Export Navigator is made up of our network of experienced and knowledgeable export advisors throughout B.C. Our export advisors take on multiple roles every day to help their clients reach their full potential, but not many are aware of all that being an advisor involves. That’s why we’re here to showcase our advisors’ unique strengths and personalities in our “Meet the Advisor” blog series!
Amber Piché is one of our talented export advisors who has an especially vast portfolio of work in the tourism and food & beverage industries. Being an entrepreneur herself, Amber’s zeal for business shines through when she collaborates with like-minded clients.
Export Navigator: Can you please introduce yourself and what you do as an export advisor?
Amber: As an export advisor I have the privilege to work with passionate entrepreneurs every day, helping them realize their goals of expansion and growth in their company. I tend to spend a lot of time brainstorming different ideas and working through potential challenges with my clients. This is where a lot of the variety in my role comes from. On any given day I could be tackling a client’s marketing, operations, or market strategy, to name a few.
Export Navigator: Our advisors often have a variety of interests outside of their roles at Export Navigator. What’s your favourite thing to do in your free time?
Amber: When I’m not working alongside other entrepreneurs, I’m enjoying the great outdoors or spending time with family and friends. Possibly with a glass of wine in hand!
Export Navigator: Your bio shows that you’ve had a lot of experience in different industries. Can you talk a bit more about that and how it led you to international business?
Amber: I have spent my whole life immersed in the tourism and the food & beverage industries. Growing up in the Okanagan, that is probably true for many. My passion lies in marketing and event planning, and it is through this combination that I have been so fortunate to work in many industries.
Through networking and different business relationships, I started working with a tech company in the gaming industry. This opportunity allowed me to travel across Asia, doing business development internationally.
Export Navigator: What kind of work experience do you have outside of exporting and how has it developed your skills as an export advisor?
Amber: Whether I was paid or not, I seem to have always helped friends and family develop their businesses. Over the years, I’ve owned a few businesses of my own, including a tea company for 15 years, and consulted on many projects. I’ve worked with multinational corporations, not-for-profits, local wineries, and a few tech companies.
These experiences gave me a wider perspective on what areas my clients need support with, in addition to exporting. Having been immersed in the culture of different industries, I can easily connect with clients and put myself in their shoes, so to speak.
Export Navigator: Do you have any memorable client stories that you can share with us?
Amber: I have a lot of great success stories and memories over the past year as an advisor with Export Navigator. One standout to me was a company transitioning from discount selling to social cause selling. They created an opportunity to make a huge difference for Canadians, so I was really excited to take part in that.
I especially love getting a phone call from a client saying, “I got my first [international] sale”. An entrepreneur at heart, my favourite part of the job is being there for my clients through it all – including frustrations, successes, challenges, and aha-moments. I can certainly relate to the rollercoaster that is owning a business, which is why my clients can always confide in me.
Export Navigator: What piece(s) of advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Amber: I tend to get asked this question a lot lately. My answer is, identify your value system because it’s the foundation of your business and defines your purpose. Once you know your values and the values of your business, you can make the tough decisions. They will help you grow your team, your market, and will ultimately determine your business’ success.
Learn more
We had a great time speaking to Amber and hope you also enjoyed learning more about our export advisors! Check out the rest of the Export Navigator team on our website.
Thinking of exporting? Find an advisor in your region today and discover what opportunities are available to you.
