Heather MacAulay knew from a young age that she would be an entrepreneur—it was a lifelong dream that started as a child growing up on a potato farm in eastern PEI.

Over the last 13 years, Heather has held various positions in the area of marketing and communications with MBS Radio, 2009 Canada Games, Newcap Radio, PEI 2014 Inc., Canadian Police Knowledge Network, and DME Brewing Solutions. All of these positions were fantastic learning opportunities through which she developed strong networks in the business community.

Heather admits that even though she moved around, the end goal was always to own her own business. She realized that dream in May 2018 when she and partner, Christina MacLeod, opened Volume 18, a consulting firm specializing in marketing, communications, strategic planning and facilitation. Their firm currently employs seven to eight part-time employees.

Heather holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from St. Francis Xavier University and embarked on the Executive Master of Business Administration program at UPEI in 2010. Her initial motivation in pursuing an MBA was to learn the fundamentals of business and have a strong foundation in order to advance her career.

During her time in the EMBA program, she discovered she was learning skill-sets and lessons that were beyond what she had anticipated. “The Executive MBA program taught me self-discipline, time management skills, and about the importance of teamwork and communication” says Heather.

Heather comes from an entrepreneurial family, and she learned the value of hard work early by selling potatoes and cutting grass in her teenage years. Having a strong example set by her parents, she credits hard work for her success.

Heather says she was not naive to the fact that as a business owner, she would have to work harder than ever. However, she knew the reward of having a business that is her own would make that extra effort more than worthwhile. She appreciates having full control of her time and that she can plan her day around her family and other commitments. 

In terms of where Heather sees herself in the next five years, she explains, “my goal is to continue to grow the business and position our company for success.”

With her strong work ethic, we have no doubt Heather will succeed in whatever she is determined to do.

Want more information about the EMBA program at UPEI? Visit the Executive Master of Business Administration program site.