About Petroglyph Development Group (PDG)
Petroglyph Development Group is the economic development arm of Snuneymuxw First Nation. The Nation is the sole shareholder, and Snuneymuxw Chief and Council serve as PDG’s Board of Directors, ensuring that our work aligns with the priorities of our people.
PDG’s diversified portfolio spans forestry, gaming, hospitality, cannabis production and retail, tourism, transportation and logistics, business management, real estate and development, convenience and fuel retail.
Grounded in Snuw’uyulth, the ancestral teachings passed down from our Elders, we weave Snuneymuxw knowledge with contemporary business. We are building prosperity that honours who we are, our Ancestors, the land and future generations.
PDG is driving economic growth across Snuneymuxw/Nanaimo and Vancouver Island through projects that have long been a priority for the community, including:
- The opening of the Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo, a much-needed addition to the city’s downtown hospitality sector.
- The redevelopment of the former Howard Johnson property at 1 Terminal Avenue, part of sxwayxwum Village, a site recently returned to Snuneymuxw First Nation.
- The revitalization of Sealand Market, located beside the Departure Bay ferry terminal.
- The acquisition of Casino Nanaimo, Elements Casino Victoria, River Rock Casino Resort, and Chances Casino Mapleridge, and Great Canadian Casino Vancouver, bring these properties into local ownership.
All PDG profits go directly back to our Nation. These funds are audited and reinvested in programs that make a real difference in people’s lives such as our Sulxween 65+ Elder Payment, community distributions, our firewood distribution program, community cleanups and maintenance, and bursaries and scholarships.
PDG Board of Directors
The PDG Board of Directors includes: Erralyn Joseph, President; Chief Mike Wyse, Vice-President; Isaac Thomas, Director; Kate Good, Director; Emmy Manson, Director; Regan Seward, Director; Direcotor; John White, Director; Bill Yoachim, Director; Darren Good, Director; Edward Good, Director; and Eli Wyse, Director.
“What began with forestry operations has now expanded into a diverse portfolio that lays the foundation for stable, balanced, and diversified growth that will ensure long-term economic resilience for our Nation.”
Chief Michael Wyse, Xum'silum
"We are seizing opportunities that will unlock Snuneymuxw’s economic potential and build a strong, resilient future for our Nation. We plan to keep the pedal to the metal with a measured and strategic approach, smashing economic ceilings for the benefit of Snuneymuxw, the region, the province and the country.”
Erralyn Joseph, President
“At PDG we’re building a sustainable economy that powers Snuneymuxw’s priorities. With casino acquisitions and growth across multiple sectors, we’re creating meaningful jobs for our people (including accessible, train-on-the-job roles), returning profits to our Nation, and investing for the long term.”
Ian Simpson, Yaatqumtun, CEO
Our Mission
We strive to invest in opportunities that balance profit optimization with a view to sustainability for future generations of Snuneymuxw Mustiyuxw.
Our Vision
Sustainable Economic Development
Our team
Petroglyph Development Group Corporate Office
Ian Simpson – Chief Executive Officer
Rod Hartman – Chief Financial Officer
Sue Castell – Executive Director, HR
Josh Joseph – Business Development Manager
Andrew Sutherland – Communications, Brand, and Marketing Director
Tyanna Godard – Executive Assistant
David Bui – Financial Controller
Olga Gizdatova – Senior Accountant
Gord Bestwick – Manager, IT
Alisha Yarham – Communications Specialist
Krysta Wyse – HR Clerk
Kathryn Gaultois – HR Clerk
Bobbi-rae Milburn – Receptionist
Mt Benson Forestry
Derry Sorgen – Forestry Manager
Saysutshun
Phil Clark – Park Operations Manager
Snuneymuxw Gas Bar
Shandra Huard – Gas Bar Manager
Coast Salish Canna
Jason Guild – Manager, Operations
Lahal Casino Management LP
Michael Worth – Vice President, Casino Operations
Melissa Christie – Manager, Corporate Services
Jared Gjesdal – Senior Accountant
Sarlequun Transport Inc.
Guy Carpentier – President
Jag Basi – Director of Operations
Nicholas Carpentier – Business Development Manager
Khrystyna Liasota – Accounting
Sarlequun Logistics
Guy Carpentier – President
Larry Ward – Director of Operations
Nicholas Carpentier – Business Development Manager
Khrystyna Liasota – Accounting
Rooted in Relationship
We are honoured to support organizations and people as they do the big work to achieve great things.
We value shared priorities because they help us grow together, building on each other’s strengths to create lasting, positive impact.
Learn more about the priorities that guide our community investments and the impact we strive to create together.
