Meet our experienced team of dedicated consultants. 

Jenna (she/her) is an Associate with a background and prior work experience in social innovation and community engagement in both the public and non-profit sectors. Since working at Davis Pier, Jenna has been involved in projects related to community services and public program development. She is passionate about working on projects that prototype public programs and policy ideas that will have a social impact and that center community voices.

Jenna holds a Bachelor of Social Work, in addition to a Bachelor of Science and a Certificate in Disability Management from Dalhousie University. She is also a registered Social Work Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers.

Outside of work, Jenna loves to spend time reading, exploring Nova Scotia with her Labradoodle, and learning new cooking recipes.

Emmanuel (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with an engineering background and prior work experience in the performance automotive industry, supply chain management & operations, and data analytics. Through his academic and professional experiences, he has gained skills in data analytics, creating data visualization tools to effectively analyze and communicate complex data, and providing insights for various projects. At Davis Pier, Emmanuel employs his strong attention to detail, problem-solving mindset and communication skills to identify bottlenecks and provide opportunities for optimization. He supports various public sector and community service teams tackling special projects — such as disability support amongst others. With a commitment to making a positive impact on society, he is a constant learner passionate about data privacy assessment and policy analysis.

 Emmanuel holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University, and an Advanced Diploma in Aerospace Manufacturing Engineering Technology from Confederation College.

 Outside of work, Emmanuel is a privacy enthusiast and a member of the IAPP’s Halifax KnowledgeNet chapter during the day. By night, he transforms into a fearless culinary explorer, unleashing his creative prowess on unsuspecting recipes. He is also an avid book devourer and globe-trotter, constantly seeking new adventures.

Arman (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier who has worked in various settings across the public, non-profit, and healthcare sectors. He has experience applying various techniques such as data visualization & analytics, process improvement, forecasting, and community engagement. Arman has a passion for data analytics and is driven by combining quantitative and qualitative techniques to find the best solution for all partners.

Arman holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University where he graduated with Sexton Distinction.

Outside of work Arman enjoys spending time playing squash and soccer, watching sports, and traveling to new destinations.

Morgan (she/her) brings a variety of skills and experience across multiple industries in Nova Scotia. Morgan has developed direct skills in policy development within the Disability and Accessibility field in Nova Scotia and has experience facilitating meaningful engagements with first voice in communities. Through her involvement in the social sector and raising awareness for women in business, Morgan is dedicated to tackling complex challenges through innovation and ingenuity.  

Most recently Morgan has worked closely with leaders in the social sector doing qualitative research surrounding non-profit management, social enterprises, and homelessness in HRM. 

Morgan holds a Bachelor of Commerce graduating Magna Cum Laude in Entrepreneurship as well as a minor in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University. She is currently completing a seminar in Developing Effective Facilitation Skills from Saint Mary’s University, with hopes to expand her ability to lead value-driven engagements in community.  

Morgan has dedicated a significant amount of time over the last five years to volunteering with local shelters and other organizations such as Feed NS and Adsum within the social sector in Halifax

Emma (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in the healthcare sector.  At Davis Pier, Emma has supported projects related to housing, home and community care. Emma is passionate about community development and work focused on improving health and wellbeing. 

Emma holds a M.Sc. from the School of Public Health and Health Systems and a B.Sc., Honours Health Studies from the University of Waterloo. A lifelong learner, Emma has recently completed certificate courses in data governance with Statistics Canada and Indigenous histories and contemporary perspectives through the University of Alberta. 

Outside of work, Emma spends time exploring small towns across Nova Scotia, reading, and hiking. Emma also volunteers as a coordinator with Jane’s Walk Halifax. 

Janine (she/her) is the Director of Strategy and Communications at Davis Pier. She leads the firm's strategic marketing and communications efforts, supports thought leadership, and tackles strategic project delivery related to organizational health, social impact, and philanthropy.

Janine has over 15 years of experience leading people, strategy, communications, and brand marketing in both the public and private sector. Her expertise and passion sit at the intersection of strategy and community impact, and she has led significant digital transformation and communications efforts within organizations that are deeply committed to building more resilient communities.

Janine holds a Master of Arts in Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Memorial University of Newfoundland.

In her downtime, Janine enjoys time in the woods with her dog, adventures in backyard gardening, and many trips to Newfoundland to see her family and hit the East Coast Trail.

Jon (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier.  He brings experience from both the private and public sectors, focusing on collaboration between clients, company, cross-functional partners, and vendors to drive impactful results.  Jon has gained skills in analyzing customer, stakeholder, and behavior inputs to develop actionable insights and identify areas of improvement. Furthermore, his experience guiding digital products from ideation, through development, and implementing go-to-market strategies contributes to product and client success.

Jon holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Acadia University with a major in entrepreneurship and innovation and a Senior Product Management Certification through Product School.

Outside of work Jon spends his time adventuring outdoors, listening to music, and volunteering with local charities.  He enjoys maintaining a healthy active lifestyle and helping others do the same.

Terry (he/him) is a Partner at Davis Pier and leads the firm's Digital Practice. With 15 years of experience in digital transformation consulting in the public sector, Terry has a proven track record of delivering successful projects as a leader and consultant. His expertise includes project leadership, project management, and the ability to lead small to larger project teams.

Terry deeply understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing government organizations and has helped numerous clients modernize and improve their operations through the strategic use of technology. Terry has strong communication and participant management skills and effectively collaborates with clients to achieve their goals.

Terry holds a Bachelor of Information Systems degree from St. Francis Xavier University and is a PROSCI-certified change manager.  

Sydney (she/her) is a Research Associate at Pier Labs with a background in implementation science, child health, and mixed methods research. At Pier Labs, Sydney has applied behavioural insights to various policy and program areas supporting the health and well-being of communities. Combining her skills as a Registered Nurse and researcher, Sydney brings expertise in knowledge synthesis, grant writing, and community engagement.

Sydney holds a BSc in Nursing from the University of Prince Edward Island and is currently finalizing the requirements for a PhD in Nursing from Dalhousie University. Sydney has held various national and provincial funding awards to support her graduate training, including a CIHR Doctoral Award, Killam Scholarship (Doctoral), and Scotia Scholars Award (Doctoral).

Outside of work, Sydney spends her time enjoying the outdoors with her dog, family and friends and visiting her hometown in PEI.

Jocelyn (she/her) is a Research Analyst at Pier Labs working primarily on employment services projects. Her previous roles have focused on analyzing organizational data within the healthcare, private, and government sectors to inform best practices and policies. She is passionate about leveraging research and statistics to create evidence-based programs that enhance the lives of workers while improving organizational outcomes. 

Jocelyn is currently completing her PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at Saint Mary's University. Her work addresses the candidacy and employment experiences of people with disabilities. Jocelyn completed her MSc in this field at Western University after attending Dalhousie University for her BSc (Honours) as well as certificates in Disability Management and Intercultural Communication. As a lifelong learner, she has also taken the opportunity to take Spanish and American Sign Language classes.

Jocelyn spends her free time volunteering with various community groups, rock climbing, travelling anywhere she gets the chance, and trying new foods.

Ian (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier and works predominately within the health care sector to deliver solutions that improve equity, access, and quality of health services in communities. Ian has experience delivering operational transformation, financial recovery plans, and stakeholder engagement projects.

Ian is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), a Prince2 certified project manager, a Lean Six Sigma green belt and has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Acadia University.

Outside of work, Ian loves getting sandy playing beach volleyball, going for long runs, and listening to music.

Tessa (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and works predominantly within the healthcare sector, with additional experience working with non-profits and other public sector departments and associations. She is passionate about improving processes through the delivery of sustainable and high-quality solutions. Tessa has experience in providing meaningful insights through process mapping, simulation, data analysis, and data visualization. 

Tessa holds a MASc in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University, which resulted in 2 publications in Frontiers in Neurology focusing on acute stroke treatment. She also holds a BEng in Industrial Engineering where she graduated with Sexton Distinction and was the recipient of the Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation Marie Carter Memorial Undergraduate Engineering Ambassador Award. 

Outside of work, Tessa enjoys spending time with friends and family, and is an Assistant Coach with the Dalhousie Women’s Volleyball team. 

Evan (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier, who brings a strong analytical and collaborative skillset to his projects, which has been developed throughout his work with government, academia, and involvement in local NPOs. This includes direct skills in strategic planning, policy development, detailed procurement strategies, and project management. Throughout his work and studies, Evan has gained demonstrated experience in providing client-specific solutions within the Disability and Accessibility field. Being focused on person-first approaches, policy development and implementation, and team growth strategies, Evan’s primary objective throughout his work is to contribute to developing a more inclusive Nova Scotia. 

Evan holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University, along with a B.A Politics (Honours) from Acadia University 

Outside of work Evan can be found enjoying the outdoors on coastal roads with his road bike, hiking and camping in woods, or playing music alongside friends. 

Shamar (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier, where he collaborates with public sector clients on various projects, including digital design, transformation initiatives, and the development and implementation of social policies for public sector clients. Shamar is passionate about change management, UX design, and fostering positive transformations within organizations and communities.

Shamar holds a Master of Public Administration, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree with a Major in Economics and a minor in Commerce from Dalhousie University. Shamar’s dedication and excellence have been recognized through several accolades, including the prestigious Dalhousie Community Impact Award. Additionally, he has achieved remarkable success in athletics, being a three-time AUS Champion, while also maintaining an outstanding academic record, earning the distinction of being named Academic-All-Canadian.

Outside of work, Shamar enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new places and cultures through travel, new culinary delights, attending live music events, participating in sports, and coaching basketball.

Kemika (she/her) is a HR Administrator at Davis Pier. Recognizing the significance of aligning professionals with a company’s vision and goals, Kemika showcases a multifaceted skill set and a passion for fostering positive workplace dynamics. She brings prior experience working with start-up companies, where she gained valuable expertise in finding the right talent to drive growth and success.

Kemika holds a Diploma in Human Resources Management from Concordia University and Master of Arts in English Language and Literature from Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSIHL) in India.

Outside of work Kemika enjoys travelling and exploring new places. She also values spending quality time with friends and family. Kemika is also an avid home chef, deriving joy from experimenting and trying new recipes in her kitchen.

Les (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier. He has extensive experience working in the public sector, specializing in policy analysis, program design and development, economic analysis, and project management. Les excels in identifying complex issues and designing solutions that can easily be communicated to project collaborators, citizens, and decision-makers. His experience spans sectors including education, economic development, healthcare, and social services.

Les holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Economics and Law from the University of Alberta. An avid learner and community advocate, he is currently pursuing a Juris Doctor at Dalhousie University and is a member of the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers.

Outside of work, Les enjoys hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, and riding and restoring vintage motorcycles.

Michael (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background in engineering and prior work experience in the public health sector.  At Davis Pier, Michael has supported a range of projects related to digital services, employment program testing, and software implementation in the long-term care sector. Michael has also expanded his skills and developed an interest in community engagement and project management while working at Davis Pier. Michael seeks to combine his technical background and public sector experience to assist clients to make informed, data-driven decisions and improving processes that will positively impact people’s lives.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of New Brunswick and participated in the Venture for Canada fellowship program.

Outside of work, Michael enjoys training for running races, rock climbing, and learning guitar.

Katie (she/her) is the Director of Finance and Administration at Davis Pier and is responsible for managing the financial, legal and governance requirements of the firm. With over fifteen years’ experience in finance and administration in professional services environments, Katie’s organized, proactive, and positive approach coupled with strong communication skills and dedicated attention to detail ensure the operations at Davis Pier run smoothly. 

Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mount Saint Vincent University, a Certificate in Financial Management from Saint Mary’s University, and a Certificate in Contract Management and Business Law from Mount Royal University.

Outside of work Katie enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors. 

Molly (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier specializing in service design, strategic foresight, human-centred design, community engagement, and user research. Molly has nearly a decade of experience working on design projects across the healthcare, education, community building, and smart cities sectors from Australia to Canada. She has developed and implemented successful projects and strategies for non-profit, government, and corporate clients—resulting in improved user experience, enhanced services, increased satisfaction, and ongoing impact.  

Molly holds a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University in Toronto and a Bachelor of Management in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Dalhousie University. 

In her downtime, Molly enjoys thrift hunting, reading, and getting outside with her pup, Hank.

Ray Cook (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier with over 25 years of experience in the private and public sectors. His primary focus is business analysis, business solution delivery, and Privacy Impact Assessments. Ray also has experience with test management and quality assurance, requirements definition, systems analysis, team leadership, and system implementation. He has delivered on engagements with the provincial government across government registries, health, housing, agriculture, and community services departments. His private industry experience includes insurance, telecommunications, oil and gas, post-secondary institutions, and power utilities. 

Ray holds a BA with a major in economics and a business minor from the Memorial University of Newfoundland and a Management Information Systems (MIS) diploma from Cabot College (now College of the North Atlantic). 

Outside of work Ray enjoys cycling, camping, family walks, and spending time with his family. 

Alex (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier and has supported projects related to healthcare and workers’ compensation. Through his professional and academic experience Alex has gained experience in relationship building, project management, instruction, and collaboration skills among internal and external teams. Alex is passionate about assisting others through teamwork and education while ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard. 

Alex holds a Bachelor of Education from Acadia University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Dalhousie University. 

Outside of work Alex enjoys cooking, watching and playing a variety of sports, music, and spending time with friends and family.

Gaëlle (she/her) is a Principal at Davis Pier with a background in neuroscience and consulting experience in innovation management, early-stage technology commercialization, intellectual property, entrepreneurship, and science/research communication. She has worked with public and private sector clients around the world, including universities and research institutions, start-ups and spin-outs, corporates, and government agencies. Gaëlle brings knowledge and experience in program and project management, leadership and mentoring, benchmarking and gap analyses, designing go-to-market strategies for innovative products and services, and facilitation. She enjoys designing and working on collaborative projects that use interdisciplinary approaches to solve complex problems and achieve real-world impact.

Gaëlle holds a BSc in Psychology from the University of Nottingham, an MSc in Neuroscience from the University of Oxford, and a DPhil in Clinical Neurosciences from the University of Oxford. She held various scholarships and grants to support her graduate studies and subsequent position as a postdoctoral research scientist, and her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals. Gaëlle is English-French bilingual.

Outside of work, Gaëlle enjoys triathlon, trail running and mountain biking, true crime podcasts, and spending time with her two cats.

Vineela (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has worked predominately within the public sector with a focus on government digital transformations and program development. Vineela has experience in research and development and is especially passionate about utilizing human-centered design practices to develop realistic solutions for complex public sector challenges.

 Vineela holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University along with a Bachelor’s in Information Technology from GITAM University.

 Outside of work, Vineela enjoys traveling and exploring new places and spending time with friends and family.

Drawing on experience in public sector consulting, small business strategy and medical research and teaching, Bryan thrives on leveraging qualitative and quantitative approaches to help our clients discover, answer, and address their most challenging problems. His research and data analysis background and communication ability are daily assets in the variety of work he engages in such as, Consulting, Program Evaluation, Social Innovation and Behavioural Science projects.

Bryan has a BSc from Saint Mary’s University, a MSc and PhD in Neuroscience from Dalhousie University and was a postdoctoral fellow at McGill University. He held national fellowships during his graduate (NSERC) and postgraduate (CIHR) work, has 10 peer-reviewed publications and has spoken at over 25 international conferences.

Mike (he/him) is a thought leader in government transformation and innovation, with over 20-years of experience in consulting across Canada and in countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia.  He is well-regarded not only for his ability to design and architect strategies and solutions to complex public sector issues for clients, but also for overseeing their implementation. Mike leads Davis Pier’s social innovation efforts focused on helping government by using behavioural science, service design and evidence-based policy approaches to improving policy-making and program design.

Mike has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University and a Master’s degree in Behavioural Sciences at the London School of Economics.  He has attended the Harvard Kennedy School of Government’s Behavioural Insights Program and is certified as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) and Project Management Professional (PMP).

Mike is the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Kids Help Phone and on the Board of Directors for Tribe Network. Mike has also been named one of Atlantic Business Magazines Top 50 CEOs.

Erin (she/her) is the Practice and Proposal Manager at Davis Pier. With a background in law and business development, she supports the firm’s growth by managing the end-to-end proposal processes and working with Practice Leads to assist with pipeline and practice management. 

Erin holds a Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Prince Edward Island. She is also a Certified Associate in Project Management.

Outside of work, Erin enjoys spending time on her favourite PEI beaches.

Zahra (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier, leveraging her background and previous work experience in the public and non-profit sector. She possesses knowledge in performance measurement and evaluation, immigration, international development, employment, housing, and community healthcare access. Zahra also excels in community workshop design, project management, and policy analysis.

Zahra holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Development Studies from Saint Mary’s University.

Outside of work, Zahra spends her time reading, exploring the outdoors, and relishing in her role as an aunt to the best niece!

Alexandra (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with previous experience in social entrepreneurship, digital products, and education. She has led projects with both private and public sector organizations on program development, digital transformation, and service design. Alex is passionate about creating solutions that meet the needs of communities by prioritizing a collaborative, human-centered approach.

Alex is a Venture for Canada Fellow and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a concentration in International Business and Economics from Dalhousie University. More recently, she has completed the Facet Breakthrough Leadership Program with Royer Thompson and is now an advisor for the program.

 Outside of work, Alex enjoys swimming, trying new recipes, and hosting book club gatherings. She is also the Co-Chair of the Venture for Canada Alumni Council.

Abena (she/her) is a Research Analyst at Pier Labs, with skills in quantitative analysis and mixed methods research. Motivated by her passion for addressing socio-economic issues and igniting positive change in society, Abena's research spans economic development, immigration, labour economics, and poverty and inequality. At Pier Labs, Abena applies her problem-solving skills, analytical nature, and curiosity to support diverse projects and contribute innovative ideas at Pier Labs.

Abena holds a Master of Development Economics from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Finance with First Class Honours from the University of Surrey (UK).

Outside work, Abena enjoys engaging in indoor activities like watching movies and sharing meaningful moments with her family and friends.

Emi (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has experience with the employment and social sector with a focus on project management, program management and digital transformations.

Emi holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Human Resource Management Certificate from Saint Marys University.

Outside of work Emi spends time hiking and reading.

Devon (he/him) is a Partner with over 15 years of public sector consulting experience. Devon’s career has focused on solving complex problems in social policy domains, including disability/developmental services, municipal government and post-secondary education. His experience includes transformation planning and implementation, organizational design, information technology enablement, business planning, policy design and the management of large portfolios and teams.  He is passionate about taking an evidence-based approach to program and policy design that incorporates research, quantitative analysis and human-centered design.

Devon holds a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University and a Master of Business Administration from St. Mary’s University. He is a certified Professional Engineer (P. Eng.).  

Outside of work, Devon enjoys spending time with his family, including regular visits to Cape Breton and Newfoundland.

Sam (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background in behavioural science, strategic communications, and public policy. At Davis Pier, Sam is supporting work related to public health, wellbeing, and employment. Sam is passionate about applying behavioural insights to an array of complex challenges and devising creative, evidence-driven solutions for clients.

Sam holds an Master of Science with distinction in Behavioural Science from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and a Bachelor of Arts with first class honours in Political Science from the University of Alberta.

Outside of work, Sam is an avid reader, coffee aficionado, and lover of all things hockey. On weekends, he can be found exploring Halifax in his quest to find the best pain au chocolat

Julie (she/her) is a Partner at Davis Pier and has worked in public sector consulting for over 12 years with a focus on Social Policy.  Julie’s experience and expertise are in large-scale government transformations, where she leads teams responsible for legislative, regulatory and policy reform, organizational redesign, information technology design and implementation, and data modelling and analytics.  

As the Management Sponsor for Davis Pier’s internal Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee, Julie is committed to bringing an anti-racism and anti-oppression lens to the firm’s projects and operations. Across all her work, Julie is driven to create actionable solutions that affect positive changes for people and communities.  

Julie holds a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University and a Master of Business Administration from St. Mary University.  

Outside of work, Julie enjoys staying active with her boys, coaching and playing basketball, and hosting gatherings with friends and family. She often visits her hometown of Antigonish where she enjoys spending time on the beach, paddleboarding, kayaking or boating.  

Laura Halleran is a Service Designer at Davis Pier, working with multiple stakeholders to help make changes in the public sector that are grounded in people’s everyday experiences. She has experience working on interdisciplinary teams to conduct design research with institutions across Toronto. Her engineering background and experience further complements her approach to tackling complex problems.

Laura holds a Master of Design in Design for Health from OCAD University and completed an international exchange in the Service Design focus of Master of Product Design program at Oslo Metropolitan University. She also holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Society from McMaster University.

Catherine (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier working on program development. She has a background in research, communications, and engagement in the areas of health, food insecurity, and quality of life. Catherine is passionate about projects that have a positive impact on community wellbeing.

Catherine holds a Master of Resource and Environmental Management from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) with a Major in Global Development Studies and Minor in Economics from Queen’s University.

Outside of work Catherine spends time reading books of every genre, weightlifting, volunteering locally, and exploring the outdoors by hiking, biking, and paddling.

Lisa Huang (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a background in digital products, innovation, and community economic development. She has experience working with public and private sector organizations on digital transformation, commercial strategy design, program development, and project management. Lisa brings strong interpersonal skills to her projects, enabling her to navigate complex projects, facilitate clear communication among stakeholders, and drive human-centered thinking. She is passionate about building equitable and resilient community-based development strategies.

Lisa holds a Master of Economic Development and Innovation from the University of Waterloo, and a Bachelor of Arts in Art History with minors in Environmental Science and French from Barnard College, Columbia University.

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys spending time rock climbing, hiking, and canoeing. When she’s not outdoors, you will find her in the kitchen, exploring and developing new recipes.

Sidney (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier, where he uses his business acumen and leadership skills to deliver valuable results and meet client needs. His track record includes spearheading multifaceted projects, collaborating with stakeholders, envisioning long-term goals, and crafting innovative strategies to drive impactful solutions. Sidney excels at nurturing meaningful connections and fostering collaborative efforts that converge toward common objectives. He has worked on diverse and transformative projects in healthcare and post-secondary education to strengthen Nova Scotia.

Sidney holds a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University and Queens University alongside a Bachelor of Materials Engineering from Dalhousie University. He is a certified project manager accredited by the Project Management Institute.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Sidney actively contributes to his community by volunteering on various boards and advocating for youth education. He enjoys travelling, experiencing different cultures, and meeting new people. Sidney likes bringing people together and enjoys quality time with his family and friends.

Andrew (He/Him) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a strong background in both financial and management consulting. Andrew prides himself in providing exceptional client service and his proven subject matter expertise in a variety of industries including government and not-for-profit entities. Andrew is passionate about providing impactful and insightful analysis to clients by breaking down complex problems into relatively simple models for decision-makers.

Andrew holds a CPA designation, a master’s in development economics from Dalhousie University, as well as a bachelor’s in commerce from Mount Allison University.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, board games, and spending time with his family and friends.

Marlee (she/her) is a Research Associate at Pier Labs and has worked in academia and with non-profit and public sector organizations with a focus on social science research and evaluation. She brings experience in evaluation framework development, data collection through qualitative and participatory research methods, thematic analysis, and workshop development and facilitation. Marlee is passionate about public safety, mental health, and housing and strives to work collaboratively with partners and community to create and promote evidence-based solutions.

 Marlee holds a Master and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Criminology from Saint Mary’s University and she is currently working towards an MPA degree at Dalhousie. She has contributed to publications related to supported housing, forensic mental health, and public safety.   

Outside of work, Marlee spends time with her family and dogs enjoying the outdoors and loves to cook, read, and listen to podcasts.

Sydney (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has worked predominantly within the social services and healthcare sectors. Her experiences in organizational change management and workshop facilitation allow Sydney to collaboratively develop solutions and document well-defined processes with clients and contributors. 

Sydney holds a Master of Business Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts degree with an Honors Specialization in Kinesiology and a minor in Psychology from Western University.

Passionate about improving access to healthcare and supporting cancer research, Sydney has presented as a keynote speaker for several large-scale fundraising events and has recently led a firm-wide initiative to raise over $22,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. Outside of work, Sydney also spends time paddleboarding, traveling, and volunteering for Kids Help Phone.

Rajin (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in strategic planning, policy analysis and evaluation. His expertise spans a wide variety of areas including operational planning, business planning, feasibility studies, economic impact analysis, labour market research, immigration, population strategy and healthcare.

Rajin holds a Master of Arts in International Development Studies from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations from Bangladesh University of Professionals.

Outside of work, Rajin spends time exploring waterfalls, small towns and cafés/restaurants across Nova Scotia. When he’s not outdoors, Rajin loves reading history and political science books and watching dark comedy/ thriller movies, soccer or cricket.

 Saya (she/her) is a service designer at Davis Pier. She has experience in applying design thinking processes and human-centered design principles to lead discovery research, focusing on user research, community engagement, and cross-functional collaboration. Her work involves enhancing new or existing products and services– driven by insights, strategy, low-fidelity prototyping, and user testing.

Saya holds a graduate degree in Interdisciplinary Design Strategy from Institute without Boundaries, B.A. (Hons) in Philosophy and Political Science from Queen’s University, a Certificate of Business from Smith School of Business, and a Certificate of Art and Design Foundation from George Brown College. 

Outside of work, Saya enjoys spending time in nature on long walks or adventurous hikes and experimenting in art projects such as painting, sculpting, and photography.

Alicia (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in the Public, Private, Information Technology, Legal and Financial Sectors.  At Davis Pier, Alicia has supported projects related to public housing, healthcare, and economic development. Alicia enjoys solving complex problems utilizing a multi-faceted approach that incorporates regulatory, socio-legal, and technical requirements to create refined, holistic, client-focused solutions. 

Alicia holds a Bachelor of Information Technology from Carleton University, a Diploma in Interactive Multimedia and Design from Algonquin College, and a Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall at York University. 

Outside of work, Alicia is most commonly found in the company of her Chihuahua Nash or raising a ruckus with her three nephews. 

Lisa (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has more than 25 years of experience in strategic and operational planning, service delivery, communications, change management, problem-solving, and engagement with key partners, communities, and the public. Lisa has experience in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors, as well as working in regulated utilities. At Davis Pier, Lisa has supported projects related to employment, continuing care, compliance and enforcement, and workplace safety. A key strength of Lisa’s is to understand complex environments and subjects to present recommendations that are approachable, efficient, and sustainable.

 
Lisa holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Queen’s University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of New Brunswick. She is an experienced facilitator who has led large-scale engagement exercises, is certified in IAP2 engagement design and delivery, and is a PROSCI-certified Change Management Practitioner.

Outside of work, Lisa spends time exploring Nova Scotia, hiking, and volunteering as the Co-Lead of Davis Pier’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

Shawna is the firm’s change management lead. Her experience spans the public sector, manufacturing and energy industries with a focus on change management, communications and organizational design. Shawna has played lead roles in the design and implementation of a number of organizational change projects and she brings a pragmatic approach to helping organizations implement efficiencies and improve their operations.

Shawna is a graduate of Dalhousie University with a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science from Bob Jones University, focused on Operations Management. She has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Running and Reading club with KidsFest.

Jenna (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier and has worked both in the local recruitment sector and the international education sector in the Middle East. Her experience working in Atlantic Canada enabled her to build strong relationships with local talent while connecting them to opportunities—and her experiences abroad allowed her to grasp development strategies and cultivate the skills to devise practical solutions to complex challenges.  

Jenna holds a Bachelor of Arts with a focus in International Development Studies and Economics from Saint Mary’s University and spent time studying Development Economics in the Netherlands throughout the course of her undergraduate degree.    

Outside of work Jenna enjoys traveling, staying active, and spending time with her family, friends, and partner, walking their Bernese Mountain dog, Cabot.  

Greg (he/him) is the firm’s Privacy Competency Lead with over 20 years of experience consulting in the healthcare, government and technology domains. Known for being results-focused, thorough and reliable, and for his attention to detail, Greg’s work on numerous provincially, federally and internationally sponsored initiatives have given him a strong mix of business and technology skills. He has considerable experience in privacy impact assessment, business process analysis and redesign, requirements definition and analysis, health informatics, digital identity, privacy policy development and privacy training.

His focus on privacy assessment and policy analysis have given him a thorough understanding of the important role that privacy (and security) must play as citizen-centred services move into the digital realm. Greg’s ongoing research interests include exploring issues related to privacy for vulnerable and marginalized populations.

Greg holds a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) from the University of Calgary, a Master of Health Informatics from Dalhousie University, and is a Certified Expert in Business Process Modelling (BPMN). He was designated as a Privacy by Design Ambassador by former Information and Privacy Commissioner for Ontario, Dr. Ann Cavoukian, and is working to build privacy awareness and knowledge locally and nationally through his work as Co-Founder, past Co-Chair and Organizational Committee Member of the IAPP’s Halifax KnowledgeNet chapter.

Marcia (she/her) has experience in the areas of business strategy, user experience, usability testing, stakeholder engagement, research, and analysis. She has conducted several stakeholder engagement and strategic planning initiatives with both private and public sector organizations throughout her career. Her strengths lie in diving deep into a business’ strategy and creating actionable, phased goals for clients with a focus on user experience and emerging industry trends.

Marcia holds a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Enterprise Analytics and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, both from Dalhousie University. She is also a Director on the board of Field Hockey Nova Scotia, a member of the Shakespeare by the Sea board, as well as a committee member of March of Dimes Canada (Halifax).

Chrystal (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has supported projects in the areas of healthcare and social policy. Drawing on her experience as a lawyer to frame client problems in terms of root causes, she works with clients to develop a clear path to achieve holistic, practical solutions. Always eager to undertake challenging work that will have positive community impacts, Chrystal specializes in policy development, regulatory compliance, cross-functional collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and project management.

 Chrystal has a Juris Doctor from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Philosophy with an Emphasis in Canadian Studies. She is also certified in Mental Health First Aid.

 Outside of work, Chrystal appreciates spending time with family, camping, enjoying the arts, exploring Canada, and is often found chauffeuring her son to his many activities. Chrystal is also proud to be involved with the important work of the Metro Community Housing Association.

Laura (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with previous consulting experience focused on designing and implementing psychological health and safety solutions within organizations in the private and public sectors. Laura is passionate about building systems for people to thrive and enjoys learning and employing various ‘tools in the toolbox’ to do so, whether it is facilitating an Appreciative Inquiry session to uncover purpose, building out product roadmaps that are user-centric, designing intuitive roadmaps for change, or conducting mixed methods applied research to uncover diverse community perspectives. Laura’s ability to visualize, empathize, and solve problems allows her to be a catalyst for successful change and allows her to keep people at the heart of her approach.  

Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics, a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition from St. Francis Xavier University, and a certification in IDEO Human Centered Design certification from Acadia University.  

Outside of work, Laura spends her time cooking up a storm, challenging friends to card and board games, and whenever possible, traveling around the world.  

Michelle (she/her) is a Partner at Davis Pier and focuses on team development, firm culture, and operations. She has a diverse background in project management, human resources, process improvement, and analytical roles. Michelle has experience in a variety of areas including business analysis, engagement, team development, process improvement, operational reviews, and data analytics. She has extensive experience working with multi-disciplinary teams and providing action-oriented solutions.

Michelle has an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University and a Certificate in Human Resource Management from SMU. 

Outside of work Michelle enjoys spending time with her family camping, biking, and skiing.

Lauren (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier and has a background in implementation science, health services, and qualitative research. At Davis Pier, Lauren has applied her knowledge and skills to support implementation initiatives in home care services. With research experience in continuing care and integrated care systems, Lauren is passionate about applying evidence-based solutions to complex health problems and planning for sustainability and scale-up of successful initiatives.

Lauren holds a PhD in Health Services Research from the University of Toronto, Masters in Family Studies and Gerontology from Mount Saint Vincent University, and Bachelor of Science (Honours) from the University of Waterloo. Lauren has held national and provincial funding awards, including a SSHRC Doctoral Award and Ontario Graduate Scholarship. Throughout her graduate studies, Lauren was a trainee in a pan-Canadian research program called Translating Research in Elder Care.

Outside of work, Lauren enjoys spending time in the garden, trying new wines, and doing paint by numbers.

Angus (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a technical background in industrial engineering and process design. He is an effective communicator, and his personable approach to projects allows him to integrate with client teams to understand the root causes of their challenges and develop practical, data-informed solutions. Angus has worked on various program and system transformation projects across a diverse set of public sector and not-for-profit areas including social services, housing, labour, and healthcare.

Angus is a Professional Engineer registered with both Professional Engineers Ontario and Engineers Nova Scotia. He holds a Bachelor’s of Engineering in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University where he graduated with the Sexton Distinction and was a five-time Academic All-Canadian as a member of the cross country and track and field teams.

Outside of work, Angus enjoys golfing and playing hockey, his retirement from running, and spending time outdoors with his partner and his dog.

Abby (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier and has supported projects related to healthcare, housing, and workers' compensation. Her experience with complex social initiatives, research, and data analytics allowed Abby to collaboratively develop solutions and practical processes with clients.

Abby holds a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Enterprise Systems and Analytics, from Dalhousie University. Previously she completed a Bachelor of Arts & Science in Public Health from Wilfrid Laurier University. 

Outside of work Abby spends most of her time running, swimming, and trying new recipes.

Megan Macpherson (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background in public administration, health policy, public sector procurement, emergency management, and engagement. Megan has experience coordinating Davis Pier's end-to-end proposal process, employing skills in process analysis and improvement, interdisciplinary facilitation, business development, and client management. Her project experience spans public health, climate and energy, and community services. Her collaborative approach helps her to establish strong relationships, build momentum towards a goal, and deliver results.

Megan holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Health Science from Western University. 

Outside of work, Megan enjoys exploring nature, playing intramural sports, and acting.

Heather is the Office Coordinator at Davis Pier. With a wide range of administrative experience spanning over 16 years, Heather is well versed in supporting teams with running the day-to-day operations of a busy office, providing client service, as well as scheduling and logistics.

Jennifer (she/her) is the Executive Director of Pier Labs, our research and innovation non-profit organization, with over 25 years of progressive and diverse experience working at a senior leadership level in private, public, and non-profit sectors, including disability supports, food security, housing, health care, education, and climate change. She is a strategic leader, who has a proven ability to collaborate and co-create innovative solutions to complex system and societal challenges. She believes solving our toughest problems takes a co-creative and innovative approach that embeds people with living/lived expertise to build community-driven solutions.  

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, Master of Business Administration, and a Master’s Certificate in Project Management.

Outside of work Jennifer enjoys spending time with family, golfing, and volunteering with Junior Achievement Nova Scotia and Kids Help Phone.

Madisen (she/her) is the HR Manager at Davis Pier and responsible for leading and supporting various people-related activities for the company involving recruitment, onboarding, team-building and recognition, payroll and benefits administration, B Corporation management, and organizational development. She is passionate about continuously improving company culture and cultivating the employee experience to support our most valuable asset–our team! 

Madisen holds a Bachelor of Business Management from Dalhousie University, and a certificate in Human Resources Management from Saint Mary’s University. She is also a CPHR candidate.  
 
Outside of work Madisen spends time reading bedtime stories to her niece and nephew, listening to investigative journalism podcasts, and trying not to take life too seriously. 

Alice (she/her) is a Principal at Davis Pier and has worked predominately within the public sector with a focus on policy analysis, program development and project management. Her experience working with government has helped her develop an understanding of complex public sector challenges and the ability to develop realistic solutions.  Alice enjoys working on projects that improve the lives of citizens and is especially passionate about projects that have a community or social impact.  

Alice holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Francis Xavier University.   

Outside of work Alice spends time with her family and visiting her hometown of Lunenburg. 

Pegah (she/her) is a Principal at Davis Pier and has worked with public and not-for-profit sectors with a focus on research, policy analysis, program development, project management, and strategic planning. She has worked on projects of various sizes, complexities, and budgetary restrictions. Pegah has a passion for and significant experience working in the justice and public safety sectors.

Pegah holds a Master of Liberal Arts Degree from Memorial University, with a specialization in criminology, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from York University.

Outside of work Pegah enjoys spending time with her dog, Karl, and taking up new hobbies such as dance, curling, and yoga.

Emily (she/her) is Manager, Strategy and Communications at Davis Pier. Emily is responsible for leading a number of initiatives under the general direction of the CEO, including elements related to external communications, client relationship development, thought leadership, social impact, and philanthropy.

Emily holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Francis Xavier University in Political Science and Development Studies and is a Venture for Canada Fellow. She has a certification in Design Research Mastery and is a recipient of the YMCA Peace Medallion.  

Outside of work, she is the city lead for Jane’s Walk Halifax and sits on the board of the Halifax Central Library and the organizing team of the Art of City Building conference. She loves to explore every corner of Nova Scotia, go for hikes with her Duck Tolling Retriever, Stella, and host book club meetings that often go off-topic.

Emma (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a background in research, workshop facilitation, and policy analysis. She is passionate about accessibility and has previously worked within post-secondary, non-profit, and social inclusion-based organizations. At Davis Pier, Emma has supported projects related to community services and housing.

Emma holds a Master of Public Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with minors in Spanish and French from Mount Allison University. Within her professional development, she has been working to expand her knowledge in the areas of change management and human-centered design.

Emma is an active member of IPAC NS and volunteers with various sporting organizations in her community. Outside of work she enjoys singing, morning walks with her dogs, and spending time with her family and friends.

Colin (he/him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in digital health, climate policy, and provincial, federal, and international politics. At Davis Pier, Colin has worked on projects in the long-term care, health care, digital innovation, and disability supports sectors and is passionate about the higher education and economic development sectors.

Colin holds a Master of Philosophy in International Relations and Politics from the University of Cambridge and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Politics from Acadia University, where he received the Golden A Award and the University Medal in Politics. He is also an alumnus of the Government of Canada’s Recruitment of Policy Leaders Program.

Outside of work, Colin is an amateur brewer, historian, and author, with a passion for Canada and public affairs.

Hamza (He/Him) is an Analyst at Davis Pier and has worked predominately within the public and non-for-profit sectors with a focus on communications, research, process optimization and strategic planning. Hamza is known for his strong capacity to combine data-driven research with the psychology of behaviour and is proficient at translating insights into creative executions and solutions.

Hamza holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Mount Allison University, and a Graduate Certificate in Public Relations – Corporate Communications from Centennial College.

Outside of work, Hamza enjoys trying out new recipes, playing badminton, and spending time with family.

Kevin (he/him) is a proven leader in public policy development and implementation. With an extensive background in both public education and early childhood development, Kevin played a key role in overseeing federal and provincial investment to support operational needs of schools during the 2020-21 school year to ensure a safe and supportive school environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kevin is a natural facilitator, change manager, communicator, and team builder. He is passionate about the power of partnerships in solving big, interconnected problems.   

Kevin studied Political Science and Psychology at Mount Allison University and is a certified investment planner with the Canadian Securities Institute. 

When he’s not in the office, Kevin enjoys all sports and hiking in Nova Scotia’s great outdoors.

Katie Newcombe (she/her) is the Director of Organizational Development at Davis Pier. Katie recently transitioned to this role after spending a decade working on the consulting side of the business with provincial and federal governments, not-for-profits, and private sector organizations—all focused on driving meaningful social impact and improving the lives of others. Katie thrives on projects that employ a mix of project management, change management, and human-centred design to develop solutions that drive innovation and meet people where they are. 

Since changing her focus to Davis Pier’s internal operations, Katie is fostering a culture of compassion and collaboration within the firm, using the expertise she developed in consulting to lead and nurture the team’s continued growth. Pushing innovation and change while placing focused attention on supporting growth that is authentic to Davis Pier’s values is meaningful to Katie and something she is deeply passionate about. 

Outside of work, Katie loves spending time with her family, chairing the Emerging Leaders Board at Halifax Partnership, and volunteering with her colleagues at organizations such as Ronald McDonald House and Kids Help Phone.

Diana (she/her) is the Program Director for the AspireAtlantic program at Pier Labs.  Her work is mainly within the education and employment sectors in program design, delivery, and operations.  Diana has experience in non-profit sectors and user-centric programming such as those that take on community impact and complex change.  Believing strongly in the power of relationships, influence, and coaching, she moves forward projects that encourage strong community connections and growth through learning.

Diana holds a Masters’ Degree in Distance Education and Technology from the University of Athabasca and a Bachelor of Arts from BC Open University. (now Thompson Rivers’ University).

Outside of work, Diana enjoys exploring the beaches by kayak and paddleboard and spending time with her family and friends.  Diana also volunteers as an insight team member for GEO Nova Scotia and as a board member for Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia.

Jay (he/him)  is an IT Administrator, Analyst, and member of the Privacy Practice at Davis Pier. He has five years of digital, data management, and cybersecurity experience and a background supporting data security and privacy standards for public and private organizations. In his role at Davis Pier, Jay’s responsibilities include researching and resolving complex technical and data management problems and ensuring that policies and standards are kept up to date.

Jay holds a professional diploma in computer systems & software development from Mohawk College, and certifications in Microsoft 365 administrator, Network & Security+, and Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL).

Outside of work, Jay enjoys spending time with friends & family, exploring natural scenic places and going on adventurous hikes.

Kishan Patel (he/him) is a Technical Support Analyst at Davis Pier, specializing in providing exceptional technical assistance, user support, cybersecurity, and networking expertise for IT applications and services. With over four years of experience, he excels in diagnosing hardware and software issues across various platforms, including macOS, Windows, and iOS.

Kishan holds a Graduate Diploma in Computing from Unitec Institute of Technology in New Zealand, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from Sardar Vallabhbhai Institute of Technology in India. Additionally, he holds certifications in Microsoft Office 365 Administration and macOS for IT Administrators. He also brings a wealth of cybersecurity experience, ensuring the protection and integrity of digital assets.

Outside of work, Kishan is a traveller, enjoying new cultures, spending time with loved ones, passionately following cricket, and exploring podcasts to enrich his life.

Darryl Pierrynowski has a diverse private sector and consulting background spanning 15 years with a specific focus on the healthcare sector.

Darryl has an honour’s degree in finance, a master’s of business administration with a focus on information technology and has received postgraduate training in Project Management at Stanford University. Darryl has been a long term volunteer with Ronald McDonald House Atlantic Canada.

Darryl’s focus within Davis Pier is the delivery of business and technology advisory services to clients in healthcare, social services and related sectors.

Nicola Popp (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background in Neuroscience and Behavioural Research. At Davis Pier, Nicola has supported projects related to program evaluation, home care, and safety in the public sector. In her previous product research roles, Nicola has gained skills in data analytics, user testing, prototyping, and project management. She is passionate about leveraging behavioural science and psychology to improve evidence-based decision-making.

Nicola holds a Neuroscience PhD from Western University, a Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience MSc from Maastricht University, and a Psychology BSc from the University of Groningen. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and she has been invited to present her work at a range of international conferences. Her academic background has strengthened her skills in quantitative and qualitative research methodology and analysis.

Outside of work, Nicola is passionate about dance and is dancing and teaching at a local adult drop-in dance studio. She loves bringing the joy of movement to people.

Ben (he/him) is a Principal at Davis Pier and has worked on a wide variety of projects in health care, social service, labour, education, and economic development, as well as projects in the not-for-profit and private sectors.  Ben is known for his ability to effectively build relationships and trust with clients, understand the challenges they face, and utilize data to make evidence-informed decisions to solve complex government and social challenges.

Ben holds a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University where he earned Sexton Distinction and is nearing the completion of his Master of Engineering.  Ben also has his Professional Engineering (P.Eng) designation, is an experienced project manager and facilitator, and has expertise in a variety of analytics techniques.

Outside of work, you’ll likely find Ben hiking, camping, traveling with family/friends, or spending the weekend working on a DIY project!

Vinod (he/him) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has prior work experience in non-profit and healthcare sector with a focus on technical and business analysis, product management, and digital transformations.  

Vinod holds a Master of Applied Computer Science from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Computer Science from Amrita Institute of Technology. 

Outside of work, Vinod spends time learning film photography, curating playlists for dance parties, and spending time with his cat Nimbu. 

Malak (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier, with prior experience working in the private, manufacturing, public and healthcare sectors. Malak has experience in process improvement, data modelling and visualization, human-centred design, process mapping and client engagement. With a passion for advocating for equity-deserving groups and fostering a positive work environment, she leverages her experience to help clients make data-informed decisions.

Malak is a member of Engineers Nova Scotia as an Engineer-in-Training. She earned her Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie where she graduated with Sexton Distinction.

Outside of work, Malak enjoys travelling to new destinations and dabbling with new baking recipes.

Andrea Richardson (she/her) is a Principal at Davis Pier with experience leading teams to research, design, implement, evaluate, and advise on complex social impact and innovation programs for government and social sector partners. She has experience with project management, stakeholder engagement, human-centred design, and using innovative approaches to serve diverse end users. Her work spans a variety of industries including housing, social services, financial technology, social entrepreneurship, and more.

Andrea holds a Master of International Management from the London School of Economics and a Bachelor of Commerce from Queen’s University. She is also a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA).

Outside of work Andrea spends time running, planning her next travel adventure, and getting overly competitive during friendly board games. She volunteers with ACCESS Community Capital, providing character-based loans to small business owners.

Matthew is an Associate Partner with Davis Pier and is responsible for leading many of our dynamic, urgent, and intricate projects. His strong interpersonal skills allow him to thrive in complex project environments and he has demonstrated experience in healthcare, housing, and social services transformation. He is an analytical thinker with expertise in project management, operational planning, and implementation. Matthew is a results-oriented individual with a passion for engaging with people to develop and deliver human-centered solutions for our clients.

Matthew holds a Master of International Business from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, and a Bachelor of Arts in Politics from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

He serves on the Board of Governors of Acadia University, is the President of the Acadia Alumni Association, and is a Director with L’Arche Homefires.

Braden Root-McCaig (he/him) is the Director of Impact and Partnerships at Davis Pier. He brings nearly two decades of expertise as a public policy and communications strategist across government, private, and non-profit sectors. His track-record of growing early-stage ventures and developing new organizational models leverages strategic thinking and social innovation to address key societal challenges such as public health, community development, and affordable housing.

While in government, Braden served at the federal and provincial levels, including as Chief of Staff to Toronto’s Deputy Mayor, before moving into executive roles at the Ontario Centre of Innovation, Loyalist College, and a global biotech foundation.

Braden holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Psychology and Philosophy from the University of Ottawa and is currently completing a Chartered Marketing designation. He serves as the Vice Chair of The Canadian Centre for Housing Rights, Canada’s leading non-profit advancing the right to housing.

Outside of the office, Braden enjoys testing canoe buoyancy on Canada’s white-water rivers, rock climbing throughout the Maritimes, and pondering impermanence during silent meditation retreats.

Raquel (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and a registered Health Psychologist focused on behaviour change. With an extensive background in health promotion, she applies a behavioural science lens and health psychology principles across a range of societal challenges, including health and wellbeing, sustainability, and workplace safety. She is passionate about changing behaviours and moving people towards healthier and more sustainable habits. 

Raquel holds a PhD in Health Psychology focused on sustainable food-related behaviours from ISPA University in Lisbon, a Master of Science in Health Psychology, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed international journals and she has been invited to present her research at multiple conferences from both academic and non-academic institutions, such as the OECD and the UN-FAO.

Outside of work, Raquel loves trying new cooking recipes, indoor strength training workouts, and taking long walks to explore Toronto with her Beagle.

Moyee (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in the not for profit, education, and government sectors.  At Davis Pier, Moyee has supported projects related to education, digital governance, and health and wellness. Moyee is passionate about delivering solutions that meet the needs of communities by prioritizing collaborative approaches. Moyee is a skilled graphic designer and data storyteller who uses visual design to build usable solutions.

Moyee holds a Master’s in Design from OCAD University’s Strategic Foresight and Innovation program and a Professional Diploma in Design from Srishti Institute of Art Design and Technology.

Outside of work, Moyee spends time reading, taking care of plants, and learning new languages.

Ally (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background in social innovation, social research, and entrepreneurship. At Davis Pier, Ally has supported projects related to healthcare transformation. Ally is passionate about people-centred design and building community capacity to enable innovative solutions to complex social problems.

She holds a Masters in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership from Carleton University and a B.A. Politics (Honours) from Acadia University. Ally’s experience ranges across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors in both Canada and the United Kingdom, always in an effort to build more resilient communities.

When she isn’t working Ally enjoys cooking with friends, hiking the coast, and striking up conversations in the checkout line.

Katrina (she/her) is an analyst at Davis Pier that has worked within the public sector with a focus on program design, research and analysis, and community engagement. Throughout her work, Katrina has applied her skills in program/service design research to prioritize the needs of community members and generate solutions that are grounded in people’s experiences. 

Katrina has previous experience with Indigenous Services Canada and Health Canada in the First Nations and Inuit Health Department. She has engaged with various Indigenous communities and their members to support increased and more sustainable access to health care services. Katrina’s strong communication skills in both French and English have allowed her to build and maintain client relationships. 

Katrina holds a Master of Business Administration from Dalhousie University as well as a Bachelor of Science, Major in Honours Health Studies from the University of Waterloo.

Outside of work, Katrina spends most of her time outdoors; hiking, swimming, or biking. 

Marianne (she/her) is the Manager of Financial Administration at Pier Labs and is responsible for the day-to-day finances. With over 30 years in finance, Marianne has strong skills in organization, communication, and building successful strategies for a team.  

Marianne holds a certificate in Accounting & Finance from NSCC, and has completed certification in Effective Communications, Applied Leadership & Management Training, Navigational Coaching for Leaders, and Performance Excellence – Lean Six Sigma.   

Outside of work, Marianne spends time with her family, expanding awareness for the local craft community and supporting the buy local imitative. She is often found at the local craft markets building relationships with the makers and helping to get their products to market. 

Anne (she/her) is a Senior Designer at Davis Pier with previous experience in the business, education, and non-profit sectors with a focus on Design Thinking, facilitation, and project management. Anne is passionate about uncovering citizen insights through human-centered design, and using facilitation to create desirable outcomes with diverse groups.

Anne holds a Bachelor and Master of Education and certifications in Design Thinking, Appreciative Inquiry, Dynamic Governance, and other facilitation methods.

Outside of work, Anne spends her time crafting, gardening, and volunteering with the Front Street Community Oven in Wolfville.

Eliza-Jane (she/her) is a Behavioural Scientist with experience in the public sector in Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. She has applied behavioural insights across a range of policy areas, including employment, health and wellbeing, transportation, workplace safety and environmental preservation. Eliza-Jane employs both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods to support evidence-based policy, specializing in the design and analysis of behavioural change interventions.

Eliza-Jane holds a Master of Behavioural Science from the London School of Economics and a Bachelor of Business (Economics) from the Queensland University of Technology. Her research has been published in peer-reviewed journals and she has been invited to present her research at a range of international conferences and academic institutions.

Outside of work, Eliza-Jane spends time rock climbing, camping, running and locating stores which stock Vegemite.

Amy (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with prior work experience in the private sector with a focus on business analysis and consulting. At Davis Pier, Amy has supported projects in healthcare, housing, residential tenancy, and advanced education. Amy has a passion for digital transformation and projects that have long-term impacts on community.

Amy holds a Master of Business Administration from California State University in Fullerton, and a Bachelor of Business Administration at Foreign Trade University in Vietnam. She is currently pursuing a Master of Digital Innovation with a Data Science Certificate from Dalhousie University. 

Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time exploring nature and eating out with her family.

Neha (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier with a diverse consulting background in the areas of innovation strategy, financial and economic advisory, and impact measurement. Neha has experience leading projects for government, private and non-profit clients in sectors such as Education, Banking, Healthcare, Pharma, IT, Real Estate and Infrastructure. She specializes in building implementation-ready strategies and utilizes outcomes-based approaches extensively in her work.

Neha holds an MBA from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto where she majored in social impact and sustainability. Neha also has a Master of Science in Applicable Mathematics from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Delhi.

Outside of work, Neha enjoys spending her time outdoors, travelling and experiencing different cultures and cuisines.

Ilse (she/her) is a Research Principal at Pier Labs and has done extensive work in the housing sector with a focus on affordable housing and livable communities. As a mixed methods applied researcher Ilse puts wellbeing and community needs at the center of her work. Ilse is a skillful facilitator who fosters dialogue and collaborative partnerships. 

Ilse holds a Bachelor of Science in International Development Studies from Wageningen University, a Master of Science in Contemporary Asian Studies from The University of Amsterdam, as well as a Master of Science in International Development Studies with a specialization in economics of development from Wageningen University. Her research on the wellbeing impacts of slum rehabilitation policies has been published by the Wilson Center.

Outside of work, Ilse enjoys practicing and teaching yoga. Ilse volunteers as a mentor with the EduNova’s Study and Stay Nova Scotia Program.

Rebecca (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has worked predominately in the public sector, gaining knowledge and experience on complex social services transformations. Through her work experience, Rebecca has garnered a focus in change management and communications, training, and project management. Rebecca has strong written communication and presentation skills, which allows her to put forward results in a clear, concise manner.  Rebecca enjoys working with people and embeds a people-centric approach into her work.

Rebecca holds a Master of Business Administration from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Acadia University. She is a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner, has a design certification in Human-Centred Design, and is fluent in both French and English.

Outside of work Rebecca enjoys spending time with her family, visiting her family cottage, and staying physically active.

Hailey (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and has a background in community development and cross-sector collaboration. At Davis Pier, Hailey predominantly works with the public sector and brings experience in project management, human-centred design, and public engagement. Hailey builds on her strong interpersonal and communication skills to address complex socio-economic challenges with a people-first approach.  

Hailey holds an MSc in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability from the Blekinge Institute of Technology, and a BA with a joint-major in Development Studies and Anthropology from St. Francis Xavier University. She has continued her education by completing certificate programs related to the fields of facilitation, social innovation, systems theory, and evaluation.

Outside of work, Hailey enjoys good food in the company of friends (both old and new), attending events in Halifax, and endeavoring to keep her house plants alive.

Nathalie (she/her) is an Analyst at Davis Pier with a background and prior work experience in both the public and private sector. Her experience as an urban planner has shaped her knowledge of program development, community engagement, and project management. Nathalie is interested in learning from the communities around her and helping to develop innovative solutions that can bring about significant social or environmental change.

 Nathalie holds a Master of Planning from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Environmental Science from the University of Victoria.

 Outside of work, Nathalie enjoys becoming an amateur in as many hobbies as she can and exploring Nova Scotia with her dog Chowder.

Amandah (she/her) has a diverse skillset with over 17 years of experience in the Tourism & Hospitality, Finance, and Technology industries across a variety of client-facing and leadership roles where she has worked with clients of all levels in the private, public, and non-profit sectors.  Amandah is highly adaptable and is an excellent communicator – she is able to synthesize high level requirements and detailed technical data into a presentation that is easily consumable and tailored to the needs of the client.  Amandah is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, has extensive experience in business analysis, data analysis, process management, integrations, and product management, and is passionate about innovation and lifelong learning. Along with her technical background, she is fluent in French and is able to interface with clients and stakeholders in both languages. 

 Amandah holds a Bachelor of Arts in French from Dalhousie University, as well as a Diploma in Public Relations and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Computer-Based Information Systems from the University of Victoria. 

Johana (she/her) is an Associate at Davis Pier and works predominately within the human and social services sector to develop solutions to keep their citizens at the heart of their program design, delivery, and evaluation. Johana has experience in primary and secondary research, user-centric program design, engagement, and supporting diverse teams to complete complex transformation projects. While keeping work on track and action-oriented, she builds upon other people's perspectives, gives them the support they need to achieve project goals, engages them in robust discussions, and builds a safe space. 

Johana holds a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, a graduate diploma in Community Development, and a master's of Family Ecology from the University of Alberta.  

Outside of work, Johana enjoys exploring the beaches, doing yoga, and spending time with her family.