Halifax Politics dot ca

I am an independent business consultant, strategic planner and educator, with expertise in developing and implementing business and strategic plans, marketing plans, and applications for financing and government investment, as well as providing management assistance and advice. I can lead stakeholder driven processes, give inspirational speeches, and facilitate change.

I also have additional skills as diverse as how to throw a good live event, get sponsors to invest in punk rock shows, and convincing government to invest and support not for profit organizations.

EDUCATION

Diploma, Community College Education, Nova Scotia Community College, Truro, NS.

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS.

WORK EXPERIENCE

July 2007 to present
Faculty – Nova Scotia Community College
As sole full time faculty, designed and delivered curriculum for the new Music Business certificate program which included developing learning outcomes, course material and means of student evaluation. Responsible for curriculum review after first year of delivery.  Currently advises on hiring of adjunct faculty for program and provides support and coordination for them.   Develops, organizes and evaluates applied learning opportunities, including field experience at major industry events and end of year work placements.  Other responsibilities include participating in Applied Media & Communication Arts curriculum development process, and partcipating as a member of the NSCC Entrepreneurship Steering committee.

October 2004 to present
Business Consultant – Waye Mason Consulting
Operates business consultantancy, leveraging broad experience in all aspects of business management.  Some representative projects include completing the 2007 revision of the Music Nova Scotia Music Sector Strategy, and developing business and financial plans for DRUM! Live Inc. including securing Federal and Provincial government funding in 2005/06 & 2006/07

June 2001 to April 2010
Executive Director – Halifax Pop Explosion Association
Secured corporate and government investment, developed and delivered strategic, business and marketing plans, produced event, hired staff.  Developed overall vision and direction, growing the organization from a $35,000 to a $450,000 event.

August 2006 to January 2008
Director of Operations, Atlantic Canada – Ticketpro Canada
Designed and implemented market entry into Atlantic Canada for Montreal based multi-national event ticketing company.  Grew company from no presense in the region to significant revenue and profit in less than two years.

October 2004 to July 2006
General Manager – Gigantic Entertainment
Developed business plan, secured Nova Scotia Equity Tax Credit, booked talent, produced events, responsible to owner for overall management and operations.

January 1993 to August 2004
Owner and Operator – No Records & Distribution Limited
As President and owner, was responsible for operation of the business.   Created and maintained the vision of the business, including strategic and business planning, securing financing and investment.  Managed operations, including sales, marketing, manufacturing, client and supplier relationships.

Other Work Experience

• Marketing Director, Halifax On Music Festival – 1996 to 1999
• Artist Manager, Cool Blue Halo – 1995 to 1997
• Regional Representative, Page Music, Ozone Distribution, Outside Music – 1996 to 1999
• Radio Sales Manager, CKDU-FM Society – 1994 to 1996
• Co-owner, Manager, RM Recording Studio – 1993 to 1996

OTHER EXPERIENCE

August 2005 to present
Commentator, Writer
Opinion and editorial writer, published on website Halifax Politics dot ca, as well as occasional published opinion pieces in the Chronicle Herald, Halifax Magazine, and periodic radio commentary on CBC Radio One.

October 2001 to September 2004
President, Board Member, Music Industry Association of Nova Scotia
Lead author and negotiator of the 2002 Music Sector Strategy,  which resulted in a $3.6 million dollar provincial program delivered over four years, announced by the Nova Scotia Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage in October 2003.  Revised Association administration and structure and oversaw transition from two staff, $320,000 budget organization to a five staff organization administering over $1 million a year, including grant programs administered on behalf of the Province.

Professional Affiliations, Experience & Awards

Volunteer  Experience

• Chair of School Advisory Council, Gorsebrook Junior High – 2007 to 2008
• Organizer, North End Community Festival - 2007 & 2008
• Secretary, Board of Directors,  No Money Down Arts Society (now Khyber Arts Society) – 1994 to 1995
• Member, Chair of Board, CKDU-FM Society, 1992 to 1995
• Founder, Board Member, Casino Theatre Foundation – 1994