Parksville & District Chamber Announces Dr. Omar Karim as Executive Director

Dr. Karim’s journey with the Chamber began as a volunteer member of the Board of Directors, where he served as Vice-President before stepping into the role of Interim Executive Director in November 2025. Within his first five months of interim leadership, the Chamber reduced its accumulated deficit by more than $100,000, secured new revenue opportunities, strengthened community partnerships, rebuilt its staff team, and renewed several signature events.

“The Board of Directors is delighted to officially welcome Dr. Omar Karim as Executive Director of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce,” said Barrie McWha, President of the Board. “Since stepping into the interim role last November, Dr. Karim has brought tremendous energy, strategic leadership, and a strong commitment to our members and community. Under his leadership, the Chamber reduced its accumulated deficit by more than $100,000 within five months, renewed several signature events, strengthened important partnerships, and introduced innovative initiatives such as the Entrepreneur Hub. We are excited about the momentum he has created and confident in his ability to lead the Chamber into its next chapter of growth and community impact.”

During Dr. Karim’s interim leadership, the Chamber successfully brought back the Parksville & District Business Awards Gala, expanded its Business After Business networking series, hosted its Member Appreciation Dinner and Big Welcome Back Celebration, and returned the Chamber’s Annual Golf Tournament after a three-year hiatus.

The Chamber has also introduced the Entrepreneur Hub, which partners with post-secondary institutions to create work-integrated learning opportunities while supporting nonprofit organizations and small and medium-sized businesses. The Hub offers practical support in areas such as research and development, grant writing, marketing, financial forecasting, and organizational planning. Participating organizations can access emerging talent and specialized expertise to build capacity, address operational challenges, and pursue sustainable growth.

“Our partnership with Vancouver Island University (VIU) and its MBA students has been incredibly valuable,” said Dr. Karim. “The students have brought tremendous energy, creativity, and insight to their work with the Chamber and participating organizations. We look forward to strengthening this partnership and developing similar relationships with universities and colleges across Vancouver Island and throughout British Columbia through the Entrepreneur Hub.”

The Chamber also introduced a new Youth Member Pass, providing young people with opportunities to connect with the local business community, participate in Chamber events, develop professional networks, and build valuable skills for their future careers.

“It is a tremendous privilege to serve as Executive Director,” said Dr. Karim. “The progress we have made reflects the collective commitment of our Board, employees, members, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners. I am especially thankful for our new Chamber team and the leadership, creativity, and dedication they bring to this work every day.”

Dr. Karim also expressed his gratitude to Linda Tchorz for her longstanding service to the Chamber and the knowledge and experience she brings to the organization.

“Linda’s commitment to our members, visitors, and community has been invaluable,” said Dr. Karim. “Her leadership, institutional knowledge, and dedication have provided important continuity throughout this period of renewal, and I am sincerely grateful for her ongoing contributions to the Chamber.”

Before joining the Chamber, Dr. Karim served as a professor in Vancouver Island University’s Faculty of Management and Law and held leadership roles with the Moose Hide Campaign and Global Emerging Leadership Programs. He brings experience across the corporate, nonprofit, post-secondary, and community sectors, with a strong focus on leadership, employer partnerships, and work-integrated learning.

Dr. Karim holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education, a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Science in International Business, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Political Science.

“Our Chamber belongs to its members and the community it serves,” added Dr. Karim. “I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to support local businesses, strengthen our regional economy, develop emerging talent, and ensure the Chamber remains a strong voice for Parksville and District. We are proud of the momentum created over the past year and excited to see what the year ahead will bring.”

The Board of Directors looks forward to building on the momentum established during Dr. Karim’s interim leadership as the Chamber enters its next chapter of growth, innovation, and community impact.

About the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce

The Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce supports and advocates for businesses throughout Parksville and the surrounding region. Through advocacy, networking, tourism services, partnerships, events, and economic-development initiatives, the Chamber works to foster a vibrant and sustainable local economy.

Media Contact

Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce
250-248-3613
info@parksvillechamber.com