Downtown Summerside Inc. (DSI) is pleased have welcomed Lydia Potter as their new Executive Director for the Downtown Business Improvement Area as of October 1st.
Lydia sought out Summerside as a destination to move to earlier this year and immediately took interest in Downtown Summerside. She brings with her more than 10 years of experience in marketing and communications at an operational level for a medical equipment company based out of Ontario. Most recently Lydia has added her experience as a Small Business Advisor for Scotiabank in Summerside, helping Summerside businesses with their financial needs.
Lydia also brings a entrepreneurial spirit that comes from having grown up in a small business environment. Her parents own a small business in Nova Scotia where she learned the challenges small business owners face first-hand. Lydia then worked in a small local flower shop before moving out of the Maritimes to Ontario, initially to help start up and run a small family business there.
As Executive Director, Lydia will develop Downtown Summerside Inc.’s strategic plan which will include marketing, communications and developing partnerships that will enhance the exposure of the BIA. Lydia’s background enables her to bring vision and an operational understanding to DSI.
“It’s for Summerside and it’s for our future.” Lydia says about leaving her path in the for-profit sector. “At the end of the day it isn’t about anyone getting the glory. It’s about working together, advocating for each other, and encouraging each other to succeed.
“It’s really quite humbling to have the privilege to work alongside individuals who have owned their businesses for many years, and other people who are just taking that leap. I can name at least 5 new businesses have opened in the BIA just since I arrived. Summerside is seeing growth and we need to ensure that Downtown remains a strong consideration and is supported in that growth. The Downtown area is so important to Summerside’s heritage and culture that there’s a lot of pride that should come with owning a business in our BIA.”
Downtown Summerside Inc. is a non-profit group of local business owners, landlords, tenants and stakeholders formed to promote, develop and enhance Summerside’s vital, safe and historic downtown core. DSI wants to continue developing the heart of Summerside so the area can continue to grow and thrive. This little gem of a city centre is much more than just a quiet and quaint place to wander and explore. The residential and commercial affordability of the area is second to none, offering great potential for both locals and newcomers alike to live, work and play in Prince Edward Island’s vibrant, second-largest community.