May/June 2018
Dingwall Guitars Awarded SABEX Business of the Year Sponsored by:
Edwards School of Business
Page 14
| Create Cafe pg. 24 | Members in the News pg. 6 |
Agrium and PotashCorp are now Nutrien. What do you get when the world’s biggest crop input retailer combines forces with the largest crop nutrient production and distribution operation on Earth? You get an unmatched supply of crop inputs, an extensive and efficient delivery infrastructure and more than 1,500 retail locations, staffed with generations of farming experts. In the race to feed the world’s exploding population, ours is a whole new business model. And as we help growers produce more food, we’ll continue to support the communities where we operate, working together with local partners to keep our city, and our province, shining bright.
www.nutrien.com
May/June 2018
STAFF Darla Lindbjerg, CEO Kendra Cruson, VP Business Development Terry Lawrence, Administrator Roz Macala, Executive Assistant Kate Dupuis, Events & Marketing Summer Intern Linda Saunders, Bookkeeper Steve Hawes & Mark Hawes, Brand Evangelists
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Kelly Bode - WMCZ Lawyers 1st Vice-Chair Peggie Koenig - Koenig & Associates 2nd Vice-Chair Paul Labbe Past President Jason Yochim - SRAR Sandra Ribeiro - Canadian Light Source Inc Bill Cooper - Nutrien Stacy Dybvig - ICR Commercial Real Estate Usha Kapoor - Park Town Hotel Linda Exner - PCL Construction Management Ltd. Deborah Meyers - Saskatchewan Polytechnic Karl Miller - Meridian Development Chris Sicotte Brian Skanderbeg - GFG Resources Inc Trevor Thiessen - Redekop Manufacturing Chris Woodland - MLT Aikins
Cover Story Page 14
PRODUCTION Publisher: Kendra Cruson Layout & Design: Arcade & Terry Lawrence Contributing Writers: Lise Merle, Kendra Cruson, Kelly Bode, Darla Lindbjerg, Andrea Hansen, Elizabeth Ireland Sales: Kendra Cruson, Steve Hawes & Mark Hawes Photography: Grant Romancia & Gina Yesnik Canadian Publications Mail Agreement No. 40052085 Return Undeliverable Addresses to: Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce 104-202 4th Avenue North, Saskatoon, SK S7K 0K1
BUSINESS VOICE is a publication of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Copyright 2018 Phone: (306) 244-2151 Fax: (306) 244-8366 Email: chamber@saskatoonchamber.com Website: saskatoonchamber.com Twitter and Instagram: @stoonchamber
Featured Content 4
Events
14
Cover Story - Dingwall Guitars
5
From the CEO
20
6
Superior Cabinets - Leading Through Change since 1980
Members in the News
27
Health, Wellbeing and Leadership at Work
28
Working for You
30
A City in Celebration - SABEX Awards
10
New Members
38
Chair’s Message
Disclaimer: BUSINESS VOICE makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of informations contain herein. The views contained in the magazine are those of the writers and advertisers: They do not necessarily reflect the view fo the Business Voice magazine and its publisher the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce.
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 3
EVENTS
Chamber Special Events Member Appreciation & AGM
Chair’s Invitational Golf Classic
Summer Splash Series
Join your Chamber family for the induction of new board members, then plan to stick around for an evening of good food and entertainment. Seating is limited. Pre-registration is required. www.saskatoonchamber/events
Book a team or sign up as a single, either way; come out for a day of networking on the greens. Sponsorships and prize donations will be accepted starting May 1, 2018. Contact events@saskatoonchamber. com for more information.
DATE: May 24 TIME: 4:30 pm LOCATION: Village Guitar & Amp Co.
DATE: June 7 TIME: 11:00 am Shot Gun start LOCATION: Willows Golf & Country Club
Look for our Summer Splash series to stay connected this July and August when our regular events take a break. Our Events & Marketing Summer Intern, Kate Dupuis, will head up the fun. Stay tuned to our Events Shaken with a Page and connect on social media for regular Twist updates.
Presented by:
Chamber Networking Events
Co-hosted by:
Chamber 101 This is your introduction or refresher on how you can make the most out of your Chamber Membership. Learn about the Chamber Group Benefits Plan; cost savings programs for Staples, Choice Payment Solutions and more; marketing opportunities; advocacy; events and other info you need to know. DATE: May 2 TIME: 3:30 pm LOCATION: LB Distillers
Connect with the business community and enjoy great food and drink at Chamber on Tap on the first Wednesday of each month at LB Distillers. Learn Entrepreneur Insights when our host Evan Drisner interviews members of the business community. SPEAKER: Don Hnatuk BUSINESS: Prairie Crane DATE: May 2 TIME: Doors open 4:30 pm, Speaker 5:00 pm LOCATION: LB Distillers 4 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
Chamber on Tap (cont.) Season Finale DATE: June 6 TIME: Doors open 4:30 pm, Speaker 5:00 pm LOCATION: LB Distillers
Hear what’s HOT in Health and Technology as you connect with members of these sectors. Held on the third Wednesday of each month, HOT includes an interview with business leaders in these fields. SPEAKER: Johannes Dyring BUSINESS: Innovation Enterprise, University of Saskatchewan DATE: May 16 TIME:Doors open 4:15 pm, Speaker 5:00 pm LOCATION: Stonebridge Rock Creek SPEAKER: Lucas Pust BUSINESS: SaskInvent DATE: June 20 TIME:Doors open 4:16 pm, Speaker 5:00 pm LOCATION: Stonebridge Rock Creek
Shaken with a Twist
Held in partnership with WESK, Shaken with a Twist is an opportunity to hear the behind-the-scenes story of promenent women in our community. Join host Shawna Nelson as she interviews a new guest each month. Great snacks and drinks add to this networking opportunity. SPEAKER: Dr. Donna Jubin BUSINESS: Bella Sante MD DATE: May 10 TIME: Doors open 5:00 pm, Speaker 5:30 pm LOCATION: Village Guitar & Amp SPEAKER: Alicia Soulier BUSINESS: Capelli Salon Studio DATE: June 14 TIME: Doors open 5:00 pm, Speaker 5:30 pm LOCATION: Village Guitar & Amp Visit www.saskatoonchamber.com/events for information and registration for all our upcoming events.
FROM THE CEO
Your Voice in Business
“
“
...largest attendance ever at our annual SABEX Awards
Saskatoon Chamber CEO Darla Lindbjerg
We started 2018 off with a BANG! Not only did we have the largest attendance ever at our annual SABEX (Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence) Awards Event, we also celebrated the installation of our new 22nd Lieutenant Governor, Mr. Thomas Malloy, as well as the installation of Saskatoon’s newest Chief of Police, Mr. Troy Cooper. The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce brought Michelle Obama to Saskatoon, requested and received unanimous adoption from City Council to pass a resolution proclaiming Saskatoon as Canada’s Business Friendliest City, hosted Mayor Charlie Clark to deliver the State of the City Address and took a leadership advocacy position on the creation of a downtown arena and convention centre along with much, much more! We are thrilled to say that we are growing as an organization through increased membership participation from our business community. In the first quarter of 2018, the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to have welcomed 63 new businesses as Chamber of Commerce membership – up 190% year over year from 2017. This increased membership allows us to speak with a louder and stronger voice when we lobby the
“
“
...Membership – up 190% year over year f rom 2017
municipal, provincial and federal governments on behalf of our membership. This function of our Chamber is more important than ever considering the recent change in leadership for both the Saskatchewan Party and the NDP and we are committed to ensuring the voice of Saskatoon business is heard in the legislature. Beyond our vital role in the areas of providing advocacy, education, networking opportunities and referrals to our members, the Chamber also offers programs and services that save our members hundreds and thousands of dollars each year; providing our members with opportunity to differentiate themselves in their industries and as an employer of choice. We are excited to continue growing our city and growing as an organization. If you would like additional information about the work that we are doing, I encourage you to reach out to our office and get involved. We hope that you thoroughly enjoy this issue of the Business Voice and use the information in this publication to be an ambassador of our community and business successes!
Darla Lindbjerg, CEO, Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 5
NEWSMAKERS
Chamber Members in the News
Blue Moose Media
Some might say Blue Moose Media is living the entrepreneurial DREAM! 18 months since incorporating, the business has grown from a two-person operation working out of a hallway to opening up their brand-new office in Saskatoon at Ideas Inc. and very recently growing their team with two new faces, Dana Olafson and Sophie Kokott. “We’re realizing the vision of our business plan and having a lot of fun doing it!” says Director of Business Development & Co-Owner Travis Low. Blue Moose Media specializes in Social Media Marketing providing both social media management and training small-to-medium sized businesses how to effectively market themselves in a digital world. “It’s really gratifying to help our clients reach their business goals, sometimes seeing positive results as soon as the day after training!” says Digital Marketing Consultant & Co-Owner Ricky Forbes. One of Blue Moose’s flagship training programs is the Digital Marketing Certification - a four-day workshop series that is eligible for the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant (CSJG). This hands-on program focuses on enhancing the employee’s knowledge in the area of social media fundamentals, content strategy, targeting custom audiences, utilizing social media ads and Google AdWords. The Digital Marketing Certification is a great way to empower your employees with new responsibility and increase your organizations presence on the various digital marketing platforms. The beauty of it all… if your organization is eligible, the Job Grant covers up to two-thirds of eligible training costs, or up to $10,000 per trainee. Learn more about Blue Moose Media and their Digital Marketing Certification at www.BlueMooseMedia.com.
Senator Pamela Wallin, Alison Squires, her friend (name unknown), Murad Al-Katib and Steve McLellan.
Senate Medal
On January 22, Alison Squires, Murad AlKatib and Steve McLellan were awarded the Senate Sesquicentennial Medal in recognition of their valuable service to the nation. This specially minted medal marks the Senate’s 150th anniversary, and honours individuals who have improved their community with exceptional generosity, time and dedication. Featuring the Senate’s emblem on one side and the recipient’s name and the Senate Chamber on the other side, this medal is a significant honour. “I congratulate Alison, Murad and Steve on being recognized in this way, we have all
Fire Sand Glass Provides Clarity
How is a Saskatoon glass fabricator using cutting edge technology to cut down
6 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
benefitted from their commitment to our communities. The board of the Saskatchewan Chamber could not be more proud of Steve as a tireless champion of Saskatchewan businesses, truly working every day to make Saskatchewan the best place to live, work and invest,” said Patricia Warsaba, Chair of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce. Alison Squires, publisher at Wadena News, Murad AL-Katib, founder of AGT Foods, and Steve McLellan, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber, received these medals at the Legislative building in Regina from Honourable Senator Pamela Wallin.
on landfill waste and save their customers money at the same time? By using the finest glass fabrication equipment in the world, Fire Sand Glass has built their business around finding new and innovative ways to work with glass and its many uses. Recently, Fire Sand Glass added two more services; both environmentally responsible and economically sound. Every year, thousands of pounds of perfectly good glass is unnecessarily relegated to local landfills because of the misconception that soap scum ruins glass. With advanced technology, Fire Sand Glass can restore your glass to brand
Continue on next page
NEWSMAKERS
Continued from previous page new condition, saving our environment and saving their clients money. This proves true for scratched glass too! The processed is accomplished by the cutting edge technology utilized by Fire Sand Glass, which manipulates the glass on a molecular level. By easing molecules that were displaced back into the
same location they were prior to the scratch, the damage simply disappears with no discoloration, distortion or discernable damage. And with summer upon us, so too is bug season. With Fire Sand Glass Wipe Clean Bug Remover, save time and the environment. After a quick application to your vehicle, bugs simply wipe away.
40 Years Strong
J & S Picture Warehouse
Preserving memories and treating people well was at the heart of Sherry Morris’ business when she started 40 years ago and it continues to be the pillar of her business today. Morris returned to her home province of Saskatchewan to open J&S Picture Frame Warehouse after gaining industry experience in Toronto. “In those days stock frames were how things were done,” recalls Morris. “We had the largest stock frame inventory outside of Toronto and served our customers with all of their custom framing needs.”
Jay’s Car Service
A traditional ‘party limo’ company, they’re not. Come October, Provincial Car Service will celebrate its 17th Anniversary and be-
At the time, having a studio portrait taken was a major undertaking. As technology evolved, so too did customer needs and services provided by J&S Picture Frame Warehouse. With a focus on quality, the business only uses UV ink and acid free paper to ensure the highest quality product. J&S also offers giclee printing, a unique technique that allows them to reproduce artist paintings and photographs on gallery quality canvas. “There have been a lot of changes over the years. We’ve diversified to continue to serve our clients and give them the best quality
product,” said Morris. “To me that means doing business properly.” In addition to the services offered, the business is also home to the Glen Scrimshaw Gallery, showcasing work by the celebrated Saskatoon artist. J&S Picture Frame Warehouse will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary on May 26 with a big party and they’d love to have you join them at 121 Jessop Avenue, Saskatoon.
come Saskatoon’s most experienced limo and executive car company. Eschewing old-school stretch limos, their fleet is comprised of meticulously maintained E-class sedans, vans, SUVs and busses. Online booking was available years before Uber. “We’re a local company that supports many local charities, something that Uber does not,” says owner Jay Robertson. “We also have better insurance coverage, driver safety standards, and client communication.” Provincial Car Service safely transports dozens of guests and groups everyday in their virtually unmarked fleet, and while the majority of their clients are corporate, locals are increasingly choosing them over traditional taxis. “We cost about $10 more, but the punc-
tuality, reliability and safety is worth it,” says Robertson. Hosting an event for 20, 200 or 20,000? Provincial Car Service has you covered. Expert knowledge of the city and its traffic ensures your event will go off without a hitch, and on time. Indoor Airport Parking - which includes a free exterior hand wash - is another of their specialties, and means you’ll never arrive home to a dead battery and cold vehicle. Tracking your flight, they’ll have your car warm, clean and ready for you the moment you get off the plane. Provincial Car Service. The easy choice. 306-665-0000
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 7
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
8 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
BEST OF
NORTH INDIA
TOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:
TOUR DAYS: 11 DAYS
TOUR DATE:
23 Oct, 2018
TOUR COST: Per person on twin sharing basis:
$ 2999 Member $ 3199 Non Member Single Person Supplement:
$ 520
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
International return airfare from Saskatoon 8 Nights accommodation at listed hotels or similar On arrival meeting & assistance by our representative Indian Traditional welcome Daily buffet breakfast All meals in Ranthambore Special Rajasthani Dinner in Jaipur Transportation/Transfers in an air-conditioned deluxe coach Sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary Shoe Covers at the Taj Mahal 1 Canter Safari at Ranthambore National Park English speaking guides International return airfare from Saskatoon Taxes & fuel surcharges
Contact: Kendra Cruson VP: Business Development and Member Experience Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce P: 306-664-0702 W: www.saskatoonchamber.com E: kendra@saskatoonchamber.com BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 9
NEW MEMBERS
New Members At Your Service Concierge Elizabeth Ireland, A personal concierge service that will Communicator do the tasks you don’t have time for or just don’t want to do! Personal shopping, errands, handyman services, and web development. Ashton Prescott p: (306) 291-4566 w: www.atyourserviceconcierge.ca Business Services
CHEP Good Food Inc.
Works with children, families and communities to improve fair access to good food and promote food security. Yvonne Hanson 1120 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 655-4575 w: www.chep.org Non-Profit Organizations
Confederation Family Medical Clinic
Family physician focus on prenatal and baby wellness. Ashley Binota 8B-300 Confederation Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 956-7775 Health Care - Services / Supplies
Create Cafe 3D Printing Solutions Inc.
A growing team of innovators with a specific interest in additive manufacturing, software development, and creating a sustainable future bringing 3D Printing across Canada. Dustin Maki 21-510 Circle Dr E, Saskatoon p: (306) 381-6555 w: www.createcafe.ca Manufacturers
Dr. Robert Pekush Medical Prof. Corp.
Ophthalmologist Dr. Robert Pekush 201-610 Queen St, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-1534 Health Care - Services / Supplies
Provides writing, editing and strategic communications consulting that will get your stakeholders’ attention by combining creativity with business knowledge. Elizabeth Ireland p: (306) 713-0073 Communications
Forever Captured Photography
Fine Art Photographer that specializes in newborn, wedding and headshot photos. Sheila Buhr 418 Haslam Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 221-5290 Photographers - Sales / Services
FSIN - Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations
Represents 74 First Nations in SK and is committed to honouring the spirit and intent of the Treaties, as well as the promotion, protection and implementation of the Treaty promises. Kim Jonathan / Shelley Mike 100-103A Packham Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 665-1215 w: www.fsin.com Associations / Clubs / Organizations
Gina’s Portraits
An internationally award winning photographer – year after year! Completely passionate about the craft and documenting the special moments of your life! Gina Yesnik 1447 Fairbrother Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 341-1527 w: www.ginasportraits.com Photographers - Sales / Services
Harron Exteriors
Contractor · Vinyl Siding Company Matthew Harron 634 Peterson Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 290-6084 Home Builders / Renovations
10 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
Helping Hands Cleaning Services
Cleaning for small commercial buildings, offices and restaurants. Maureen Torr 205 1st St W, Langham p: (306) 260-2644 w: www.helpinghand.com Janitorial / House Cleaning Services
Hughes Recruitment Inc. Offering personalized, professional recruitment services for clients. From the field to the boardroom, placing high performing professionals into growth opportunities with clients. Rosalie Hughes 215-220 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 370-4473 w: www.hughesrecruitment.ca Employment Agencies
Kristi Knippel Mortgage Broker
Mortgage broker helping client with their home financing needs. Purchases, refinances, renewal of mortgage. Providing financial advice and guidance. Kristi Knippel 246 Epp Pl, Saskatoon p: (306) 227-7051 w: www.kristiknippel.com Financial Services / Planning
Kwik-Bag-It Product Int. Inc. A reusable, machine washable, Eco/ Friendly Bag - saving you money from buying those nasty plastic bags and helping to keep them from entering our municipal landfills. Harold Sokyrka 442 Sylvian Cres, Saskatoon w: www.kwikbagit.com Retail AND Marketing / Market Research
NEW MEMBERS
New Members (Continued) LE Trenouth Accounting Services Larry Trenouth p: (306) 260-6688 Accountants / Bookkeepers
Leyda’s Cafe
A whole food, gluten and nut free, experiential cafe serving patrons delicious home cooked meals using as much organic, local and seasonal produce as possible. Shirley Maltman 112 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-0707 w: www.leydas.com Restaurants
Magnus Insulation & Fireproofing
Offering efficiency and protection for residential and commercial buildings, spray foam insulation, seamless roofing, asbestos removal, fireproofing and firestopping, drywall services and caulking. Conrad Correa 1A-1540 Alberta Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 683-9897 w: www.magnusinsulation.com Contractors
Medicine Shoppe on 33
rd
Professional pharmacy providing medications and the advice to ensure you get the most benefit possible from your prescription and non-prescription medications. Joan Cochrane 511A 33rd St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 931-2999 w: www.medicineshoppe.ca Health Care - Services / Supplies
Mulberry’s Restaurant & Lounge Full service restaurant and lounge, with in-house bakery and catering service. Lynda Marshall 124 3rd Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-4911 w: www.mulberrys.ca Restaurants AND Caterers / Food Services
Nieszner Industrial Services Inc.
Semaganis Worme Legal
Industrial maintenance in oil / gas facilities, pipeline maintenance and servicing, pipeline inspecting / supervising. Todd Nieszner p: (306) 631-9355 Gas / Oil Companies
Omnilogic Systems
Builds apps to help your business or organization; integrates software so your apps talk to each other; maintains and modifies existing apps to work the way you want. Understanding how business works. Dean Holroyd 1420A Broad St, Regina p: (306) 586-6116 w: www.omnilogic.net Consultants AND Technology
Perfection on the Prairies Independant Contract Sales Jason Alkestrup PO Box 391, Delisle p: (306) 280-5402 Marketing / Market Research
RJB Contracting
Professional contractor with expertise in siding, roofing and eavestroughs. Able to solve all exterior and interior renovation problems. Riley Bloodworth 413 Baycroft Pl, Martensville p: (306) 281-9751 Contractors
Serving your needs as a defense lawyer, legal advisor, legal counselor and even more. Helping in the matter of divorce, separation, child custody or family mediation. Helen Semaganis 300-203 Packham Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-7175 Legal Services
Socialite Media
Planning and managing the social media accounts of people and companies who are too busy doing whatever it is they do best. Lise Merle 4341 Albulet Dr, Regina p: (306) 535-3313 Consultants - Communications
Swadesh Donuts Tisdale Ltd. We serve gas bar, c-store and restaurant. Kamanashis Deb 96 93rd Ave, Tisdale p: (306) 873-4414 w: www.241pizza.com Restaurants AND Service Stations / Service Station Equipment
The Optimist Club of Saskatoon Inc.
Réseau Santé en français de la Saskatchewan Ensuring better access to French language health and social services and programs through collaboration with Health Care partners. Frédérique Baudemont 220-308 4th Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 653-7445 w: www.rsfs.ca Health Care - Services / Supplies
Hosting Canada Day in Saskatoon since 1967 with proceeds staying in the city to benefit youth. Barb Wohlford 2127 1st Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 934-7005 w: www.optimistcanadadaysaskatoon.com Associations / Clubs / Organizations AND Non-Profit Organizations
Tyson Pederson Consulting Ltd.
Engineering consulting services, multidisciplinary, manufacturing services. Tyson Pederson 204-4014 Arthur Rose Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 292-8461 w: www.tpceng.com Consultants - Engineering AND Machine Shops
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 11
MEMBERSHIP
Member Renewals 3twenty Modular 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Co. Ltd. 96.3 Cruz FM A1 Accounting Group LLP Adams Lumber (1982) Ltd. Affordable Parts Aim Electric Ltd. Akzo Nobel Chemicals Ltd. Alliance Energy Ltd. Apex Performance Consultants Ltd. ASL Paving Ltd. Associated Engineering (Sask) Ltd. Ayden Kitchen and Bar Bazaar Novelty Benesh Bitz & Company BN Steel & Metals Inc. Braid Flooring and Window Fashions Ltd. Braschuk Oilfield Breathe Cycle & Yoga Studio Bruce’s Cycle Works Buddwil Enterprises Ltd. Canadian Brewhouse Canadian Corps of Commissionaires Catholic Family Services of Saskatoon Central Services - Procurement Services Century 21 Fusion Chem-Dry of Saskatoon CIBC Wood Gundy Coldwell Banker ResCom Realty Colony Coffee & Tea Confederation Chiropractic Clinic Conseil économique et coopératif de la Saskatchewan Cornerstone Insurance Services Ltd. Courtyard by Marriott Saskatoon Airport CRAVINGS maternity-baby-kids Cuelenaere, Kendall, Katzman & Watson Dakota Dunes Golf Links LLP Dave Dutchak Davis Machine Company (1960) Ltd. DCG Philanthropic Services Inc. D-Con Construction Ltd. Des Nedhe Development LP Donald Physiotherapy Dr. P. LaBelle Medical P.C. Inc. Dr. Petrus Jansen van Rensburg M.C. Driverseat
(paid February 13 to March 31, 2018)
Dunmac General Contractors Ltd. Edge Immigration FingerTech Robotics Ltd. First Nations Bank of Canada Fleet Guide Truck & Trailer Repair Ltd. Full Line Ag Ltd. Global TV Saskatoon HairStyle Inn Salons Human Touch Counselling ICR Commercial Real Estate Imagine That Signs Decals & More Inc. Imperio Plumbing & Heating Inland Audio Visual Iron Mountain Jancy Holdings Ltd. Jazz Custom Cabinets Ltd. Jennifer Bain, B.Comm, CFP, EPC Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation Inc. Kayton Enterprise Ltd. Kenechukwu Ibezi L & S Bookkeeping Services La Federation des francophones de Saskatoon Legacy Bus Sales Ltd. MacNeil Motors Inc. Market Mall Inc. MGM Communications Midtown Plaza MiEnergy Mitchell & Sons Farm Ltd. MLCN Investment Management Corp. Moon Lake Golf and Country Club Morgan Palmer Search Directives Inc. Morris Industries Ltd. Moskowitz Capital New Community Credit Union Norseman Structures North Ridge Development Corporation North Saskatchewan Independent Living Centre Northern Factory Workwear Nutrien Children’s Festival Peter Kiewit Sons ULC PGI Printers Pillar Properties Corp. Pinnacle Wealth Brokers Prairie Laser Inc. Prehistoric Productions Inc.
12 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
Profit Wise Bookkeeping & Tax Services Progressive Property Management Ltd. Quality Cutting Tools Inc. Rawlco Radio - News Talk 650 / ROCK 102 / C95 Rayglen Commodities Inc. READ Saskatoon Real Canadian Property Management Professionals Redekop Manufacturing Inc. Rely-ex Contracting Inc & Steelmet Supply Riverside Country Club Rob Friesen Real Estate P.C. Inc. Rock Creek Tap and Grill Row 5 Distributors Inc. Sask Pork Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatchewan Polytechnic Faculty Association Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board Saskatoon Construction Association Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre Saskatoon Housing Authority Saskatoon Metal Mfg Saskatoon Smiles Saskatoon Zoo Foundation SaskEnergy Inc. SaskTel Centre Satisfaction Hearing Systems Ltd. Scotiabank Sheraton Cavalier Saskatoon Hotel Shoeless Joes Sports Grill Soccer Locker Staples Star Egg Company Stonebridge Crossing Retirement Community The Chopped Leaf The Gallery / art placement inc. The Salvation Army-Public Relations & Development The Sandbox in the City The Saskatoon Club U of S - Edwards Business Students’ Society Verdesian Life Sciences VersaBank Woodstyles Woodworking Co. Ltd. World of Spas Your Mortgage Link Inc.
COMMUNITY
Big Brothers Big Sisters - Mentoring Matters by Elizabeth Ireland
Research has shown some amazing facts about the positive impact of volunteer mentoring on our communities. When children and youth on social assistance are matched to an adult mentor, they themselves are 78 per cent less likely to be on any form of social assistance. Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Saskatoon and Area provides children and youth with these essential adult mentors. The organization is part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada – a federation of 108 member agencies serving more than 1,100 communities across the country. The core concept behind BBBS is that all children can reach their potential, and change their life view, through professionally
supported, one-to-one relationships with volunteer adult mentors. Research has shown that every $1 invested in BBBS programming returns $18 to society through taxes, higher incomes, volunteerism and charitable donations. With a volunteer adult mentor, girls are 2.5 times more likely and boys are twice as likely to believe in the importance of doing well academically. Children and youth also internalize the belief that they will be successful, and school becomes a place where they are empowered, engaged and can excel. Children and youth are put on a path to success by avoiding risky behaviours such as bullying, lying, stealing or fighting. Girls become 4 times less likely to participate in these types of behaviours and boys are 2 times less likely. The end result is that children and youth in our communities begin to fully realize their potential because they have the opportunity to believe in themselves. More than 90 per cent of children and youth mentored through BBBS feel confident and say they are happy. In turn, employee engagement research shows that employees who are given the opportunity to give back to their community are more productive, more engaged and have more positive feelings about the business where they work.
APPLIED RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
Applied research... where ideas meet reality, delivering practical solutions to everyday problems. DON’T MISS OUR APPLIED RESEARCH STUDENT SHOWCASE MAY 23, 2018 INNOVATION PLACE IN SASKATOON!
From agriculture to artificial intelligence, biotechnology to biomechanics—with some of the most advanced equipment in the province, we have the expertise you need. Check us out at www.saskpolytech.ca/research BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 13
COVE R STORY
All About That Bass by Lise Merle
AB1 3x Ferrari Green
Sheldon Dingwall is the kind of guy who would be uncomfortable with someone considering him genius, never mind seeing those very same words printed in a glossy magazine. Easy going, but extremely personable - he has an endearing way of downplaying his own achievements while simultaneously rattling off his own successes without even a trace of arrogance. He is a guy who is impossible not to like. He’s also a guy who never really considered himself an entrepreneur, let alone a serious bona fide business person. Always more of a DIYer, if he couldn’t find or afford a product he was after, he’d make it himself. Unlike business, music was always in the background. His earliest memories of music involved getting up before anyone else, crawling into the kitchen and announcing that it was time to get up by banging on pots and pans like drums – much to the delight of his family of 8. It wasn’t too long after that, that Sheldon started playing the strings – and not because it was his first preference, but simply because there was a baritone ukulele lying around the house and it made noise. It was at the ripe old age of 5 that his formal training in piano began. Between his mother (an organist and piano teacher) and
his father (a preacher at Saskatoon’s Mayfair United Church), the two of them used piano lessons as leverage for what Sheldon really wanted to do: Play drums. Sheldon Dingwall isn’t a person that that believes one gets to choose their own interests. He believes they’re inherent, and innate. But like author Stephen King says, “Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.” A keen interest in drums, piano and strings, plus a tenacious “try fast, fail fast, and try again” approach would undoubtedly foreshadow the eventual path his life would take. His fascination with music as a small person continued to grow, thanks in part he says, to having teenagers in the house – and in particular, his middle sister. She ran with Saskatoon’s hip crowd and listened to music that was a level or two beyond the typical pop music of the time. Bands like The Beatles played the soundtrack and shaped the culture of his growing up years. By his own admission, his first guitar design at the age of 12 was horrible. Luckily, Sheldon Dingwall isn’t the ‘try once and give up’ type. Or, a believer that a person ‘must learn everything they know
14 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
in a formal setting’ type. That’s because in his words, “Everything that I’ve attempted has been in ignorance. I have no art training, no design training, no Computer Aided Design training, no manufacturing training, no business training and no social media training. Everything I’ve learned has been on the fly because if I had taken formal training in every skill I have,” he laughs, “I would still be in school.” He began teaching music at age 15, and for a few years after high school, toured western Canada with his band, New York, New York. And it was about this time, somewhere in the middle of that magical age of youth and discovery that a 16 year old Sheldon Dingwall met the man who would turn out to have the greatest influence on his professional life: Glen McDougall. We all have the same story. We went in for an hour and came out eight hours later with our minds blown. Glen McDougall taught a young and impressionable Sheldon Dingwall that it was never impossible to dream. A legend in the local music industry, Glen launched Fury Guitars in Saskatoon in 1962 and with it: the electric music industry in Canada was born.
SABEX Business of the Year winner Sheldon Dingwall of Dingwall Guitars. Photo by Grant Romancia.
COVE R STORY Self-taught, Sheldon says, “Glen was a manufacturing genius, without a doubt. His ability to conceptualize machines that could fulfil multiple operations was incredible. His talent would be on a level of any of the top engineers at GM or Ford. And he did it all in Saskatchewan.” It was with Glen that Sheldon discovered his calling, and maybe more importantly, the confidence to try.
I can spot a French guitar from a mile away,” Sheldon remarks. “Just f rom the sophistication of their curves. Saskatchewan, however, wasn’t as accommodating, and not for the reasons you’d think. Although Sheldon did witness the great exodus of young people and talent numbering in the tens of thousands who packed up and left Saskatchewan for the greener, richer pastures of Alberta, it was Saskatchewan’s geography that was Sheldon’s greatest challenge. “The hardest thing I’ve had to work at is the ability to see curves, and guitars are really curvaceous instruments,” he confesses. “I’m really influenced by architecture, and especially when you’re from flat, square Saskatchewan, ostensibly where compared to Europe. We don’t have a lot of curvaceous buildings,” he states. “Being able to distinguish curves was really, really difficult, and something I still work on. France by comparison is full of ornate architecture, and it shows. I can spot a French guitar from a mile away,” Sheldon remarks. “Just from the sophistication of their curves.” This goes for color as well. “Some people have a natural ability to see colors and inherently know which ones will work together, and I started out with a bit of that, but still had to work on it.” Celebrating its 30th Anniversary, Dingwall Guitars is anything but a one-hit-wonder,
blending artistry, the mechanical, and innovation has always been the goal. “In any recipe, you don’t want one flavor to dominate too much. And it’s the same in design. As much as possible, without consciously thinking about it, I try to have equal parts of aesthetics, engineering and innovation in every guitar we put out.” Early adopters of Dingwall Guitars were the first to recognize those innovations. This is due, in part, to the fact that surprisingly, Dingwall Guitar customers weren’t traditionally (as one might expect) fulltime musicians, but engineers. “Engineers are more practical and less influenced by trends, but when they see innovation and understand it, it really fires them up.” Dingwall Guitars most notable innovation was born when they became one of the first manufacturers to apply a fanned fret system to bass. The frets of typical bass guitars run parallel to each other along the neck like a row of neat little soldiers standing at attention. On Dingwall’s fanned fret guitars, the frets are slanted, or laid back – kind of like Sheldon Dingwall himself. This design means lower strings gain in length and the higher strings are shortened. So by combining the warm, sweet trebles of shorter stringed guitars with the deep reverberating basses of long stringed instruments, the Dingwall Guitar was brought closer to the string and range of a harp or piano. According to dozens of professional magazine reviewers, the Dingwall Guitar is surprisingly easy for bassists to become accustomed to
playing. But finding the perfect balance of old school design, musical innovation and the willingness to try something new took some time to catch on.
Unmatched Tenacity
“We were really counter to popular trends for almost 20 years, when everything in design was retro. From fashion to cars, to music and guitars.” Says Sheldon. “PT Cruisers and ripped jeans and the Black Crows. Music was looking backwards to classic rock. And culture was looking backwards as well. We were stuck in a place where we thought the best was behind us, as opposed previous eras in North America where we said the future was bright and exciting”. It was with the perfect convergence of the information age along with a shift in forwardlooking culture that had the greatest impact on Dingwall Guitars. No longer considered an instrument just for innovation-loving engineers, the Dingwall Guitar earned a cult following in person and online and became a must-have instrument for modernday bass guitarists and heavy metal players around the globe. One of those bass guitarists happened to be the immensely talented Adam “Nolly” Getgood who played with American progressive metal band Periphery. After meeting him in London UK, Sheldon says “We just really hit it off, and it was only after that I realized how influential he really was.” Dingwall Guitars and Nolly embarked
Continue on next page
Z3x Buckeye Bloodmoon Burst Wenge
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 15
COVE R STORY
Continued from previous page on a partnership with the creation of the phenomenally successful Dingwall NG2 Adam Nolly Getgood Signature Bass. One of Dingwall’s better known clients came to them by accident. “There was a small bass guitar company out east who was working with a client who wondered if they knew of any other Canadian bass companies.” While showing the client a picture of one of Dingwall’s basses on a mobile phone, the client’s thumb accidentally (or serendipitously, if you will) hit the photo, “And that took him to a different photo of one of our basses that he was just blown away by.” That client? Just happened to be legendary British rocker and Duran Duran bassist John Taylor. Credited for reinventing the funk bass line in the 1980s, John Taylor’s name is synonymous the world over with bass guitar. “We ended up getting a call from his bass technician and gatekeeper two years ago,” Sheldon says. “And we had a day to get a bass ready for him.” By some miracle, and with the help of his 15 full time instrument builders, Dingwall pulled it off. All that was left was to get the guitar in John Taylor’s hands. Racing at breakneck speeds through the streets of Saskatoon, Sheldon roared into the local FedEx office at what must have felt like a million miles an hour. He missed the truck. Facing what might have been the single biggest missed opportunity ever experienced by a bass manufacturer, spending a lifetime in Saskatoon payed off in spades. Sheldon turned around and spotted a familiar face standing in the lobby. “Oh my God,” Sheldon recalls saying to the FedEx Rep. “I need a favour. You have no idea who this is for.” The bass guitar that Dingwall Guitars customized for John Taylor was hand delivered to the FedEx aircraft with minutes to spare. John Taylor? Loved it. So much so that he sought out Sheldon at the hugely popular and immensely influential National Association of Music Merchants (better known as NAMM) Show this past January in Anaheim, California. “He really liked one of our new basses. So when we got back to Saskatoon, we shipped him one of our samples, which was hand carried to England. From there, it was
Z 3x 5 Bleached Dyed Natural to Indigo Burlburst
loaded into their gear trunk and was sent to Dubai where he played it at the Dubai Jazz Festival.” John Taylor is now the owner of three Dingwall Guitars. But Sheldon Dingwall doesn’t consider even that his greatest success. “It’s cool, but there’s a deeper aspect of what we do.” The endearing manner in which Dingwall describes things of his own making emerges again when describing his company. Cautiously, with an ever present self-awareness ,he says, “We know we’re not saving lives, but we are affecting our customers in the way they play, and the way they write music.” Sheldon continues. “And then they go out to play in front of people, even for an hour… they’re transforming lives. Not permanently, but in that hour, playing music is at least a counter-balance to what might be going on in the world.” These days, Dingwall Guitars can be found in the gear trunks of Metallica, Ricky Skaggs, Lyle Lovett, Rod Stewart, and currently on tour with Phil Collins. Both the global success and reach of Dingwall Guitars recently earned them two Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce SABEX Awards. The first being Global Exporter of the Year Award sponsored by Canpotex, and also Business of the Year sponsored by Edwards School of Business Executive Education. Dingwall considered himself a longshot for one award, let alone two. “We’re not in a magical industry like tech where you
16 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
achieve success quickly. It takes a long time to develop these skills. Our industry’s growth is old-school/artisan style, and largely based on human labor.” Success is often defined at the point in which preparation and opportunity meet and Dingwall Guitars is the epitome of success. This is especially true if considering the standard Sheldon Dingwall holds himself to. “We don’t compete with other guitar makers. We compete with ourselves to do better and make better than we did yesterday.” Dingwall Guitars was born of a man who readily admits he would rather “starve and tank” than pump out a sub-par knock-off. He’s just now coming around to admitting that creating a thriving and successful business making some of the most aesthetically beautiful and technologically advanced instruments the world has ever seen might make him an entrepreneur and business person. Maybe now with two SABEX Awards under his belt, he’ll know he’s more than a DIYer, after all.
SABEX Business of the Year sponsored by:
NON-PROFITS
Punching Over Our Weight
STEP promotes manufacturing exports around the world, including ag machinery in Hanover, Germany.
We all know that Saskatchewan is an agriculture, mining, and oil giant. But manufacturing? In 2017, Saskatchewan companies exported $6.1B in manufactured goods around the world – over 20 percent of our total international shipments. Saskatchewan manufacturers are specialists in short-line manufacturing of agricultural equipment for broad–acre dryland
Cosmo Industries can ‘Jig any Job’ “We can jig any job.” That phrase originates with Cosmopolitan Industries’ Supported Work program. Cosmo is a local non-profit creating opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities in Saskatoon for over 45 years. A ‘jig’ is a production aid designed by Cosmo staff to assist program participants in producing a top quality product. The simplest jig is one Cosmo uses for counting. Most people have it in their fridges. It’s an egg carton. From two-handled debarking knives to cut-out templates, custom jobs often require custom jigs. Cosmo invites
farming. Our manufacturers are developing world-class equipment for seeding, tillage, grain handling and storage, harvesting, livestock, and spraying. Our wood producers are manufacturing dimensional lumber, OSB, treated fence posts, and utility poles. There are building manufacturers making trusses, log home packages, buildings, cabinets, countertops, and more. Saskatchewan companies are producing transportation equipment for industrial and commercial use including dozer blades, utility loaders, pot-hole patchers, rotary cutters, and snowplows. Saskatchewan is home to innovative entrepreneurs designing products for the consumer industry including jewelry, artisan/craft products, cutting-edge computer/internet programs, retail food, and pet food. From seeding equipment in Australia, to road maintenance equipment in Brazil, to dimensional lumber in the US, to mining equipment in South Africa – the products
manufactured in Saskatchewan can be seen around the world. Helping manufacturers establish and expand their national and international markets is Saskatchewan’s Trade and Export Partnership – STEP. Like the manufacturing industry itself, STEP has been “punching above its weight” on the world stage since its inception. In developing their action plan to grow manufacturing sales in Saskatchewan to 2025, the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters association noted that “STEP is a best-in-class model for what governments can do to maximize trade success. There are few publicly funded programs in Canada – and the rest of the world, for that matter – that have had the impact or delivered the value that STEP does for Saskatchewan year after year.” If opportunity isn’t knocking, STEP helps business build a door. Check out the many services and programs a STEP membership can provide to the exporting community at sasktrade.com.
companies to test the ingenuity of the staff and participants. They love a challenge. Participants relish the variety of jobs Saskatoon businesses send their way. When Cosmo opened in 1971, Saskatoon Co-op and Mid-Western News Agency were among the first to experience the quality work done at Cosmo. More recently, participants have enjoyed preparing mail outs for the Saskatoon Chamber, assembling hinges for Superior Cabinets, and cleaning over 200,000 plant pots a year for the biggest names in agricultural research. As a social enterprise, best known as the pioneers of recycling, Cosmo was also the first local company to securely shred documents for Saskatoon businesses. Initiated in 1982, by three students from Edward’s School of Business, Cosmo Shred is proud to be Triple A NAID certified and offer the best value in the city. In 1973 Cosmo made their first efforts to support a participant with a position in the community. Today, job coaches assist participants to succeed as valued members of many workplaces. Increasingly, businesses
are discovering the benefits of partnering with Cosmo’s Supported Work program. ‘Opportunity Lives Here’ is Cosmo’s motto. ‘Here’ is much more than the Cosmo Centre on Alberta Ave. ‘Here’ is in all of Saskatoon. Most of all, ‘Opportunity Lives Here’ in the hearts and spirit of the participants.
Emerging technologies will soon change the landscape for manufacturers Manufacturing is a critical component of all effective, efficient, and sustainable supply chains. It is also an area that will benefit greatly from global research in artificial intelligence (AI). In Canada groups such as the SCALE AI supercluster – of which the Supply Chain Management Association is a member – aim to advance applied-AI to drive innovation in all areas of supply chain management (SCM). Whether your suppliers are
Continue on next page
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 17
NON-PROFITS
Continued from previous page Canadian-based, or even local in Saskatchewan, it is likely that they will have global connections in their supply chains that could ultimately affect you. Canadian manufacturers need to continually innovate as many manufacturers overseas, especially those in Asia, have started to make significant investments in AI. Tom Foster, President & CEO, Industrial Machine & Manufacturing Inc. (IMM), understands the impact of global supply chains. “Supply chain management is an integral part of our business and we are constantly aligning our supply chain strategies and resources to meet the needs of our customers to ensure we can remain competitive in the global marketplace.” Technological improvements in manufacturing have traditionally focused around automation, while today’s technological advancements involving AI offer far more than automating repetitive tasks. AI and the development of machine learning offer machines that are safer for working and interacting with humans. Factory robots can leverage sensors and other data
along with machine-learning algorithms to adapt to changing working conditions and to safeguard the lives of their non-robotic colleagues. Advancement in AI will also contribute in ways that humans cannot. It
can analyze big data and reveal patterns of demand for products that are not possible for human analysts to identify. AI can learn to identify patterns in political developments, weather, socioeconomic, and economic cycles. AI works 24/7 and can learn over any
18 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
time period and in turn, provide invaluable insight to production planners. They will then be able to leverage that data to create accurate demand forecasts for products to reduce waste and maximize profits. There are also opportunities to be had from AI in creating predictive maintenance schedules for equipment. This will minimize unexpected downtime from equipment failure and maximize efficiency by avoiding unnecessary maintenance. Echoing the importance of reliable supply chains is Kipp Sakundiak, General Manager, Prairie Machine & Parts (PMP). “A robust, reliable supply chain is critical to our operation because our customers not only expect efficiency, they demand it. Our local supply chain provides tremendous value and makes us appreciate the strength and integrity behind it.” While it’s true that manufacturers can expect emerging technologies will continue to disrupt all areas of the supply chain, we can also expect to leverage those innovations for the greatest strategic advantage.
COMMUNITY LEADERS
Three Insights I Learned From Kim Weimer by Andrea Hansen
Kim Weimer is the President of Fastener Warehouse Ltd., which is a wholesale distributor of specialty and standard fasteners in Saskatoon with branches in Regina and Winnipeg. Founded in 1994 with her husband Bob Weimer, the company grew from its original 1,500 sq.ft. warehouse to the current main branch of 60,000 sq.ft., which houses over 20,000 products. Kim Weimer and I first met almost 15 years ago at Fastener Warehouse and it was around that time Profit magazine had named her to the yearly list of Canada’s top 100 women entrepreneurs for the fourth year in a row! I was in admiration of this accomplished woman in business (and she would quickly brush any accolades). It doesn’t take you long to realize Kim is not motivated by position or prosperity. She comes from rural, humble beginnings and taking care of others is what drives her. Kim is one of those people that you always look forward to seeing and with Kim and Bob, I see a shining example of when family, friends and business can mix. I share these insights about Kim Weimer in the hope that you can apply them to your own life and business.
1. It’s not business, it’s personal. Whether its employees, customers or suppliers, Kim builds deep, loyal and long-lasting relationships. Their company – which employs over 45 employees – has little turnover and most employees have been with the company for many years. She would go against the advice of many and employs family members, friends and even relatives of employees, but that is the culture that helps the company thrive. She is prepared to take the risks and challenges that go with it, including even having to fire her son at one point. She takes care of her team and clients like they are family and puts those relationships first. In fact, their very first client is still a client today and their largest one. With Kim, it’s the opposite of what we tend to hear, “it’s not personal, it’s business” and it certainly seems to work for this family business. 2. When the going gets tough, the tough gets going. When I think of that expression, I think of Kim Weimer. They launched the business after Bob lost his job, while the couple had 3 young kids (including a 4-month old baby), while Kim still worked at another job! Members of Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan will know the story of Kim Weimer and the beginnings of Fastener Warehouse as she credits the organization for helping the company survive the first couple years. However, we know it takes more than a loan for a business to grow into a multimillion dollar company. Kim is very disciplined and hard-working, right from her first job in a gas station to today. She attributes that discipline to all the sports she played in her youth and she brings an attitude of “get the job done and do it right”. I love a story she shared of when a cart of fasteners that was ready to be shipped to the customer tipped over. She heard the crash and came to see her team frozen in a state of despair at the disaster of mixed up fasteners that needed to get on the road. She rallied the team,
rolled up her sleeves and said, “Let’s Go” and together they got it done. Guess what? They were only 10 minutes over-time getting the order back out. 3. Time to pause. Kim is a busy business owner, but when you meet with her, she’ll make you feel like you are the most important part of her day. She is not consumed by her business and Kim knows the value of investing in relationships. Meetings with Kim will turn quickly to conversations about life, family and children. Relationships matter and you build relationships by taking time to pause, listen and share. When working side-by-side with your spouse (I love that her and Bob still share an office to this day) and children, the growing business could overshadow the family-time. Kim makes sure family-time together and celebrating life outside of work is priority. “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” - C.S. Lewis. Kim Weimer invests in relationships and yes, those relationships have a return, but Kim would never measure a relationship in that way. I believe Kim’s principles in business simply come from the “golden rule” to treat others how you want to be treated and actions speak louder than words. I think we all could use a reminder of the golden rule now and if you have forgotten, start where you are. Thanks to a long relationship with Kim, I benefit from that reminder with each encounter. Watch for next, “3 Insights I Learned from Deb Young.” Andrea Hansen, B.Comm., CFP®, GBA, is a Business Advisor, educator, writer and the creator of the SFG Employee Engagement Wheel. She can be reached at 306-9345540 or andrea.hansen@suttonfinancial.ca
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 19
PROFILE
Superior Cabinets - Leading Through Change Since 1980 Image: Grant Romancia
by Elizabeth Ireland
“
Fully embraced a continuous improvement mindset across the entire company, not just in manufacturing.
Full leadership transparency with its approximately 250 employees on company initiatives, objectives and financials was one of the first changes in the company’s strategic direction 10 years ago. This transparency still serves to connect all employees to financial outcomes and to relate how their day-to-day decisions impact their customers. “We completely transformed our front-to-back order processes and fully embraced a continuous improvement mindset across the entire company, not just in manufacturing. Now we average more than 800 employee-driven improvements each year, many of which improve a customer experience or have a financial payback,” says Hodson.
For more than 35 years, Saskatoonbased Superior Cabinets has focused on creating quality kitchen cabinetry that provides both beautiful aesthetics and everyday functionality.
Over the past decade, Superior Cabinets has experienced a huge transformation. In 2008, the company began a turnaround plan when its sales dramatically dropped almost 30 per cent over the course of a few months. A new leadership team was hired and began implementing a series of strategic steps – resulting in a new phase of growth and innovation. “To get a sense of the magnitude of change, the last time we produced 25 kitchens a day was back in 2008 where it took 400 people and 16 weeks to manufacture. Today, it takes 250 people and we install kitchens in six weeks guaranteed,” says Scott Hodson, President and CEO of Superior Cabinets.
20 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
PROFILE
Lean Certification
In 2018, Superior Cabinets received Lean certification after an internal Lean audit was conducted by Canadian Manufacturing & Exporters (CME). A management philosophy derived from the Toyota Production System in Japan, Lean manufacturing focuses on continuous improvement, adding value and reducing everything else. In fact, two of Superior Cabinets’ Lean experts – CFO John Povhe and Continuous Improvement Manager Michael Kachur – have spoken at various Canadian kitchen, manufacturing, home building and continuous improvement conferences on the topic of Lean certification and the company’s transformation. “The word Lean has somewhat of a negative connotation, especially here in Saskatchewan. Getting the opportunity to tell the story of the Lean journey of Superior Cabinets has helped other companies see that it’s possible to successfully implement a continuous improvement mindset, no matter the size of the organization,” says Povhe. To further transformation, the company invested $2 million in technology and procedures that consolidated 17 homemade systems into one robust front-to-back order system. Plus significant capital investments were made in manufacturing automation and equipment.
Our culture is when anyone has the authority to do what’s right for the customer and where everyone is encouraged to drive continuous improvement.
Superior Cabinets has a strong focus on supply chain excellence and believes in a Total Cost of Ownership approach (TCO is the purchase price of an asset plus the costs of operation). As a result, over 90 per cent of its manufacturing spend is locked into longterm agreements that include partnerships with Sherwin-Williams, Hettich and Hardwoods Speciality Products. Excellent product design is ongoing and the Superior Cabinets’ design team works to continuously improve its product portfolio with the goal of staying a market leader. Always innovating, in 2016 Superior Cabinets adopted 3D printing which allows the team to make jigs for specialty hardware drilling, depth and gauges. This advanced technology helps to streamline manufacturing processes and print specific hardware components that have lengthy lead-times.
Giving Back
Superior Cabinets sells products through its retail stores and showrooms in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary and Edmonton, as well as a network of 75 dealers. The company still has room to grow with its 57,000 square foot cabinet production facility in Saskatoon. Hodson summarizes: “Our culture differentiates us. Our culture is when anyone has the authority to do what’s right for the customer and where everyone is encouraged to drive continuous improvement. Management didn’t transform our company, technology didn’t transform our company – our employees transformed Superior Cabinets.”
For more information please visit www.superiorcabinets.ca
With a strong sense of corporate social responsibility, Superior Cabinets has supported Habitat for Humanity with beautiful kitchens and bathrooms for deserving families for a number of years. On top of providing cabinetry products for new homes, the company donates excess product to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore and empowers its employees to participate in various Habitat builds in Saskatoon, Regina, Calgary and Edmonton. BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 21
STAFF FEATURE
Pillar of the Chamber Family by Lise Merle
Roz Macala
Roz Macala doesn’t do anything halfway. “I started working here as a temp. I was supposed to stay for two weeks.” As the second longest serving employee of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce celebrating her 20th Anniversary with us this October, we know that when the lady commits, she’s in it for the long haul. After leaving the family farm at Rama, Saskatchewan (which is located pretty much smack dab in between Canora and Wadena on Highway 5), she dreamed of joining the RCMP which had only started accepting female cadets in 1974. But even if the RCMP wasn’t in the cards, Roz was determined to go out and learn something. After a brief stint in Yorkton, she found herself in Saskatoon. First, putting herself through a business administration course, and shortly after, becoming employed with SunLife Canada. After spending 20 years building her resume plus the double arrivals of Roz’s proudest accomplishments – daughters Tanis in 1983 and Leslie in 1989 – the winds of change began to blow in the province as well as
her life, and it was then that she decided to make a change. It was shortly thereafter that Roz started her temp gig at the Chamber, which was then combined with SREDA and what’s now known as Downtown YXE. Thinking the Chamber was a short term prospect, she began looking for work again and decided to take on weekend and evening work - just until she got a full time job. She worked full time at the Chamber and weekends in the service industry for the next 16 years. When asked what her greatest professional accomplishment is, she quietly states “helping people” - and you can’t help but believe that she genuinely means it. Laughing about the many, many zany requests she’s fielded as the voice of the Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, she recalls a story when a man from BC called with a problem. He had, he explained, bought a car in Saskatoon some time ago. Not any car, but an antique collector car no less - and couldn’t remember where he had stored it.
I started working here as a temp. I was supposed to stay for two weeks. “The only things he could remember was that it was in the north end and close to a clothing repair shop,” Roz laughs. She found the car. It’s another story though, that shows her giving heart and her depth of character. While working evenings and weekends at her part time job (while full-timing the Chamber in the daytime), a young-at-heart gent would come in for coffee every Wednesday evening - and between the two of them grew a friendship. Fresh in the grief of the loss
22 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
of his wife and soulmate, 90-year-old Hank was in need of caring and Roz did what she does so effortlessly: Help. In the hours she wasn’t working, Roz made it her mission to make Hank’s home once again welcoming and livable. Learning he was a WW2 veteran and hero who flew over 30 missions as a gunner, Roz was astounded to learn that he had never attended a Remembrance Day Ceremony. Now, a spry 94-years-old Hank (or “Grandpa 3” as Roz’s girls affectionately call him) proudly wears his war medals as an honored guest of Roz and Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Remembrance Day Ceremony delegation. Starting out as a temp, working her way up to Executive Assistant to former Executive Director Kent Smith Windsor for the next 18 years, and now as Executive Assistant to CEO Darla Lindbjerg, Roz’s position is challenging and ever-changing. She’s ok with it. “As long as I can help, I will.”
The Dirt • • • • • • • •
What’s something people might not know about you? I *love* the Saskatchewan Roughriders Dream job? Nurse Favorite virtue:? Honesty Favorite quality in a man? The ability to listen Favorite quality in a woman? Being genuine What do you most appreciate in your friends? Closeness and the ability to pick up where we left off What is your idea of happiness? A quiet, simple life What do you consider your chief characteristic? I’m a hard worker. And I’d do anything for anyone
Here’s to 20 more years of helping Saskatoon, Roz. Happy Anniversary.
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 23
TRENDS
Manufacturing in Three Dimensions
Saskatoon’s own Create Café 3D Printing Solutions Inc. is the brainchild of founders Dustin Maki, Lance Greene and Duncan Boyes. Imagine a place where you can, as the name suggests, get a cup of coffee and watch awestruck as your unique part is printed in three dimensions, right in front of your eyes. Introducing additive printing, where
filament (available in ABS, PLA, Nylon, Polycarbonate or Flexibles) is fed into the machine, directed by a digital file, into a 3D part. This outcome is accomplished by adding layers of material on top each other until the object is complete. Create Café specializes in rapid prototyping for businesses wishing to increase the turn around time on their research & development projects or
24 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
for those looking to quickly and painlessly replace hard-to-get or obsolete parts. Create Café started with the goal of making 3D printing accessible to Saskatoon and area in a comfortable and inviting café atmosphere. The team consisting of Dustin Maki, CEO, Lance Greene, Chief Printing Officer and Duncan Boyes, Head of Design came to fruition in the summer of 2016. The team has since produced 3D prints for a variety of industries including: concept car, aviation, manufacturing, medical, and consumer. In 2017, the team moved to a new location on Circle Drive in partnership with Randy Janes and embarked on an ambitious journey for large-scale 3D printing. Since the move, the team has completed the world’s largest 3D print, a camper measuring over 500 cubic feet! Create Café is passionate about 3D printing in everyday life and invite you to come for a tour. The team will teach you how to print or bring your idea to life for you. Located at #21-510 Circle Drive, the team at Create Café is always available to discuss problems and the solutions 3D printing can provide.
TRENDS
HR is Going Up in Smoke by Peggie Koenig
As you’ve likely noticed, HR people are continually embracing new tools and programs to address the ever-evolving issues that impact people at work. Several of the most interesting and challenging issues are identified below. Some are standard fare for the last several years, while some are brand new considerations. They are: HR is Going to Pot ... Literally 2018 will be an interesting one for employers with the imminent legalization of marijuana in Canada later this summer. Organizations will need to be proactive in learning the impacts that marijuana use will have on the workplace, as well as liability, employer obligations, and health & safety. As such, 2018 will see massive growth in terms of HR policy development and employee communication strategies related to smoking up. Employers Aren’t Whining, The “Skills Gap” is Real Finding, training and retaining the right talent remains a major focus in 2018 as the skills gap explodes into a worldwide megatrend. Organizations will continue to compete to find people with the skills and experience that they need, while HR departments will need to stay on the forefront of employee retention initiatives and candidate assessment techniques. Partnerships with schools to identify and groom future employees, an enhanced focus on internal development, and increased adoption of a contingent workforce made up of contractors and freelancers are all in the cards for 2018. Move Over Surveys, There’s a New Map In Town It used to be that HR pros used “employee satisfaction” or “employee engagement” surveys to assess employee satisfaction and support retention. But prepare to add the buzzwords “employee experience” and “employee journey maps” as they enter the HR vernacular. Employee experience starts from the first point of contact with a prospective candidate and follows through with interview process and even further down into the employer/ employee relationship which could include (but isn’t limited to) personalization of benefits
and wellness initiatives. HR strategy that used to be focused on fairness is now having to take a much more holistic approach in terms of employee retention. This is in response to an emerging pattern of employees who actively seek out just the right employee experience that acknowledges their individual and unique needs. The Rallying Cry The #MeToo movement of 2017 will have an ongoing impact in 2018 as organizations continue to focus on sexual harassment and respect in the workplace training. Organizational priorities will increasingly focus on inclusion, sexual orientation protection, and creating an environment where employees feel safe and supported by company leadership. Game On or Game Over The slow adoption by employers and HR of tech-based training opportunities in
favor of cumbersome old-school classroom training has hampered the employee training experience. Scores of resources, both financial and human, continue to be squandered on broad-based subjects delivered to large groups of employees. In 2018 and beyond, there will be an increased implementation of technology based on micro-training to access instruction materials when and where they’re most convenient. This type of experience can be tailored to the needs and learning style of the individual and can even use tools familiar to the gamer generation including Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Buckle up! It’s going to be a wild ride! 2018’s dynamic business, government, and societal environment needs an HR approach that is proactive and innovative while being cost efficient and aligned with business strategy. It’s going to be an interesting year!
“We've done business with so many clients, in so many industries, and with so many different people. We know organizations and we never stand still.”
10
95
75
Peggie Koenig, President CEO
25
www.koenig.ca
Toll Free: 1.888.224.5838 pkoenig@koenig.ca
Koenig Ad - 04-10-2018
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 25
5 0
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
We believe our people and relationships are our strengths and drive business growth and success. When the management and board of an expanding agricultural team came to us needing help adapting to change as they planned for the next steps in their growth, we knew right away we could help. We were excited to be able to offer our three areas of service: consulting, training and research solutions. Our company was built on a passion for changing the way organizations and employees engage, communicate and succeed. Our custom people development programs focus on a diverse array of solutions, from leadership, communication and workplace culture, to teamwork, sales and customer service. At the same time, our consultants can help with every business need, top to bottom, including strategic planning and governance, human resources consulting and organizational restructuring, business planning and feasibility analysis, program evaluation and linking suppliers to markets. Our survey, assessment and diagnostic tools include personality assessments, employee engagement surveys, new hire and exit surveys, and fully supported implementation. Supported
morrisinteractive.ca
by best practices research, our clients can make business decisions based on people data and improve organizational processes and culture.
After 15 years of experience and evolution, Morris Interactive is a boutique consulting firm based in Saskatoon, SK., with regional offices located in Edmonton, AB., Quebec, QC., and Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Just like you, we believe our people and relationships are our strengths and drive business growth and success. We partner with businesses of all sizes across multiple industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, the public sector and health care, as well as more than 100 Indigenous organizations. These organizations range from Canadian Top 100 employers to well-managed small businesses based in rural and urban Saskatchewan.
Morris Interactive built its reputation by delivering solid results and project outcomes. Our principal consultants are senior leaders, and subject matter experts in their fields; they are respected for creating innovative, custom solutions while leveraging the strength and depth of our people and our certified partner programs. Some of those partners include the research firm John Wiley and Sons, utilizing the Everything DiSC® and Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team™ tool sets, as well as and human resources and diagnostic tools provided through McLean & Company. Our approach at Morris Interactive isn’t for everybody. We purposefully seek clients with whom we can build a sustainable relationship. We believe our clients’ success is our success, and we are committed to working alongside you to achieve your goals and see your business thrive.
At Morris Interactive, we start with people.
SPECIAL FEATURE
Health, Wellbeing and Leadership at Work by Elizabeth Ireland Q: What’s your background? A: I grew up on a farm in the hamlet of Simmie, Saskatchewan. I have a BA in Psychology from the University of Regina, an MSc in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Saint Mary's University, and a PhD in Organizational Behavior from Queen's University. I currently teach Introduction to Organizational Behaviour and Leadership to undergraduate and graduate students at the U of S.
Dr. Erica Carleton is Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan’s Edwards School of Business.
Dr. Erica Carleton is Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan’s Edwards School of Business. She was a co‐editor of the book Sleep and Work: Research Insights for the Workplace (Oxford University Press, 2016). Business Voice spoke to Dr. Carleton about her academic research and some of the issues impacting today’s employees and their leaders.
Q: How did you get involved in this field of research? A: In between my Masters and my PhD, I was a research analyst at the (former) Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region. I became really interested in the many types of leadership and what makes a leader effective versus ineffective. When I was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Western University, I actually conducted research on the validation and outcomes of a leader’s character. Q: How does sleep relate to work? A: Sleep and work are naturally in conflict and opposing one another. An employee can’t work and sleep at the same time. However, research is showing that lack of sleep directly relates to an employee’s withdrawal behaviours. Some examples are absence from work, lateness or zoning out at meetings. We’ve studied leaders and their direct reports for 15 days. On days that the leaders had less sleep, we found that their employees reported more abusive behaviour from leaders. Other studies demonstrate that a lack of sleep leads to more risk-taking behaviour, less charisma and a less caring attitude. It became clear that the leader’s health and wellbeing could predict good leadership behaviours.
Q: How does sleep relate to leadership? A: Anecdotally, we tend to hear stories about leaders who get by on four hours of sleep a night, email their employees at 2 a.m., or berate an employee for having jetlag and wanting to sleep after an overseas flight. We need more influential leaders to speak up about the importance of sleep and sleep hygiene in order to change organizational culture – and to model it themselves. The businesswoman Arianna Huffington recently wrote a book on the topic called The Sleep Revolution so the tide seems to be slowly turning. Q: There are professions where lack of sleep is a badge of honour – investment bankers, medical residents and articling law students come to mind. Do you think these workplace cultures will change? A: Interestingly shift work and work that directly impacts the safety of others, pilots are a good example, are highly aware of the importance of sleep and have been for years. In some ways it comes down to consumer demand and reward structures. If hospital patients demanded that medical residents are not awake for more than say 24 hours, the culture would need to change. Q: What about leaders that believe exercise is a reason to break from work, but sleep isn’t? A: I like to think of wellbeing as an equilateral triangle of exercise, nutrition and sleep that needs to be in balance. An extremely tired employee is not going to get the most out of a workout and probably won’t make the best decisions in terms of food and nutrition either. Q: What is the best amount of sleep to have each night? A: Conventional wisdom is true – eight hours of sleep is ideal, but it depends on the person.
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 27
ADVOCACY
Working For You As part of The Chamber’s ongoing commitment to advocacy, we continue to directly interact with all levels of government, as well as stakeholders important to the business community. In addition, we have continued to create opportunities for you to interact as well. Some of these activities included:
Michelle Obama
Bringing Michelle Obama to speak to the community of Saskatoon; offering her insights and interacting with members of the community and the Chamber.
Trans Mountain Pipeline
The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion is a project that is good for the overall economy of Saskatchewan. It will reduce the amount of oil being shipped by rail and road which will free these resources to move Saskatchewan goods to market. Pipelines are also less prone to accidents and incidents more than other forms of oil transport, as well as less expensive, leaving more revenue for producers and the government. The Saskatoon Chamber has added our voice to ask the Federal Government to engage in an active process to bring this issue to a speedy resolution and allow the project to proceed.
Financial Literacy
Recently the provincial government has announced a project to improve financial literacy for all high school graduates. The
Chamber applauds this initiative and has offered our public support. The Chamber will engage with the government as they move forward on this issue as the long-term benefits of graduates with this knowledge will be a significant benefit to the economy.
Carbon Tax
The Government of Saskatchewan introduced Prairie Resilience: A Made-in-Saskatchewan Climate Change Strategy in December 2017. The strategy focuses on the principles of readiness and resilience, while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change – without a carbon tax. The Chamber will continue to engage with the government and key stakeholders throughout the consultation and development process.
Saskatchewan Provincial Budget The Chamber has closely monitored and engaged with the province during the provincial budget cycle and release. Although the budget has been largely favorable to our members, we continue to actively communicate your interests throughout the year.
WCBC’s Salary Surveys
City of Saskatoon Business
The Chamber actively monitors activities in the City of Saskatoon and engages on issues which are of interest to you and your business. We have recently addressed several issues of interest including the Downtown Arena, the Saskatoon BRT, as well as numerous City planning issues. As we gain insight into issues we will continue to speak publicly regarding The Chamber’s position and inform our members privately of information that you find relevant.
State of the City address
The Chamber has again hosted the State of the City address with His Worship, Charlie Clark. This event is an excellent opportunity for our members to engage directly with City Councilors, members of the Provincial Government and business and community leaders in a friendly setting.
Canada’s unemployment rate dropped to the lowest point in more than 40 years. With the economy adding over 400,000 jobs in 2017, Canada experienced the biggest year-over-year new job gain since November 2007. If the labour market continues to grow, we could see salaries accelerating in 2018.
To ensure you are paying your employees appropriately, access to current compensation data is crucial. Our surveys cover 400+ positions and give organizations information on current salaries, bonuses, group insurance, retirement benefits and compensation best practices.
wcbc.ca/published-surveys Western Compensation & Benefits Consultants 2000 - 1188 W. Georgia Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A2
28 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
Nancy MacLeod 1-800-781-2411 | wcbc.ca | wcbc@wcbc.ca
Need help building
your safety program? Try our online safety tool
• Download free, customizable forms for hazard assessment and inspections • Check legislation • Take online training Download the NEW Pillars App! Safety Pillars
Check it out now at www.worksafesask.ca or pillars.worksafesask.ca
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 29
SABEX
n o i t a r b e l e C n i y t A Ci This year, the Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence (SABEX) Awards held at Prairieland Park February 8th welcomed over 700 guests. While the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce awards show is now in it’s 24th year, this demonstrates just the tip of the Chamber’s 115-year history serving Saskatoon’s business community. The SABEX Awards show brings the Saskatoon Business Community together for an evening of connection, entertainment and celebration! New to the event was a fundraising element with proceeds to local youth charity, Saskatoon Community Youth Arts Programming (SCYAP). Thank you SABEX supporters; you helped raise over $3400 for SCYAP! The after party took us into the night with Bad Habit, local rockers with serious talent to entertain. Adding to the party atmosphere, JT’s
Tasty Treats pumped out popcorn and candyfloss non-stop, with guests promises to “take this home for the kids”. This celebration comes together with the work of Chamber staff, over 50 Chamber member volunteers, LUX Events and the generosity of our many sponsors. Plans are now underway for SABEX 2019. How would you like to contribute this year? The Chamber is now accepting volunteer applications and sponsor requests. Please contact Kendra Cruson, Vice President of Business Development and Member Experience for more information – kendra@saskatoonchamber.com
IMAGES: GRANT ROMANCIA
Hall of Fame Inductee
Community Involvement Award
Merlis Belsher
Vendasta Merlis Belsher (Award
Minister Don Morgan &
Winner) &
Jean Parchewsky
Chuck Turner Sponsor: Sponsor:
SaskTel
RBC Royal Bank
Community Involvement Award Al Anderson’s Source for Sports
New Product/Service Award Bridges Health Services Inc.
Chris Nomeland,
James Limin,
John Linklater,
Garry Derenoski,
Minister Don Morgan,
Adelle Stewart &
Kirk Anderson &
Leon Ferguson
Brett Baron
Sponsor: Business
Sponsor:
Development Bank of
SaskTel
Canada (BDC)
30 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
SABEX
Growth & Expansion Award Athabasca Basin Security
Saskatooning Award Prairie River Cruises
Derek Hoffman &
Candace Schierling,
Sascha Sasbring-
Joan Steckhan &
Harkema
Mike Steckhan
Sponsor: Miller
Sponsor: Tourism
Thompson LLP
Saskatoon
Global Exporter Award
Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Dingwall Guitars Inc
Black Fox Farm & Distillery
Errol Fisher,
Greg Gabruch &
Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote
Sheldon Dingwall
& John Cote
Sponsor: Canpotex
Sponsor: Northridge Development Corporation
Marketing Award
New Business Venture Award
WMCZ Lawyers
Sandy Shores Resort
Rauncie Kinnaird &
Diana Periera & Colin Clackson
Dr. Larry Rosia
Sponsor: Handy
Sponsor: Saskatchewan
Special Events
Customer Service Award
Polytechnic
Small Business of the Year Award
Two Fifty Two Boutique
Complete Technologies Byron Briske,
Andrey Olinov &
Mackenzie Firby &
Bryon Mack
Shannon Briske Sponsor: MNP LLP Sponsor: Briske Financial GroupAssante
Small Business of the Year Award PWM Private Wealth Counsel
Business of the Year Award Dingwall Guitars Inc
Kevin Haakensen,
Jill Salamon,
Kevin Hegedus, &
.Carrie Hildebrand &
Byron Mack
Sheldon Dingwall
Sponsor:
Sponsor: Edwards
MNP LLP
School of Business
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 31
SABEX
s e b i V Good
HOW DO YOU STACK UP? Get a free evaluation of your business’ digital presence and see how you stack up against the competition!
Sign-up for your free Digital Scorecard at
postmediasolutions.com/seemyscore
Start your business day by staying ahead of issues affecting the local economy. Find out what all the buzz is about, sign-up for SREDA’s NewsFlash SREDA.com/news
+ see what’s up with The Folks at 4th Ave!
HIGHLIGHT REEL
Chamber Happenings
Dominic Baron
Michelle Obama
It was our pleasure to host McKinsey & Company’s Global Managing Partner to our Chamber on Business luncheon recently. Dominic presented on the Canadian Growth Agenda as Chair of the Canadian Minister of Finance’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth.
Blue Moose Media
Scott Livingstone
When the opportunity to host a world class speaker presented itself, we didn’t pass it up. On March 22 your Chamber, led by CEO Darla Lindbjerg, hosted a crowd of over 8500 from across the province who made the trek in less than ideal weather conditions to hear lawyer, writer and Former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama. Introduced by World Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner and Saskatchewan’s own Murad AlKatib and mediated by Order of Canada Recipient and two-time Olympic Medalist Cassie Campbell, Obama captivated the audience with tales of her time at the White House, the initiatives she undertook as First Lady, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. A vibrant and charismatic speaker, Michelle Obama allowed us a glimpse into her life and inspired us with stories of her work in advocacy for women, healthy families and higher education.
As part of our Chamber on Tap Series (which takes place the first Wednesday of every month at LB Distillers) our host Evan Drisner picked the minds of Travis Low and Ricky Forbes of Blue Moose Media on the changing face of social media, where it is and where it’s going.
At our Chamber on Business in March, CEO of the brand new Saskatchewan Health Authority Scott Livingstone outlined the concept of a single health authority which would benefit the people of Saskatchewan by delivering more accessible and timely health care services. The key, Livingstone said, was having the perseverance to truly transform health care delivery.
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 35
SPECIAL FEATURE
Get To Know Your Business Advisor by Kendra Cruson
Q: What does MNP do to support the entrepreneurial drive? A: That’s easy, we are entrepreneurs ourselves. Everyday we put ourselves into their shoes; partnering and working with them through all their triumphs and struggles. We want to be the first call an entrepreneur makes, no matter what the issue is. We may not have all the answers on that first call, but we are committed to finding the right answer. We are not traditional accountants; it’s so much more than just about the numbers for us. With our full suite of services, we support them through every stage of their business.
Byron Mack Partner, Assurance & Private Enterprise MNP LLP
Founded in the Canadian Prairies, MNP LLP is a full-service accounting, tax and business consulting firm. MNP’s Saskatoon office has 29 partners and 190 staff. Business Voice asked Partner Byron Mack to share his thoughts on entrepreneurship and its role in Saskatoon. Q: What does an entrepreneur need to be successful? A: Flexibility. Although we are always looking for a well-crafted plan, being adaptive to the plan is key to an entrepreneur’s success. Vision of what their success will look like for them. Love and passion for their craft along with the discipline to be good stewards. Q: Do you have a personal connection to entrepreneurship? A: Yes, I grew up with my parents as Saskatchewan small business owners. It definitely sparked something in me. I witnessed the benefits of controlling your own fate and the drawbacks of having no real unplugged time. Each entrepreneur has to find that balance and decide the sacrifices they are willing to make.
Q: Why is MNP so passionate about entrepreneurs? A: MNP started with the entrepreneurial vision of a single shop in Brandon, Manitoba 60 years ago. Now, MNP has 59 locations across Canada, with the same motto they started with back in 1958: One firm, one pot. MNP has grown along side some of Canada’s most successful entrepreneurial ventures over the last 60 years, all the while staying connected to our Prairie roots. As part of our celebration of 60 years of client service, MNP is featuring 60 of our entrepreneurial clients during the course of 2018 at www.MNP.ca. Q: What is the culture like at MNP? A: Our culture is one of our most important aspects of our business. We are professionals that understand the need for hard work, but also the importance of balance and mental wellbeing. We support each other throughout the year, celebrate our wins and ensure we are having fun; The team here is my extended family. Q: What advice to you have for entrepreneurs that are looking to grow their business? A: In two words – Embrace failure. There is a lesson to be learned from everything, understand that there will be speed bumps but that you must pick yourself up and keep moving forward. The trick? Glean the lesson. Get comfortable with discomfort; this helps the entrepreneur to stay engaged and hungry. And surround yourself with people that will challenge your thinking.
36 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
Q: We hear the expression “cradle to grave” applied to the business lifecycle. What are your thoughts on this? A: I think that’s a great way to describe it. MNP is there for entrepreneurs from day one – or maybe even before day one! We can support a business from the earliest planning stage to the day you decide to sell your business and retire. Everything in between can include financing, tax planning, human resources services and change in management. MNP can be there for any – and every – aspect of the business lifecycle. Q: Community involvement is often part of succeeding as an entrepreneur. How is MNP involved in the Greater Saskatoon community? A: We have heavy involvement in the Saskatoon community. This ranges from our commitments to flagships like the Remai Modern and Wanuskewin Heritage Park, to the new ice rink at the University of Saskatchewan and the Friends of the Bowl Foundation. We also have our dayto-day community volunteering, such as the United Way and Ronald McDonald House. The entire team in our office is committed to helping others through these and many other volunteer projects, which reflects our value of giving back to the communities that we all live and work in together. Q: Recently, MNP became Presenting Partner of XL Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, why is this important? A: XL Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 is the ultimate celebration of entrepreneurship under 40. In 2017, there were more than 700 applications Canada wide of welldeserving recipients. We were happy to see local entrepreneurs being celebrated and sharing their success stories. Just another reason that I love being an entrepreneur serving entrepreneurs.
New Name, Same Commitment You’ve known us as AREVA for years. We are now Orano. A new brand with the same focus on uranium exploration, mining and milling in northern Saskatchewan, and the same commitment to safety, environmental protection and our communities.
www.oranocanada.com
CHAIR’ S MESSAGE
The Chamber Influence: Reflections of a Chair
Chamber Board Chair Kelly Bode
As I sit down to write my last Business Voice article as Chair of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, I cannot help but reflect on the past year and what an incredible honour it has been to take a leading role in this influential organization. In my time on the board thus far, I have seen five iterations of our board of directors, which is always populated by dedicated members of our diverse business community who take the time out of their already full schedules to devote their expertise to the Chamber. I saw the torch passed from one CEO to another for the first time in over two decades, proof that while change can be difficult, it can also be rejuvenating. I’ve seen the Chamber staff work tirelessly day after day, without expectation of thanks or reward, to provide unwavering support to Saskatoon and area business. However, the most eye-opening for me is that while I was obviously aware of the Chamber and its services prior to becoming a board member, I did not fully appreciate the depth and breadth of the reach that the Chamber has or the immense work that it undertakes behind the scenes. I had the privilege of attending the
Canadian Chamber Annual General Meeting in Fredericton last fall and was astounded at the power of the Chamber network. The AGM took place after the announcement by the federal government of its proposed changes to small business tax policies. In the height of the community’s response period, Finance Minister Bill Morneau attended the AGM, giving the Chamber delegates direct access to the federal government. While it was a structured interaction, this type of access was unheard of at the time and allowed the delegation to relay its collective position, and believe me, we were crystal clear. I also saw first-hand the resources that are available to the Chamber staff simply by being part of the Chamber family. Education, strategy, policy initiatives – all there for the Saskatoon Chamber to tap into and increase its influence. On the flip side, I also witnessed the impact that Saskatoon can have on a national scale. We were hailed by the Canadian Chamber as an example of how to tackle major issues facing the business community, such as the tax policy changes. Your Chamber is canvassed on an array of issues on a daily basis – by media, by industry, by all levels of government. Chamber members will often not hear anything about these meetings or discussions, but in its response or input on those matters, the Chamber always looks through the lens of what is best for the business community. In other words, the Chamber is instrumental in shaping policy on many different levels, and often does so without fanfare. The Chamber as an organization knows
38 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018
“
“
(The Chamber) is also a connector, an incubator and a f ierce champion of its members
that its members are its lifeblood, and while it celebrates the successes of its members through events such as the long running SABEX awards, it is also a connector, an incubator and a fierce champion of its members. It does this through networking events, access to high level officials, dignitaries and change makers, and by promoting its members on a national and international scale through awards and programs. So when I am inevitably asked, “why should I become a member of the Chamber?”, I’m always happy to answer. Sure, we offer great, tangible member benefits such as access to a group insurance plan, special rates from certain vendors, payroll services, merchant services discounts, etc., but this is only a small part of the vast benefits of Chamber membership. It is the intangibles and the influence referenced above that I am more likely to focus on. And at the base of it all – the notion that if a flourishing climate for business is the root, business success is the tree and a thriving community is the fruit that the tree bears. Business success is good for everyone and I’m proud to have been a small part of the Chamber and the work it does for Saskatoon. Kelly Bode is the Chair of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and partner with WMCZ Lawyers.
TRIBUTE
Red Williams
Fondly remembered and greatly treasured our friend, C. W. (Red) Williams It is with great reverence that we remember contributor and friend of the Chamber, Red Williams. Born in 1925, Red not only witnessed but also contributed greatly to advances in the Agricultural Industry over the past 93 years. Red was a long-time professor at the U of S, also serving as the Department Head of Animal Science for eight years. Although he officially retired in 1997, he continued to teach for many years as professor emeritus,
ultimately logging a total of 60 years at the university. “Red Williams is a legendary force for good in Canadian agriculture,” said Mary Buhr, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the U of S. “His passion for supporting young people in learning how to innovate, and to become, themselves, advocates for evidence-based decision making, has created legions of thoughtful leaders in our communities.” Red is a fellow of the Agricultural Institute of Canada and a Member of the Order of Canada. He is a recipient of the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, the province’s highest honour, and has been inducted into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame, along with being awarded The Queen’s Jubilee Medal and Century Saskatoon – City of Saskatoon Scroll. Red was a regular contributor to the Chamber Newsletter and served on the Chamber’s Agri-Business Committee. He was inducted into the Chamber’s Saskatoon Achievement in Business Excellence (SABEX) Hall of Fame in 2016. We are grateful for his contributions.
#HumboldtStrong
Words cannot express how saddened we are by the lives lost or forever changed. Wishing the team, families, friends and community our sincerest sympathies.
As a business owner, you never shut down. Even when you’re off the clock, there’s really no such thing as quitting time. From managing daily priorities to envisioning the future of your business, our Private Enterprise professionals know that every minute of your day is precious and every choice you make counts. Our performance improvement strategies are designed specifically to optimize private enterprise by eliminating obstacles and maximizing opportunities – allowing you to seize opportunities, no matter when they emerge.
It’s business. And it’s personal. PRIVATE ENTERPRISE SERVICES Contact Byron Mack, CPA, CA, Partner, Assurance, at 306.664.8328 or byron.mack@mnp.ca
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON MAY/JUNE 2018 39