Builder of businesses. Former Minister of Finance. Backer of the next generation of women-led companies.
For more than thirty years, Cathy has done one thing well: help organizations grow. First her own companies, then a province, and now the founders others overlook.
Born in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Cathy spent three decades building the Bennett Group of Companies into a diversified enterprise spanning construction, manufacturing, food service, industrial supply and real estate.
She brings deep experience in energy, capital markets, public policy and governance, and champions mentorship and inclusive leadership. She was instrumental in bringing the first Ronald McDonald House to the province.
Grew a small group of service businesses into operations across six industries. Chaired the St. John's Board of Trade and was named Atlantic Business Magazine's CEO of the Year.
Elected to the House of Assembly. Served as Minister of Finance, President of Treasury Board and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, overseeing multi-billion-dollar budgets.
Founding and General Partner of a venture fund backing tech-enabled, women-led companies. Mentor with Creative Destruction Lab.
Sandpiper is a high-conviction, early-stage venture fund founded by experienced, internationally networked women. Cathy is a Founding and General Partner alongside Rhiannon Davies and Sarah Young.
The fund invests in tech-enabled companies with women in leadership, from AI-powered health systems to climate-resilience infrastructure.
Visit sandpiper.vc →Seed investments, always alongside co-investors, either leading or supporting a round.
Based in Halifax and investing across Canada in software, health, climate, fintech and more.
Named Best Investment Innovator at the Canadian Business Innovation Awards.
Cathy has sat in the CEO's chair, the cabinet room, the boardroom and the investor's seat. She brings that range to keynotes, panels, boards and leadership teams.
Conferences, associations and corporate events.
Governance, oversight and financial stewardship for public, private and Crown boards.
Hands-on counsel for founders and leadership teams on strategy, capital and performance.
Junior Achievement Newfoundland & Labrador laureate.
Atlantic Business Magazine.
Recognized for business leadership.
Sandpiper Ventures, Canadian Business Innovation Awards.
Planning an event, filling a board seat, or looking for a seasoned advisor? Reach out with a short note about what you have in mind.