Karen Richards, EMBA, BA – Chief Operating Officer

Mrs. Karen Richards is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of FBCL. Mrs. Richards began her role on August 14, 2023.

She is a senior executive with over 25 years of experience working in complex stakeholder environments in both the private and public sectors. Prior to joining FBCL, Mrs. Richards worked for the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership as an Economic Development Officer and served as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Sarnia Lambton Industrial Alliance, and Chair of the Sarnia Airport Action Working Group. Mrs. Richards’ background includes 19 years working for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, where she held a variety of increasingly senior positions in the Gaming Division.

As part of her responsibilities, Mrs. Richards serves on the Board of Directors for the Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Authority and the Seaway International Bridge Corporation. She holds an Executive Master of Business Administration from the University of Fredericton and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University College of Cape Breton.