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The QXMC Team

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation (QXMC) is guided by passionate individuals who value relationships, integrity, and community above all else. Our approach is rooted in smart, people-first decision-making that strengthens the Klahoose Nation today while protecting opportunities for tomorrow.

As the economic development arm of the Klahoose First Nation, QXMC has the privilege of managing business ventures that align with community values, respect the land, and support the long-term vision of the Klahoose people. Every opportunity is considered not only for its immediate benefits, but for its ability to create prosperity for future generations.

QXMC is overseen by a four-member Board of Directors, each bringing a wealth of experience in business, governance, and community leadership:

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Kathy Francis

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Kathy Francis is a proud member of the Klahoose First Nation and serves as the Nation’s Economic Development and Treaty Manager. She brings deep knowledge of community engagement, governance, and long-term planning that supports sustainable growth and self-determination.

Kathy is dedicated to advancing opportunities that honour Klahoose culture and values while creating lasting benefits for future generations.

Sadhu Johnston

Sadhu Johnston

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Sadhu Johnston is a recognized leader in urban governance, sustainability and organizational management. He served as City Manager of Vancouver from 2016 to 2021, overseeing more than 7,000 employees and a budget exceeding $1.6 billion. He previously held senior leadership roles with the cities of Vancouver and Chicago, advancing work on housing, homelessness, emergency management and climate action. Sadhu is also co-author of The Guide to Greening Cities, co-founder of the Urban Sustainability Directors Network and a member of the Cortes Housing Society team. As a QXMC Board member, he brings extensive experience in governance, strategic planning and managing complex organizations.

Rick Jaccard

Rick Jaccard

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Rick brings over 25 years of forestry experience, including senior leadership roles with Mosaic Forest Management Ltd. (formerly TimberWest). Now Chief Forester at One Sky Forest Products, he oversees timberland management and fibre supply. His background includes commercialization, product development, and market experience across Asia and North America.

Rick holds a BSc in Forestry from the University of British Columbia and is a Registered Professional Forester.

Arlene Brown

Arlene Brown

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Arlene Brown is a respected Klahoose leader with decades of experience in governance, administration and community service. She served as elected Chief and Band Administrator from 1986 to 1990, helping establish the first Klahoose Band office, develop new housing and protect Klahoose interests in Toba Inlet. She has continued to support the Nation through housing, community planning, administration, cultural activities and special events. As a QXMC Board member, Arlene brings valuable historical knowledge, strong community connections and a commitment to respect, fairness, honesty and creating opportunities for Klahoose members.

Laurier Mathieu

Laurier Louie Mathieu

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Laurier Louie Mathieu, whose traditional name is Hewkin (“Thunderbird’s younger brother”), is a proud member of the Klahoose First Nation. He lives on Cortes Island, where he operates an excavation company and works closely with Klahoose on community projects.

Laurier is also a member of the Cortes Volunteer Fire Department and a skipper with the Klahoose Canoe Family’s tlum’tlums. He is dedicated to supporting youth, promoting culture and education, and creating opportunities that strengthen the Klahoose community.

William Stormont

William Stormont

Board Member

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

William is an experienced capital markets executive with a background in institutional equity, investor relations, and stakeholder engagement. He brings strong analytical and financial modelling skills and is recognized for effectively communicating corporate and financial strategies.

He holds a BA in International Relations and an MBA in Strategic Management from the University of British Columbia.

Leanne Bennie

Leanne Bennie

Reservations & Office Coordinator

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Josh Hiebert

Josh Heibert

Vice President Operations

Klahoose Forestry

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Tim Dahlnas

Manager

QXMC Sawmill

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Paul Muskee

Operations Manager & Aquaculture

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

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Chris Tait

Tourism Manager 

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation

Ben Lessard

Ben Lessard

Lead Guide & Coordinator

Klahoose Coastal Adventures

Evelyn Underhill

Evelyn Underhill

Resort Manager

Klahoose Wilderness Resort

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