At Ecowest, collaborative leadership is our hallmark. It is evident in how we engage with clients and their project teams, collaborate with our extensive network of specialized and trusted associates, and in our overall approach. Ultimately, it’s all about building and sustaining relationships.
OUR TEAM
Pamela O’Hara M.Sc., R.P.Bio.
Senior Strategic Advisor
Pamela is a vision-driven executive with a proven track record in sustainably advancing mining and transportation infrastructure projects. Over her 30-year career, her unique blend of professional experience, academic training, and people-focused approach has delivered excellent project outcomes and benefitted local communities. Most recently consulting as the VP Sustainability for Fireweed Metals, her strategic guidance and services facilitated timely progress through assessment and permitting processes for its critical metals projects, strengthened Indigenous and community relations, and enhanced regulatory compliance.
Pamela is a Certified Sustainability (ESG) Practitioner and Registered Professional Biologist (BC) and holds a B.Sc. in Biology and Oceanography (UBC) and an M.Sc. in Environment and Management (RRU).
“Pamela O’Hara is the Swiss Army knife of environmental assessment”
– Cliff Stewart, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority – Vice President, Infrastructure
Ian Ponsford M.R.M
External Affairs Director
Ian is an accomplished project director with extensive experience in assembling and guiding multidisciplinary teams of engineering and environmental experts on complex projects. Versatile and client-focused, he specializes in environmental approvals project leadership, government and regulatory interactions, public process facilitation, communications, commercial management, and community economic development initiatives.
Ian holds a BA in Geography (UBC) and a Master’s of Resource Management (SFU).
Erin Bishop MBA
Project Director
Erin is a seasoned environmental assessment practitioner, project director, and regulatory advisor with a keen understanding of the balance between social, environmental, and economic factors essential for project success. She excels in managing regulatory processes and directing integrated and complex environmental assessments. Erin helps clients navigate regulatory frameworks, manage risks, and make structured decisions. She is skilled in engaging with First Nations, regulatory bodies, and stakeholders. Erin has successfully managed projects in infrastructure, renewable energy, and government sectors, leveraging her clear communication and strong coordination skills to lead cohesive teams.
Erin is a certified solutions-focused coach, and holds a BA (UofA) and an MBA in Global Energy Management & Sustainable Development (UofC).
Our Story
The principals of Ecowest, Pamela, Ian, and Erin, initially connected as part of a diverse team tasked with conducting an environmental assessment for a significant marine infrastructure project. Instead of allowing individual disciplines to work in isolation, we established a core management group grounded in trust and accountability, steering the broader project team towards a cohesive, integrated approach. A colleague affectionately named us “Team PIE” (for Pam, Ian, and Erin), marking the birth of our distinctive collaborative leadership style.
During the project’s most demanding phases, we began each day with a brief PIE meeting to prioritize tasks, brainstorm solutions to new challenges, and share a moment of levity. We’ve been described as a “formidable force” committed to maintaining the highest standards in all our endeavors. Our reputation extends to our dedication to supporting colleagues and clients, and nurturing relationships that endure beyond a project’s completion.
