Incite’s boutique model is supported by a team of senior strategists and business advisors with backgrounds in the fields of market research, business development, market strategy, brand, communications, and internal engagement. We work collaboratively to build project teams that provide clients with a range of perspectives to inform strategic decisions.
Our Team
As Founder and President of Incite, Ted brings over 25 years of strategic marketing, M&A advisory, and consulting experience working with owner-managed companies, strategic buyers, industry associations, Board-led non-profits, and private equity firms. His proven ability to engage in complex business strategy and multi-stakeholder environments as a facilitator and advisor helps both buy-side and sell-side clients with growth strategy, communications, strategic issues management, and post-merger brand and culture integration.
Ted is an active volunteer, working with the University of Alberta Venture Mentoring Service and having recently served as the Board Chair of Edmonton Community Foundation. He is an engaged member of the business community, including involvement with Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), Edmonton Executives Association (EEA), Synergy Network, and Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).
Recent client engagements:
- Argus – Strategic Planning & Advisory
- Axxcelus Capital – Market Strategy
- Collins Steel – Management Buy-Out Communications Strategy
- VC3 (formerly CompuVision) – Acquisition Communications & Integration Strategy
With an abundance of relationship management, market positioning, communications, and engagement experience, Dania has guided the strategic growth of B2B and public interest organizations for over 10 years. She works with leadership teams to focus their efforts and identify critical levers to effectively manage change and realize long-term goals. Dania is committed to understanding the unique challenges of her clients and their environment, then leverages market intelligence to craft impactful strategies that align stakeholders and messaging, build buy-in, and achieve market growth objectives.
Dania’s appetite for business and community engagement is reflected in her active involvement with the Edmonton Executives Association, the International Association of Business Communicators, and her role as a Trustee for the Mental Health Foundation. She has also served on the Board of Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE), coached for JDC West business competitions, and provided strategic advisory for provincial social profits such as Habitat for Humanity and the University Hospital Foundation.
Recent client engagements:
- Viacore – Post Deal Market Positioning, Strategic Communications, Brand Integration, Culture Alignment, Change Management
- CLPNA – Brand Strategy, Culture Integration, Strategic Communications
- CompuVision & VC3 – Strategic Merger Communications
- Turning Point (Open Course) – Business & Relationship Development Training Instructor
Always focused on the possibilities, Darren leads every brand strategy with creativity, passion, and drive. His array of artistic abilities, coupled with two decades of design experience, make him a true creative catalyst. He plays a vital role in assessing brand reputation for our clients’ target acquisitions while also making recommendations around integrated brand positioning and brand strategy. As Creative Director, Darren has successfully led hundreds of branding initiatives for our clients.
As past president of the Advertising Club of Edmonton, Darren continues to remain involved in the creative community. He carries on his lifelong pursuit for art through visual expression with his design work and his work as an artist. View Darren’s art: www.darrentonn.com
Recent client engagements:
- Viacore – Logo & Identity System, Brand Integration Strategy, and Renaming
- The Regulator’s Practice – Logo & Identity System
- ACDH (Alberta College of Dental Hygienists) – Logo & Identity System, Brand Integration Strategy, and Renaming
- Argus – Logo & Identity System and Brand Integration Strategy
- Diamond Valley – Logo & Identity System and Brand Strategy
With a proven track-record building strong relationships and delivering client service excellence, Merissa brings invaluable expertise to the Incite team. From coordinating with clients, tackling research, managing schedules, and organizing Incite activities – her passion lies in confronting new challenges head-on and finding innovative solutions.
Merissa radiates positivity as a quick-thinking and enthusiastic team player. Looking ahead, she aspires to enhance her understanding of the research processes within the organization, working closely with colleagues to contribute to the company’s ongoing success.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Merissa leads an active lifestyle. Whether hitting the gym or engaging in outdoor adventures like rock climbing, kayaking, or biking, she approaches life with an easy-going and hard-working spirit.
With her zest for life and commitment to quality, Merissa is an integral team member. Her enthusiasm and determination contribute significantly to Incite’s growth.
With a natural ability to build relationships and a talent for solving complex problems, Zeyana brings strategic thinking, adaptability, and energy to every project. Whether facilitating workshops, conducting research, or refining strategy, she thrives in fast-paced environments where insights turn into meaningful action.
Zeyana’s background spans healthcare research, consulting, and corporate strategy, with a strong focus on supporting early-stage companies and mission-driven organizations. She is a published author in cancer research and has worked closely with academic and clinical partners to translate data into meaningful outcomes. In the consulting space, she has advised several nonprofit organizations on strategic planning, operational improvement, and community engagement. More recently, she has supported startups in developing and executing corporate strategy helping leadership teams navigate change, align around core goals, and make informed, impactful decisions that drive sustainable growth. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and an MBA with a focus on strategy and consulting from the University of Alberta.
Outside of work, she is passionate about community service and building connections that matter. She has volunteered as a baby cuddler in the NICU, mentored youth through the PEERS Program, and supported newcomer families as they navigate employment and education systems. Equity, inclusion, and impact are at the heart of what motivates her.
Curious, collaborative, and driven to do good work, she’s always up for a new challenge.
Jesse works with clients to solve challenging problems, generate revenue, and unlock untapped growth potential. Drawing from over 10 years of marketing, branding, strategic planning, and stakeholder relations experience, Jesse brings a wealth of experience working with clients in the public, corporate and not-for-profit sectors, He has spearheaded effective organizational change, and helped to maximize operational excellence and innovation by working collaboratively with leadership teams to build the foundation, structures, and processes for long-term success.
Jesse is passionate about the communities he has called home. This passion is reflected in past involvement with organizations such as the CKUA Radio Foundation, the interVivos Mentorship Program, and the ITU World Triathlon Edmonton. He has also served on boards for the South Edmonton Business Association, Fort McMurray Tourism, 2015 Western Canada Summer Games – Wood Buffalo, and the Fort McMurray Sport Tourism Committee.
Recent client engagements:
- Argus – Strategic Planning & Corporate Advisory
- BC Health Regulatory College Amalgamation – Brand Integration
- Explore Edmonton – Culture & Engagement Advisory
- Town of Diamond Valley – Amalgamation Brand and Communications
With a passion for the marriage between research insights and consumer/human behaviour, Alana has been responsible for leading some of Alberta’s most resonant and effective advertising and communications campaigns over her twenty-year career in brand and advertising strategy for clients like EPCOR, STARS, Western Canada Lotteries, Edmonton Tourism, Edmonton Economic Development, Edmonton Internal Airport, Pizza 73 and many more. Her most recent experience of leading and running a market research and communications strategy firm has solidified her knowledge around the strategic planning process and the pivotal role that inspired and focused brand and communications plays in a company’s ability to grow and achieve success. She loves helping companies figure out the difference they want to make in the world, what they want to achieve, then finding a fresh and exciting way to showcase it.
That same desire to capture an audience’s imagination and see something new brought to life has fuelled Alana’s community contributions as well. She was a founding member of TEDxEdmonton, artsScene which built connections between young cultural arts members and the business community, Ladies on the Green in support of the Zebra Child Protection Centre where they put a fresh spin on a traditional golf tournament, and Anthology, a movement to foster support and reintroduce the Edmonton Public Library to the under-45 set. In 2019, she was named a Top 40 Under 40 in Edmonton’s Edify Magazine for her community work and its positive benefit and influence.
Angelique works with public-interest, corporate and not-for-profit clients to uncover insights, align goals, and achieve long-term success. She has over 10 years of experience leading brand strategy, marketing and communications, stakeholder engagement, and public relations efforts. Angelique is a data-driven strategist and has led award-winning projects across Western Canada that balance informed strategy with creativity and innovation. As a former journalist, she employs her investigative nature to finetune market research and her storytelling skills to craft narrative that resonates.
Angelique leverages both her client-side and consultant experience to help organizations navigate change and plan effectively. She’s a first-generation Canadian and completed her education abroad before returning for post-secondary. After graduating from MacEwan University’s Journalism Program, she served as City Hall Correspondent for the Edmonton Sun before transitioning to communications. Angelique is passionate about equity and diversity and building futures for women, and has volunteered with United Way ACR, Edmonton’s Foodbank and Meals on Wheels.
Recent client engagements:
- Canadian Mental Health Association: Brand Strategy, Internal Communications and Change Management
- Kids With Cancer Society (KWCS): Strategic Planning, Communications Planning and Corporate Advisory
- Parkinson Association of Canada: Strategic Planning and Corporate Advisory
- Palliser School Division: Strategic Planning and Community Engagement
- We Know Training: Acquisition Communications and Culture Integration, Brand Architecture and Brand Strategy
Alyssa brings a fresh wave of energy to the Incite team, joining in 2024 with a diverse toolkit in digital strategy, marketing, and client relations. Known for her creative spark and results-driven approach, Alyssa thrives on crafting innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed client goals, driving business growth every step of the way.
With a knack for blending strategic planning and hands-on execution, Alyssa has led a range of award-winning projects—from sleek website designs and bold rebrands to impactful content strategies and dynamic multi-channel campaigns. Whether B2C or B2B, she’s focused on delivering solutions that make a real impact. Passionate about process improvements and optimizing efficiency, Alyssa ensures every project runs smoothly, staying perfectly aligned with client needs and expectations.
When she’s not driving success for her clients, Alyssa enjoys recharging with family, cozying up at home, or exploring the outdoors. From relaxing at a cabin to ATVing mountain trails, nature sparks her creativity and fuels her zest for life.
With her creative approach and commitment to quality, Alyssa is excited to continue contributing to the growth of the team and the success of Incite’s clients.
Connor Nichols is a dynamic Associate with a proven entrepreneurial spirit and a strong track record in marketing and communications. Ambitious and results-driven, he brings a pragmatic perspective to the Incite team, grounded in real-world experience. He founded and grew a marketing and communications firm, local to the Edmonton area. Connor has led strategic initiatives such as managing emergency response communications for nations and not-for-profit initiatives. He is also a recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and was named to the Peak Emerging Leaders 2025 cohort, as well as a 2023 YEG Startup Community Award nominee for Startup of the Year and Connector the Year.
Beyond his business achievements, Connor has made meaningful contributions to his local community through mentorship, youth programs, and civic engagement initiatives. He is particularly interested in supporting and engaging with the Indigenous market, driven by a commitment to building authentic and forward-thinking relationships. Outside of work, Connor keeps busy managing a local hockey team, exploring new travel destinations, and discovering hidden gems in Edmonton’s food scene. He brings the same curiosity and enthusiasm to his personal life as he does to his professional role. His hands-on approach and drive for excellence shapes how he delivers results for organizations looking to connect with their audiences.
Past Experience
Owner/CEO, CBN Marketing
- Led and managed a marketing agency, aimed at helping organizations tell their story to their networks.
Director of Strategy, Elite Digital Marketing
- Facilitated strategic initiatives and relationships essential to the organization’s growth.
As Founder and President of Incite, Ted brings over 25 years of strategic marketing, M&A advisory, and consulting experience working with owner-managed companies, strategic buyers, industry associations, Board-led non-profits, and private equity firms. His proven ability to engage in complex business strategy and multi-stakeholder environments as a facilitator and advisor helps both buy-side and sell-side clients with growth strategy, communications, strategic issues management, and post-merger brand and culture integration.
Ted is an active volunteer, working with the University of Alberta Venture Mentoring Service and having recently served as the Board Chair of Edmonton Community Foundation. He is an engaged member of the business community, including involvement with Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), Edmonton Executives Association (EEA), Synergy Network, and Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).
Recent client engagements:
- Argus – Strategic Planning & Advisory
- Axxcelus Capital – Market Strategy
- Collins Steel – Management Buy-Out Communications Strategy
- VC3 (formerly CompuVision) – Acquisition Communications & Integration Strategy
Jesse works with clients to solve challenging problems, generate revenue, and unlock untapped growth potential. Drawing from over 10 years of marketing, branding, strategic planning, and stakeholder relations experience, Jesse brings a wealth of experience working with clients in the public, corporate and not-for-profit sectors, He has spearheaded effective organizational change, and helped to maximize operational excellence and innovation by working collaboratively with leadership teams to build the foundation, structures, and processes for long-term success.
Jesse is passionate about the communities he has called home. This passion is reflected in past involvement with organizations such as the CKUA Radio Foundation, the interVivos Mentorship Program, and the ITU World Triathlon Edmonton. He has also served on boards for the South Edmonton Business Association, Fort McMurray Tourism, 2015 Western Canada Summer Games – Wood Buffalo, and the Fort McMurray Sport Tourism Committee.
Recent client engagements:
- Argus – Strategic Planning & Corporate Advisory
- BC Health Regulatory College Amalgamation – Brand Integration
- Explore Edmonton – Culture & Engagement Advisory
- Town of Diamond Valley – Amalgamation Brand and Communications
With an abundance of relationship management, market positioning, communications, and engagement experience, Dania has supported the strategic growth of B2B organizations for over 10 years, establishing foundational elements for clients to effectively manage change and realize long-term goals. She is committed to understanding the unique challenges of her clients and their environment, then leverages market intelligence to craft impactful strategies that align stakeholders, brands, and messaging through all phases of a deal.
Dania’s appetite for business and community engagement is reflected in her active involvement with the Edmonton Executives Association (EEA), International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), and provision of strategic advisory for social profits such as Habitat for Humanity Edmonton, University Hospital Foundation, and Fort Edmonton Management Company. She has previously coached UofA students for JDC West business case competitions and served on the board of the Edmonton-based Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE).
Recent client engagements:
- Viacore – Post Deal Market Positioning, Strategic Communications, Brand Integration, Culture Alignment, Change Management
- CLPNA – Brand Strategy, Culture Integration, Strategic Communications
- CompuVision & VC3 – Strategic Merger Communications
- Turning Point (Open Course) – Business Development Training Instructor
With a passion for the marriage between research insights and consumer/human behaviour, Alana has been responsible for leading some of Alberta’s most resonant and effective advertising and communications campaigns over her twenty-year career in brand and advertising strategy for clients like EPCOR, STARS, Western Canada Lotteries, Edmonton Tourism, Edmonton Economic Development, Edmonton Internal Airport, Pizza 73 and many more. Her most recent experience of leading and running a market research and communications strategy firm has solidified her knowledge around the strategic planning process and the pivotal role that inspired and focused brand and communications plays in a company’s ability to grow and achieve success. She loves helping companies figure out the difference they want to make in the world, what they want to achieve, then finding a fresh and exciting way to showcase it.
That same desire to capture an audience’s imagination and see something new brought to life has fuelled Alana’s community contributions as well. She was a founding member of TEDxEdmonton, artsScene which built connections between young cultural arts members and the business community, Ladies on the Green in support of the Zebra Child Protection Centre where they put a fresh spin on a traditional golf tournament, and Anthology, a movement to foster support and reintroduce the Edmonton Public Library to the under-45 set. In 2019, she was named a Top 40 Under 40 in Edmonton’s Edify Magazine for her community work and its positive benefit and influence.
Angelique works with public-interest, corporate and not-for-profit clients to uncover insights, align goals, and achieve long-term success. She has over 10 years of experience leading brand strategy, marketing and communications, stakeholder engagement, and public relations efforts. Angelique is a data-driven strategist and has led award-winning projects across Western Canada that balance informed strategy with creativity and innovation. As a former journalist, she employs her investigative nature to finetune market research and her storytelling skills to craft narrative that resonates.
Angelique leverages both her client-side and consultant experience to help organizations navigate change and plan effectively. She’s a first-generation Canadian and completed her education abroad before returning for post-secondary. After graduating from MacEwan University’s Journalism Program, she served as City Hall Correspondent for the Edmonton Sun before transitioning to communications. Angelique is passionate about equity and diversity and building futures for women, and has volunteered with United Way ACR, Edmonton’s Foodbank and Meals on Wheels.
Recent client engagements:
- Canadian Mental Health Association: Brand Strategy, Internal Communications and Change Management
- Kids With Cancer Society (KWCS): Strategic Planning, Communications Planning and Corporate Advisory
- Parkinson Association of Canada: Strategic Planning and Corporate Advisory
- Palliser School Division: Strategic Planning and Community Engagement
- We Know Training: Acquisition Communications and Culture Integration, Brand Architecture and Brand Strategy
Always focused on the possibilities, Darren leads every brand strategy with creativity, passion, and drive. His array of artistic abilities, coupled with two decades of design experience, make him a true creative catalyst. He plays a vital role in assessing brand reputation for our clients’ target acquisitions while also making recommendations around integrated brand positioning and brand strategy. As Creative Director, Darren has successfully led hundreds of branding initiatives for our clients.
As past president of the Advertising Club of Edmonton, Darren continues to remain involved in the creative community. He carries on his lifelong pursuit for art through visual expression with his design work and his work as an artist. View Darren’s art: www.darrentonn.com
Recent client engagements:
- Viacore – Logo & Identity System, Brand Integration Strategy, and Renaming
- The Regulator’s Practice – Logo & Identity System
- ACDH (Alberta College of Dental Hygienists) – Logo & Identity System, Brand Integration Strategy, and Renaming
- Argus – Logo & Identity System and Brand Integration Strategy
- Diamond Valley – Logo & Identity System and Brand Strategy
With a proven track-record building strong relationships and delivering client service excellence, Merissa brings invaluable expertise to the Incite team. From coordinating with clients, tackling research, managing schedules, and organizing Incite activities – her passion lies in confronting new challenges head-on and finding innovative solutions.
Merissa radiates positivity as a quick-thinking and enthusiastic team player. Looking ahead, she aspires to enhance her understanding of the research processes within the organization, working closely with colleagues to contribute to the company’s ongoing success.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Merissa leads an active lifestyle. Whether hitting the gym or engaging in outdoor adventures like rock climbing, kayaking, or biking, she approaches life with an easy-going and hard-working spirit.
With her zest for life and commitment to quality, Merissa is an integral team member. Her enthusiasm and determination contribute significantly to Incite’s growth.
Alyssa brings a fresh wave of energy to the Incite team, joining in 2024 with a diverse toolkit in digital strategy, marketing, and client relations. Known for her creative spark and results-driven approach, Alyssa thrives on crafting innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed client goals, driving business growth every step of the way.
With a knack for blending strategic planning and hands-on execution, Alyssa has led a range of award-winning projects—from sleek website designs and bold rebrands to impactful content strategies and dynamic multi-channel campaigns. Whether B2C or B2B, she’s focused on delivering solutions that make a real impact. Passionate about process improvements and optimizing efficiency, Alyssa ensures every project runs smoothly, staying perfectly aligned with client needs and expectations.
When she’s not driving success for her clients, Alyssa enjoys recharging with family, cozying up at home, or exploring the outdoors. From relaxing at a cabin to ATVing mountain trails, nature sparks her creativity and fuels her zest for life.
With her creative approach and commitment to quality, Alyssa is excited to continue contributing to the growth of the team and the success of Incite’s clients.
With a natural ability to build relationships and a talent for solving complex problems, Zeyana brings strategic thinking, adaptability, and energy to every project. Whether facilitating workshops, conducting research, or refining strategy, she thrives in fast-paced environments where insights turn into meaningful action.
Zeyana’s background spans healthcare research, consulting, and corporate strategy, with a strong focus on supporting early-stage companies and mission-driven organizations. She is a published author in cancer research and has worked closely with academic and clinical partners to translate data into meaningful outcomes. In the consulting space, she has advised several nonprofit organizations on strategic planning, operational improvement, and community engagement. More recently, she has supported startups in developing and executing corporate strategy helping leadership teams navigate change, align around core goals, and make informed, impactful decisions that drive sustainable growth. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and an MBA with a focus on strategy and consulting from the University of Alberta.
Outside of work, she is passionate about community service and building connections that matter. She has volunteered as a baby cuddler in the NICU, mentored youth through the PEERS Program, and supported newcomer families as they navigate employment and education systems. Equity, inclusion, and impact are at the heart of what motivates her.
Curious, collaborative, and driven to do good work, she’s always up for a new challenge.
Connor Nichols is a dynamic Associate with a proven entrepreneurial spirit and a strong track record in marketing and communications. Ambitious and results-driven, he brings a pragmatic perspective to the Incite team, grounded in real-world experience. He founded and grew a marketing and communications firm, local to the Edmonton area. Connor has led strategic initiatives such as managing emergency response communications for nations and not-for-profit initiatives. He is also a recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Award and was named to the Peak Emerging Leaders 2025 cohort, as well as a 2023 YEG Startup Community Award nominee for Startup of the Year and Connector the Year.
Beyond his business achievements, Connor has made meaningful contributions to his local community through mentorship, youth programs, and civic engagement initiatives. He is particularly interested in supporting and engaging with the Indigenous market, driven by a commitment to building authentic and forward-thinking relationships. Outside of work, Connor keeps busy managing a local hockey team, exploring new travel destinations, and discovering hidden gems in Edmonton’s food scene. He brings the same curiosity and enthusiasm to his personal life as he does to his professional role. His hands-on approach and drive for excellence shapes how he delivers results for organizations looking to connect with their audiences.
Past Experience
Owner/CEO, CBN Marketing
- Led and managed a marketing agency, aimed at helping organizations tell their story to their networks.
Director of Strategy, Elite Digital Marketing
- Facilitated strategic initiatives and relationships essential to the organization’s growth.
