Barb Schimnowsky

Partner

As a leader of Watson’s Board Director and Executive Search practice, Barb has earned an industry-wide reputation for her uncanny ability to place the perfect match with clients, and the personal service she brings to every Director, Chair, and executive search she does. Her focus on truly understanding each organization’s unique needs and their business leads many clients to simply see Barb as part of their team.

Foolproof Move in a Boardroom

"Trust your knowledge and speak your mind."

Reason for Doing This Work

"Seeing the impact of my work. I have some clients where our relationship has spanned 20 years and I’ve been alongside them on their growth journey recruiting their executive team."

What I Wish More Boards Knews

"The importance of having a robust succession plan."

Experience and Credentials

  • Founded WestView Executive Search Ltd in 2005, which merged with Watson in 2017.
  • Spent 20 years at KPMG where she established a search practice focusing on owner-managed business
  • Served as a member of the Abbotsford Police Board for six years; as a Director for the United Way of the Lower Mainland for three years
  • A passionate volunteer for organizations such as Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, KidSport Abbotsford, Pacific Sport Fraser Valley, and the BC Summer Games
  • Recognized twice as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Abbotsford
  • Member of the Canadian Association of Management Consultants, Family Enterprise Canada and the Institute of Corporate Directors
  • Certified Management Consultant
  • Family Enterprise Advisor

Barb Schimnowsky's Areas of Focus

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Barb Schimnowsky Insights

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Barb Schimnowsky Aug 21, 2026
The Smartest Leaders Don’t Go It Alone: Why More Private Companies Are Building Advisory Boards Before They Need One

For many private company owners, success has come from trusting their instincts. They built the business, navigated uncertainty, made difficult

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Barb Schimnowsky Apr 16, 2026
From Spotlight to Stewardship: The Human Side of Family Business Leadership Transition

For many family enterprises, the most visible part of a leadership transition is naming a successor. Choosing the right leader

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Barb Schimnowsky Feb 21, 2026
The Governance Dividend: Why High-Performing Families Get Structure Right

For many enterprising families, governance is viewed as a necessity rather than a performance lever - introduced once complexity increases,