Make no mistake about it, the people who work at Central 1 are driven to make a difference in Canada’s banking industry. We have assembled a team of people who apply their curiosity, courage, and smarts to powering Canada’s financial institutions. They can’t wait to collaborate with you.
Sheila Vokey
President and CEO
Sheila is the President and CEO of Central 1. She has over 25 years of business experience with proven talent providing business, risk and financial leadership. She is recognized for translating corporate strategy into action, providing insights on key investments, and leading change and effective operations. Her past experience includes Payments Canada and The Bank of Canada.
Kathy Parslow
Chief Corporate Services Officer
Kathy joins Central 1 as Chief Corporate Services Officer. She comes to Central 1 from over 20 years at ICBC, holding both line of business and corporate executive positions since 2012. She is an avid sailor, and when she’s not at work she can be found exploring the beautiful B.C. coast with her three children and husband.
Erick Wong
Chief Product Officer
Erick has more than 25 years of experience in platform-based digital product innovation, shaping vision, strategy and roadmaps. He’s a proven leader with extensive experience nurturing and growing technology product management teams. His global business experience in financial services, product and technology will enhance the conversations we have, decisions we make and approaches we take. Erick has a great passion for his work.
Julie Breuer
Chief Client Experience Officer
Julie is a masterful connector. She is responsible for all member/owner-related aspects of relationships with Class A members of Central 1. Julie joined Central 1 in February 2016, bringing more than a decade of experience in the credit union system. Her incredible talent to connect has taken her to over 65 countries to live, work and play. Nowadays Julie calls Canada home where she makes an impact as an elected member of the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada’s Board of Directors.
Brent Clode
Chief Investment Officer
Brent joined Central 1 in July 2015, bringing 19 years of professional experience in banking and insurance. He is responsible for managing Central 1’s investment portfolio and liquidity functions, as well as overseeing Treasury and Funding, capital markets, commercial lending and system securitization.
Dave Thomas
Chief Technology Officer
Dave has proven leadership skills and an excellent track record in a diverse set of domains including IT strategy and transformation, application development and management, data centre/infrastructure operations consulting, and technology outsourcing.
Carol Ann Northcott
Chief Risk Officer
Carol Ann’s deep experience in risk management in the finance industry brought her to Central 1 in early 2023. Having held chief risk officer roles for both the Bank of Canada and Payments Canada, Carol Ann not only has extensive experience in finance and payments, but she has also played key roles in leading risk teams through transformation. Carol Ann holds an honours bachelor of science degree and a masters in Economics from the University of Toronto. In her spare time, she is active in her community volunteering with two fabulous youth-centered organizations, the Ottawa Children’s Choir and Kids Kicking Cancer Ottawa.
Emma Hider
Chief Financial Officer
Emma is the Chief Financial Officer of Central 1 and responsible for leading Central 1’s finance department. Emma is a seasoned CFO having over 20 years working in the financial services sector overseeing financial activities such as accounting, tax, regulatory reporting, stress testing, strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting.
Sheila Vokey
President and CEO
Sheila is the President and CEO of Central 1. She has over 25 years of business experience with proven talent providing business, risk and financial leadership. She is recognized for translating corporate strategy into action, providing insights on key investments, and leading change and effective operations. Her past experience includes Payments Canada and The Bank of Canada.
Kathy Parslow
Chief Corporate Services Officer
Kathy joins Central 1 as Chief Corporate Services Officer. She comes to Central 1 from over 20 years at ICBC, holding both line of business and corporate executive positions since 2012. She is an avid sailor, and when she’s not at work she can be found exploring the beautiful B.C. coast with her three children and husband.
Erick Wong
Chief Product Officer
Erick has more than 25 years of experience in platform-based digital product innovation, shaping vision, strategy and roadmaps. He’s a proven leader with extensive experience nurturing and growing technology product management teams. His global business experience in financial services, product and technology will enhance the conversations we have, decisions we make and approaches we take. Erick has a great passion for his work.
Julie Breuer
Chief Client Experience Officer
Julie is a masterful connector. She is responsible for all member/owner-related aspects of relationships with Class A members of Central 1. Julie joined Central 1 in February 2016, bringing more than a decade of experience in the credit union system. Her incredible talent to connect has taken her to over 65 countries to live, work and play. Nowadays Julie calls Canada home where she makes an impact as an elected member of the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada’s Board of Directors.
Brent Clode
Chief Investment Officer
Brent joined Central 1 in July 2015, bringing 19 years of professional experience in banking and insurance. He is responsible for managing Central 1’s investment portfolio and liquidity functions, as well as overseeing Treasury and Funding, capital markets, commercial lending and system securitization.
Dave Thomas
Chief Technology Officer
Dave has proven leadership skills and an excellent track record in a diverse set of domains including IT strategy and transformation, application development and management, data centre/infrastructure operations consulting, and technology outsourcing.
Carol Ann Northcott
Chief Risk Officer
Carol Ann’s deep experience in risk management in the finance industry brought her to Central 1 in early 2023. Having held chief risk officer roles for both the Bank of Canada and Payments Canada, Carol Ann not only has extensive experience in finance and payments, but she has also played key roles in leading risk teams through transformation. Carol Ann holds an honours bachelor of science degree and a masters in Economics from the University of Toronto. In her spare time, she is active in her community volunteering with two fabulous youth-centered organizations, the Ottawa Children’s Choir and Kids Kicking Cancer Ottawa.
Emma Hider
Chief Financial Officer
Emma is the Chief Financial Officer of Central 1 and responsible for leading Central 1’s finance department. Emma is a seasoned CFO having over 20 years working in the financial services sector overseeing financial activities such as accounting, tax, regulatory reporting, stress testing, strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting.
Sheila Vokey
President and CEO
Sheila is the President and CEO of Central 1. She has over 25 years of business experience with proven talent providing business, risk and financial leadership. She is recognized for translating corporate strategy into action, providing insights on key investments, and leading change and effective operations. Her past experience includes Payments Canada and The Bank of Canada.
Kathy Parslow
Chief Corporate Services Officer
Kathy joins Central 1 as Chief Corporate Services Officer. She comes to Central 1 from over 20 years at ICBC, holding both line of business and corporate executive positions since 2012. She is an avid sailor, and when she’s not at work she can be found exploring the beautiful B.C. coast with her three children and husband.
Erick Wong
Chief Product Officer
Erick has more than 25 years of experience in platform-based digital product innovation, shaping vision, strategy and roadmaps. He’s a proven leader with extensive experience nurturing and growing technology product management teams. His global business experience in financial services, product and technology will enhance the conversations we have, decisions we make and approaches we take. Erick has a great passion for his work.
Julie Breuer
Chief Client Experience Officer
Julie is a masterful connector. She is responsible for all member/owner-related aspects of relationships with Class A members of Central 1. Julie joined Central 1 in February 2016, bringing more than a decade of experience in the credit union system. Her incredible talent to connect has taken her to over 65 countries to live, work and play. Nowadays Julie calls Canada home where she makes an impact as an elected member of the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada’s Board of Directors.
Brent Clode
Chief Investment Officer
Brent joined Central 1 in July 2015, bringing 19 years of professional experience in banking and insurance. He is responsible for managing Central 1’s investment portfolio and liquidity functions, as well as overseeing Treasury and Funding, capital markets, commercial lending and system securitization.
Dave Thomas
Chief Technology Officer
Dave has proven leadership skills and an excellent track record in a diverse set of domains including IT strategy and transformation, application development and management, data centre/infrastructure operations consulting, and technology outsourcing.
Carol Ann Northcott
Chief Risk Officer
Carol Ann’s deep experience in risk management in the finance industry brought her to Central 1 in early 2023. Having held chief risk officer roles for both the Bank of Canada and Payments Canada, Carol Ann not only has extensive experience in finance and payments, but she has also played key roles in leading risk teams through transformation. Carol Ann holds an honours bachelor of science degree and a masters in Economics from the University of Toronto. In her spare time, she is active in her community volunteering with two fabulous youth-centered organizations, the Ottawa Children’s Choir and Kids Kicking Cancer Ottawa.
Emma Hider
Chief Financial Officer
Emma is the Chief Financial Officer of Central 1 and responsible for leading Central 1’s finance department. Emma is a seasoned CFO having over 20 years working in the financial services sector overseeing financial activities such as accounting, tax, regulatory reporting, stress testing, strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting.
Yuen Newbrook
Client Relationship Manager
Yuen is a Client Relationship Manager with over 14 years of experience at Central 1. She is a Strategic IT Professional with experience building relationships and implementing complex enterprise solutions. An active rock climber, she has scaled rock walls in 5 different countries
Jessica Morettie
Client Development Director
Jessica’s energy for powering progress among Canada’s credit unions comes from over 20 years’ experience of working closely with them to create and implement digital banking and payments services and features. Jessica is an expert in strategic client management and roadmap planning. A true collaborator in the space, Jessica also chairs Central 1’s Product Advisory Council. Jessica’s passion in life is for the outdoors. A lifelong skier, Jessica’s latest achievement is seeing her two girls ski for the first time.
Kathy Green
Client Development Director
Kathy Green spent 15 years travelling the world working on cruise ships. With her global experience, she brings an adventurous spirit to the Client Development team. She is known for her collaborative leadership and supportive guidance. When she’s not helping credit unions Kathy can be found exploring the outdoors with her husband and two children. She is also a proud billet Mom to a Hamilton Hockey player (OHL)- Go Bulldogs!
Shannon Crowley
Client Development Director
When Shannon isn’t singing B-52’s Love Shack at the CCUA conference, you can catch him improving client satisfaction, working on client development and expanding usage of Central 1’s products and services as a Client Development Director. He has over 15 years of asset management and account management experience in the financial services industry taking him to work in New Zealand, Australia, UK and Canada. On the weekends you can see him training his four year old to be one of the next All Blacks rugby players.
Ian Robertson
Client Development Manager
Ian Robertson is responsible for leading the relationship with client accounts and providing proactive contact to maintain business, improving client satisfaction and expanding usage of Central 1’s Direct Banking and Payments products and services. He has extensive experience in all facets of Operations, Business Development, Retail Banking, Wealth Management, Small Business, Training and Development, Risk Management and Customer Acquisition and Retention Strategies.
Barbara Symons
Client Development Director
As the Client Development Director, Barbara is responsible for clients ranging from C-Suite to management. Her work ensures that clients have the tools and assistance they need to drive their businesses forward. Barbara has been with Central 1 for over 17 years, allowing her to foster deep relationships with Canadian Credit Unions. On the weekends, Barbara can be found skiing with her family or trying new culinary delights.
Sasa Recnik
Client Success Lead
Sasa (pronounced Sasha) was born and raised in Slovenia and now calls Canada her home. With over seven years of experience in the credit union space, she is a passionate and highly motivated individual driven to find innovative ways to serve clients’ needs. She is a proven leader with strong relationship building successes with clients and colleagues. A city dweller who loves nature, Sasa finds new adventures along her travels. In her free time, she volunteers, mentors, and plans events in her community.
Yuen Newbrook
Client Relationship Manager
Yuen is a Client Relationship Manager with over 14 years of experience at Central 1. She is a Strategic IT Professional with experience building relationships and implementing complex enterprise solutions. An active rock climber, she has scaled rock walls in 5 different countries
Jessica Morettie
Client Development Director
Jessica’s energy for powering progress among Canada’s credit unions comes from over 20 years’ experience of working closely with them to create and implement digital banking and payments services and features. Jessica is an expert in strategic client management and roadmap planning. A true collaborator in the space, Jessica also chairs Central 1’s Product Advisory Council. Jessica’s passion in life is for the outdoors. A lifelong skier, Jessica’s latest achievement is seeing her two girls ski for the first time.
Kathy Green
Client Development Director
Kathy Green spent 15 years travelling the world working on cruise ships. With her global experience, she brings an adventurous spirit to the Client Development team. She is known for her collaborative leadership and supportive guidance. When she’s not helping credit unions Kathy can be found exploring the outdoors with her husband and two children. She is also a proud billet Mom to a Hamilton Hockey player (OHL)- Go Bulldogs!
Shannon Crowley
Client Development Director
When Shannon isn’t singing B-52’s Love Shack at the CCUA conference, you can catch him improving client satisfaction, working on client development and expanding usage of Central 1’s products and services as a Client Development Director. He has over 15 years of asset management and account management experience in the financial services industry taking him to work in New Zealand, Australia, UK and Canada. On the weekends you can see him training his four year old to be one of the next All Blacks rugby players.
Ian Robertson
Client Development Manager
Ian Robertson is responsible for leading the relationship with client accounts and providing proactive contact to maintain business, improving client satisfaction and expanding usage of Central 1’s Direct Banking and Payments products and services. He has extensive experience in all facets of Operations, Business Development, Retail Banking, Wealth Management, Small Business, Training and Development, Risk Management and Customer Acquisition and Retention Strategies.
Barbara Symons
Client Development Director
As the Client Development Director, Barbara is responsible for clients ranging from C-Suite to management. Her work ensures that clients have the tools and assistance they need to drive their businesses forward. Barbara has been with Central 1 for over 17 years, allowing her to foster deep relationships with Canadian Credit Unions. On the weekends, Barbara can be found skiing with her family or trying new culinary delights.
Sasa Recnik
Client Success Lead
Sasa (pronounced Sasha) was born and raised in Slovenia and now calls Canada her home. With over seven years of experience in the credit union space, she is a passionate and highly motivated individual driven to find innovative ways to serve clients’ needs. She is a proven leader with strong relationship building successes with clients and colleagues. A city dweller who loves nature, Sasa finds new adventures along her travels. In her free time, she volunteers, mentors, and plans events in her community.
Yuen Newbrook
Client Relationship Manager
Yuen is a Client Relationship Manager with over 14 years of experience at Central 1. She is a Strategic IT Professional with experience building relationships and implementing complex enterprise solutions. An active rock climber, she has scaled rock walls in 5 different countries
Jessica Morettie
Client Development Director
Jessica’s energy for powering progress among Canada’s credit unions comes from over 20 years’ experience of working closely with them to create and implement digital banking and payments services and features. Jessica is an expert in strategic client management and roadmap planning. A true collaborator in the space, Jessica also chairs Central 1’s Product Advisory Council. Jessica’s passion in life is for the outdoors. A lifelong skier, Jessica’s latest achievement is seeing her two girls ski for the first time.
Kathy Green
Client Development Director
Kathy Green spent 15 years travelling the world working on cruise ships. With her global experience, she brings an adventurous spirit to the Client Development team. She is known for her collaborative leadership and supportive guidance. When she’s not helping credit unions Kathy can be found exploring the outdoors with her husband and two children. She is also a proud billet Mom to a Hamilton Hockey player (OHL)- Go Bulldogs!
Shannon Crowley
Client Development Director
When Shannon isn’t singing B-52’s Love Shack at the CCUA conference, you can catch him improving client satisfaction, working on client development and expanding usage of Central 1’s products and services as a Client Development Director. He has over 15 years of asset management and account management experience in the financial services industry taking him to work in New Zealand, Australia, UK and Canada. On the weekends you can see him training his four year old to be one of the next All Blacks rugby players.
Ian Robertson
Client Development Manager
Ian Robertson is responsible for leading the relationship with client accounts and providing proactive contact to maintain business, improving client satisfaction and expanding usage of Central 1’s Direct Banking and Payments products and services. He has extensive experience in all facets of Operations, Business Development, Retail Banking, Wealth Management, Small Business, Training and Development, Risk Management and Customer Acquisition and Retention Strategies.
Barbara Symons
Client Development Director
As the Client Development Director, Barbara is responsible for clients ranging from C-Suite to management. Her work ensures that clients have the tools and assistance they need to drive their businesses forward. Barbara has been with Central 1 for over 17 years, allowing her to foster deep relationships with Canadian Credit Unions. On the weekends, Barbara can be found skiing with her family or trying new culinary delights.
Sasa Recnik
Client Success Lead
Sasa (pronounced Sasha) was born and raised in Slovenia and now calls Canada her home. With over seven years of experience in the credit union space, she is a passionate and highly motivated individual driven to find innovative ways to serve clients’ needs. She is a proven leader with strong relationship building successes with clients and colleagues. A city dweller who loves nature, Sasa finds new adventures along her travels. In her free time, she volunteers, mentors, and plans events in her community.
Brian Li
Financial Controller
Brian is the Financial Controller of Central 1. He is responsible for all aspects of Central 1’s financial management, including its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, accounting and overall financial compliance functions. Operating areas include external financial reporting and regulatory filings, financial planning and budgeting, internal management accounting, treasury back-office operations.
Derek Colfer
VP, Digital Products
Derek is the Vice President of Digital Product at Central 1. With over 20 years of experience in the digital space, his in-depth expertise ranges from mobile commerce start-ups and payments to digital marketing and mobile CRM. Prior to joining Central 1, Derek was Head of Digital Products at Visa Canada, responsible for several key initiatives, including Canada’s first commercial deployment of mobile payments.
Matt Carter
Director, Digital Products
Matt brings over 20 years of digital banking, payments, and marketing experience to his role as Director, Digital Products at Central 1 including previous roles at Meridian Credit Union, TD, and Citibank. Matt has lived in England and Japan and has a black belt in judo. Away from work, you can find him spending time with his family, much of which is spent either coaching or supporting his teenage son and two daughters and their teams at hockey rinks and rugby pitches across Ontario.
Robert Hayman
Head of Emerging Digital Initiatives
A new hire to C1, Rob is passionate about the intersection of business and technology. He brings nearly 20 years’ experience in Canadian financial services with former digital product roles at Visa, and Scotiabank, and holds a degree in electrical engineering. Outside of work, Rob can be found on playing tennis, making noise on his electric guitars, and spending quality time with his young family.
Ryan Poyntz
Community Business Development Manager
Ryan has joined Central 1 leading the Business Development efforts for Forge Community with the primary focus on new Fintech partnerships. Ryan brings with him a wealth of sales and partnership development experiences within the Canadian financial services industry. Outside of work you can find Ryan coaching baseball and spending time outdoors with his family.
Natalie Ebanks
Director, Treasury Services and Solutions
Natalie is currently the Director, Treasury Services and Solutions with over 10 years of experience in the credit union system. She is responsible for supporting clients, managing education and adoption of Treasury products and services. Outside of work you can find Natalie outdoors cycling, hiking and soaking up the sun.
Jim Walker
Manager, Research
With 33 years credit union experience, Jim understands the many challenges credit unions face as they compete against Canada’s banks and fintechs. When not providing research insights to Canadian credit unions he keeps busy biking, running and hiking the North Shore mountains. As a prolific up-cycler he has repurposed dozens of pieces of furniture for donation to a local North Vancouver non-profit.
Sue Whitney
VP, Payments Strategy and Relationships
Sue Whitney is an expert in Payments. As Vice President, Payments Strategy and Relationships at Central 1, and in her previous role as Head of Product Strategy and Head of Industry Relations at Payments Canada, Sue is focused on developing better payment solutions for Canadians, as a regulator, innovator and a leader of market transformation initiatives. Outside of work, Sue can be found trying to keep up with her teenage twin boys.
Bryan Yu
Chief Economist
Through his engaging economics reports Bryan has become Central 1’s local celebrity, with his work featured by various media outlets including the Globe and Mail, BNN, Bloomberg and BC Business. When he’s not keeping busy as our Chief Economist, Bryan can be found spending time with his wife and kids or volunteering with various charitable and industry associations.
Arash Taheri
Director of Quality Assurance/Quality Engineering
Arash is a workout-aholic who trains in the gym at least 6 days a week. He loves hiking, especially the “Grouse Grind” with an all-time personal best of 44’ 50’’. Arash has a small Pomeranian and absolutely loves the little guy. As the Director of Quality Engineering / Quality Assurance at Central 1, Arash is responsible for defining QA/QE processes and roadmaps, as well as implementing best practices with a high degree of focus on automation testing. With over 15 years of industry experience, Arash strives to deliver top quality products/services to clients.
Vik Gujarati
AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending
Vik joined Central 1 in 2010, bringing 12 years of experience in real estate finance. In 2014, Vik started his current role as AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending. He manages Central 1’s commercial real estate syndication portfolio partnering with financial institutions to help them meet their goals. In his free time, Vik can be found walking with his beloved, and big, St. Bernard.
Shane Kerpan
VP, Business Operations, Digital & Payments
Shane is a lifelong learner and proud family man who has been with Central 1 for over a decade. He is responsible for the strategic direction of Central 1 payment operations for the credit union systems in BC, Ontario and Atlantic Canada. He also provides similar services to credit unions in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Quintin Paulson
Director, Platforms
Quintin has been with Central 1 for 16 years. He started as a Java developer and through his natural leadership abilities and foresight has grown his career to be the manager of the platform that supports Forge. When he’s not working at Central 1 he enjoys flying racing drones.
Robert Bell
Director, Securitization & Funding Services
Robert has a background in securitization, and he is currently working with clients to provide Liquidity and Funding solutions. Outside of work, you can find Robert snowboarding on the slopes with his son and daughter during the winter (his wife hates the cold), and playing soccer with his long-standing teammates in the British Old Timers League during the summer.
Karen McDonald
Director of Government Relations
Karen McDonald has over 20 years of communications and government relations experience. She leads government relations strategy and execution for Central 1 with a focus on growing and enhancing services to credit unions. An adventurous spirit has taken Karen all around the world; she even backpacked around New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific for a year. Nowadays, her adventures are closer to home, and usually involve her faithful dog Jasper.
Brian Raine
VP, Treasury and Portfolio Management
Brian is responsible for the funding, cash management, balance sheet risk and liquidity management of Central 1. Within this role he oversees the capital markets trading business and the portfolio management of the Mandatory and Excess Liquidity Pools. He joined Central 1 in 2013, bringing over 10 years of capital markets trading experience. Brian is known for his excellent management, critical thinking skills and foresight. Brian is a proud father and outside of work you can find him spending time with his family.
Jerry Jim
VP, Enterprise IT
Jerry has over 30 years of experience in leadership roles around infrastructure, operations, transformation and IT. Jerry is known for his highly innovative work and brilliant problem-solving capabilities. His unique approach to work might come from the summer he spent following the carnival circuit when he was 18.
JP Lowes
Director, Information Security
JP (John Paul) is responsible for ensuring Information Security is part of the fabric of Central 1. He brings over 20 years of technical experience from Hospitality, Retail, Manufacturing and Financial Services sectors. After initially joining in 2011 as a Team lead in the Systems area, when Central 1 decided to grow a formal Security team in 2015 he jumped into the role with both feet. When he’s not advising on best practices or helping squash vulnerabilities he can be found somewhere in the Fraser Valley by a lake or in a forest with his wife and kids.
Tracey Kliesch
Director, Member Relations
Tracey is the Director of Member Relations where she works directly with our Class A members-owners. She comes to Central 1 with almost two decades of experience in the credit union system where she led a modest sized CU and spent years working for one for one the largest. Tracey is an enthusiastic co-operator and is the proud co-founder of CanadaDE.
Brian Li
Financial Controller
Brian is the Financial Controller of Central 1. He is responsible for all aspects of Central 1’s financial management, including its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, accounting and overall financial compliance functions. Operating areas include external financial reporting and regulatory filings, financial planning and budgeting, internal management accounting, treasury back-office operations.
Derek Colfer
VP, Digital Products
Derek is the Vice President of Digital Product at Central 1. With over 20 years of experience in the digital space, his in-depth expertise ranges from mobile commerce start-ups and payments to digital marketing and mobile CRM. Prior to joining Central 1, Derek was Head of Digital Products at Visa Canada, responsible for several key initiatives, including Canada’s first commercial deployment of mobile payments.
Matt Carter
Director, Digital Products
Matt brings over 20 years of digital banking, payments, and marketing experience to his role as Director, Digital Products at Central 1 including previous roles at Meridian Credit Union, TD, and Citibank. Matt has lived in England and Japan and has a black belt in judo. Away from work, you can find him spending time with his family, much of which is spent either coaching or supporting his teenage son and two daughters and their teams at hockey rinks and rugby pitches across Ontario.
Robert Hayman
Head of Emerging Digital Initiatives
A new hire to C1, Rob is passionate about the intersection of business and technology. He brings nearly 20 years’ experience in Canadian financial services with former digital product roles at Visa, and Scotiabank, and holds a degree in electrical engineering. Outside of work, Rob can be found on playing tennis, making noise on his electric guitars, and spending quality time with his young family.
Ryan Poyntz
Community Business Development Manager
Ryan has joined Central 1 leading the Business Development efforts for Forge Community with the primary focus on new Fintech partnerships. Ryan brings with him a wealth of sales and partnership development experiences within the Canadian financial services industry. Outside of work you can find Ryan coaching baseball and spending time outdoors with his family.
Natalie Ebanks
Director, Treasury Services and Solutions
Natalie is currently the Director, Treasury Services and Solutions with over 10 years of experience in the credit union system. She is responsible for supporting clients, managing education and adoption of Treasury products and services. Outside of work you can find Natalie outdoors cycling, hiking and soaking up the sun.
Jim Walker
Manager, Research
With 33 years credit union experience, Jim understands the many challenges credit unions face as they compete against Canada’s banks and fintechs. When not providing research insights to Canadian credit unions he keeps busy biking, running and hiking the North Shore mountains. As a prolific up-cycler he has repurposed dozens of pieces of furniture for donation to a local North Vancouver non-profit.
Sue Whitney
VP, Payments Strategy and Relationships
Sue Whitney is an expert in Payments. As Vice President, Payments Strategy and Relationships at Central 1, and in her previous role as Head of Product Strategy and Head of Industry Relations at Payments Canada, Sue is focused on developing better payment solutions for Canadians, as a regulator, innovator and a leader of market transformation initiatives. Outside of work, Sue can be found trying to keep up with her teenage twin boys.
Bryan Yu
Chief Economist
Through his engaging economics reports Bryan has become Central 1’s local celebrity, with his work featured by various media outlets including the Globe and Mail, BNN, Bloomberg and BC Business. When he’s not keeping busy as our Chief Economist, Bryan can be found spending time with his wife and kids or volunteering with various charitable and industry associations.
Arash Taheri
Director of Quality Assurance/Quality Engineering
Arash is a workout-aholic who trains in the gym at least 6 days a week. He loves hiking, especially the “Grouse Grind” with an all-time personal best of 44’ 50’’. Arash has a small Pomeranian and absolutely loves the little guy. As the Director of Quality Engineering / Quality Assurance at Central 1, Arash is responsible for defining QA/QE processes and roadmaps, as well as implementing best practices with a high degree of focus on automation testing. With over 15 years of industry experience, Arash strives to deliver top quality products/services to clients.
Vik Gujarati
AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending
Vik joined Central 1 in 2010, bringing 12 years of experience in real estate finance. In 2014, Vik started his current role as AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending. He manages Central 1’s commercial real estate syndication portfolio partnering with financial institutions to help them meet their goals. In his free time, Vik can be found walking with his beloved, and big, St. Bernard.
Shane Kerpan
VP, Business Operations, Digital & Payments
Shane is a lifelong learner and proud family man who has been with Central 1 for over a decade. He is responsible for the strategic direction of Central 1 payment operations for the credit union systems in BC, Ontario and Atlantic Canada. He also provides similar services to credit unions in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Quintin Paulson
Director, Platforms
Quintin has been with Central 1 for 16 years. He started as a Java developer and through his natural leadership abilities and foresight has grown his career to be the manager of the platform that supports Forge. When he’s not working at Central 1 he enjoys flying racing drones.
Robert Bell
Director, Securitization & Funding Services
Robert has a background in securitization, and he is currently working with clients to provide Liquidity and Funding solutions. Outside of work, you can find Robert snowboarding on the slopes with his son and daughter during the winter (his wife hates the cold), and playing soccer with his long-standing teammates in the British Old Timers League during the summer.
Karen McDonald
Director of Government Relations
Karen McDonald has over 20 years of communications and government relations experience. She leads government relations strategy and execution for Central 1 with a focus on growing and enhancing services to credit unions. An adventurous spirit has taken Karen all around the world; she even backpacked around New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific for a year. Nowadays, her adventures are closer to home, and usually involve her faithful dog Jasper.
Brian Raine
VP, Treasury and Portfolio Management
Brian is responsible for the funding, cash management, balance sheet risk and liquidity management of Central 1. Within this role he oversees the capital markets trading business and the portfolio management of the Mandatory and Excess Liquidity Pools. He joined Central 1 in 2013, bringing over 10 years of capital markets trading experience. Brian is known for his excellent management, critical thinking skills and foresight. Brian is a proud father and outside of work you can find him spending time with his family.
Jerry Jim
VP, Enterprise IT
Jerry has over 30 years of experience in leadership roles around infrastructure, operations, transformation and IT. Jerry is known for his highly innovative work and brilliant problem-solving capabilities. His unique approach to work might come from the summer he spent following the carnival circuit when he was 18.
JP Lowes
Director, Information Security
JP (John Paul) is responsible for ensuring Information Security is part of the fabric of Central 1. He brings over 20 years of technical experience from Hospitality, Retail, Manufacturing and Financial Services sectors. After initially joining in 2011 as a Team lead in the Systems area, when Central 1 decided to grow a formal Security team in 2015 he jumped into the role with both feet. When he’s not advising on best practices or helping squash vulnerabilities he can be found somewhere in the Fraser Valley by a lake or in a forest with his wife and kids.
Tracey Kliesch
Director, Member Relations
Tracey is the Director of Member Relations where she works directly with our Class A members-owners. She comes to Central 1 with almost two decades of experience in the credit union system where she led a modest sized CU and spent years working for one for one the largest. Tracey is an enthusiastic co-operator and is the proud co-founder of CanadaDE.
Brian Li
Financial Controller
Brian is the Financial Controller of Central 1. He is responsible for all aspects of Central 1’s financial management, including its subsidiaries and affiliated companies, accounting and overall financial compliance functions. Operating areas include external financial reporting and regulatory filings, financial planning and budgeting, internal management accounting, treasury back-office operations.
Derek Colfer
VP, Digital Products
Derek is the Vice President of Digital Product at Central 1. With over 20 years of experience in the digital space, his in-depth expertise ranges from mobile commerce start-ups and payments to digital marketing and mobile CRM. Prior to joining Central 1, Derek was Head of Digital Products at Visa Canada, responsible for several key initiatives, including Canada’s first commercial deployment of mobile payments.
Matt Carter
Director, Digital Products
Matt brings over 20 years of digital banking, payments, and marketing experience to his role as Director, Digital Products at Central 1 including previous roles at Meridian Credit Union, TD, and Citibank. Matt has lived in England and Japan and has a black belt in judo. Away from work, you can find him spending time with his family, much of which is spent either coaching or supporting his teenage son and two daughters and their teams at hockey rinks and rugby pitches across Ontario.
Robert Hayman
Head of Emerging Digital Initiatives
A new hire to C1, Rob is passionate about the intersection of business and technology. He brings nearly 20 years’ experience in Canadian financial services with former digital product roles at Visa, and Scotiabank, and holds a degree in electrical engineering. Outside of work, Rob can be found on playing tennis, making noise on his electric guitars, and spending quality time with his young family.
Ryan Poyntz
Community Business Development Manager
Ryan has joined Central 1 leading the Business Development efforts for Forge Community with the primary focus on new Fintech partnerships. Ryan brings with him a wealth of sales and partnership development experiences within the Canadian financial services industry. Outside of work you can find Ryan coaching baseball and spending time outdoors with his family.
Natalie Ebanks
Director, Treasury Services and Solutions
Natalie is currently the Director, Treasury Services and Solutions with over 10 years of experience in the credit union system. She is responsible for supporting clients, managing education and adoption of Treasury products and services. Outside of work you can find Natalie outdoors cycling, hiking and soaking up the sun.
Jim Walker
Manager, Research
With 33 years credit union experience, Jim understands the many challenges credit unions face as they compete against Canada’s banks and fintechs. When not providing research insights to Canadian credit unions he keeps busy biking, running and hiking the North Shore mountains. As a prolific up-cycler he has repurposed dozens of pieces of furniture for donation to a local North Vancouver non-profit.
Sue Whitney
VP, Payments Strategy and Relationships
Sue Whitney is an expert in Payments. As Vice President, Payments Strategy and Relationships at Central 1, and in her previous role as Head of Product Strategy and Head of Industry Relations at Payments Canada, Sue is focused on developing better payment solutions for Canadians, as a regulator, innovator and a leader of market transformation initiatives. Outside of work, Sue can be found trying to keep up with her teenage twin boys.
Bryan Yu
Chief Economist
Through his engaging economics reports Bryan has become Central 1’s local celebrity, with his work featured by various media outlets including the Globe and Mail, BNN, Bloomberg and BC Business. When he’s not keeping busy as our Chief Economist, Bryan can be found spending time with his wife and kids or volunteering with various charitable and industry associations.
Arash Taheri
Director of Quality Assurance/Quality Engineering
Arash is a workout-aholic who trains in the gym at least 6 days a week. He loves hiking, especially the “Grouse Grind” with an all-time personal best of 44’ 50’’. Arash has a small Pomeranian and absolutely loves the little guy. As the Director of Quality Engineering / Quality Assurance at Central 1, Arash is responsible for defining QA/QE processes and roadmaps, as well as implementing best practices with a high degree of focus on automation testing. With over 15 years of industry experience, Arash strives to deliver top quality products/services to clients.
Vik Gujarati
AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending
Vik joined Central 1 in 2010, bringing 12 years of experience in real estate finance. In 2014, Vik started his current role as AVP, Commercial Real Estate Lending. He manages Central 1’s commercial real estate syndication portfolio partnering with financial institutions to help them meet their goals. In his free time, Vik can be found walking with his beloved, and big, St. Bernard.
Shane Kerpan
VP, Business Operations, Digital & Payments
Shane is a lifelong learner and proud family man who has been with Central 1 for over a decade. He is responsible for the strategic direction of Central 1 payment operations for the credit union systems in BC, Ontario and Atlantic Canada. He also provides similar services to credit unions in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Quintin Paulson
Director, Platforms
Quintin has been with Central 1 for 16 years. He started as a Java developer and through his natural leadership abilities and foresight has grown his career to be the manager of the platform that supports Forge. When he’s not working at Central 1 he enjoys flying racing drones.
Robert Bell
Director, Securitization & Funding Services
Robert has a background in securitization, and he is currently working with clients to provide Liquidity and Funding solutions. Outside of work, you can find Robert snowboarding on the slopes with his son and daughter during the winter (his wife hates the cold), and playing soccer with his long-standing teammates in the British Old Timers League during the summer.
Karen McDonald
Director of Government Relations
Karen McDonald has over 20 years of communications and government relations experience. She leads government relations strategy and execution for Central 1 with a focus on growing and enhancing services to credit unions. An adventurous spirit has taken Karen all around the world; she even backpacked around New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific for a year. Nowadays, her adventures are closer to home, and usually involve her faithful dog Jasper.
Brian Raine
VP, Treasury and Portfolio Management
Brian is responsible for the funding, cash management, balance sheet risk and liquidity management of Central 1. Within this role he oversees the capital markets trading business and the portfolio management of the Mandatory and Excess Liquidity Pools. He joined Central 1 in 2013, bringing over 10 years of capital markets trading experience. Brian is known for his excellent management, critical thinking skills and foresight. Brian is a proud father and outside of work you can find him spending time with his family.
Jerry Jim
VP, Enterprise IT
Jerry has over 30 years of experience in leadership roles around infrastructure, operations, transformation and IT. Jerry is known for his highly innovative work and brilliant problem-solving capabilities. His unique approach to work might come from the summer he spent following the carnival circuit when he was 18.
JP Lowes
Director, Information Security
JP (John Paul) is responsible for ensuring Information Security is part of the fabric of Central 1. He brings over 20 years of technical experience from Hospitality, Retail, Manufacturing and Financial Services sectors. After initially joining in 2011 as a Team lead in the Systems area, when Central 1 decided to grow a formal Security team in 2015 he jumped into the role with both feet. When he’s not advising on best practices or helping squash vulnerabilities he can be found somewhere in the Fraser Valley by a lake or in a forest with his wife and kids.
Tracey Kliesch
Director, Member Relations
Tracey is the Director of Member Relations where she works directly with our Class A members-owners. She comes to Central 1 with almost two decades of experience in the credit union system where she led a modest sized CU and spent years working for one for one the largest. Tracey is an enthusiastic co-operator and is the proud co-founder of CanadaDE.