Community Futures South Fraser appoints new executive director

CHILLIWACK — Community Futures South Fraser has appointed Fraser Valley entrepreneur Nicola Harris as its new executive director.

The organization announced the appointment on October 25. It says Harris has more than 20 years of experience in organizational leadership, business development and supporting entrepreneurs.

Harris previously served as program lead for MYCommunityFutures, a province-wide initiative funded by PacifiCan. She led a 24-person team that supported more than 2,200 entrepreneurs across British Columbia and reported results to the board.

She has also worked directly with Community Futures South Fraser, leading Project Restart and supporting delivery of the Startup Challenge.

Harris is the founder of Harris Consulting, advising business founders and community organizations on strategy, operations and leadership. She also co-founded marketing and culture development agency Culture Co. Earlier in her career, she led people and culture strategy for CBI Health Group across British Columbia.

Community Futures South Fraser board representative Tonya Taylor said, “Nicola understands both the entrepreneur and the organization behind the work.” She added, “She has been a client, a program leader, and a business owner. She already knows this community and this network. We are confident she will lead Community Futures South Fraser with care, sound judgment, and a clear focus on the people we serve.”

The organization provides developmental lending, business advisory services and mentorship to businesses in Chilliwack and Abbotsford.

Community Futures South Fraser has supported entrepreneurs in the Chilliwack and Abbotsford areas since 1997.