Cape Breton University, a Bachelor of Commerce (International Business) with Dalhousie University, and a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Waterloo. Kieran has provided guidance on green economy and economic development opportunities as a member of a wide variety of provincial and regional committees. Kieran is currently the Chair of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Net Zero Advisory Council and President of the Economic Development Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (EDANL).

Ashley Nguyen
Director – Work Integrated Learning Connections
Ashley Nguyen (she/her) is the inaugural Director of Work Integrated Learning Connections at College of the North Atlantic in Newfoundland and Labrador. Ashley’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Technology, Bachelor of Post Secondary Education, Post Secondary Instructors Certificate, and an Industrial Engineering Technology Diploma. For the past 5 years Ashley has worked with the Office of Applied Research where she has been responsible for the management and execution of several technical applied research projects. Through these projects she has developed partnerships with industry and community groups which support the provincial innovation sector and economy. Ashley is committed to elevating the student experience; by developing and implementing work integrated programming that will empower students to apply and strengthen technical competencies learned through their studies at CNA.

Paige London
Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for Newfoundland Power Inc.
Paige London is the Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for Newfoundland Power Inc. Since joining the company in 2017, she oversees all aspects of finance and regulatory matters, as well as managing corporate responsibility initiatives related to human resources and the company’s charitable program, Power of Life.
Prior to her current role, Paige held progressive finance positions at Fortis Inc., beginning in 2004, most recently as Director of Financial Reporting. In this position, she played a key role in several U.S. utility acquisitions, including their financing, and Fortis’ registration with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Before joining Fortis, Paige began her career in the audit practice at Deloitte LLP.
In addition to her professional achievements, Paige is dedicated to her community. She serves on the Board of Directors for C-CORE and chairs its Finance and Audit Committee. She has also been a Director for the Cancer Care Foundation Newfoundland and Labrador.
Paige holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Memorial University of Newfoundland, along with a Chartered Accountant designation. She is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Pat Cahill
Assistant Commissioner, RCMP
Assistant Commissioner Pat Cahill is the Commanding Officer of the RCMP for Newfoundland and Labrador. He assumed this role in August 5, 2024. Assistant Commissioner Cahill was born and raised in St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. He joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 1992 and upon completion of training at Depot in Saskatchewan, was posted to Thompson, Manitoba. He performed general duties while posted in Thompson including Rural, Municipal, and the General Investigation section. In 1999, Assistant Commissioner Cahill participated in a United Nations Mission where he was assigned to the Central Criminal Investigation Unit in Kosovo investigating War Crimes. In 2001, Assistant Commissioner Cahill was promoted to the rank of Corporal in charge of Wabowden, Manitoba Detachment. In 2003, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in charge of Gillam, Manitoba Detachment. And in 2005 promoted to the Staff Sergeant rank as a District Advisory NCO for Manitoba North District. Assistant Commissioner Cahill transferred to the Placentia Whitbourne District in Newfoundland and Labrador as District Commander in 2007. While performing his duties in Manitoba, Assistant Commissioner Cahill volunteered as a MEAP (Member Employee Assistance Program) referral agent and a Sub Division Representative for the North District. In addition, he performed numerous relief assignments throughout the North West Territories and Nunavut. In 2008, Assistant Commissioner Cahill received his National Certification as a Critical Incident Commander. In 2011, he was Commissioned to the rank of Inspector as the District Policing Officer of Labrador. In 2015, Assistant Commissioner Cahill transferred to St. John’s, Newfoundland as the Officer in Charge of Major Crimes. Then, in 2017, was promoted to the rank of Superintendent as the Administration and Personnel Officer. From 2017 to 2018, Assistant Commissioner Cahill was seconded to B Division Support Services as the Officer in Charge. From 2018 to 2021 he performed the duties of the Administration and Personnel Officer for B Division and in November 2022 he was promoted to the rank of Chief Superintendent as the Provincial Criminal Operations Officer. In August of 2024 he was promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner and took over Command of the RCMP in B Division, Newfoundland and Labrador. As a graduate from St. Francis Xavier University, he holds a Business Administration degree, along with a Diploma of Management from Cornell University. He has been awarded the Order of Merit, Queens Jubilee Medal, Canadian Peace Keeping Medal, United Nations Mission in Kosovo Medal, and the Long Service Medal. Assistant Commissioner Cahill has been married for over 35 years, has three daughters, and is the proud grandfather of three grandchildren and counting. He resides in the community of Flatrock and enjoys all sports and outdoor activities.

Dr. Matthew Chow
Chief Mental Health Officer, TELUS Health
Dr Matthew Chow is a physician, leader, and advocate who has had the extraordinary and rare privilege to lead at the highest levels of the private sector, public administration, and labour movement.
Dr. Chow is Chief Mental Health Officer at TELUS Health, one of the world’s largest digital health firms with a team spanning 167 countries. TELUS Health touches the lives of 70 million people around the globe with services ranging from primary care to behavioural health to precision medicine. Dr. Chow oversaw billions of public dollars from 2016-2020 as a board member of the Medical Services Commission of British Columbia, the public health insurer for one of Canada’s largest provinces. He was also president of Doctors of BC in 2020-21, leading a labour organization of some 14,000 front-line healthcare workers through the concurrent crises of a global pandemic, catastrophic wildfires and flooding, a deadly heat wave, and record numbers of drug overdoses.
Dr. Chow’s strong yet compassionate leadership is forged by his clinical experience as a physician and specialist in mental health. He has helped thousands of children, youth, and families during their darkest and most vulnerable moments while serving at BC Children’s Hospital (founding director of E-Mental Health Services and Strategy), Foundry BC (consultant psychiatrist), and Three Story Clinic (private practice psychiatrist).
Dr. Chow has also volunteered his expertise to strengthen the community. He served on the advisory board for the University of British Columbia’s Institute of Mental Health, the board of the Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, and the board of Anxiety BC (now Anxiety Canada).
Dr. Chow completed his undergraduate training in biological sciences and undergraduate medical degree (MD) at the University of Calgary. He subsequently trained in the specialty of Psychiatry and received further subspecialty training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. He is a fellow of Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Dr. Chow is often invited to speak in the areas of health and wellbeing, health systems reform, and leadership. He brings his unrivalled perspective from industry, public service, and front-line workers to address the most challenging issues of our time.

Chris Thomas
Fortinet
Although Chris is relatively new to Fortinet with just a year with the team, Chris has extensive experience in the industry that brings extreme value to his customers. Chris is passionate about cybersecurity solutions that are tailored to protect municipalities, and he is enthusiastic in sharing valuable insights that will help Newfoundland Municipalities safeguard their digital infrastructure. Please be certain to drop by our booth and meet our experts and discover how to strengthen your digital security.

Stephen Penney
Partner, Stewart McKelvey
Steve’s practice focuses on employer-side labour and employment, and civil litigation, particularly in the areas of municipal law, professional negligence and commercial disputes. He has a broad range of court and hearing experience, having appeared at all levels of court in this country, including three matters before the Supreme Court of Canada.
Lori Evoy
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Lori Evoy is currently the Director of Local Government and Land Use Planning with the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. She has worked in the municipal field for over 25 years, with the last 17 years with the provincial government.

Dawn Chaplin
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Dawn Chaplin is the Eastern Regional Manager with the Municipal Support Division of the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, a position she has held since October 2023.
Prior to commencing her role with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Dawn spent 17 years as the Chief Administrative Officer/Town Clerk with the Town of Torbay and 15 years in various capacities within the community development sector.
Dawn is a firm believer in lifelong learning. Having earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Memorial University, supplemented by a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Waterloo, along with a National Advanced Certificate in Local Authority Administration (Level Two) from Dalhousie University. Dawn was awarded the Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, becoming only the fourteenth person in Canada to achieve this accomplishment.
There is no higher calling in terms of a career than public service, which is a chance to make a difference in people’s lives and improve the greater community. As a passionate advocate for local governance, Dawn has also served on provincial, national, and international committees and boards. However, the greatest role in Dawn’s life is being a proud mom to her son, Noah.
Holly Scott-Walsh
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Holly Scott-Walsh serves as the Regional Manager of Municipal Support for the Western/Labrador region. Having worked with the Provincial Government for 38 years, 28 of these years were in various positions with the Department of Finance and 10 years with the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs. In her hometown of Massey Drive, Holly held the positions of councillor and mayor. Holly is married and has one son. “The greatest place to serve is in local governance. It is here you are the closest to the people, and it is here where you truly make a difference.”
Angela Pomeroy
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
Angela Pomeroy has been employed with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador since 2017, originally as a Municipal Analyst and currently as Central Regional Manager of Municipal Support. Prior to being employed with the Provincial Government Angela spent over 20 years working with a municipal government.
Sonja El-Gohary
Director, ATIPP Office
Sonja El-Gohary has over 15 years of experience in the access and privacy sector and has been working with the ATIPP Office in various positions since 2011. Currently, she is the Director of the ATIPP Office, which provides support in relation to the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, 2015 to all public bodies in the province.
Steve Martin
Executive Director, Recreation NL
Steve has been immersed in Recreation his whole life and brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and relationships to the recreation sector in this province.
Steve graduated from Memorial University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Physical Education and again in 2008 with a Bachelor of Education from Memorial University.
Before his current role at Recreation NL, Steve was a familiar face to the association while serving more than 9 years on the Board of Directors as President, Vice-President, and an Inclusion Rep. During that time, Steve made his mark with national collaborators while sitting on the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association’s Board of Directors for a total of 4 years.
When Steve is not in the office at Recreation NL, he enjoys time on the trail, coaching and playing basketball, and continuing to assist groups, volunteers, or practitioners with recreational opportunities. Steve proudly calls Holyrood home where he lives with his family.

Duane Antle
Fire Chief, Come By Chance
Duane Antle is a 30-year veteran of the fire services as both a volunteer and career firefighter. Currently, Duane serves as Fire Chief of the Come By Chance Volunteer fire department, and has been a board member with the NL Association of Fire Services since 2008 (currently serving a third term as President). In 2020, Duane was presented a lifetime achievement award from the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association for his volunteer work in the Fire Service with Critical Incident Stress Management, Autism awareness program for first responders, and the promotion of safety in the fire services. He is the first Newfoundlander and Labradorian to receive this award. Married to wife Kelly, for 31 years and has 3 adult children, two of which serve with him in the Come By Chance Volunteer Fire Department.

Myrna Goosney
Town Clerk-Manager, Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook
Myrna Goosney is the Town Clerk-Manager in Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook, Vice-President of PMA, and a small business owner. Born and raised in beautiful Gros Morne National Park, she had an 11-year stint of living “on the mainland” before feeling the call of the saltwater bringing her back home. Myrna has over 25 years of administrative experience but often feels her background in Early Childhood Education has taught the most relevant skills in navigating her 16 years of municipal politics! Myrna lives in her grandmother’s old biscuit box house with her 2 daughters and a crazy hunting dog. In her down time, Myrna is a volleyball chauffeur but also enjoys hikes, a good movie, genealogy research, and a daily dose of chocolate.

Zach Burrows
Executive Director, Stewardship Association of Municipalities Inc.
Joining SAM in 2021 as a Conservation Biologist, Zach has served as the Executive Director since 2022. After receiving an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree with specialization in history from the University of Ottawa, Zach started in the environmental industry as a Red-Seal Certified Landscape Horticulturist in St. John’s, and later acquired a Fish and Wildlife technician diploma from the College of the North Atlantic in Corner Brook. From the rugged coastline of the Avalon Peninsula, the rocky tablelands of Newfoundland’s west coast to the sandy shores of Nova Scotia and all in between, Zach has practiced conservation across Newfoundland and throughout Atlantic Canada. With his wife and two young children, Zach has rooted himself in the coastal town of Torbay.

Sarah Hubble
Supplier Relations Manager, Canoe Procurement Group of Canada
Sarah is a Supplier Relations Manager at the Canoe Procurement Group of Canada, supporting Canoe members across Ontario and Nunavut. Sarah specializes in public procurement, helping guide public sector organizations toward their procurement goals and objectives. She boasts over a decade of management experience across multiple sectors. Sarah is a community champion, having previously coached grassroots youth hockey and soccer, led community events, and volunteered for multiple community organizations in Ontario. Beyond her professional life, Sarah is an avid sports and outdoors enthusiast. She enjoys hiking and attending various sporting events with friends and family. Sarah is currently pursuing her Executive Master of Business Administration – Global Leadership (EMBA) degree at the University of Fredericton.

Charles Bown
CEO, MMSB
Charles Bown has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board since 2020. Prior to his work with MMSB, Mr. Bown was the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation. He previously served as Chief Executive, Major Projects and Initiatives Unit within the Executive Council. Mr. Bown has also held the role of Deputy Minister, Department of Natural Resources. He has also served as Associate Deputy Minister (Energy) with the Department of Natural Resources and was Assistant Deputy Minister (Energy Policy) with the department. His career with the Provincial Government has also included positions as Director of Mineral Development and Director of the Voisey’s Bay Project. Mr. Bown has also served with the Advisory Council on the Economy, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and the Department of Finance. He started his career with the Petroleum Directorate within the Provincial Government and is a graduate of Memorial University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

Kelly Smith
Director of Corporate Services,
Municipal Assessment Agency
Kelly Smith is an accomplished senior executive serving as the Director of Corporate Services at the Municipal Assessment Agency, where she expertly oversees the Corporate Services Division. With a diverse portfolio that encompasses financial management, information technology, corporate programming, policy and legislative compliance, geographic information systems, data maintenance, administrative support, internal and external communications, human resources management, strategic planning, and regional office management, Kelly is dedicated to driving efficiency and effectiveness across all operational facets. Kelly’s academic credentials include a Diploma in Public Administration from the College of the North Atlantic and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources and Labour Relations from Athabasca University. Her commitment to excellence in her field is further demonstrated by her credentials as a Registered Professional Recruiter and Canadian Management Professional. Before joining the Municipal Assessment Agency in 2017, Kelly amassed over 15 years of progressive experience in human resources, strategic planning, financial management, and business administration in both the public and private sectors. Her extensive background equips her with a unique perspective and skill set, enabling her to navigate complex challenges and implement innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and support the Agency’s mission.
Byron Chubbs
VP Engineering and Energy Supply, Newfoundland Power
Byron Chubbs is Vice President, Engineering and Energy Supply, for Newfoundland Power Inc., a company that has proudly served the people of our province for nearly 140 years.
Byron is responsible for energy supply, system planning, engineering and information technology. He also has corporate responsibility for inclusion and diversity.
Byron joined Newfoundland Power in 2006, holding progressively senior roles including Director, Eastern Region, and Director, Operations Technology. In 2016, he joined Maritime Electric as Vice President, Customer Service, with responsibility for transmission and distribution operations, safety, customer service and communications. Byron rejoined Newfoundland Power in July 2018 as Vice President, Energy Supply and Planning.
Byron is from St. Lewis in Labrador and holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) Degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He has completed the Advanced Leadership Program at Memorial’s Gardiner Institute and the Finance for Senior Executives Program at Harvard Business School.
Byron is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland & Labrador. Byron serves on Electricity Canada’s Distribution Council and is Vice Chair of the St. John’s Board of Trade.
Under Byron’s leadership, the Company is looking to the future with a focus on sustainability and innovation.