Krista Payne — Director
Krista Payne is a native of Ferryland, NL, and feels incredibly fortunate to have worked alongside Dr Jim Tuck and the crew for five + years. Those summers remain some of the most meaningful experiences of her young adult life. “The Dig” holds a very special place in her heart, and she now finds she is at a point where she wants to help ensure this important archaeological work continues to thrive for decades to come.
She is grateful for the opportunity of a seat on the board of directors to help influence its future direction, give back to the community, and contribute to a cause she cares deeply about. Serving as a board member will provide her with the opportunity to apply her expertise in a meaningful way, while also broadening her understanding of governance, strategy, and decision-making in a dynamic and impactful environment.
By way of background, she has been an entrepreneur since the age of 18, managing a variety of family business ventures, including a well known irish pub, The Blarney Stone, and residential rental properties in St. John’s, NL. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Political Science, along with a Certificate in Criminology, from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
In her current role as Provincial General Manager of Employment, Enterprise and Newcomer Services with the YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador, she oversees provincially delivered programs funded through municipal, provincial, and federal governments. These programs support individuals in gaining employment, starting businesses, and accessing services that foster successful social integration for newcomers to Canada.
Her responsibilities include securing new funding agreements, managing existing contracts, maintaining national partnerships through the YMCA Canada Federation, and providing leadership to a team of 25+ staff and volunteers. She also oversees program budgets, reporting, claims submissions, and data analysis; supervises staff within an evolving organizational structure; and works to expand services by responding to community needs and building relationships with new funding partners, all while mitigating financial risk.
