IBL EMBA alumnus shares story grounded in community and economic change

A career shaped by community, adaptability, and lived experience has guided Gary Wilson to his current role as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Economic Development at Tiičma Enterprises. 

Known by his traditional name, Ǧṇísḷaǧy̓ḷís—loosely translated as “eagle screeching throughout the beaches of the world”—Wilson hails from the Haíɫzaqv (Heiltsuk) community of Bella Bella. His path reflects a balance between cultural grounding and professional evolution. 

“I’m a fisherman on sabbatical,” he says. “That’s what I’d prefer to do more than anything else.” 

As environmental and economic realities shifted, Wilson made the decision to pursue a new path—one that would eventually lead him into banking, economic development, and the Indigenous Business Leadership Executive MBA (IBL EMBA) at SFU’s Beedie School of Business. 

A career built on adaptability and community

Wilson’s early exposure to business came from his family and community, where entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency were part of everyday life. 

“I’ve always been interested in business,” he says. “I’ve seen it in my family, going back four generations—whether it was fishing, running a local store, or starting small ventures.” 

That interest led him into banking, where he spent 15 years with CIBC, progressing from teller to regional manager for Aboriginal banking across British Columbia and Yukon. “It wasn’t something I had considered at first,” he says. “But it challenged me and opened new opportunities.” 

After leaving banking, Wilson moved into economic development, working closely with First Nations communities. Today, he leads Tiičma Enterprises, focusing on sustainable economic growth and creating long-term opportunities for the Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations. “I’ve always worked in this space in some form or fashion,” he says. 

Taking a leap with the IBL EMBA

Wilson joined the second cohort of the IBL EMBA program after learning about it while working in his home community. 

“I took a leap of faith and applied,” he says. “The timing worked for me—I wanted to do it before I turned 50, and it fit with my personal and professional plans.” 

A key factor in choosing SFU Beedie was the program’s flexibility and its integration of Indigenous perspectives. “It allowed me to continue working while going to school,” he says. “And it respected Indigenous ways of knowing, which made a difference.” 

More than a degree: A network of leaders

While the program strengthened his knowledge across areas such as finance, communications, and human resources, Wilson highlights the value of learning alongside experienced peers. 

“These were mature students with lived experience,” he says. “That made the conversations and the learning more meaningful. I still have connections with people from my cohort and beyond. They’re respected colleagues and friends.” 

Shaping a leadership philosophy

Wilson credits the program with helping him refine his leadership approach. 

“It had an impact on how I lead,” he says. “It helped me improve what I was already doing.” 

He points to courses in business law and business philosophy as particularly influential, especially those that incorporated Indigenous perspectives. “I found those courses refreshing,” he says. “They brought in perspectives that aren’t always considered in traditional business education.” 

Leading economic development with purpose

In his current role at Tiičma Enterprises, Wilson applies both his professional experience and cultural knowledge to guide strategic decision-making. The organization focuses on fostering sustainable economic growth through collaboration, operational strength, and strong partnerships, ensuring long-term benefits for current and future generations. 

“This work is about creating opportunities for KCFN Citizens, intergenerationally,” he says. 

Advice for future students

For those considering the IBL EMBA, Wilson encourages careful consideration and preparation. 

“Look at all your options and see what aligns with your values and priorities,” he says. “Ask questions and get the information you need. It’s not something to enter into lightly. Make sure you’re ready and that your family supports you, because it takes time and energy.” 

At the same time, he highlights the long-term benefits. 

“It’s a challenge,” he says. “But it improves your skillset, your mindset, and gives you a sense of accomplishment.” 

A continuing journey

Wilson’s career reflects a consistent focus on growth, community, and leadership. From fishing to banking to economic development to education, and on-going learning, each step has contributed to the leader he is today. 

“I’ve always had an interest in business and community development,” he says. “And I continue to work in this space.”