2023 Economic Outlook Luncheon

Alberta economic prospects remain solid, but risks are increasing. Persistently high inflation, aggressive interest rate hikes around the world and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty are slowing the momentum in the global economy. Commodity prices have retreated from elevated levels seen earlier this year amid heightened concerns of a global recession. Even so, Alberta’s economy is positioned well to weather the challenges. Catherine Rothrock, Chief Economist for Alberta Treasury Board and Finance will be presenting on recent trends and issues impacting Alberta’s economy and discuss the outlook for the provincial economy.

Sean McRitchie, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Strathcona County, will provide a brief update on what is happening in Strathcona County that could impact business. Sean will also speak about upcoming program offerings of interest to the local business community.

Todd Banks, Executive Director of the Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce will speak on local Chamber activities.

This event is in partnership with the Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce.

Lunch included.

Presenters:

Catherine Rothrock is the Chief Economist for the Government of Alberta. Her team analyzes economic trends and develops forecasts to support budget and fiscal planning for the government.

Catherine started her career in the energy sector as an analyst in Calgary for Enron, UBS Warburg Energy, and Purvin & Gertz, an oil and gas consulting firm. She brought her experience to Alberta Energy in 2008, where she studied oil markets and developed the oil price forecast. In 2011, Catherine joined Alberta Treasury Board and Finance as a manager in the Economics, Demography, and Public Finance branch before serving as the Deputy Chief Economist. Catherine also has a keen interest in development which took her to Mozambique for three years, where she worked with local NGOs and learned to speak Portuguese.

Catherine holds a Master's degree in economics from the University of Guelph.

Sean McRitchie, is the Director of Economic Development and Tourism with Strathcona County. With a background in building strong relationships in industry, Sean represents Strathcona County’s business interests by leading a multi-faceted group of Economic Development professionals in Strathcona. As the Director of Economic Development in the County, Sean works collaboratively with Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, Edmonton Global, and the Strathcona Industrial Association within Strathcona County, to drive investment, create jobs, generate tax revenue, and facilitate and generate economic activity within the County.

Todd Banks, Executive Director of the Sherwood Park and District Chamber of Commerce. Employed by the Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce as Executive Director. Todd has been involved in many aspects of the business community to attract and grow business such as, advocacy to all three levels of government, organizing community events, creating network opportunities for members as well as offering many cost saving benefits.

Todd Banks has been a resident of Strathcona County for 25 years and has volunteered in the community at the Rotary Club of Sherwood Park, County Clothes Line and the Heritage Hills Community League.

Todd also sits on the RCMP Community Advisory Committee (CAC), Economic Development & Tourism Advisory Committee (EDTAC), the Social Framework Leadership Table (Family and Community Services), Co-Chair Community Safety & Well Being Committee, The Social framework Community Grants Committee and a Board Member of the Strathcona Community Hospital Foundation.

Todd is very proud and appreciative to reside in Strathcona County.