NANAIMO, BC – The Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) Board of Directors announces that President and Chief Executive Officer Julie Sperber will be leaving VIEA on October 31, 2026, to become Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce.
Julie joined VIEA as President and CEO in August 2022. During her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a strong commitment to collaborative economic development throughout Vancouver Island. She initiated and advanced VIEA’s strategic planning process, strengthened regional relationships and partnerships, and positioned the organization to undertake new initiatives supported by expanded sources of project funding.
Julie led the development of Vision 2050, VIEA’s collaborative process to shape a more diverse, sustainable, and self-reliant economy for Vancouver Island and the rural islands. Under her leadership, VIEA continued to evolve the Island Good program, expand regional economic nformation and partnerships, and strengthen its role as a convener of business, Indigenous, government, community, and economic development leaders.
Julie will continue to lead VIEA through the 20th Annual State of the Island Economic Summit, taking place October 20th to 22nd, 2026, at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo.
The Board of Directors will guide the leadership transition while reviewing the President and CEO role and VIEA’s strategic priorities. This process will help ensure the organization is well positioned to build on its strengths and expand its regional impact as it enters its third decade.
Julie Sperber – Outgoing President & CEO
“My time with the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance has been incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated leaders, businesses, First Nations, local governments, and community partners committed to the prosperity of Vancouver Island,” said Sperber. “As I take on this new role with the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, I look forward to maintaining a strong and collaborative relationship with VIEA. The organization plays a vital role in bringing together diverse voices from across the Island, and I am confident it is well positioned to expand its impact and continue meeting the evolving economic needs and opportunities of all Vancouver Island communities in the years ahead.”
Brad McRae – Board Chair
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Julie for her leadership, creativity, and commitment to VIEA and to the communities we serve,” said Brad McRae, Chair of the VIEA Board of Directors. “Julie has helped establish a strong foundation for VIEA’s next chapter, and we wish her every success in her new role. We look forward to celebrating her contributions, and 20 years of Island-wide collaboration, at this year’s Summit, while continuing the important work of Vision 2050 and building a prosperous future for Vancouver Island and the rural islands.”
Source: Vancouver Island Economic Alliance
