Shawn Pattison |
Chief Executive Officer
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Shawn is an Owner and the CEO 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. |
Mike Chapman |
Director of Development
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Mike has worked in Franchise Development with some of BC’s best-loved brands since 2013, and most recently as the Director of Franchise Development for Blenz since October 2019. Prior professional experience includes Mike’s role as Head of Customer Service for NAAFI (Navy Army and Airforce Institute) worldwide, including postings in the UK, Germany, and Brunei for 7 years, plus 15+ additional years of experience in the retail industry as a business owner and Area Manager at the head office level for Woolworths in UK. Today, Mike is proud to be supporting Willowbrae Academy in their expansion outside of Canada with a focus on working with partners in the US. Outside of work, Mike is a professional Soccer Coach and Referee, and avid Swansea City fan! |
Susan Gaspar |
Director of Franchise Development
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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. |
