Five Ivey alumni are among Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023. The Ivey recipients, in five different categories of the annual list from the Women's Executive Network (WXN), are being recognized for making a transformational difference in their fields and actively shaping a more inclusive future. They include Danielle Barran, HBA ’98, MBA ’02; Erin Craven, HBA ’98; Mahima Poddar, HBA ’07; Jill Schnarr, HBA ’91; and Inka Skinner, EMBA ’16. The women will be honoured at the Top 100 Awards Gala at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto on November 30.
Here’s more on Ivey’s alumni recipients.
Danielle Barran, HBA ’98, MBA ’02
President, North American Potato Division & Canada, McCain Foods Ltd.
Category: Executive Leaders (Recognizing women aged 40 or older who exemplify what it means to be a great leader and build confidence and champion others)
Danielle Barran is responsible for McCain Foods’ largest business unit and its nine manufacturing plants across Canada and the U.S. She has more than 25 years’ experience in the North American food and beverage industry and is known for her authentic leadership, business transformation, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion advocacy.
I’m proud and honoured to be recognized as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women, receiving a Top 100 Award from Women’s Executive Network (WXN). I am thankful for the women who influenced my career journey, including those I connected with at Ivey. I’m excited to pay it forward and support the development of future leaders.”
Erin Craven, HBA ’98
CEO and Freedom Founder, UROSPOT
Category: Compass Rose Entrepreneurs (Recognizing women who own and operate thriving businesses)
Erin Craven left a 20-year career in health care to launch UROSPOT, a modern solution to common challenges like bladder leaks and urgency that combines non-invasive technology, education, and health coaching. Since its launch four years ago, there are now more than 20 clinics open or in development and UROSPOT has become a national brand known for pelvic health done differently.
Mahima Poddar, HBA ’07
Group Head and SVP, Personal Banking, Equitable Bank
Category: Amex Emerging Leaders (Recognizing women between the ages of 30 and 40 who have been targeted for successive leadership positions within their organizations and have a proven passion for learning and innovation)
In her latest role leading Equitable Bank, Mahima Poddar combines her experience in consulting at BCG with a vision for transforming banking. Under her leadership, Equitable Bank has acquired multiple businesses, introduced many new product lines, and surpassed $8 billion in deposits.
Jill Schnarr, HBA ’91
Chief Communications and Brand Officer, TELUS
Category: Canadian Tire Community Impact (Recognizing women who strive to make a difference in their communities)
Jill Schnarr leads corporate communications, public relations, government relations, brand marketing, sponsorship, philanthropy, and community investment at TELUS. She has fostered a high-performance culture at TELUS that has led to it being recognized as a global leader in social capitalism and one of the most valuable brands in Canada.
I could never have imagined that the knowledge and tools I learned through the Ivey HBA program would enable such incredible success, setting the foundation to lead with confidence and compassion. Over and above the individual recognition, the WXN Top 100 Awards provides a critical platform to elevate the incredible female leaders who are creating real, meaningful change. It's an honour to be recognized amongst such amazing women who are using their influence to inspire and empower the next generation.”
Inka Skinner, EMBA ’16
Data, Analytics and AI, Accenture
Category: Professionals (Recognizing women who are professionals in practice and play a leadership role within their organizations)
As one of the leaders at Accenture Canada’s Data, Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence practice, Skinner helps clients to deliver business value through the strategic application of data, analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation. Skinner is also a strong advocate and mentor for female empowerment and is chair of the Women of Ivey Network.
