Before coming to Canada Andrea’s career in the UK was primarily in the business communication’s industry, where her various roles led her to work with high street financial institutions, national retailers and multinational utility providers to provide complex tech solutions to streamline business operations, reduce costs and improve client experiences.
Andrea and her husband arrived as permanent residents to Canada in 2006 with just two suitcases and a snowboard. They didn’t have any jobs, a vehicle or place to live arranged, in complete contrast to her professional life was winging it. Since settling in she has predominately worked in the construction industry. Using her skills to restructure organizations and prepare them for growth.
In July 2019, after 2 years as a board director, she became the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Okanagan. This was a challenging time to be a new leader who was also in an unfamiliar world of not for profit. The effects of the pandemic were severe, however, under her leadership the organization not only survived, it has become hugely successful, receiving local and national recognition for its achievements related to its mission and environmental impact through the ReStores. In August 2024 Habitat Okanagan completed a twelve unit build at a cost of $5.1 million, this was largely self funded and achieved with the support of the local community. Not one to rest on her laurels she is already preparing for their next project.
Andrea is enthusiastic about Habitat’s work and the housing model that empowers families, to invest in their own affordable homes, be financially and socially independent and more than anything thriving. Her motto for success is “there’s always a solution”.
