Our Team
First Nations context.
OIBDC exists to provide jobs and to fund and support Osoyoos Indian Band community priorities. Each year, we invest millions in making sure our people have access to quality programs and services. Together, our business, social and health services teams are working side-by-side to build a stronger Osoyoos Indian Band.
Our Team
Chief Clarence Louie
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Clarence Louie
Chief Executive Officer
Photo credit: Canadian Geographic
Recipient of the Order of Canada in 2017 and two years later, inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame, Chief Clarence Louie is an internationally acclaimed leader dedicated to the economic and social prosperity of his people. For over 30 years, Clarence has been a champion for the Osoyoos Indian Band’s working culture, inspiring generations not only within the band but around the world with his message about self-empowerment through employment, hard work, and community building. Clarence is quoted widely in media and is a highly sought-after speaker for his strong and straightforward views on the link between economic development and First Nations self-reliance. Known for doing business in a modern First Nations context, Chief Clarence wants to build an ‘indigenous economy’ where First Nations business people and leaders not only participate in the mainstream of Canada’s business economy, but more and more, take a stronger leadership position to shape environmentally and socially responsible outcomes that still feed the bottom line.
Joyce Lavallee
Controller
Joyce Lavallee
Controller
Sammy Jo Louie
Executive Assistant
Sammy Jo Louie
Executive Assistant
Sammy is currently the Executive Assistant to the CEO for OIBDC. She brings over a decade of experience to her role having worked on the frontlines of many successful and influential OIB businesses, governance committees and initiatives. Apart from her Council duties, Sammy assists the CEO with the management of OIB Businesses.
Leona Baptiste
Director of Human Resources
Leona Baptiste
Director of Human Resources
Leona is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring the human resource strategy for the Osoyoos Indian Band and its business interests. Together with her team and partners, she ensures that the necessary structures, systems and supports are in place to attract, sustain and retain capable people to carry out the work needed to accomplish all operational requirements. Leona ensures that Band members have priority for employment opportunities and that all employees, including Band members, have the training and support needed to meet the expectations and performance requirements of their positions.