Lunch with a Leader Featuring Zoe Harrison

Join us for an exclusive mentoring opportunity with Zoe Harrison, a corporate board director and expert in innovation, digital transformation, and diversity.

• • • Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Sign up before: February 12, 2025

About Zoe Harrison

Zoe Harrison is an experienced corporate board director with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, and increasing diversity on boards. Her current board portfolio includes Peace Hills General Insurance Company, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association, and Cybera Technology. Previously, she worked as a board governance facilitator with the Alberta Government Board Development Program and for Downstage Theatre.

A proud University of Calgary alumni, She has had a 20-year international career in corporate strategy & innovation for financial services. She currently runs an independent consulting practice that supports the growth of fintech in Western Canada and corporate innovation programs.

Who Should Attend:

• • • Professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills in governance and innovation.
    • Individuals passionate about advancing diversity and digital transformation in their industries.
    • Anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice from a leader with a dynamic, global perspective.

New Lunch With A Leader Registration Process

Due to overwhelming interest, we’re introducing a new registration process to ensure fairness and accommodate as many members as possible.

📌 How it works:

• • • Complete the form by February 12.
    • Attendees will be randomly selected based on availability and the number of spots.
    • If selected, you’ll receive confirmation and the next steps to secure your ticket.

We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to seeing you at lunch!

Lunch with a Leader Featuring Byron Neiles

Join us for an exclusive mentoring opportunity with Byron Neiles, an accomplished leader and visionary in business, energy, and community development.

• • • Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Registration Opens: January 28, 2025 @ 9am.

About Byron Neiles

Byron is a director of Calgary Economic Development and ENMAX Corporation and in July 2024 retired as the Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer at Enbridge Inc. in Calgary after 30 years with the Company. During that time he led the Major Projects Division, IT, Human Resources, Safety & Operational Reliability, Real Estate, Supply Chain Management, Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability as well as Regulatory, Law and Customer Care with its Natural Gas utility in Ontario. Prior to that he served as a policy advisor to two Canadian federal energy ministers.

Byron holds an MBA from the University of Calgary, a BA from the University of Regina and is a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. Byron has also earned the NACD CERT certificate in Cybersecurity Oversight from the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. He is the former Co-Chair of the annual Global Business Forum in Banff, and active community volunteer as Trustee of Makadiff Sports and Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra Foundations, member of the Dean’s Management Advisory Council at the Haskayne School of Business School as well as a member of cabinet of the OWN Cancer Campaign with the Alberta Cancer Foundation and cabinet for the new Science Hub at the University of Calgary. Byron, his wife Lisa and three adult daughters live in Calgary.

Who Should Attend:

• • • Professionals looking to grow as leaders in business and governance.
    • Individuals interested in learning from an expert in energy, sustainability, and strategic community impact.
    • Anyone seeking inspiration and insights from a leader with extensive experience in shaping impactful organizations and initiatives.

Note to Attendees

Due to the high demand and interest in our Lunch with a Leader program, we kindly ask that if you have attended a recent lunch, please consider giving others who have not yet had the opportunity a chance to register.

If you have previously attended an event and are registered for an upcoming one, please note that the Axis Connects team may reach out to you to issue a refund in order to make room for new attendees.

Please note that Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@axisconnects.com.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us create equal opportunities for all members to participate.

Join us for an inspiring and exclusive mentoring opportunity with Gitane De Silva, a distinguished leader and visionary in public policy, energy, and intergovernmental relations.

• • • Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
    • Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM MST
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K9

Registration Information:

• • • Tickets: $50pp (includes lunch)
    • Availability: Limited availability so register early. If you have already attended a Lunch with a Leader in 2025 please see the note at the bottom of the page.
    • Registration Opens: January 17, 2025 @ 9am.

About Gitane De Silva

Gitane De Silva, ICD.D, is a public policy leader with extensive executive experience across provincial, national, and international arenas. She is the Founder and Principal of GDStrategic, a consulting firm. As the CEO of the Canada Energy Regulator (2020-2023), she ensured the safe delivery of energy while advancing environmental protection and Reconciliation. Gitane has held pivotal roles, including Alberta’s Deputy Minister for International and Intergovernmental Relations and Alberta’s Senior Representative in Washington, DC. A seasoned diplomat, she has been instrumental in trade negotiations, energy infrastructure promotion, and fostering Canada-U.S. relations.

Gitane also serves as a Special Advisor at Blue Rock Law, a Global Fellow with the Canada Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, and a Board Member with the Public Policy Forum. Passionate about gender equality, public policy, and dark chocolate, Gitane enjoys time with her family, reading, and exploring the Rocky Mountains.

Who Should Attend:

This event is perfect for:

• • • Professionals aspiring to grow as leaders in public policy and governance.
    • Individuals seeking to learn from an expert in intergovernmental relations, energy, and Canada-U.S. dynamics.
    • Anyone inspired to gain insights from a leader shaping impactful policies and strategies.

Note to Attendees

Due to the high demand and interest in our Lunch with a Leader program, we kindly ask that if you have attended a recent lunch, please consider giving others who have not yet had the opportunity a chance to register.

If you have previously attended an event and are registered for an upcoming one, please note that the Axis Connects team may reach out to you to issue a refund in order to make room for new attendees.

Please note that Eventbrite fees are non-refundable. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at hello@axisconnects.com.

Thank you for your understanding and support in helping us create equal opportunities for all members to participate.

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Kent Ferguson, Senior Vice President at Suncor. With over 25 years of experience in the energy industry, Kent brings a unique and comprehensive understanding of the Canadian energy market, sustainability, and corporate development. His impressive career includes a significant tenure at RBC Capital Markets, where he was a leader in global energy, Indigenous finance, climate change, and energy transition—key areas shaping the future of business and sustainability.

This session offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with one of Alberta’s foremost thought leaders on sustainable energy strategy and corporate growth. Kent’s insights into the evolving energy landscape, sustainable finance, and commitment to diversity make him an inspiring mentor for professionals interested in impactful, forward-thinking leadership.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Nov 18 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

• • • Date: November 28, 2024
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club, 710 13 Ave SW
    • Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
    • Lunch is included.

Kent Ferguson

Senior Vice President, Strategy, Sustainability, and Corporate Development, Suncor

Kent oversees Suncor’s corporate strategy, sustainability initiatives, and investment portfolio, guiding the company’s commitment to responsible energy and sustainable growth. A CFA charter holder with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan, Kent has led transformative projects on emissions, energy policy, and environmental markets. Before joining Suncor, Kent was Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Energy at RBC, where he spearheaded initiatives focused on energy transition and inclusive finance.

Lunch with a Leader: Featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo

Join us for an exclusive Lunch with a Leader event featuring Denise Man, Chief Technology Officer at AIMCo. With over 20 years of technology and leadership experience, Denise is a trailblazer in Alberta’s tech community, bringing a wealth of expertise in areas ranging from AI and microprocessor development to innovation in financial services. She is a passionate advocate for growing Alberta’s technology skills and building an inclusive, future-ready workforce, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring leaders in tech and beyond.

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Oct 22 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

• • Date: November 7, 2024
  • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
  • Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
    • Lunch is included.

 

Denise Man   

Chief Technology Officer, AIMCo  

Denise leads AIMCo’s Global Technology and Data team to leverage the technology infrastructure of the organization to invest on behalf of AIMCo’s clients more efficiently.  With more than 20 years of technology and leadership experience, ranging from artificial intelligent speech recognition research to the development of the 64-bit Itanium microprocessor at Hewlett Packard. During this time, she was awarded seven patents and has several publications with the U.S. Patent Office. Prior to joining AIMCo, Ms. Man served in a variety of executive roles including leading the Technology, Innovation and Engineering teams at ATB Financial, and the Technology Operations teams at Enbridge Pipelines, as Chief Technology Officer.

A University of Calgary alumni, Ms. Man holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Computer Engineering.  Ms. Man’s vision is to grow Alberta’s technology skills through inclusive practices to mobilize a diverse and future-ready workforce. Denise is an active mentor, role model and sponsor in the Alberta technology and business communities, and she was recognized for her efforts as the 2021 recipient of the AXIS Calgary Influential Women in Business award in the Large Enterprise category.

Denise serves as Chair of the Band Capital Investment Advisory Committee and is a member of the Coril Board of Directors, and National Music Center Board of Directors. She is also a former member of the Mount Royal University Board of Governors, SAIT’s School of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Dean’s Technology Advisory, and Tua Financials Board of Directors.

Join us for an engaging Lunch with a Leader event featuring Katherine Emberly, President & CEO of STARS, a transformational leader with over two decades of executive experience. Katherine is known for her dynamic communication skills, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to delivering critical care to the most vulnerable. Her expertise spans across multiple sectors, making her an inspiring mentor for aspiring leaders.

 

Only 10 spots available! Registration opens Sept 19 @ 9am.

Must be an Axis Member to register (Register here)

• • • Date: October 3, 2024
    • Location: The Ranchmen’s Club
    • Time: Please arrive at 11:15 am. Lunch will start at 11:30 am.
    • Lunch is included.

 

KATHERINE EMBERLY

President & CEO, STARS

Katherine is a transformational leader and dynamic communicator with over two decades of executive experience. As President & CEO of STARS, she is accountable for the alignment and direction of the organizations’ strategy, as well as building on critical external stakeholder relationships with government, donors, and key partners. Katherine and her team have a singular focus – delivering critical care to the most vulnerable and sickest people wherever and whenever needed. They achieve this goal by being values and purpose driven.

Prior to joining STARS, Katherine spent the last twenty years with Shaw Communications, progressing through more senior roles until she spent the last five years as President, Business. Having grown with and across that organization, Katherine is a champion of building talent and providing opportunities to stretch, grow and learn.

Katherine is also committed to giving back to the community that has provided so many opportunities for her, and she sits on the boards of Alberta Blue Cross, Calgary Economic Development and Axis Connects.

Katherine is ICD.D certified, has completed the Harvard Executive Leadership program, and is a graduate of the University of Alberta.

Join us for an exceptional “Lunch with a Leader” event featuring Heather Culbert, a trailblazing leader whose contributions have profoundly shaped Calgary’s community landscape. Heather is more than a leader—she is an innovator and change-maker who has dedicated her life to advancing the causes that matter most to our city.

After nearly three decades in the oil and gas industry, Heather transitioned from her executive role to focus on enhancing our community. Over the past decade, she has made a lasting impact by serving as Chair of SAIT’s Board of Governors, co-chairing the Promising Futures Campaign, and founding pivotal initiatives like Board Ready Women, Axis Connects, and the Calgary Influential Women in Business (CIWB) Awards. Through these efforts, Heather has tirelessly championed the advancement of women on local boards and in Calgary’s business community.

Heather’s commitment extends far beyond these roles. As a trustee for the Alberta Cancer Foundation and past chair of United Way of Calgary and Area, she has consistently demonstrated her dedication to philanthropic leadership. Currently, she serves as Chair of the United Way World Leadership Council, continuing her mission to drive positive change.

One of Heather’s most significant undertakings is her work as co-chair of the OWN.CANCER campaign, where she leads efforts to raise over $250 million for the new Arthur JE Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre. Thanks to her leadership, $225 million has already been secured, bringing us closer to opening a facility that will revolutionize cancer treatment and improve survival rates across Calgary and Alberta.

This lunch is an invaluable opportunity for those aspiring to board leadership or seeking to make a meaningful impact in their careers. Heather’s extensive experience and passion for community enhancement make her the ideal mentor for anyone looking to become board-ready or take the next step in their professional journey.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of Calgary’s most influential leaders and gain insights that could transform your path to leadership.

• Date: June 20, 2024
• Location: The Ranchmen’s Club (McPherson Room)
• Time: Please arrive at 11:00am. Lunch will begin at 11:30am.
• Lunch is included!

Agenda
Welcome & Leader Introduction (15 minutes):
Networking and Discussions/Lunch (40 minutes):
Closing Remarks and Conclusion (5 minutes):

Registration Opens June 7 @ 9am!