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Cambrian Board of Directors

Meet the Board of Directors!

Judy Mathieson

Chair

Board member since 2016. Term ends 2028.

“I’m committed to fostering a strong collaborative culture. I lead by example and encourage all board members to actively contribute their diverse expertise and insights. My inclusive approach has created an environment where all directors voice their perspectives, resulting in richer discussions and better outcomes.”

As Chair, Judy works closely with Cambrian’s CEO to ensure the board remains focused on key tasks and responsibilities and is continually monitoring its strategy to meet evolving market conditions. This strong oversight and governance is critical to Cambrian’s success.

Judy’s work experience includes over 23 years with a large Canadian financial institution, including senior leadership roles in wealth management, commercial banking and branch management. She has a deep knowledge of financial services, combined with credit risk expertise and strategic planning experience, which helps inform the board.

She brings a wealth of experience in strategy, governance, and leadership to the table, having worked with organizations such as CPA Manitoba and Canada. As an Executive in Residence for the University of Manitoba Asper School of Business, Judy has been able to share her insights and expertise with the next generation of business leaders.

Judy was recently appointed as a director representing Cambrian on the board of Credit Union Central of Manitoba. She is also a Chartered Professional Accountant with an MBA from Dalhousie University and the recipient of the FCPA in 2007 for dedicated service to the accounting profession and community.

Committees & Roles

Governance, Human Resources, and Compensation Committee, Ex-officio

Risk Oversight Committee, Ex-officio

Nominating Committee, Ex-officio

Mike Emslie

Vice-Chair

Board member since 2024. Term ends 2027.

“My experiences have helped me understand the needs of business owners, employees, investors, and retirees, and the services expected by members of Cambrian Credit Union. In these times of inflation and volatile interest rates, it is as important as ever to have a financial institution you can rely on.”

With 25 years of experience as financial and operational executive, auditor, and consultant in the public and private sectors, Mike has developed a keen understanding of the importance of good governance and how to ensure it supports successful organizations.

Mike is currently the Chief Financial Officer at the University of Manitoba. He has served in executive leadership roles in Manitoba public sector organizations for the past 16 years. Mike has also worked as an auditor and consultant supporting organizations in adopting best practices with respect to finance, governance, risk management, internal control, and information technology security.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from the University of Manitoba, has a Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant (CPA, CA) designation as well as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation, and Certified Information Security Auditor (CISA) designation. He is currently enrolled in the Institute of Corporate Director’s Directors Education Program and expects to obtain the ICD.D designation in June of 2024.

Mike believes in giving back to the community and has served on numerous boards, including those of development companies, social enterprises, pension plans, insurance companies, and member-based organizations as well as several not-for-profit organizations.

Committees & Roles

Audit Committee, Chair

Governance, Human Resources, and Compensation Committee, Member

Nominating Committee, Member

Sylvie Albert

Director

Board member since 2025. Term ends 2028.

“Having served in leadership roles in academia, in my own consulting firm, and in economic development corporations, I have honed the ability to listen attentively, synthesize diverse perspectives, and drive consensus. These qualities, coupled with my experience in governance, make me well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the strategic vision and long-term success of this organization.”

As a professor and past dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Winnipeg, Dr. Sylvie Albert possesses a wealth of experience in strategic leadership, innovation, and governance. She brings a deep commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and impactful decision-making to Cambrian’s board of directors.

Over the course of her career, Sylvie has developed expertise in areas such as organizational strategy, digital transformation, and community engagement. Her research and professional practice focus on creating innovative solutions for complex challenges. She believes in building bridges between stakeholders to advance shared objectives, and is passionate about using evidence-based approaches to guide decision making and policy development.

Sylvie is the current Chair of Governance, Nominations and Personnel at Red River Mutual, where her experience includes Audit & Risks, and Investments. She is also a Past Chair or member of several funding boards, scientific committees, policy committees, and industry associations at the provincial, national and international levels.

Sylvie has published several books and disseminated information on digitalization, innovation, sustainability and governance. She has also owned a management consulting firm for over a decade, supporting governments and development projects across Canada.

Committees & Roles

Risk Oversight Committee, Member

Nominating Committee, Member

Omena Babalola

Director

Board member since 2023. Term ends 2026.

“With over 20 years’ experience in the areas of management, accounting, finance, risk management, audit, and information technology, I am skilled and experienced in identifying weaknesses in internal controls, discovering opportunities for improvement in processes, assessing impact of risks, and providing leadership to developing and implementing solutions.”

Omena has been an auditor at Manitoba Hydro for over seventeen years, specializing in information technology, contract, and operational engagements. During this time, she has acquired extensive knowledge of operations and processes in all business units, identified gaps in performance and recommended solutions, some of which resulted in changes to corporate policies. Prior to working at Manitoba Hydro, Omena was an Internal Auditor at Western Canada Lotteries Corporation for over six years.

Omena is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a bachelor’s in economics.

Omena is actively involved in the community through volunteerism, including serving on the Board of directors of various not-for-profit, charitable, and professional organizations in Winnipeg.

Committees & Roles

Audit Committee, Member

Risk Oversight Committee, Member

Cindy Genyk

Director

Board member since 2016. Term ends 2028.

“I am excited and honoured for the opportunity to serve the members, employees, and community as a board member of Cambrian Credit Union. With my expertise and hands-on experience within the credit union system, I am committed to fostering strong, sustainable growth and ensuring a resilient future for Cambrian."

Cindy brings a wealth of experience, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to the board of Cambrian Credit Union. Her professional journey spans over 25 years in executive leadership roles in cybersecurity and Information Technology. Cindy holds a Master of Science in Information Technology and certifications as a Chief Information Security Officer and Information Security Management, along with the prestigious Institute of Corporate Directors Certification.

Cindy provides key insights on strengthening Cambrian’s digital operations, enhancing cybersecurity policies, and improving risk reporting to identify and mitigate emerging risks early. She is committed to ensuring Cambrian maintains a proactive stance on risk management and compliance in an industry increasingly shaped by sophisticated cyber threats and stringent regulations.

Cindy is an active member in the community. She enjoys volunteering with and supporting organizations which make a difference in the lives of others. Cindy has successfully served on several boards including the Project Management Institute Winnipeg Chapter as Membership Committee Chair.

Cindy is proud to call Charleswood home, where she and her family enjoy everything the community has to offer. She enjoys biking the Harte Trail to Assiniboine Park and exploring the breathtaking flowers at the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. She and her family also like to visit The Leaf and Assiniboine Park together, creating lasting memories.

Committees & Roles

Governance, Human Resources, and Compensation Committee, Member

Risk Oversight Committee, Member

Scott Greenlay

Director

Board member since 2024. Term ends 2027.

“I aim to leverage my expertise in entrepreneurship, technology, and finance to align with Cambrian's needs and contribute to the organization's growth and sustainability.”

Scott’s governance experience comes with a deep understanding of board-level leadership, having served on several boards over the years as both a member and consultant.  

Scott recently retired from MNP LLP as Principal Partner and National Director, Technology Consulting, where he’s worked with credit unions and financial institutions throughout Canada, overseeing significant projects crucial to business transformation, strategic innovation, and regulatory adaptation.  

Scott’s educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, an MBA with valedictorian honors, and several certifications in human resources and technology. He recently completed the ICD.D designation. Scott has been recognized with the Governor General’s Award for Significant Contribution to the Citizens of Canada and the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award.

Scott has volunteered extensively throughout his life, including as a volunteer for the York University’s BEST entrepreneurship program and the Kidney Foundation, and is a founding member of the Lake Manitoba Stakeholders Association.

Committees & Roles

Risk Oversight Committee, Chair

Governance, Human Resources, and Compensation Committee, Member

Nominating Committee, Member

Valerie Romanow

Board Member

Board member since 2015. Term ends 2027.

“I believe financial services are as necessary as our public utilities and deserve good governance.”

Valerie has 15 years of Executive-level experience owning her own company as well as 25 years’ experience in the Investment Industry and Financial Services Industry. Valerie hopes to offer her expertise and experience as a guide to the future success of Cambrian Credit Union.

Valerie has a diploma from the Northwestern School of Business Community College, was registered with both New York Stock Exchange Institute and the Canadian Securities Institute for many years and obtained several certificates and special training related to finance and business.

Committees & Roles

Nominating Committee, Chair

Audit Committee, Member

Bonnie Saluk Chwartacki

Board Member

Board member since 2020. Term ends 2026.

“As a board member, I look forward to serving members and their communities and helping the credit union maintain sustainable growth and prosperity. My professional background and personal values will guide me in providing responsible stewardship while meeting members' expectations.”

Bonnie has more than 30 years of Financial, Investment, Benefits, Pension and Human Resource experience and has held senior executive positions with some of the largest financial services and investment firms in Canada. She retired from her role of President of People Corporation in 2019 after 11 years with the organization.  

She understands the financial needs of investors, retirees, employees and business owners, which provides her with an invaluable perspective to understand the risk and opportunities facing Members and the Cambrian Credit Union, now, and in the future.

Bonnie is active in the community, serving on the Youth Employment Services of Manitoba (YES Manitoba) board of directors and mentors Manitoba entrepreneurial businesses through North Forge Technology Exchange.

Committees & Roles

Risk Oversight Committee, Member

Guy Whitehill

Director

Board member since 2017. Term ends 2026.

“I am very excited to use my skills, experience, dedication and passion to provide guidance and oversight. I'm happy to support the future growth and profitability of Cambrian Credit Union while meeting the needs and expectations of our members and community.”

Guy retired from the role as Chief Financial Officer for Diagnostic Services Manitoba (DSM) in the summer of 2017 after 8 years in the role. Guy’s career as an accounting and finance professional has spanned more than 35 years, ranging from small, owner-operated businesses to large, publicly traded companies as well as government and crown corporations.

Guy is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Certified General Accountant (CPA, CGA). Guy has attended a number of specialty education and training programs in a variety of areas, including Board Governance and Audit Committee Practices. In the past, he has been a volunteer board member for the local chapter of the Financial Executives International organization (FEI), a volunteer board member for the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, and sat on the Audit Committee for two different grain organizations.

Committees & Roles

Governance, Human Resources and Compensation Committee, Chair

Audit Committee, Member

Cambrian's Commitment to Diversity

To increase diversity at the Board level and throughout the organization, the Board of Directors added a statement to the call for nominations material, reflecting Cambrian's commitment to diversity, as follows:

Cambrian is committed to being an organization that reflects the diversity of our membership. We value full inclusion that allows colleagues to bring their diverse voices to the workplace and connects us closer to our members and the communities we serve.

Cambrian's Executive Team

David Mortimer

President & Chief Executive Officer

James Baxter

Chief Growth Officer & President, Achieva Financial

Marilyn Brennan

Chief People & Corporate Services Officer

Esther Friesen

Chief Risk Officer

Lynne Mackan-Roy

Chief Information Officer

Deanne Magnus

Chief Financial Officer