Wayne Cochrane |
Founder & CEO
|
Wayne is Founder and CEO of Willowbrae Academy. Wayne has had an illustrious career spanning several fields including technology, consulting, training, and education. He is a successful teacher and trainer in several industries and was a senior management consultant for many years with several fortune 500 companies. He has extensive experience with several quality assurance models including; ISO9001, SEI Capability Maturity Model and Total Quality Management. Wayne's background in business development, marketing, training and management, have made him a successful leader and visionary. On top of everything else his commitment to giving back to the community has had him involved with several charities including; Habitat for Humanity (former national board member), Shriners (Master Mason), and senior roles in national/world curling championships. He is also involved in martial arts and is active member of MacKenzie Taekwon-Do. His desire to help working parents find appropriate, quality child care is another step in both his business life and his extensive community involvement. |
Shawn Pattison |
President
|
Shawn is an Owner and the President of Willowbrae Academy. Shawn’s career started in food service where he delivered pizza during the afternoon and baked doughnuts at night. He continued to work hard and advanced in various companies taking on new roles and gaining more experience primarily in operations and development. Shawn has owned many different companies in western Canada with his journey finally leading him to Willowbrae Academy. He has held management and senior executive roles in some of Canada’s highest profile Franchise companies and is a well-respected professional across the nation. Shawn is focused on development, real estate and franchising and is a highly motivated and experienced team member. Outside of the office, Shawn has an interest in soccer, travel and spending time with his two children and wife. His family is active in Hockey, Girl Guides and swimming and regularly attends various swim meets and tournaments around the province of BC. Shawn is proud to be a part of Willowbrae Academy and see it continue to be the leading childcare provider in Canada. |
Sam Kay |
Vice President of Franchise Development ONTARIO
|
Sam has over two decades of Franchise Sales and operational experience, Sam has developed a sharp eye for what works in the franchise industry. His extensive background in business planning, and his ability to create and implement innovative business strategies has made him a sought after commodity in business. Over the last 20 years Sam was instrumental in building one of Canada’s largest financial franchise. His experience includes working with Financial organizations, Real Estate and Early Childhood brands in Canada. Sam’s personal business motto is “Consistent, Fair and Firm”. |
Alex Szinegh |
Vice President of Franchise Development USA
|
Alex has been associated with the franchise industry for more than 30 years. His extensive background in management operations, franchise sales, real estate development, coaching and training provide a wealth of knowledge to help individuals evaluate new business opportunities. His experience includes working for national retail concepts in health care, real estate, and fast food brands. Over the last 14 years he has been instrumental in helping to build one of the most successful real estate franchise brands in North America. Alex's drive, excitement and long term vision is a welcome addition to the Willowbrae Academy® Family. |
Susan Gaspar |
Director of Franchise Development
|
Born in a small town in Ontario and having traveled extensively throughout Canada, the US and Europe, Susan chose Vancouver, BC as her home. Susan graduated from Western University and then she spent many years as an entrepreneur building a successful restaurant business. After selling her businesses, Susan consulted for several start-up companies with a focus on operations, management and marketing. Susan discovered the child care business after the birth of her daughter. She quickly found a role as Franchise Development Director and led the opening of eleven child care centres. Susan joined the Willowbrae Academy team in 2013 and has successfully led the opening of many new franchises. Susan’s expertise in the child care licensing process, construction, project management, start-up, operations and marketing has proved invaluable to the Willowbrae Academy team. Outside business, you can find Susan at her daughter’s soccer games, hosting play dates and enjoying the Vancouver beaches. |
