Despite Covid-19 Challenges, New Volta CEO Optimistic For The Future
HALIFAX- The new CEO of Volta, Martha Casey, says the company will be making changes in the coming weeks and months, in response to the shifting economic realities caused by Covid-19.
The Halifax-based innovation hub is expected to release a new strategic plan this fall following consultations, and their team is a bit smaller after they did some layoffs in April. Nonetheless, Casey says Volta is still in good shape and she is optimistic for the future.
“This isn’t unique to Volta, but the uncertainty can be a challenge for planning,” said Casey. “We’re very optimistic about what we’ve seen from our resident companies and also our companies across the system; the ability to pivot and respond to what’s happening.”
“There’s challenging times ahead, so we’re focused on sustainability, but we also remain focused on inclusive innovation, ensuring that we have high-quality programming. We want to help companies grow and succeed.”
Volta, located in the heart of downtown Halifax, is a non-profit that offers businesses and innovators a place to work and collaborate with others. Their large space has private offices for rent as well as a large open area that people can use for networking. Volta also offers a variety of programs aimed at helping new businesses grow and succeed.
Casey was named interim CEO in March, replacing outgoing CEO Jesse Rogers. She joined Volta back in 2018 as COO. Prior to that, she worked at Dalhousie University as chief of staff and executive director to the President.
Her most interesting work experience came years before when she worked for New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s administration. For many, Bloomberg is a controversial figure in New York politics, but Casey says she enjoyed her time working with him.
“It was a fantastic experience,” she says.
“Very positive…I think he was an outstanding Mayor. He wasn’t beholden to political…sway.”
Volta has already gone through some significant changes due to the pandemic. Programs that used to be offered in-person have now been moved online, which has proven to be successful. Through the virtual world, Volta has been able to help teach companies how to pivot their business in the ‘new normal’. Many entrepreneurs have found it easier to network online than face-to-face.
“Virtual (workplaces) can offer tremendously valuable community experience as well,” said Casey.
Covid-19 caused the Volta offices and networking space to close down last spring, but during the summer has been slowly opening back up. The networking space reopened in July, with social distancing and face mask rules. And, on August 10, the coffee shop inside the Volta building reopened; yet many people have decided to stay home for the time being.
“I think everyone’s waiting to see what happens with the masks and how things are shaping up,” said Casey. “But there’s been an expression that people want to be back in social environments.”
Volta recently implemented a new mask policy that will hopefully encourage people to return to the workspace. Before, Volta had a mask policy that was “stricter than the province’s,” according to Casey. Now, as long as someone remains seated at a socially-distanced desk, they can lower their mask while eating, drinking, or doing work. Casey says this complies with the provincial health mandate.