Alison Berg, Human Resources, Communications & Marketing Strategy
I seem to be made of glue. In organizations where I’ve worked – whether in marketing, communications, or human resources – I’m often called the “glue.” There’s a sense in which this truly reflects what I love to do – connect team members together, create bonds to bring our performance to a higher level, and assemble pieces to create a greater whole for our customers. I love to truly understand my audience – customers, partners, influencers, investors, and team members – to deliver strategic programs that engage.
I have over 20 years experience of marketing leadership in technology, public sector, and non-profit environments, I can move fluidly between vision, strategy, and hands-on implementation. This work is deeply informed by my early career in HR, with its commitment to excellence in communication, culture-building, and community engagement.
I am currently the VP of People & Communications at Photonic, a quantum computing startup company in Vancouver. I also serve as an Executive in Residence at SFU VentureLabs, where I mentor start-up tech companies.
I’ve played a change agent role in several of Canada’s most innovative companies as they transitioned from small startups to over 150-person companies purchased in some of Canada’s largest acquisitions. I delivered both HR and marketing strategies at Abatis, acquired by Redback Networks (now Ericsson) for over $1B. I co-founded OctigaBay, a supercomputing startup acquired by Cray for $155M, as well as an eco e-commerce business. And I helped position PHEMI as a leading player in big data, and led marketing at Innovation Boulevard, a health tech accelerator.
I have an MBA in Marketing, a BA in English Literature and Middle Eastern History, and an HR certificate. I’m also a 15-year member, past president, and board member of Soroptimist International of the TriCities, an international service organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls.
Outside of work, I’m an avid community volunteer. I have 2 amazing teenage daughters and a rescue dog who hogs all blankets. I enjoy TV far too much, rarely give away any of my books, and have been known to surf for hours online looking for the perfect pair of shoes.
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