About Barb
My education is in business and I am an MBA graduate. My career included establishing a successful business which I operated for 13 years. I have Board experience in government, charitable and non-profit organizations. Please see my resume here
My skills include Team building, collaboration, project management, and inspired leadership. I am a team player. Listening is one of the greatest attributes anyone can develop. It allows me to approach issues with knowledge of the entire topic.
Community Involvement (current and past)
- Board Director (Treasurer) for PPC306 condominium Corporation
- Heart House Hospice, Board Member
- Brampton-Caledon East Community Living, Golf Committee
- University Women's Club, Oakville; coordinator of interest group
- Caledon Coalition of Concerned Citizens, Fundraising Committee
- Board member Caledon chapter Cancer Society of Canada
- Cycling - participated in Wellspring Peloton fundraiser which cycled from Toronto to Miami
- 200 km Ride to Conquer Cancer
- Chair the Comprehensive By-Law Review Steering Committee
- Sit on the Committee of Adjustment
- A member of the Muskoka Lakes Public Library Board
- Muskoka Lakes Golf and Country Club member
- Residents Against Muskoka Poverty
- Andy's House
- European biking tours
- Skiing
- Golfing Bridge
- Curling
- Skeet and Trap Shooting
Why I'm Running
First of all, I love Muskoka.
So I’m running for District Council because I believe our community deserves leadership that listens, includes everyone, and takes meaningful action.
With a background in public service including a term as Township Councillor, environmental stewardship, and building healthy, vibrant communities, I will champion thoughtful decision-making, responsible growth, and an exceptional quality of life for every resident.
EDUCATION & CAREER EXPERINCES
Education
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Comm.)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)
CAREER
Barb Bridgeman has built a career spanning more than 30 years as a successful entrepreneur, business owner, and executive leader. Her experience includes business operations, strategic planning, organizational leadership, project management, and guiding teams through complex challenges.
Some career highlights include:
- Founded and managed a successful life insurance brokerage for 15 years.
- Led organizational restructuring that stabilized a business and avoided bankruptcy.
- Directed major technology and reporting system implementations to improve operational efficiency.
- Built high-performing leadership teams and strengthened organizational governance.
- Increased fundraising results by 83% while leading a community hospice fundraising initiative.
- Served as Township of Muskoka Lakes Councillor and Chair of the Planning Committee, helping guide the adoption of the Township's Official Plan and supporting responsible community development.