A powerful behind-the-scenes member of B.C.'s Liberal Party is stepping into the spotlight by winning the Liberal nomination in the Vancouver-Quilchena riding.

Former party president and deputy minister Andrew Wilkinson will replace 17-year veteran Colin Hansen who is not seeking re-election.

Wilkinson defeated former Vancouver councillor and mayoral candidate Suzanne Anton at a nomination meeting held Sunday.

The lawyer and licenced physician says he's excited to help Premier Christy Clark carry out her vision.

“First of all, the step is to go to the May 14 general election and to win the confidence of the people of Vancouver-Quilchena because of course that's not taken for granted, that's earned,” he said.

“If we work toward a successful outcome there, we'll be looking for as much momentum for the party as we can because this is part of the renewal of the party.”

He says the Liberals have a renewed team, a strong leader and momentum on their side.

More than 1,400 people voted at the nomination meeting.

“The fact that we got 1,437 people to come out to the nomination meeting suggests to me that Vancouver-Quilchena has a very, very healthy B.C. Liberal contingent,” Wilkinson said.

“We're very pleased and proud with that and I think it shows that the part is alive and well and we intend to see that spirit build across the province so we can see a good result on May 14.”

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With files from The Canadian Press