Richard's Background

Experience:
  • Senior Business Development Manager, Real Estate - Calgary Economic Development
  • Financial Analyst; Vice President, Installations - SMED International
  • Consultant; Financial management, business strategy - TractionWorks     
  • Co-owner - PORTS International stores, Calgary
  • Landman - Hudson’s Bay Oil & Gas, Dome Petroleum
Education:
  • Mount Royal University - Certified Commercial Investment Member – in progress 
  • University of Calgary - MBA, Finance and Marketing 
  • Mount Royal College - Petroleum Landman Certification 
  • Carleton University - BA (Hons) Economics and International Relations 

Community Leadership:
  • Victoria Park-Stampede Expansion Advisory Committee - Member, City Council appointee 
  • Uptown 17 Business Revitalization Zone (BRZ) - Founding Chair of Calgary’s first BRZ 
  • Famous 5 Foundation - Financial, strategic, and marketing advisor 
  • University of Calgary - Haskayne School of Business, Instructor
Awards:
  • Calgary Immigrant Aid Society - Honorary Lifetime Member 
  • Economic Development Alberta - Economic Developer of the Year
  • Calgary Economic Development - ‘Gorilla’ Marketing Award

Richard arrived in Calgary from Ottawa in 1979.  He has been happily married for 30 years to Frances who publishes MOMpreneur® magazine.

Find out more about Richard by reading his pamphlet and brochure

A sample of Ward 6 residents offering the following enthusiastic comments about Richard

Aspen
I've known Richard personally and professionally for some time now. With his knowledge and experience I have no doubt that his ideas will be implemented with great success in Ward 6
Jimmy Diep

Coach Hill
I have had the pleasure of working with Richard in his capacity with Calgary Economic Development and always found him to be very professional, energetic and dynamic. Richard is deeply committed to making our Ward and city a safe, vibrant place in which to raise our kids, work and retire; and would be a great asset to Ward 6 and Calgary City Council. 
Leann Hackman-Carty 

Christie Park
I know Richard to be a very capable leader and strong voice for people. I look forward to having him as my Alderman.
Christine Chin

Cougar Ridge 
Richard has been a family friend for 15 years. We know him to be a very skilled and public spirited community service leader
A. Murphy

Discovery Ridge 
Richard has the business background, community and life experience, and personal commitment to be an outstanding alderman. My family and I are proud to know him and he has 100% of our support.
Ally Taylor

Glenbrook 
 I have known Richard as a family friend for many years. I know he is an excellent leader in business and the community and will be a fine Alderman.
Evan Dixon

Glendale  
With the next few years being some of the most critical in the history of our city, it is important that the voice we have in office for Ward 6 understands the workings of the city and the complexities that go along with. Richard Pootmans has a strong background in working with the City of Calgary both in the private sector and also as a Senior Business Development Manager at Calgary Economic Development.  Richard’s skill sets will ensure Ward 6 has an articulate voice in the planning and direction of Calgary which will help us prosper and ensure our Ward is well represented, now and in the future.      
Luke Azevedo

Patterson 
We have known Richard through his various community endeavors for 20 years.  He is a passionate and committed member of all the teams he works on to achieve successful results 
Mike & Mary Kirby

Signal Hill
I have worked with Richard when I was in the public sector and now in the private sector. I know his blend of business and municipal experience will serve us well as Alderman for Ward 6.
Michael Brander

Springbank Hill  
I have known Richard for a dozen years now. He is intelligent, energetic and highly skilled.  With a strong economic background and a solid understanding of City business and the long term vision for Calgary, I know he will do an excellent job of representing the interests of Ward 6 and our residents.  
Hazel Gillespie

West Springs 
I have known Richard over the years to be a man of intelligence and integrity.
Lois Alger

Strathcona
I have been acquainted with Richard for the past six years. He is honest, hard working and a keen listener. But most importantly, Richard is passionate about Calgary. I believe he will be committed to representing the interests of the Ward 6 constituents.
Kathy Falla

Christie Park
Richard is an ideal candidate for this ward. He not only understands the needs of our ward but has a broad perspective that will be able to resolve some of the city wide issues that Council will face in the future.
Burke Darling