My career began at another Community Futures office and after working for municipal and provincial governments in economic development and operating my own small business, joining Muskoka Futures felt like things had come full circle. While being self-employed provided some great benefits, I realized it was not exactly what I was looking for – to help others succeed.

I came to the realization a number of years ago that being a goalie in hockey speaks volumes about who I am as an individual. It’s about being there for others, having a broad view of the environment, trying to predict what is about to happen and communicating that to others in order to react. This reflects what Muskoka Futures provides, support to businesses to help them succeed no matter what life throws at them.

When not at the office, or the rink, I am enjoying life with my family, and when luck strikes, relaxing off the grid at the cottage.

I’ve owned my own businesses and worked for others, from small mom and pops to large corporations, but it wasn’t until I sat down at my desk here at Muskoka Futures that I finally felt at home. I realized some time ago that what I like to do most is help people, so what better place than here, where every day I get to help people achieve their dreams. I always joke that my job description is simply ‘I’m here to help’ and my goal is that as an entrepreneur you never feel alone. I’m grateful that my role here brings out the best in me as I get to see the best of others.

When I’m not supporting entrepreneurs in my day job, I am supporting a family…mine; a husband, two teenagers, an adult daughter (with a husband and two beautiful girls), my parents, a dog and a cat!

I’ve never owned a business myself, but there’s nothing I enjoy more than being around entrepreneurs. Their ideas and passion are contagious, and I love helping however I can. I began my career in the banking world, working with one of the largest banks, then a credit union, and now here at Muskoka Futures.

My role is to provide financing for entrepreneurs to start or grow their businesses—but what I truly love is understanding the ‘why’ behind a business—the strategy, the drive, and the vision that fuel each entrepreneur. That’s where the real value lies, beyond the financials.

When I’m not working to support Muskoka’s business community, I’m with my wife and two boys—most likely at a hockey or curling rink, or floating on a lake, depending on the season.

The first 14 years of my career were spent in the gaming industry, where I worked my way up from Corporate Accounting Clerk to Compliance Manager. I always dreamed of owning my own business so transitioning to Muskoka Futures was an exciting change for me and I eagerly embraced the opportunity to be part of this team. The strong community connection and working alongside entrepreneurs excited me.

I’ve recently entered an exciting new chapter of life as my husband and I embrace our journey as empty nesters. I’m really enjoying this phase, especially watching my boys navigate their own paths through post-secondary education. I’m rediscovering my passion for travel and staying active while continuing to focus on personal and professional growth.