Meet the CORE team

Meet Shawn, co-founder and President of CORE Strategic Management Ltd. He is a tested and proven business, issues management and communications leader, with career experience that spans elected office, government, leadership, energy research and every aspect of the energy industry. Known for his ability to take on difficult business and communications challenges, and to be a strong advocate with creative solutions, his work has taken him across North America.  

He has managed significant corporate reputation, crisis communications and counter-activist campaigns for leading companies, and vividly understands what the public and opinion leaders need to hear when things don’t go according to plan. And it is that voice that he brings to the organizations he partners with. 

In addition to leading cross-cultural communications and business project teams, Shawn has a deep and sincere passion for fostering impactful Indigenous relationships. As someone who has worked directly with community members and businesses over his career, he’s also spent significant time increasing his knowledge and awareness to advance his commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. 

He used this experience to help pilot a new Indigenous-led contracting program with a leading pipeline company, and understands how to bring contractors, suppliers, Indigenous communities and businesses together to deepen the pool of talent and resources required to open economic reconciliation opportunities. 

Shawn is a graduate of the University of Calgary, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Canadian Studies. He received a Risk Communication & Public Dialogue Certificate from the University of Calgary and the Centre for Crisis & Risk Communication He is especially proud of receiving the Indigenous Canada Certificate from the University of Alberta, and the 2005 Alberta Centennial Medal for Community Service.  

Meet Cris, a seasoned leader, co-founder and Vice-President of CORE Strategic Management Ltd. With a diverse career spanning healthcare, private education, program development, land management and business, Cris brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her holistic approach to problem-solving allows her to consider multiple angles and factors, ensuring no stone is left unturned in finding creative and effective solutions. 

Cris's expertise in strategic management is unparalleled, shaped by her extensive industry experience. Her compassionate leadership style sets her apart, as she prioritizes understanding and addressing the needs of stakeholders while staying aligned with an organization's objectives and values.

Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree at Royal Roads University, Cris is further enhancing her business acumen and strategic management skills. Known for thriving under pressure, she leads with empathy and a clear focus on achieving measurable outcomes. Focusing on tangible results instills confidence in her abilities and reassures stakeholders of her commitment to success.

From mentoring telecommunications teams to shaping private college educational programs, Cris's impact is undeniable. As a former board member of several professional associations, she brings valuable governance, risk management and communication experience to the table. Cris's experience in governance ensures that she brings valuable insights into managing and mitigating risks, while her communication skills enable her to effectively guide and mentor teams toward success. Her contributions have been widely recognized, and she is highly regarded for her strategic approach to problem-solving and her ability to drive results.

As a builder, innovator and leader, Cris excels in alliance-building, partnership, and negotiation. Her ability to motivate others towards excellence and emphasize the importance of well-structured processes reflects her commitment to success. Drawing on her healthcare background, she fosters meaningful interactions and impactful relationships, making her a true asset in any endeavour.