Our Team

With over 35 years of successful business and entrepreneurial experience, including 25 years in the Private Lending space specializing in agriculture, residential development, and residential homes, Robb is a practicing mortgage professional, co-founder, and co-owner of AgriRoots Capital Management Inc. – the leading alternative lender in Canada’s agricultural sector. In addition, he is the founding Principal, Broker of Record, and CEO of FamilyLending.ca Inc. – a mortgage brokerage providing residential, commercial, and agricultural mortgages – founded in 2001.

As a leading expert in agricultural lending, finance, investment, and mortgages, Robb offers deep insight and expertise to agricultural borrowers and investors alike, with the objective of keeping farming families on family farms across Canada.

A goal-driven, collaborative, and insightful professional, Robb focuses on identifying opportunities, building financial solutions, and providing high-quality client service.

As a senior executive in the financial services industry in Canada for more than 22 years, as well as having key personal experience in the agricultural industry, Shawn is an accomplished business leader in retail banking, commercial and agricultural lending, and wealth management. His robust skill set includes strategic planning, asset / liability and liquidity management, mergers and acquisitions, and enterprise risk management.

A life-long resident of Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Shawn’s understanding and affinity for the farming community provides AgriRoots with firsthand farm experience and the ability to assess and structure agricultural sector mortgages and financing that are sensitive and specific to the people and businesses in this sector. Shawn completed his MBA in Financial Services at Dalhousie University, and continues to be an active Chatham-Kent community participant through his service on a number of local Boards and Committees.

Tom is a seasoned executive in the financial services industry with over 30 years of expertise in credit operations and lending. His experience includes executive positions at Paradigm Quest, B2B Bank, and AGF Trust. Tom’s core competencies include alternative credit operations and underwriting, credit policy writing, audit preparation, underwriting systems, portfolio oversight, and relationship management.

At Farm Lending Canada, Tom leads the strategic growth and expansion of the company’s lending products and services. He works with a diverse team of professionals and partners across the country to empower Canadian farmers and homeowners by offering flexible and affordable financing options that meet their unique needs and goals.

With a strong track record in leading teams and delivering exceptional service to consumers and third-party intermediaries, Tom has established himself as a go-to specialist in the field.

Tom cherishes his time outdoors and enjoys family camping adventures. His passion for nature and quality time with loved ones aligns well with Farm Lending Canada’s commitment to supporting farmers and agriculture.

As a licensed Mortgage Broker and registered Exempt Market Dealing Representative with Belco Private Capital Inc, Matt brings 25 years of leadership experience in hospitality and property management, working closely with municipalities and Boards, along with special interest groups, to resolve problems and move issues forward. With a proven track record in successful business analysis and correction strategies, Matt offers deep insight and relationship management to all AgriRoots investors.

As a passionate life-long learner and community supporter, Matt has spent numerous hours fundraising for several non-profits including Canadian Mental Health Association, Crime Stoppers, Camlachie Athletic Association, and Bluewater Gymnastics. Matt completed his MBA at the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor.

Kim is a service-driven individual with a keen passion for providing expertise in compliance, policies, and procedures to her brokerage as Principal Broker and President of FamilyLending.ca Inc. Inc. With over 30 years of experience in mortgages, investments, and corporate governance, Kim manages all aspects of the Brokerage’s operations, including legal, regulatory compliance, policy development, financial administration, and reporting. She also provides compliance advice and expertise to all Brokerage staff and has been active in the expansion of the brokerage to BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and PEI.

Nearly 30 years of progressively senior experience, with a strong background in strategic planning, compliance, legislative interpretation/ application, process improvement, operations, business development, HR, financial administration, policy analysis, project management, reporting, and change management.

Frank is a seasoned technology professional, specializing in leading organizations through transformational change. With over 25 years of experience spearheading complex projects, Frank has successfully guided a diverse range of clients and organizations through significant technological advancements and strategic initiatives.

Frank’s industry experience is extensive and varied, encompassing Retail, Public Sector, Manufacturing, Finance/Fintech, Non-Profit, and Management Consulting. Notably, he has over 5 years of dedicated experience in the Mortgage industry, where he has demonstrated a keen ability to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and implement robust technological solutions that drive business growth.

Specialties: Frank is a well-recognized talent in collaborating with executives to evaluate business structures, set strategic directions, influence decisions, and execute complex global corporate changes. His expertise lies in aligning IT strategies with business objectives, optimizing technology investments, and fostering innovation to achieve organizational goals.

Over the past 25 years, Josée has worked with many organizations – including farms, agribusinesses and ag associations — to help them set, pursue and achieve vital corporate goals – and get the best performance from their team. She has worked for MNP Advisory Services and Encore Business Solutions. She founded Pivot Performance, a strategy and facilitation company, and merged with Backswath Management, a Western Canadian farm management consulting company.

She is now VP, Western Canada Business development, based in Winnipeg, MB. Josée will strategically connect vendors, partners, farmers and ranchers with Farm Lending Canada, facilitating their journey to success.

Josée Lemoine is a connector, strategist and an integrator. She has applied these skills as a business owner and an employee. Developing and implementing strategy is not easy, and sometimes may take you down different paths, not all of them easy! Josée is a firm believer that strategy is a journey.

As Josée is a Certified Management Consultant (CMC), she has completed a Bachelor of Commerce Honours in International Business, including a semester abroad at the Fundacao Getulio Vargas in São Paulo, Brazil. She has a Bachelor of Arts in French and Spanish and she lived in Lisbon, Portugal for a year after graduating from high school. .

Josée is a mother of two and step-mother of two more. She stays active, and enjoys reading, cooking, sipping on wine or delicious cocktails and eating dark chocolate. She enjoys golfing, cross-country skiing, and when life permits, she loves to get away and explore new parts of the country/world.

With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Stephen has established a career marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation. Stephen has a proven track record of driving growth and enhancing operational efficiency for a diverse range of financial institutions. Stephen is a champion of talent, inclusion and true collaboration. Skilled in Team Motivation, Culture Development, Insurance, Mortgage Lending, Sales and Marketing. When not at work Stephen enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and son.

Dave, a graduate of the St. Clair College business program and recipient of the President’s Award, has over 30 years of experience in the finance industry across Windsor, London, and Ottawa. He earned a Fellowship from the Institute of Canadian Banking (FCIB) while working in commercial banking. Dave has helped thousands achieve home ownership, even in challenging situations, his deep personal faith and genuine care for people drives him to always pursue the best outcome for every client.

Known for his prompt response and expertise in securing the best rates and terms, Dave is always ready to assist. Call him today at 519-567-1522. He earned the President’s Club designation from the VERIS Club Awards for achieving a minimum of $50 million in funded deals or 100 funded deals in 2021 and 2020.

Dave, a father of three and grandfather of nine, values family and treats his clients like family. He and his wife love to travel, having enjoyed over 25 cruise vacations worldwide, and cherish making new friends and experiencing diverse cultures.

Mitchell is a graduate of Brock University with a Bachelor of Accounting and brings nearly 15 years of managerial experience in the hospitality industry. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned multiple awards, consistently ranking among the top stores in Canada. This tenure has honed his appreciation for excellent service and the importance of equitable treatment of all individuals.

In his previous role, Mitchell played a key part in revamping a National Training Program and actively contributed to a National Committee comprising the country’s top operators. This committee was dedicated to sharing ideas and best practices to better the brand. This experience then exemplifies his ability to collaborate, think strategically, and assess and optimize credit processes.

In his spare time, Mitchell enjoys outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and camping.

With over 20 years of experience as a golf professional and manager, Troy has exemplary customer service skills. Troy excels in building rapport with all his clients and always strives for excellence. Troy credits his discipline, respect, and good morals to his time in the military.

With 5 years in the finance industry with FamilyLending.ca Inc., where Troy started as an Agent and worked his way to become a Mortgage Broker, Troy has assisted hundreds of clients from first-time home buyers to high-net-worth clients. Troy provides full service to all clients by guiding them through the entire process from beginning to end. His clients often comment on Troy’s willingness to go above and beyond to help them get financing. In 2020 and 2021, Troy earned the President’s Club designation from the VERIS Club Awards for achieving a minimum of $25 million in funded deals/50 funded deals.

When Troy isn’t working, you can find him on the golf course, spending time outside or cooking. As a person who grew up with a close family, Troy and his wife enjoy spending time with their children and 6 grandchildren.

As a graduate of the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics, Spencer worked as a Registered Kinesiologist in the clinical setting for over 6 years. In the past 5 years, Spencer has been a Long Term Disability Case Manager with Manulife, applying critical judgment to determine eligibility for disability benefits based on contractual, medical, and vocational barriers to return to work. This previous experience has honed Spencer’s analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex situations. Additionally, Spencer demonstrated a commitment to professional development and industry knowledge through the completion of the EQUIFAX Advanced Credit Certification Program and the Detecting and Preventing Fraud in the Mortgage Industry course. Outside of work, Spencer enjoys playing golf and spending time with family.

Kelly is a credit analyst who assists our clients under our Residential Agriculture program. She brings nearly 18 years of banking experience to the team, including 14 years as a bank manager where she won the Manager of the Year award before transitioning into the mortgage specialist role in November 2020.

Kelly has completed several notable courses and certifications throughout her career, including the Branch Manager’s Course – Compliance Officer through Investment Funds of Canada in 2012 and the Canadian Investment Funds Course through Investment Funds of Canada in 2009. She also holds a diploma in Computer Programming & Analysis from Seneca College, which she obtained in 2004.

Outside of work, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family, trying new recipes, and getting some exercise.

A seasoned prefessional in the financial services industry, Jeff brings his 17 years of experience in agricultural and commercial banking which includes enterprise management, strategic planning, portfolio and relationship management, risk analysis, underwriting and credit adjudication in the credit union, bank and private lending sectors.

As a life long resident of Perth County, Ontario, Jeff has solid roots within the farming community.  Jeff approaches each relationship with curiosity to understand the unique challenges presented to the farm and business operations and with a values added approach to partnering on collaboratively building solutions together.  Jeff enjoys giving back to his community by serving in a number leadership capacities on Boards and Committee’s.

Adam is a seasoned sales and marketing professional with a diverse background in the financial and pharmaceutical industries.  With over 25 years working in the financial services industry, Adam served as a Financial Advisor at Scotiabank, leveraging his expertise to guide clients towards sound financial decisions. He further expanded his knowledge and experience with financial roles at CIBC in Ottawa and at RBC Royal Bank in Toronto.  Mostly recently, he has transitioned as an Account Executive at Medisca Pharmaceuticals in Montreal, where he honed his skills in client relations and business development.

Now, Adam has made Chatham-Kent his home, where he is deeply committed to the community.  He is an active member of the Kiwanis Chatham-Kent service club and a dedicated volunteer at PAWR.

With a robust blend of sales acumen and financial expertise, Adam is well-equipped to help clients navigate the complexities of mortgage financing, ensuring they achieve their homeownership dreams with confidence.

Nicholas Lewandowski is an emerging finance professional with a diverse background in retail banking at TD Canada Trust and mortgage funding at First National Financial. He brings a strong foundation in customer service and financial operations, backed by a Bachelor of Commerce from McMaster University. Currently pursuing his CFA designation, Nicholas is passionate about finance and driven by a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. In his spare time, Nicholas enjoys mixed martial arts, football, golfing and reading about finance, economics and history.

Prior to joining the team as a Credit Administrator, Stephanie worked in retail banking for four years. This experience, combined with her extensive customer service background—including roles as a Supervisor and Key Holder—has given her the knowledge and insight needed to provide exceptional support to clients and fellow team members. Stephanie prides herself on understanding people’s situations and finding satisfying solutions.

Stephanie holds a Business Accounting Diploma, a Certificate in Canadian Securities Funds, and a Certificate as an Ontario Mortgage Agent.

Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing board games, and camping.

Jodyann is a graduate of St Clair College with a diploma in Business Accounting. Jodyann has over 6 years of accounting experience in various industries such as Auto, Legal, and Finance. In her spare time, you can find Jodyann reading a good book or spending time with her family.

A senior-level designer with over 17 years in the industry, Lisa excels in creating and managing design projects, and has had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of clients from Canada’s top 100 employers to well-known educational institutions. She brings exceptional creativity to every project, whether working independently or leading a team. Her strategic approach ensures compelling visual solutions that exceed client expectations.

Lisa maintains strong relationships with local and national suppliers, expertly coordinating production and delivery for trade shows, promotional items, print, and signage. Proficient with MacOS and Adobe Creative Cloud, along with experience utilizing video production software, managing online publications and websites updates.

Lisa has volunteered extensively, from corporate challenges to promote wellness, communication and teamwork, to organizing fundraisers for not-for-profits. She was an active member in academic clubs and student associations while attending college, and continues to volunteer her expertise for local events, showcasing her dedication to community support.

Nina is currently pursuing a Business Degree with a specialization in Human Resources at the University of Windsor. She is a diligent and optimistic student, consistently striving for excellence across all facets of her life, especially within the business community. Complementing her academic endeavors, Nina has attained a Grade 8 certificate in practical and theoretical music from the Royal Conservatory of Music, highlighting her dedication and versatility.

Additionally, Nina enjoys skiing, travelling, and spending time with friends and family. She values the new cultures you can learn from traveling around the world, as well as the wonderful memories made with loved ones.

Manisha is an accomplished accounting professional with expertise in tax compliance and investment planning. She holds a diploma in Financial Planning from Lambton College and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. With valuable experience gained from roles at Metro Tax and Scorpion Business Solutions, Manisha brings a strong foundation in financial strategy and client-focused solutions. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends and discovering new travel destinations.

Kyle brings a diverse background to the team; he has seamlessly transitioned from his prior role as a cook in a high-end Toronto restaurant to the finance industry. Although he is just starting out in finance, Kyle’s journey reads like a recipe for success. Having honed his communication skills in the fast-paced kitchen environment, Kyle understands the importance of clear and effective interaction. Drawing inspiration from seasoned colleagues, Kyle is dedicated to delivering top-notch service and continuously enhancing his skillset. Outside of work, Kyle finds enjoyment in swimming, music, and exploring new culinary experiences.

Tom became President and CEO of Polar Asset Management Partners in 2006, after joining the firm as Chief Financial Officer in 1994. From 1996 to 2005, Tom also acted as a Vice-President of Polar Equity Partners, an affiliated private equity manager, where he assumed a leadership role in many of the firm’s investments.

Tom began his career with Ernst & Young in 1986 after earning a B.Eng from the University of Western Ontario. He gained his Chartered Accountant designation in 1988.

Tom leads Polar’s charitable efforts through The Polar Foundation, which has contributed $3 million to “Help Communities Thrive” since its inception.

Jean is a well established professional in the Agricultural Industry. He is the Co-Founder and Principal of Laprise Farms Ltd, a very diversified, family owned Agri-business with several divisions involved in field, greenhouse, and hydroponic vegetable production as well as vegetable preparation for both the food processing and fresh market industries.

Jean has been a key advisor and held long term Director roles on local and provincial committees including; La Caisse Populaire de Pain Court, Ontario Vegetable Growers’ Marketing Board, Ontario Seedling Growers’ Marketing Board, and the 2018 International Plowing Match and Rural Expo.

In addition Jean has been recognized by many organizations, receiving Entrepreneur of the year Award (Chatham and District Chamber of Commerce), Industrial Energy Innovator Award (Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation), Feature Act Award (Chatham-Kent), and was inducted into the Chatham-Kent Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2017.

Claude is the Founder and Principal of 43 North Group, a consulting firm focused on alternative asset classes and ESG / impact investing. Formerly he was the Managing Director of IR at West Face Capital where he engaged with sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, endowments, funds of funds, and family offices in domestic and international markets. Prior to joining WestFace Capital, Claude was with CIBC World Markets where he oversaw CIBC’s Capital Introduction Group and contributed to the bank’s cross-asset capabilities. Previously, Claude co-founded a European-based real estate investment group focused on development and infrastructure projects in Eastern Europe. Formerly he was a founding partner of an asset management company launched in New York that subsequently expanded to Hong Kong and Toronto, and previously held senior roles within HSBC Securities, RBC Royal Bank, and CIBC World Markets, with a focus on alternative asset classes.

Claude is a member of McGill University’s Expert Panel in Investment Management, an advisor to UNICEF on ECD projects, a registered dealing representative of Belco Private Capital Inc., and a frequent guest speaker and lecturer on alternative investments

Highly accomplished executive with a dynamic background in residential mortgage lending, known for successfully launching start-ups and forging strategic partnerships. Renowned Canadian expert in non-prime mortgage lending (US: Non-QM) with a proven track record of launching U.S. mortgage entities into Canada. A strategic thinker with expertise in developing credit policies and risk-based pricing methodologies. Proven leadership skills and a track record for seeing projects and goals to fruition. Passionate, results-driven, and highly trusted professional.

John is currently Partner / President of North American Plant Genetics. The company sources corn, soy, sunflower, and sorghum genetics in Canada and the USA, with production and sales and marketing in the Ukraine.

John previously held the position of VP, Strategic Development for the Grain Farmers of Ontario from 2011 – 2014. He came to GFO from Hyland Seeds where he spent 34 years, ultimately ascending to the position of President which he held from 1997 – 2011.

John has extensive experience in the seed business and knowledge of the grain industry. His industry experience has included 8 years on the Executive Board of the Canadian Seed Trade Association, including a term as President in 2005 – 2006. He has served as a Director on the Ontario Agri Business Board, and is a member of the Canadian Agri-Marketing Association. Most recently, John has served on the Oilseed Innovation Partners Board, including the position of Board Chair from 2015 – 2018.

Donald Belovich is a partner at the leading law firm Stikeman Elliott LLP in the Capital Markets, Securities and Mergers & Acquisitions Groups. His practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, public financings and complex corporate reorganizations. Donald also acts as counsel to issuers and underwriters in connection with initial public offerings and other public offerings and private placements. He regularly advises issuers, boards of directors and special committees on the structuring of M&A transactions, negotiating key transaction documentation, directors’ fiduciary duties, and other corporate governance, compliance and general matters.

Donald has extensive experience in the seed business and knowledge of the grain industry.

Donald is the co-founder of 100 Guys Who Care Oakville (www.100guyswhocareoakville.ca), a grass-roots organization that raises funds and awareness for Halton, Ontario based charities. Donald was also formerly an infantry officer in the Canadian Armed Forces.

An experienced infrastructure finance leader with over 20 years of private and public sector experience. Having a successful track record of originating, structuring and financing bankable infrastructure transactions with clients ranging from First Nations, public sector institutions as well as medium-large private corporations. Successful financings have included solar, wind, geothermal, waste to energy, combined heating and power (CHP), EVs/ EV Infrastructure, battery storage, hydrogen & building retrofits for large financial institutions.

Vince Gasparro was most recently the Managing Director & Head of Sustainable Finance at Roynat Capital – Scotiabank. He provided strategic direction, leadership, and oversight – for the design and execution of the coverage model, platform, and specialized offering – for Sustainable Finance in Business Banking. This includes clean energy & environmental, social and governance (ESG) themed business while creating clean capacity/transitioning environment-intensive sectors and driving positive social impact within underserved communities/facilitating greater participation within economic progress and elevating good governance.

Vince originated, advised, structured, and financed across all asset classes (incl. senior term, mezzanine, project & construction; equity) and delivered specialized banking solutions and transaction structures – Including the financing of the largest clean energy transaction in the history of the Canadian Commercial bank. Vince adds deep experience involving clean technology, government guarantees, private/public off-takes, and social inclusion.

Vince brings 20 years of leadership, experience, relationships, and innovation in both finance & government. Previously, he was Managing Director, Corporate Development & Clean Energy Finance, at Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB), where he successfully built a leading sustainable finance business, and earned the reputation for being a respected thought-leader and trusted innovator across structuring transactions and meeting public policy imperatives. While at Vancity, Vince financed transactions ranging from the largest wastewater to energy project in the world to the Six Nations of the Grand River’s Equity in Ontario’s 2^nd largest wind farm.

Prior, he was Principal Secretary to Toronto Mayor John Tory, where he led the implementation of multiple public policy objectives. He has also served former Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin as Special Assistant, Ontario. His background crosses all levels of government.

Following on his appointment by the Government of Canada to join the official delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), Vince was once again appointed to join the official delegation to COP27 and COP28. He has a BA (Honours) from York University, an MSc from the London School of Economics, and an Executive MBA from Villanova University.

Mr. Galego is an executive lawyer and corporate director with extensive M&A and corporate finance experience. Mr. Galego is currently CEO of Apolo Capital Advisory Corp. and sits on the board of directors of several public and private companies. Mr. Galego has been the co-founder of several businesses, including LNG Energy Group (TSXV listed), ICC Labs (sold in 2018), Terrace Global (sold in 2020), Playmaker Capital (sold in 2023) and several other TSXV listed companies. Mr. Galego was previously the CEO of the Stronach Group, Agricultural Division and an advisor to Mr. Frank Stronach. Mr. Galego was named to Lexpert’s Top 40 Under 40 and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors.  Mr. Galego attended York University (Hon. B.A.), the University of Windsor (LLB) and Harvard Business School (High Potentials Leadership Program).