meet thinkwell
boutique size, big impact.
That means full access to our expertise, always delivered with a personalized touch.
We’ve spent 20 years mastering how to transform complexity into clarity, uncovering opportunities and connections with an evidence-based approach.
At Thinkwell, it’s our dynamic team of thinkers and doers that makes the magic happen, tailoring success for every client.
meet our leadership team
Len Preeper
Partner, Halifax
Since founding Thinkwell in 2003, Len has reshaped how organizations approach research, providing impactful insights across industries. He also created Thinkwell Shift, leveraging his environmental passion for tangible change. An Acadia and Queen’s alumnus, he has nurtured future political minds and pollsters at universities. As part of the Entrepreneur’s Organization in Atlantic Canada, Len continues to drive research innovation that truly matters.
Carolyn O’Keefe
Partner, St. John’s
With over 20 years of experience advising clients across Canada, Carolyn is a sought-after expert in marketing research and strategy. As an Associate at the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Atlantic, Carolyn shares her expertise with tech startups, and at the Canadian Research Insights Council (CRIC) she helps shape the future of research. A Memorial grad with a B.Comm (Hons.) and CAIP designation, Carolyn continually fuels client success with her passion for research.
Kate Calnan
VP, Strategy
Kate has over 15 years of expertise in boosting organizational performance and developing strategic business initiatives. She is passionate about discovering the keys to organizational success, emphasizing business strategy, operational health, and employee well-being. With a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, she has also taught at Saint Mary’s University, blending academic insights with real-world applications. Kate’s goal is to help organizations not only function effectively, but flourish.
Lianne Sarson
VP, Research
For over fifteen years, Lianne has transformed data into actionable insights for organizations across Atlantic Canada. Her expertise drives strategic planning and supports meaningful change. With a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Saint Mary’s University, Lianne is all about crafting practical, evidence-based solutions that resonate with each client's unique culture and needs.
Allan Gates
VP, New Brunswick
Allan brings decades of strategic experience to Thinkwell, where he leads client service and business development in New Brunswick. Prior to joining Thinkwell, he co-founded Bonfire Communications, an integrated marketing communications agency, and the business news website Huddle, acquired by Acadia Broadcasting Limited in 2019. Allan started his career on Parliament Hill and also worked in progressively senior roles with agencies in Saint John, Halifax and Boston, including CCL, Extreme Group and SHIFT Communications. Allan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Public Relations, and a Master of Arts in Communication from Mount Saint Vincent University.
get started with thinkwell
