Inside CORE
We’re not built like other firms — because we weren’t built for business as usual.
CORE Strategic is shaped by real-world experience — leading through crisis, building trust where it’s been broken and showing up in moments that matter. We’ve worked inside the system, for organizations and alongside communities. We’re guided by purpose, integrity and a relentless focus on impact.
Purpose-built. Impact-driven. Focused clearly on what matters to you.
Our Values.
We lead with purpose. We act with integrity. We show up when it matters.
CORE’s work is guided by the values that define how we operate — especially under pressure:
Trust — Earned through discretion and consistency.
Respect — For people, communities and complexity.
Courage — To speak plainly and take a stand.
Judgment — Informed by real-world experience.
Commitment to Impact — No theatre. Just outcomes that last.
These aren’t just principles. They’re how we practice - and how we show up.
Our Value.
We give clients strategic horsepower, clear thinking and trusted judgment — when it matters most.
Whether we’re navigating crisis, advising on reconciliation or building long-term strategies, our value is in what we help you move:
Confidence to act in uncertain or high-pressure moments
Protection of what matters — your reputation, relationships and results
Execution without noise — clarity, alignment and action
Senior counsel without overhead
We aren’t here for show. We’re here to make a difference.
Built for impact. Driven by purpose.
Meet the Team
Shawn Howard
President | Risk + Response Practice
Strategic clarity and bold counsel — built to protect, built to deliver.
Shawn Howard helps organizations manage high-stakes challenges where reputation, risk and results matter most. As Co-Founder and President of CORE Strategic, he delivers tailored strategies to identify risks, defend interests, build alliances and drive outcomes under pressure.
With more than 25 years of leadership across industry, government, and public service, Shawn brings a practical, high-trust approach to external relations, Indigenous engagement, government, crisis response and counter-activism. He works directly with leaders, Boards and project teams to prepare for risks, strengthen reputations and move strategies from plan to action.
Shawn has played key leadership roles in managing protests, industrial incidents, Indigenous negotiations, shareholder activism, and major project advocacy. His experience spans the boardroom, elected office and the field, blending communications expertise with operational understanding.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Canadian Studies from the University of Calgary, plus certifications in Indigenous engagement and risk communication. He is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors and a lifetime member of the Emergency Management External Affairs Association.
Shawn partners with clients to bring clarity, resilience and impact to the moments that matter most.
Cris Howard
Vice-President | Strategic Impact Advisory Practice
Building relationships and sustainable strategies that drive real impact.
Cris Howard partners with organizations to strengthen engagement, structure success, and lead with purpose. As Co-Founder and Vice-President of CORE Strategic Management, she brings a cross-sector perspective shaped by leadership roles in healthcare, education, land management, and business operations.
Cris works closely with clients to build alliances, negotiate partnerships, and design practical solutions that deliver measurable outcomes. Her governance and risk management experience — including direct service on professional association boards and advisory committees — strengthens organizations’ ability to navigate complexity while maintaining focus on their goals and values.
As a Bachelor of Commerce candidate (Royal Roads University), Cris continues to expand her expertise in sustainable business and strategic management. Her leadership style emphasizes structured processes, stakeholder engagement and motivating teams toward excellence — always with an eye on sustainable, long-term success.
She is also a member of [insert any specific organizations if applicable, or simply:]
She is actively engaged in governance and professional development initiatives, supporting best practices in leadership, risk oversight and sustainability.
At CORE Strategic, Cris partners with clients to foster meaningful relationships, guide strategy, and deliver results that stand up to both internal pressures and external demands.
Meet the Team
