Meet the COEDC – Janice Larson

Meet the COEDC June 8, 2022

Editors Introduction: 

For those who may not know, the COEDC’s Advisory Council is a conduit of information between business, community leaders and government. The council meets monthly to share information and work together towards sustainable economic growth. It is made up of 45 influential members consisting of industry leaders, community shapers and elected officials. One of these such members being Janice Larson!

The aim of the Meet the COEDC campaign, is to share with our community who the Economic Development Commission is and showcase the COEDC Advisory Council members who play a critical role guiding the regional economic development service.

Janice is a key member of the council, with experience in both the life sciences and public administration sectors. She is a consultant with over two decades of experience in public policy development and implementation, strategic planning, regulatory and economic development, community and international relations. Currently, in conjunction with being a member of the COEDC Advisory Council, Janice is the Director of the BC Interior Universities Research Coalition (IURC), a Board Member of the Okanagan Sustainability Leadership Council and the founder of Muse&Effect Consulting.

To provide you with a small snippet of her impressive experience, Janice was previously the Executive Director of Regional Innovation Initiatives with the BC Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizen’s Services, in which she focused on building academic, community and industry connections to enhance innovation throughout the province.

Continuing reading to learn more about Janice’s outlook on industry specific trends and forecast for the Central Okanagan! And check back next Monday to meet a new member of the Advisory Council and learn why they love to live and work in the Central Okanagan!

 

Q: What organization are you from and what is your role?

I have a consulting practice that draws on over 22 years in provincial energy, environmental, economic development and post-secondary public policy, and I spend a lot of my time at the interface of governments, industry, academia and non-profit sectors, helping create and support relationships across these key players in our community and our regional economy. I am particularly interested in initiatives that advance vibrant economic development in the context of a robust and sustainable natural environment.

Q: What excites you about the future of your respective sector?

We are a region with first-hand experience in the realities of a changing climate – from wildfires, floods and drought to impacts on agriculture, forestry, and tourism – but we are also, a highly entrepreneurial region and I am excited to work in that junction of challenge and entrepreneurial spirit, helping connect the challenges with the talent, resources and relationships to create solutions and have a positive impact.

Q: Why is participating in the Advisory Council important to you?

I value being part of the Advisory Council because it rallies a great group of people representing a range of public and private sector views who are committed to and invested in the health and prosperity of our region. We share ideas and perspectives that help inform the COEDC’s work in building a strong foundation of knowledge, communication and relationships to advance the region’s smart and sustainable economic development.

Q: Why do you love living and working in the Okanagan?

The Okanagan is an enchanting place. Its rich history, beautiful natural assets, impressive amenities and spirit of opportunity are magnetizing. I love the biking, hiking and cross-country skiing. The region’s fruit, wine and other culinary offerings are world class. The lakes and surrounding watershed are an absolute treasure. And we have so many good people here. I feel fortunate indeed to call this place home.