Shawn is a the co-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 in operations and development. Shawn has owned many different companies in western Canada, with his journey finally leading him to Willowbrae. 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 is interested in soccer, travelling, 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 and sees it continue to be the leading childcare provider in Canada.

Barb oversees all financial related matters for our organization, directing financing strategies, analysis, and budget management. She is responsible for all aspects of financial operations ensuring a strong governance and sound financial practices. Barb combines her education and experience in management, accounting and finance to excel in her leadership roles. Barb’s educational background includes a Diploma of Business Technology in Accounting at the New Brunswick Community College, Bachelor of Commerce Degree, Accounting Major at Saint Mary’s University, followed by her CPA designation. Barb has had the opportunity to work in diverse industries throughout her career to further strengthen her business acumen. Barb loves her family time and enjoys being active. Her favourites are biking, running and playing golf.

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.

Born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Pegah has a passion for helping others in any way she can. Before attending Saint Mary’s University - where she received her Bachelor of Science and Major in Psychology - Pegah took a year to volunteer at an orphanage in Honduras, Central America, where she cared for over 180 children of all ages, and taught English at the public school. After graduating from University, Pegah ventured into the real estate world, and was a licensed Realtor® for over six years, up until accepting her position at Willowbrae Academy Corporate. Pegah epitomizes care, commitment, loyalty, hard-work and creative service in every aspect of her personal and professional life. Outside business, you can find Pegah spending time with her family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, or volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House – a place very dear to her heart.