As our business grows, so does our team.
Having the right people for any job is a critical success factor. Cascadia Seaweed is no different.
The Executive
Michael Williamson
CEO and Co-founder
Michael has had a lifelong relationship with the sea, including over thirty years of service in the Royal Canadian Navy, culminating as Commander of Canada’s West Coast Naval Base. Over the past sixteen years, he has founded and led several marine-focused companies in energy, security, education, and the environment. He brings this experience—along with a BSc in Mathematics and Physics and an MBA—to his leadership of Cascadia’s mission-driven growth.
Robert Napoli
CFO
An expert in corporate finance and accounting, Robert focus on guiding impactful companies through growth and transformation. As Co-founder and Vice President of First West Capital, he helped deploy $150 million in mezzanine and equity financing nationwide. With a proven ability to secure funding and scale impact-driven ventures, Robert combines financial expertise with a commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that support sustainable development.
Matthew Obee
VP of Operations
Having managed complex renewable energy projects in remote locations across Western Canada, Matt has deep expertise in overcoming logistical challenges and deploying assets along the coast. He sees seaweed cultivation in British Columbia as a unique chance to lead an emerging market aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, provide meaningful opportunities for First Nations communities, and support a more climate-resilient food system.
The Operations Team
Nathan Wrana
Engineering Manager
Dan Pedde
Project Manager, Northern Development
Cam Kinsman
Operations Coordinator
Jennifer Clark, PhD
Chief Scientist
Kate Hindmarsh
Cultivation Technician
Alexandra Prest
Cultivation Technician
Helga Miehle, PhD
Manager of Agricultural Products
Dalton Boire
Production Manager
Imronn Ismael
Production Lead
Sean Martin
Farm Manager
Adam Claxton
Aquaculture Technician
Andrew Llewellyn
Aquaculture Technician
The Sales Team
Marcus McClure
Director of Sales and Marketing
Dilan Fidyk
Canadian Sales Manager
Carleton “Bubba” Baucum
US Sales Manager
Cascadia Nature-based Solutions Team
Jenn, Colin and Bosun are supported by many other Cascadia team members to deliver on nature-based solutions projects.
To learn more about Cascadia Nature-based Solutions, the services we offer, or to connect with the team, please write to cnbs@cascadiaseaweed.com
Jennifer O’Neill
Director
Cascadia Nature-based Solutions
Colin Bates, PhD
Senior Research Scientist
Cascadia Nature-based Solutions
Bosun Michael
Contract Engineer
Cascadia Nature-based Solutions
The Admin Team
Willow
Office Greeter
Darren Radons
Controller
Kate Holder
Accounting Administrator
Daintry Van Cleave, CPHR
Culture Fix Consulting Services
Erin Bremner-Mitchell
Manager of Communications and Engagement
Jesse Kenny
Office Manager
The Board
Cascadia Seaweed is governed by a Board of Directors, composed of business professionals with select and specific knowledge and expertise. The Board sets the strategic direction and provides oversight and accountability to stakeholders and investors. They oversee management and finances, build relationships, and establish ethical standards, values, and compliance. They provide direction to and support the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in delivering the strategic priorities.
Ed Quilty
Board Chair
Entrepreneur and cleantech CEO
Brent Smith
Director
CEO and President at NewLeaf Symbiotics
Leah Lawrence
Director
Climate and governance leader
Bill Collins
Director and Founding Partner
Michael Williamson
CEO and Founding Partner
Strategic Advisors
Martin Hollands
Managing Director of Conservation Policy & Practice and Bloomsbury Natural Capital
Mavis Underwood
Councillor and Elder, Tsawout First Nation