A strong community can promote new ideas and ensure accountability. It can also act as motivation, support, and even provide a little friendly competition. The power of community is undeniable and the Okanagan tech community is no exception.
Our community is strong and growing with record speed and maintaining a connection through a period of growth like this can be a challenge. Nobody panic, we’ve got a plan.
Introducing, We are #OKGNtech. A showcase of Okanagan tech entrepreneurs, partners, supporters, and cheerleaders designed to fuel more connection, more growth, and more excitement. Follow along on the blog and on Instagram @OKGNtech to learn more about our growing community and what makes them awesome.
Meet Chris. Chris Pinkerton is the President of GetintheLoop. When he’s not expanding GetintheLoop’s international reach, you’ll find Chris taking his daughters to their tournaments and practices or on the green, dusting off his golf skills.
Where do you work in the Okanagan?
I am the President of GetintheLoop, a SaaS location-based offers-platform that innovates the way brick-and-mortar businesses reach and influence consumers through mobile technology. I work with our team to scale the business across Canada and begin to grow internationally.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I love the challenge of building something new and navigating uncharted waters. Each day is unique and we have a tremendous team (affectionately referred to as the Wolfpack) which is a joy to work with. Tackling hard problems is so much easier when you get to do it with remarkable people.
How did you get into this kind of work?
In 2006, I got connected to a growing marketing and research company in Kelowna called Enquiro. The business focused on digital marketing, media and user behaviour research. I learned a lot and was lucky enough to do user research directly for Google, Microsoft, Deutsche Telekom and other large brands. Our successful run eventually got us acquired in 2010. I continued on running a division inside the parent company until 2017 when I joined GetintheLoop.
What advice would you give to someone interested in a job like yours?
Stay curious and humble. The technology space moves very quickly—what you know today needs to be re-examined frequently. In some cases, you will even need to unlearn something. Having passion and innate curiosity in what you are doing will help keep you motivated to learn.
How do you like to give back or add value to the community?
I recently joined the Board of Directors of Accelerate Okanagan(AO) which is one way I contribute my time and experience. I’ve also been involved with UBCO and Okanagan College, supporting their Co-op programs, and involving GetintheLoop in multiple case competitions—exposing students to the opportunities and challenges of scaling a real tech company.
What made you want to join Accelerate Okanagan’s board?
I feel that it’s important to have representation on the AO board from individuals that are currently dealing with the challenges of growing a tech business in this marketplace. Brea has built a strong team that works very hard to support a wide array of stakeholders. I hope that my real-time experience can help contribute to the ideas, thinking and support that AO can develop to further strengthen and broaden the #OKGNtech community.
Do you think there is anything missing from the community here?
Attracting more technology businesses to the Okanagan will also attract more skill and talent. Many companies get to the stage where they need to hire people who have “done it before” and increasing our talent pool will be a long-term asset to further enhance the community.
The best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Or can share?
One of my favourite quotes is “Be decisive. The road of life is paved with flat squirrels who couldn’t make a decision.” For choices that can be easily changed, make a decision and move forward. For tougher decisions, always do what’s right not what’s easy.
Connect with Chris. Learn more about GetintheLoop. Ready for more? Meet Markku.
