THE PEOPLE
CATHERINE WILLIAMS, MA (RCA), MGDC
Brand Strategist | Principal
Ideastream’s key strategist and creative director has designed and managed projects from local fund raising campaigns to global brand management programs. Her insights into customer culture, needs and attitudes make her a source of big picture strategic thinking that translates into a visual expression of brand. She develops a multi-faceted program that rolls out over time as new products come on line and new markets are entered. This rational planned approach saves time and frees clients to return their focus to developing their business.
With over 18 years experience in brand strategy and marketing communications, Catherine founded Ideastream Design Inc. in 2002. Its mission is to bring strategic branding and marketing services to a wide range of clients in support of their marketing and sales initiatives. Since then, Catherine’s team has developed powerful brands and communications that help drive the change her clients are seeking in Canada, the US and most recently, China. Clients include, Obakki, BC Housing, BC Hydro, Elections BC, Vancity, Powertech Labs, BC Medical Association and others.
PATRICK LO, MBA
Business Strategy Asian Market | Import Export | Gov’t Relations
Patrick Lo has been actively working with the Chinese business community over the last twenty years. Born in Hong Kong, he immigrated into Canada in the 1970s, and as “Canadian-Chinese” has the advantage of bridging the gap between the two cultures.
During the 80s, he had observed the boom in the Japanese Market and the resulting impact on trade and business opportunities between Canada and Japan. He now applies some of these principals to the recent boom in China.
With an MBA from the Ivey school, Patrick combines this strategic knowledge with his experience with working with Canadian and Chinese companies. He has engaged with a range of industries including commodities, transportation, consumer products, and specialty items. His logistics background and connections with the Chinese investment community has enabled him to open opportunities into the Chinese market for his customers.