Who and where are you?
My name is Nick Keyko. I currently live in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada – where I was born and raised.
What’s your job?
I am a Coordinator with Edmonton Economic Development Corporation. EEDC is a not-for-profit company strategically focused on Edmonton’s economic future – its purpose is to increase prosperity and the quality of life for people of the Edmonton region by promoting economic development, marketing Edmonton as a tourist destination, and by managing the Shaw Conference Centre and Edmonton Research Park.
I work within the Economic Development department, focusing on Business and Industry Development. My group is responsible for the attraction of organizations to the Edmonton region and the retention and expansion of existing Edmonton organizations.
Currently, we are working with a variety of stakeholders to ensure the sustainable long-term growth of the Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, and Health industries, as well as Advanced Technologies and Education.
What’s exciting you at present?
New Urbanism – a development theory that is focused on creating neighbourhoods that are diverse walkable, accessible, sustainable and architecturally significant. As the world’s urban population increases, cities will need to address their planning policies to ensure that urban communities are able to flourish.
Direct Trade – a huge step beyond free trade – and even a step beyond fair trade – direct trade is a system built on principles of true collaboration, participation and justice. With an increasingly global marketplace, equitable trade practices need to be promoted to ensure that trade agreements are just and profitable for all parties involved.
Moving to Australia! - my wife, a registered nurse, and I have decided to make the move from Canada to Australia in November. We are excited to live, work and play in one of the World’s most beautiful settings. Currently, we are in the midst of Visa applications and actively looking for work.
Your top 3 tips on how to collaborate?
1. Come to a consensus on the desired outcomes - having a clear focus helps the group to stay on task.
2. Develop a multi-faceted matrix – ensuring that the individuals represent a variety of backgrounds creates a group that builds on the strength of its members.
3. Appoint a leader to facilitate the collaboration – a leader will facilitate collaboration between individuals to ensure the group works effectively. Don’t be afraid to consult an outside professional.
Nick Keyko, Business Development Coordinator, Edmonton Economic Development Corporation, World Trade Centre, 9990 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Canada +1 (780) 401-7695 nkeyko@edmonton.com
