After more than a decade at the helm of the Downtown New Westminster Business Improvement Association, Kendra Johnston is moving on.
The BIA has announced that Johnston will be leaving her role with the Downtown New West BIA. Johnston, who has been the BIA’s executive director since November 2011, will work her final day with the BIA on Jan. 27, 2023.
“The course of my life has been forever changed by the connections that I’ve made through my work in this community. The BIA executive has been very supportive of my difficult decision as we’ve worked through a plan for transition over the last several months, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their trust and guidance,” Johnston said in a news release. “I will truly miss this work but I am also confident to be leaving the organization in a good place, poised for a successful future.”
The Downtown New West BIA board is now starting a search for a new executive director through Harbour West Consulting.
"It is bittersweet to have to make this announcement on behalf of the BIA," said board president Karima Jivraj. “We know how lucky we have been to have had Kendra for the past decade; her leadership has resulted in so many successes for our organization and our community.”
Jivraj said the BIA executive has been aware of Johnston’s need for change for some time. She said the board has been supportive of her decision and has appreciated her transparency, which has allowed the BIA to work together on a transition plan to ensure continued smooth operations upon her departure.
“The reality is that she has outgrown us, and we wish nothing but the best for her in her future endeavours,” Jivraj said.
During her 11-year career with the BIA, Johnston said she’s had the honour of working alongside a dedicated team of staff, members, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and the BIA board of directors.
“It has been a pleasure leading our organization through so much growth, and change and I know that the BIA is on the precipice of more exciting change as it continues to support the evolving needs of our membership,” she said.
Stay tuned to the Record for more details on Johnston’s next move and the BIA’s plans.
