Supporting Our Harbours
Our leadership team is responsible for the strategy and business direction of the organization. The team supports and guides our staff.
Collectively, they are responsible for:
- Providing excellence in services that add value to both locals and visitors alike
- Creating and maintaining a supportive organization
- Ensuring that the organization is a great place to work
- Ensuring the organization is fiscally sound
- Ensuring the highest and best use of all owned and managed assets and properties
Judith Ethier
Acting Chief Executive Officer; Chief Administrative Officer & Executive Vice-President Commercial
Judith oversees enterprise risk management, legal, finance, human resources, information technology, leasing, administration, and governance for the Board of Directors...
Judith oversees the commercial lines of business for GVHA, as well as the financial, governance and administrative portfolios. Her role includes supporting and developing the strategic initiatives that will ensure the organization enjoys long term sustainability and growth. Ethier has been with GVHA since 2017.
Ethier’s prior roles included more than 25 years in the public and private sector in Calgary, AB, where she held senior finance roles in both the oil and gas and commercial real estate industries. She is a Chartered Professional Accountant.
In addition, Ethier holds a CPCC designation, as a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach, where she enjoys working with individuals and organizations on strategic career and leadership development.
Mark Crisp
Vice-President, Infrastructure and Resiliency
Mark is responsible for planning and implementing Asset Management and Capital works program and projects...
Mark has worked in the planning and construction industry for nearly 30 years, in several countries, and brings significant engineering and architectural experience to bear on maintaining growth of GVHA’s portfolio. He looks forward to bringing various major projects to fruition for the GVHA.
Amber Hanson
Acting Vice-President, Strategic Partnerships & Innovation
Amber leads strategic partnerships, innovation, external engagement, cruise development, sustainability, brand and reputation management...
Amber currently leads strategic partnerships and innovation, First Nations engagement, sustainability, and cruise development.
Amber also oversees all facets of GVHA’s communications and external relations portfolio—from government and media relations, to brand management, marketing, events and engagement—ensuring alignment with GVHA’s vision of creating Canada’s most vibrant and harmonious harbour.
Amber brings deep expertise in tourism and place-based marketing, and creating thoughtful, inclusive, and innovative strategies to engage diverse audiences.
Her background includes senior roles at the University of Victoria and University of British Columbia, as well as key positions with Parks Canada and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
A graduate of the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business, Hanson also studied at Nanzan University in Japan. Amber a collaborative leader, committed to developing high-performing teams, building meaningful connections, and sharing the unique stories of Victoria’s working harbour.
Lori Ann Smith
Director, Finance
Lori-Ann manages the finance department, insurance, enterprise risk management, and investments with a focus on financial sustainability. She is also the Privacy Officer for the organization...
Lori-Ann manages the finance department, insurance, enterprise risk management, contracts, and investments with a focus on financial sustainability. She is also the Privacy Officer for the organization.
With over 15 years’ experience in the finance field, her experience encompasses both municipal and non-profit organizations as well as volunteering on non-profit boards. She has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Laurentian University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant.
Lori Ann's love of Vancouver Island started in her early years in Port Alberni. After moving away, she was thrilled to return to the Island with her family in 2014. Since moving back, she takes every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.