Professionals
The People Behind Halford Consulting
Halford Consulting brings together experienced advisors and trusted team members who support clients through leadership and governance challenges.
We combine practical judgment, thoughtful support, and a human-centered approach to help leaders, boards, and families navigate decisions with clarity and confidence.
Advisory Team
These are the team members most directly involved in client advisory, strategic support, and delivery.
Jane Halford, FCA, ICD.D
Founder
Jane the Person
“If you don't like how things are, change it. You're not a tree.” - Jim Rohn
In her personal time Jane loves sailing on the west coast of Canada, playing tennis, and spending time with her loved ones (including her dog).
Jane the Professional
Jane is an experienced board chair, board member, CEO, entrepreneur, speaker, and trainer. In her nearly three-decade career, she has worked with corporations, public sector entities, and not-for-profit organizations of all sizes.
Michael Pinkoski, PhD, MBA
Senior Engagement Advisor
Michael the Person
"I'm not a particularly interesting person, I just do interesting things."
Michael’s passion is cycling. He is a world class cycling official for on track and road events which provides him a unique opportunity to explore the world each year.
Michael the Professional
Michael’s background is in medical sciences, strategic management, and not-for-profit organizations. He has extensive international experience and has a special interest in developing new sustainable organizations.
Wade King, BA
Senior Engagement Advisor
Wade the Person
Wade is a social creature who loves spending time with friends, family and his two cats. He is an avid fan of drag performers and enjoys attending live performances and tuning in to Drag Race.
Wade the Professional
Wade's background is in Human Rights, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and Safe Disclosure. He has spent more than 20 years championing spaces where everyone can participate and thrive. He has achieved this through policy and strategy development, measurement, training, facilitation and coaching. He is also a trained workplace investigator and trauma-informed interviewer.
Catherine Skaaning, BA
Executive Liaison & Engagement Support
Catherine the Person
Catherine loves spending time with her family and pets. You’ll often find her outdoors or in the gym.
Catherine the Professional
Catherine’s background is in evaluation and research. She can effectively translate evidence into information for clients. She has widespread experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting using surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
Support Team
Behind every engagement is a broader team that helps Halford Consulting operate smoothly.
Deana Nakonechny
Research Coordinator
Deana the Person
“Always Forward Never Back.”
In her spare time, Deana finds immense joy spending time with her family and bird. She loves warmer climates, and you’ll often find her outside.
Deana the Professional
Deana’s background is in finance, operations and research. Deana has worked in both private and public sectors. She is well versed in developing operational procedures and implementing activities to enhance the operation. She loves to sort out a mess for smooth transition.
Justin Schwanke, BComm
Strategic Projects & Initiatives Specialist
Justin the Person
Justin is a filmmaker and lifelong BMX rider. He recently released an international documentary series about BMX culture.
Justin the Professional
Justin’s background is in business strategy, analysis, and project coordination. He has a special interest in filmmaking and storytelling.
Corinne Davis
Accountant
Cor the Person
Cor loves to golf, camp, travel, and visit with friends. She is also a snowbird in training!
Cor the Professional
Cor’s background is in retail sales and customer service. She has extensive experience in clerical work, accounting, and bookkeeping.
Sophie Pinkoski, MSc
Writer
Sophie the Person
“There is no such thing as an original idea, just unique perspectives. No two stories are ever the same.”
Sophie writes gothic horror novels exploring the campy and criminal corners of history. Her best days are spent listening to punk music and snuggling up with a good book, a mug of tea, and her cat.
Sophie the Professional
Sophie’s background is in English literature (University of Victoria) and publishing (Edinburgh Napier University). A writer, editor, and historian, she loves piecing together narratives in new, compelling ways and helping others share stories of their own.
The Halford Consulting team also includes a broader network of professionals who contribute specialized expertise when needed.
A Perspective on Making a Difference
Leadership is full of moments that stay with us. Those experiences shape how we lead, how we serve others, and how we add value.
Navigating something important?
Leadership transitions and governance challenges are rarely just business issues. They affect people, relationships, and futures.
We believe leaders do their best work when they have trusted space to think clearly, speak candidly, and move forward with confidence.
That's what we aim to provide.
Leadership & Governance Insights
CEOs, Board Members, and Business Owners face complex decisions every day.Â
Our newsletter shares practical insights to help you navigate leadership and governance challenges.
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