Our Team

Meet Our Team

Our goal is to make the Innovation Centre feel like a member of your team. We have a variety of backgrounds, educations, and experiences that let us bring perspective and diversity to your business. We also like to have a little bit of fun while we're at it! 

 

Thunder Bay Office


Jeff Coull

 

Jeff Coull, Executive Director

Jeff is responsible for the leadership and management of NOIC. Prior to serving as Executive Director, Jeff was the Director of ICT, serving as the primary business technology subject matter expert for NOIC clients. In this role, he was responsible for leading NOIC's digital adoption programs and overseeing NOICs broadband infrastructure projects. Jeff's experience with NOIC, and background in both client and vendor-facing roles, has provided him with invaluable insight into the challenges and concerns faced by clients in the region.

Email Jeff - jeff@nwoinnovation.ca

 

Judy Sander, Senior Business Advisor

When Judy isn't cross-country skiing, canoeing, or enjoying time spent with her family, she supporting entrepreneurs in Northwestern Ontario.  For the past 20 years, Judy has been supporting the growth of many unique businesses. She helps with developing the market strategy, obtaining funding, making connections, finding advisors and coordinating the team. Judy knows from experience that being a business owner is challenging,  she believes that the right support can make it easier to achieve success.

Email Judy - judy@nwoinnovation.ca

 

 

Carole Long

 

Carole Long, Business Advisor, Intellectual Property

Carole has first-hand experience of starting, owning and operating a business in Thunder Bay. Her passion and enthusiasm for economic development in the North has brought her to The Innovation Center. She is creative, not only in problem-solving but also in the kitchen where she loves to try new techniques and recipes. Carole has successfully obtained a patent and can help you through the process. If you have a business or a product idea and would like support email Carole.

Email Carole - carole@nwoinnovation.ca

 

 

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Jeremy Dutton, Business Advisor, Information and Communication Technology

Jeremy brings with him over 15 years of experience in Project and Program Management, most recently working as a Business Analyst and Project Manager at a local tech start up. He enjoys helping clients overcome barriers to growth and innovation to achieve their goals. An amateur meteorologist, Jeremy enjoys following weather from around the world and is working on developing his own weather app.

Email Jeremy - jeremy@nwoinnovation.ca

 

 

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Amanda Esposti, Office Manager  

Amanda comes to the Innovation center with 15 years' experience in business and operations management. From managing small businesses in Thunder Bay, to overseeing operations in the services wing, and lastly a focus on financial administration. Her diverse skill set includes a focus in sales & business marketing, client services, human resources, finance, & project management. Her passion in life lies with creating memories with her family. Amanda is looking forward to a strong partnership with the Innovation center, driving forward the organization's goals.

Email Amanda - office@nwoinnovation.ca

 

 

James Ellard

James Ellard, Senior Business Advisor, Marketing and Branding

James has been working on the Innovation Centre's and clients' marketing and branding efforts for over 10 years. He enjoys helping our clients achieve a professional branded look as they start getting their products on the shelf. On his off time, James likes to be active in a variety of sports and activities like hockey, snowboarding, curling, to name a few.

Email James - james@nwoinnovation.ca

 

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Abigail Sherlock, Coordinator, Business Advisory Services

Abigail graduated from the business program at Confederation College having received the president's award for her academic achievements. She has a background in marketing and entrepreneurship, having been involved in starting multiple business ventures, and is excited to help entrepreneurs succeed by connecting them with the relevant programs and services available at the Innovation Centre.

Email Abigail - abigail@nwoinnovation.ca

 

Kenora Office



Chathura Jayasinghe

Chathura Jayasinghe, Business Advisor, Northwest Region

Chathura is a seasoned entrepreneur with a proven track record in social enterprises and crowdfunding. He is passionate about empowering businesses, especially those in the agri-food sector. He has successfully organized large-scale events like the 2017 international Buddhist conference in Sri Lanka. This experience has honed his skills in diplomacy, public engagement, and event management. Chathura is particularly committed to promoting plant-based food products and supporting social enterprises that create a positive impact.

Email Chathura - chathura@nwoinnovation.ca

 

 

Expert in Residence


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Nathanael Moulson

Born in Thunder Bay, Nathanael left to join the military and pursue his undergraduate degree. He studied business at the University of Ottawa (BComm), Royal Roads University (MBA), and Walden University (DBA). Passionate about leadership and Canada, Nathanael has served as a regular force officer in the Canadian Army and Royal Canadian Navy since 2002. Not willing to let go of his business aspirations while serving, Nathanael started a gym in 2009, which grew to 5 locations by 2012. Having explored the world as a Naval Warfare Officer and having recently sold his business, Nathanael is now dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion through mentorship and education.

 

 

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Robert Poulter

Bob is a successful international business executive with deep C-suite, board, advisory, and partner level experience.  He is currently the Chief Business Officer for MDNA Life Sciences, a biotechnology company and has been instrumental in closing $500+ million in global contracts.  He is also the Founder and CEO of Cornerstone CEO™, an advisory firm.  Bob is a former CEO, Partner, and Consultant for various companies in biotechnology, management consulting, and finance; including Mitomics, IBM, Accenture, and RBC. Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Bob received an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree in marketing and finance from Lakehead University.