Team Profiles & Board Members

Rebecca Lord, Executive Director of Invasives Canada, started working in the non-profit sector in 1994. Holding a Bachelor of Arts, Honours degree focused in Geography from Queen’s University, she merges academic background with practical expertise. With a multifaceted skill set encompassing nonprofit management, negotiation, event planning, education, customer service, sustainability, and strategic planning, Rebecca provides astute leadership. Her oversight extends across projects, staff, and partnerships, ensuring effective project management, communications, branding, resource development, and strategic planning. Under her guidance, Invasives Canada thrives through strategic direction, governance, and impactful program implementation. Committed to operational excellence, financial performance, and timely execution, Rebecca drives Invasives Canada forward towards its mission.

Advisor,
Invasives Canada National

Andy has worked in the nonprofit sector for 35 years, starting with environmental groups and expanding to experience diverse areas of impact-focused work. He has held leadership and advisory positions provincially and nationally. Andy’s work as an advisor to Invasives Canada includes revenue diversification planning, managing organizational development projects, strategic plan development, and other topics. Originally from Kitchener, Ontario, Andy lives in Victoria, BC where he enjoys hiking coastal mountains and training for triathlons. Andy holds a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology from Conestoga College.

Marketing & Communications Manager,
Invasives Canada National

Bryan leads national communications for Invasives Canada, turning complex environmental issues into clear, compelling stories. With a background in video production, graphic design, and content marketing, he supports campaigns that drive awareness and action on invasive species across Canada.

Project Coordinator,
CCIS National

Hailing from London, Ontario, Chris now lives and works in Fredericton, New Brunswick. His work supports Invasive Canada’s national behavioral-change programs and is responsible for developing the National Invasive Species and Climate Change (NISCC) network. He holds a BSc in Environmental Science and Ecosystem Health, with years of conservation experience in the non-profit space, being involved in climate change research, species-at-risk work, youth program development and public engagement. Chris’s perfect day would be spent on his converted school bus in some wilderness somewhere, drawing to his heart’s content.

Programs Manager,
Invasives Canada National

Gabby’s work as Invasive Canada’s Programs Manager involves building partnerships and working collaboratively with organizations across Canada to develop messaging and resources to support the implementation of six national behaviour change campaigns. Gabby joined Invasives Canada in the spring of 2020, bringing her experience of invasive species education and management from her previous roles within provincial government, municipal government, and non-profit sectors. Gabby holds a Masters of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario, and a Bachelor’s of Bio-Resource Management from the University of Guelph, located in the city of Guelph, Ontario, which Gabby calls home today.

Administrative Coordinator,
CCIS National

Marta joined the Invasives Canada team in the winter of 2023. She has worked in government administration for the majority of her career but found her passion supporting non-profit organizations that build positive change. Marta has developed a love for creating processes and intuitive workflows that aim to build capacity while leaving room for individual work styles to thrive. Marta supports the Invasives Canada team in the areas of administration, human resources, project support, supporting the Board of Directors, and as the point of contact for the various Chapters and general public. Personally, Marta involves herself in various creative pursuits ranging from digital arts, painting, and collaborative story telling.

Financial Operations Manager,
Invasives Canada National

Sharon joined Invasives Canada in 2022. After 20 plus years in the private sector working in a variety of financial leadership roles, including as head of finance for a very successful mutual fund dealer for 12 years, she made the leap to the non-profit sector in 2016, most notably with the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada. Sharon is a CPA, CMA and also has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Ottawa. Sharon is responsible for the financial stewardship of Invasives Canada and its operating chapters. She is an active supporter of her local Friends of Stittsville Wetlands Group, and lends her support to her local animal rescue organizations. Sharon is Ontario-born and raised and now lives in Ottawa with her husband Paul and her feline fur babies Bernie and Yoshi. She also loves to travel and see the world by cruise ship.

Born and raised on the north shore of Lake Superior—where she still calls home—Mackenzie has turned her deep appreciation for nature’s interconnectedness into a career in conservation. She brings to Invasives Canada eight years of experience working with forest pests in Ontario, much of it at the nonprofit level, designing and delivering tailored invasive species training and outreach programs for youth, professionals, and the general public.

Mackenzie holds a specialization in Ecology, Evolution, and Behaviour from the University of Ottawa and a Professional Certificate in Environmental Management from Seneca College. She’s also a proud mom to a budding naturalist who inspires her every day to help lead the next generation of land stewards.

Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator,
Ontario

Amanda grew up in Ottawa, where her early experiences catching frogs and swimming in local lakes sparked a lifelong passion for nature. That connection led her to study environmental science and sustainable agriculture at Trent University.

After returning home, Amanda was struck by the changes to the lake she once loved—now impacted by blue-green algae and invasive species. This experience deepened her commitment to aquatic management and conservation, leading her to roles in Banff National Park and with Ocean Wise on marine stewardship initiatives.

As Ontario Youth Coordinator at Invasives Canada, Amanda is dedicated to building strong relationships, inspiring action, and protecting ecosystems for future generations.

Bilingual Communications Coordinator

Ana is a Bilingual Communications Coordinator, and is currently based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. With a background in bilingual communications and a strong foundation in student advocacy and outreach, she is deeply passionate about giving voice to youth from underrepresented groups in Canada and believes in the power of inclusive education and engagement.

Ana thrives on planning community events that center around education, awareness, and accessibility. Outside of work, Ana enjoys exploring Nova Scotia and its scenery at her own pace and designing and making stickers, a creative outlet she loves.

Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator,
The Prairies

Based in Alberta, Bryanne Wandler brings a background in environmental consulting and the non-profit sector to her role as Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator for the Prairies. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography and is passionate about fostering youth engagement in environmental stewardship.

Bryanne is especially excited to support youth in discovering the environmental issues that inspire them—particularly around invasive species awareness. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, tending to her houseplants, and diving into books across a range of genres.

Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator

Connel Bradwell (he/him) is a wildlife conservationist with a background in environmental education and wildlife research. Originally from the UK, Connel is now based on Vancouver Island, where he continues to explore his passion for birds, plants, and biodiversity. His work has taken him across a range of ecosystems and communities, always with a focus on connecting people to the natural world.

Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator,
Quebec

Based in Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Hanna brings over seven years of hands-on conservation experience to her role as Youth Eco-Stewards Program Coordinator. Her background spans everything from butterfly rearing to bear research, driven by a deep-rooted belief that caring for nature and one another go hand in hand.

Hanna has led education programs, contributed to scientific research, and supported community-based environmental initiatives across the province. Outside of work, she’s often found in the garden, exploring fermentation, or immersed in creative projects. She’s passionate about creating spaces where youth can learn, connect, and take meaningful action for their communities and ecosystems.

Youth Eco-Stewards Coordinator,
The Maritimes

Originally from Southwestern Ontario, Nikki McIntyre has lived and worked across Canada—from Newfoundland to British Columbia—and now calls Halifax home. She holds a B.A. in Geography and Sociology from Memorial University of Newfoundland and an M.A. in Geography from Brock University, where her research focused on sustainability in Algonquin Provincial Park.

Nikki is passionate about creating inclusive, accessible opportunities for people—especially youth—to connect with the natural world. Her past work spans youth-led climate initiatives, community resource planning, and paddle instruction. Outside of work, she enjoys kayaking, reading, and planning her next outdoor adventure, ideally one that takes her back to the water.

Ken Donnelly brings over 30 years of experience in sustainability and behavior change to the Board. He specializes in applying psychology to communications and outreach campaigns. Ken has been involved with Invasives Canada since its inception, first as a consultant and later as a board member. Ken is the Supervisor of the Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council.

Past Chair

Gail brings over 25 years of experience in natural resource management to the Board. As the Executive Director of the Invasive Species Council of BC, she has been instrumental in developing strategies to prevent the spread of invasive species. Gail is a founding director of the Invasives Canada and has helped grow and shape the organization for many years. Gail has also held senior leadership roles with the BC Forestry Association and Fraser Basin Council and has facilitated many Indigenous and natural resource initiatives at the national and international level.

Vice-Chair

Christine joined Pets Canada (formerly PIJAC Canada) in 2020 as President and CEO. Pets Canada’s mission is to provide leadership and communication in the pet industry through resources, training, and advocacy. Christine collaborates with stakeholders such as Agriculture Canada, Agri-Food Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and CanHerp. With a background in healthcare, Christine brings valuable expertise to support Invasives Canada’s mission to prevent the spread of invasive species and protect Canada’s ecosystems and communities. Christine joined the Board in 2022.

Treasurer

Michael brings over 20 years of executive experience in conservation to the Board. Prior to joining Ducks Unlimited Canada as CEO, he served in senior leadership roles at Parks Canada, where he played a key role in establishing significant conservation areas through collaborations with Indigenous Peoples and other partners. His expertise in building strong partnerships and engaging diverse communities is complemented by his lifelong passion for the outdoors. Michael’s strategic vision and commitment to science-based conservation solutions will be invaluable assets to the Invasives Canada Board.

Director

David is associated with the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. David brings a wealth of experience and leadership to Invasives Canada. Formerly Chief of the Cooks Ferry Indian Band and currently Stewardship Advisor for the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. David holds an MBA from the University of Western Ontario and a BSc in Forestry from UBC. His career includes roles in native economic development with the federal government, banking with TD Bank, and forestry research with the BC Ministry of Forests. David is a retired Registered Professional Forester and the first registered Status Indian in BC. He serves on several corporate boards and has received prestigious awards for his contributions to forestry and the environment. David resides in Spences Bridge, BC, where he cherishes his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Director

Jess is the CEO at Forests Canada, a national charity focused on conserving, restoring and growing Canada’s forests to sustain life and communities. A graduate from University of Toronto’s Master of Forest Conservation program, Jessica (Jess) Kaknevicius has spent close to 20 years in the non-profit sector, building strategic movements in support of our forests – from education and community engagement, to national collaboration around forest restoration initiatives. She is a well-known advocate for the forest sector and co-founded Women in Wood, a networking group for women in the forest and wood-related sectors to share advice, information, and encouragement.

Director

Julie-Lynn has been an active member of the PEI Invasive Species Council since 2011, serving as Treasurer since 2020. She has worked on key projects including data compilation, management plans, educational resources, and a volunteer spotter’s network. In 2014, she helped develop a national spotter’s network action plan with Invasives Canada. Currently, as a Forest Conservation Specialist with the Province of PEI, Julie-Lynn coordinates the PEI Forested Landscape Priority Place (FLPP) program, focusing on improving conservation outcomes and addressing invasive species threats. Julie-Lynn joined the Invasives Canada Board in 2022.

Director at Large

Rebecca spent 7 years as Executive Director at the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC). Prior to that, she spent six years as Technical Director of the North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO), where she also served as Acting Executive Director. During her time with NAPPO, she worked very closely with government, research and industry representatives from Canada, Mexico and the U.S. Her previous positions include Executive Director of the Colombian Centre for Innovation in Floriculture and coordinator for on-farm research at the University of Bogota, in Colombia. Today Rebecca is working as a private consultant.

Director at Large

Sebastian’s career in the agricultural industry has progressed from farm worker to consultant, agricultural officer, municipal Director of Agriculture and Parks, and now municipal councillor. Throughout these roles, he has gained extensive experience in managing teams, providing services, and developing programs, all while raising awareness and educating the public on important community issues and concerns. Sebastian also brings over 37 years of board governance experience. He has held positions ranging from member and director to treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president or chair. Currently, Sebastian serves on more than 18 boards and committees at local, regional, provincial, and federal levels, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively to the Board. Sebastian is currently serving on the Board of the Alberta Invasive Species Council.

Director

Victor brings over 25 years of experience in the ornamental horticulture industry to the Board. As the Executive Director of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA), Victor has led the organization in representing over 3,800 member companies across Canada, encompassing nursery production, landscape services, and retail sectors. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the CNLA’s mission of fostering relationships, providing member certification, and enhancing industry standards. Victor’s expertise in managing industry-wide initiatives and his commitment to innovation and sustainability make him a valuable candidate for the Board.

Director

Wendy works for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as National Manager, Invasive Alien Species and Domestic Plant Health Programs. Wendy brings extensive experience and dedication to her role at Invasives Canada, having served on the Board for many years and having witnessed its growth and impact firsthand. Wendy’s engagement with government departments, academia, industry, and stakeholders both nationally and internationally underscores her commitment to raising awareness of invasive alien species (IAS) risks. She actively promotes compliance and collaborates on policies, programs, and standards aimed at preventing and responding to plant protection challenges posed by invasive species.