A life-long learner, Jennifer worked as a coach and then educator for 20 years, before joining her husband Patrick O’Connor in founding Blackwood Family Enterprise Services. Jennifer started filling in to solve day-to-day issues, but quickly moved into managing the business’ daily operations and finances. In 2019, Jennifer proudly transitioned her financial oversight role to her daughter, Caitilin O’Connor.

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Master relationship builder.

Today, as Chief Operating Officer, Jennifer works across the Blackwood enterprise to maintain Blackwood’s values of curiosity, innovation, and integrity. Jennifer deeply understands the challenges of managing an expanding family enterprise. She is able to draw on her work as an educator to assist in developing creative and impactful experiences for the enterprising families that Blackwood serves.

Leading with empathy and a belief in the power of collaboration, Jennifer works to make sure the team at Blackwood continues to exceed client expectations and be a thought and action leader in the family enterprise advising space.

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Community-driven ethos.

Driven by her commitment to education and social justice, Jennifer is an active volunteer with a variety of community-based organizations. Currently Jennifer is also serving on the Board of Wayfinder’s Manitoba and the Manitoba Regional Board of Nature Conservancy of Canada.

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Jennifer is proud of the genuine, personal relationships she has built with her children. Away from work, Jennifer enjoys travelling, especially to see her daughters, and just being active in nature: hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.