Director of Policy, Research, and Projects
Richard Powell
Richard joined the Board of Directors in 1996 and served as Board Secretary until 2001 when he started his career at ICCS as Executive Secretary. Over more than 20 years working for the society he has served in various roles including, Policy and Publications Manager, Director of Development, and Director of Administration. His work writing successful proposals for The Living Room, Sophia House, and the Samaritan House Pilot Project reinforced his passion for accurate data, clear information, and effective communication.
As Director of Policy, Research and Projects, Richard ensures that society policy documents are clear, helpful, and adequate to compliment the collective agreement and provide stability and structure to the society. He oversees member relations and ensures society obligations are met, as well as taking on a variety of projects as needed.
He is the author of two books with Adams Media and combines his love of information, data, social science, to support the Board of Directors and the Executive team with information, research, and data analysis.
Richard is an enthusiastic Captain in the annual Coldest Night of the Year walk, having served in this role since the event began in 2012.
Education
- B.A., Psychology – University of Victoria
- DFA, Creative Writing – David Thompson University Centre
- Courses in Nonviolent Communication, Case Planning, and Motivational Interviewing
Experience
- 2021 – Present — Director of Administration
- 2020 – 2021 — Director of Development
- 2001 – 2020 — Various executive positions at ICCS, Nanaimo
- 1988 – 2001 — Manager at Christian Book and Music Centre, Nanaimo
- Volunteer: Director of ICCS for 4 years prior to employment, service on a nonprofit board in the Human Services field, and Secretary/Treasurer for Nanaimo Ministerial Association.