Finding a Trusted CEO Peer Network

Running a growing organization brought both excitement and challenges that felt overwhelming at times. Wayne knew he needed guidance, but traditional mentorship and executive training lacked the real-world, practical insights he was searching for.

Rewinding the clock to 2012, Todd Millar—then a TEC Chair and longtime supporter of Respect Group, now President & CEO of TEC Canada—introduced Wayne to TEC. That introduction marked the start of a 13-year journey that would transform his approach to leadership in ways he never expected.

“People often ask me what TEC Canada membership is, and I tell them it’s like Alcoholics Anonymous for entrepreneurs,” Wayne jokes. “We come together, confide in each other, and realize we all face the same challenges—running a business, managing people, making tough decisions.”

What Wayne found at TEC Canada was more than just business advice—it was a community of leaders who truly understood his struggles. Over the years, his TEC group became a trusted sounding board, offering perspectives that helped him navigate critical decisions with greater clarity and confidence.

“I could write a long list of the mistakes I would have made if I hadn’t joined TEC,” Wayne says. “It’s a space where you can bring your biggest challenges and get honest, unfiltered feedback from people who have been there before.”

Building a Culture of Trust and Collaboration

One of the biggest leadership lessons Wayne has learned through TEC is the power of trust—not just in employees and partners, but in himself.

“For me, leadership is about trusting others and making sure they have a voice,” he explains. “Being at the top can be a lonely place, but when you surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking and support your growth, you become a better leader.”

Wayne has applied these principles to Respect Group, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared decision-making. He values his team’s input, believing that diverse perspectives lead to stronger, more impactful solutions.

Championing Women’s Soccer and Community Engagement

Wayne’s passion for safe, inclusive environments extends beyond Respect Group. His involvement in Calgary’s new professional women’s soccer team, Calgary Wild, is another example of his commitment to community-building.

With a family deeply engaged in the sport—two granddaughters who play soccer and a son-in-law from Scotland who is an avid supporter—Wayne found himself increasingly drawn into the world of soccer. But his work with Canada Soccer through Respect Group helped him see the broader impact the sport could have.

When he learned about the launch of the Northern Super League—Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league—he saw an opportunity to support something bigger than just the game. As an investor in Calgary Wild, Wayne is excited about the team’s mission to not only build a competitive squad but also create lasting community impact.

“I love what the Wild is doing—not just on the field, but in the community,” Wayne says. “It’s about giving young female athletes a legitimate path to play professionally without having to leave Canada.”