About Us

Gillian Fairley

General Manager (ext. 101)
[email protected]

General manager only because full time super skilled hero is not a job title.

Gillian has assisted small businesses in the community for over 10 years providing mentoring, resources, advice and support during all phases of business start-up, development and growth. Prior to working with the entrepreneurial community, Gillian travelled throughout the United States and Europe as a management consultant working with both large and small organizations. She has also run her own business including a charitable organization. When not in the office, Gillian takes full advantage of the amazing snowshoeing and hiking trails in the area.

Ella Gloade

Office and Marketing Coordinator (ext. 102)
[email protected]

Ella is the newest member of the Community Futures South Georgian Bay team. She brings a strong background in public relations, marketing, social media, and event management skills. Ella holds a BA (Hons.) in Environmental Studies from Trent University and is a graduate of Loyalist College’s Public Relations program. She began her career as a Communications Assistant at Quinte Conservation in Belleville and most recently held multiple roles at the Ministry of Natural Resources. With over 10 years of experience in customer service, Ella is well-equipped to handle a variety of challenges with ease.She’s excited to apply her communications expertise to support local entrepreneurs, promote economic development, and amplify the stories of businesses and organizations that make South Georgian Bay unique. Having recently returned to the Collingwood area; she is happy to continue her work in the nonprofit sector.When she’s not working (or trapped in her social media schedulers), Ella enjoys reading, skiing, and practicing yoga.Let’s connect on LinkedIn!

Alessia Bottini

Business Advisor (ext. 103)
[email protected]

Alessia was born and raised in Rome, Italy and at 19 left for a ‘six months experience’ to London, UK, where she then ended up finishing her studies and working with various local businesses in the Tourism / Hospitality Industry for the next 7 years. Alessia moved to Collingwood in early 2019 and since then has worked in the Tourism / Hospitality Industry where she gained the knowledge necessary to help small businesses get started and run smoothly and efficiently, grow and develop. Alessia volunteers for the Community Connection South Georgian Bay to help isolated Seniors find activities in our area, as well as being actively involved with the Town of Collingwood Community.In her free time Alessia likes to go swimming at the local pool, try out any new restaurants and go for long walks by the water.