As part of the FirstOntario Credit Union family, Creative Arts Financial members can make a difference by running for FirstOntario’s Board of Directors.
As a proud member of FirstOntario Credit Union for more than 30 years, with over 12 years of experience as a director on the board, I am eager to leverage my skills and experience to enhance our Board's efforts to benefit our members, partners, and the community. I look forward to the opportunity to return to the Board and uphold our member-focused values. It’s important that we continue to operate our Credit Union based on the core values that differentiate the credit union from a bank, which means being democratic, community-based and focused on our members' needs. I am dedicated to nurturing the community relationships we have built over the years.
Over 40 years of experience serving on a variety of Boards and committees:
It would be an honour to once again serve on the Board of FirstOntario Credit Union and continue prioritizing our members and the long-term success of our credit union. As a member and a small business member, I was awarded the inaugural 2016 FirstOntario Credit Union’s 1Awards Niagara for small business entrepreneurs. I am committed to cooperative principles, member-owner values and investment in our communities. I have over 30 years’ experience providing accounting services to a variety of businesses, dealing with many financial institutions and entrepreneurial/start-ups. My financial literacy, prudent decision making, independent voice, leadership skills and community relations are positive contributions to safeguarding members’ best interests.
Since taking out my first mortgage and car loan with a credit union, I have always felt that I am treated as a person and not just a number. I believe in being part of a co-operative organization that puts value on members’ needs ahead of corporate profits. I strongly believe in the value and principles of the credit union movement and wish to continue to serve on the Board of Directors of FirstOntario to fulfill these ideals.
My strong financial background and over 30 years of credit union experience as a Board Director allow me to be an effective contributor to monitoring FirstOntario’s performance and managing risks. I have been involved in several successful merger/acquisition events and can add valuable input on any future opportunities. I feel that I have the experience to make a meaningful contribution as a Director for FirstOntario members.
If you’re new to Creative Arts Financial, book a virtual appointment to get started on your membership application.
Already a member? Contact us to open a new account.
If you’re new to Creative Arts Financial, book a virtual appointment to get started on your membership application.
You can also apply online through our self‑serve platform, powered by FirstOntario Credit Union. Select Creative Arts in the Preferred branch drop‑down.
If you’re new to Creative Arts Financial, book a virtual appointment or complete your membership application online.
If you’re new to Creative Arts Financial, book a virtual appointment or complete your membership application online.
Already a member? Log in to online banking.
| Friday, April 3, 2026 | Good Friday |
| Monday, May 18, 2026 | Victoria Day |
| Wednesday, July 1, 2026 | Canada Day |
| Monday, August 3, 2026 | Civic Holiday |
| Monday, September 7, 2026 | Labour Day |
| Wednesday, September 30, 2026 | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation* |
| Monday, October 12, 2026 | Thanksgiving Day |
| Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | Remembrance Day* |
| Thursday, December 24, 2026 | Christmas Eve** |
| Friday, December 25, 2026 | Christmas Day |
| Monday, December 28, 2026 | Observation of Boxing Day* |
| Thursday, December 31, 2026 | New Year's Eve** |
| Friday, January 1, 2027 | New Year's Day 2027 |
* Member Service Centre, Member Solutions Team and Personal Assisted Tellers will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
** On December 24 and December 31, branches will close at 1 p.m. Our Member Service Centre and Personal Assisted Teller services will be available from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Member Solutions Team can be reached from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Nick has spent 20 years in the financial services industry, both in Canada and abroad. During his time at another Ontario-based credit union, his background in financial planning enabled him to help clients achieve both long- and short-term goals, including retirement planning, home purchases, tax minimization, and savings. Through this experience, he developed a strong appreciation for the cooperative approach that credit unions offer, making his role at Creative Arts Financial particularly meaningful.
Nick is passionate about guiding members to achieve their financial goals and making planning for the future more accessible. He is also dedicated to promoting financial literacy for the next generation, aiming to help build a better tomorrow.
Leading the Internal Audit team at FirstOntario, Judy is responsible for providing assurance and advisory services to enable the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors in their oversight role, and to support senior leadership in achieving organizational goals. She has 30 years of experience in Internal Audit, Risk Management, Process Improvement, Human Resources, Vision and Strategy. Judy has lived and worked across Canada and the US, including global leadership roles with AIG, American Express, Concentra Bank, MetLife, Oracle and PwC in Toronto, San Francisco, and New York City.
Judy holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Accounting degree from the University of Waterloo. She has the designations of Chartered Professional Accountant, Chartered Accountant and Certified Internal Auditor. She has also received certifications in Six Sigma Black Belt and the Kanban System Design and is a registered Scrum Master.
Mudasir Marfatia leads the Legal, Governance, and Government Relations functions at FirstOntario, steering the organization through a dynamic regulatory and business environment.
A results-driven legal professional, Mudasir possesses deep expertise in corporate, financial services, and technology law. Before joining FirstOntario, he honed his skills at leading law firms, including McMillan LLP and Thornton Grout Finnigan LLP, where he advised clients on complex regulatory matters, distressed M&A, lending arrangements and enforcement actions within the financial services sector.
Following a successful career in private practice, Mudasir served as Assistant General Counsel at Ernst & Young LLP, where he provided strategic legal counsel supporting the technology and consulting practices. In addition, Mudasir led internal acquisitions and structured novel arrangements for new service offerings.
Mudasir has been consistently recognized by his peers and was awarded General Counsel of the Year in the Banking and Financial Services category at the prestigious 2024 Lexology Awards Gala for North America.
He holds both Undergraduate and Master’s degrees from the Richard Ivey School of Business at Western University and earned his Juris Doctor from Osgoode Hall Law School.
With over 20 years of extensive experience acquired through progressive roles in the credit union sector, Sheila is a seasoned professional specializing in risk management. Holding a Business Diploma from Niagara College, a Canadian Risk Manager (CRM) designation from the Global Risk Institute and a Risk Management Diploma from the University of Toronto, Sheila brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
Sheila is responsible for leading the risk management and compliance team, ensuring that enterprise risks are identified, managed and effectively optimized. Her role includes oversight of privacy, compliance, anti-money laundering, enterprise risk management and fraud, as well as corporate insurance and corporate security. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong ability to provide strategic risk management solutions across various industries.
With a commitment to excellence and continuous learning, Sheila has positioned herself as a trusted advisor and leader. Her comprehensive understanding of risk management principles and practices ensures that she can effectively mitigate risks and enhance organizational resilience.
Senior Vice President, Information Technology, Michael Walsh, oversees the FirstOntario IT Division, which includes IT Governance, Project Management Office, Infrastructure, Security, IT Operations, Service Support Desk, Intelligence and Analytics, Application Development, Quality Assurance and Application Support as well as Digital Innovation.
A senior IT management professional with over 30 years’ experience in Information Technology, Michael’s vast experience includes more than 20 years of managing and directing IT teams, while developing and aligning strategic and tactical plans with corporate objectives.
Michael joined the credit union system in 2005 at FirstOntario, managing the IT Infrastructure team and graduating to the position of Director, Enterprise Technology. It was during this time that Michael implemented best practices for Data Centre management and network design. He then went on to assist with a banking migration to Temenos Transact.
Certified on IBM AS/400 systems and with his PMP certification, Michael is a lifelong learner and respected leader in the IT space.
As Senior Vice President, Alternative Investments, Rob Cefaratti is responsible for the strategic direction and operations of the Alternative Investment Department. Rob boasts more than 35 years of experience in the financial services industry, holding progressive roles within both the banking and credit union systems. Proudly, he has spent the last 25 years with FirstOntario, holding positions such as Executive Vice President, Credit, Vice President, Business Banking Group and Director, Retail Banking.
Rob holds a Bachelor of Arts from Western University, an Honour’s Bachelor of Business Administration from Brock University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Dalhousie University. Presently, Rob is completing the Chartered Director certification from McMaster University.
Invested in the community, Rob has held numerous positions with chambers of commerce, Rotary Clubs and United Way agencies throughout the Niagara Region.
A strategic marketing professional with over 25 years of experience in retail, B2B and the financial services industry, Joanne Battaglia has held senior Marketing positions with such companies and Dylex, Diversey, Kodak, CUMIS and Canadian Tire Financial Services.
Joanne joined FirstOntario in 2011 as Director of Marketing & Product Strategy, before being promoted to Senior Vice President Marketing, Communications & Community Partnerships in 2022. In this role, she leverages her marketing expertise, passion for community social responsibility and innovative approach to business to create impact in the communities that FirstOntario serves.
An active and dedicated member of the community, Joanne is currently Director on the Hamilton Bulldogs Foundation, Director with Ontario Credit Union Charitable Foundation board, Director with Cancer Assistance Program – Hamilton (CAP), and an active member of Hamilton’s Tiger-Town Council. She has previously served as Vice-President on the Stoney Creek Chamber of Commerce board and as Director on St. Joseph’s Villa Foundation board.
She holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University and an Executive Management Diploma from the DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University.
Chief Retail Banking Officer, David Moore, is responsible for leading and executing strategies across the Retail Banking Group; Alternative Delivery Channels; Marketing, Communications and Community Partnerships; Human Resources and Learning and Development. David plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, enhancing member experience and fostering a positive organizational culture. Additionally, he has oversight of specialized divisions, including the Dealer Centre, Mortgage Broker, Digital Services and Creative Arts Financial.
David has over 24 years of experience driving innovation, transformation and growth within the financial services industry. He has held a variety of executive roles throughout his career leading digital banking, analytics, marketing, finance, operations and sales at several of the largest credit unions in Canada. David has a BA and an MBA in business and economics from Wilfrid Laurier University.
John Doran is the Chief Financial Officer at FirstOntario Credit Union and is responsible for leading the Finance, Treasury and Procurement teams.
John’s expertise has been central to FirstOntario’s success in developing and delivering strategies designed to enhance profitability, safeguard members’ assets, create value for the membership and maximize FirstOntario’s financial contributions to local communities.
Throughout his tenure, John has been a valued member of the credit union’s executive team, providing effective leadership for a variety of significant and complex projects. As an active member of the credit union community and a financial expert, John is a frequently sought after speaker and has presented on a variety of topics at regional and national finance and treasury-focused conferences. He has also represented FirstOntario as a key interested party during regulator consultation processes.
John received a Bachelor of Accounting degree from Brock University and is both a designated Chartered Professional Accountant and a Chartered Financial Analyst.
As the Chief Investment Officer of FirstOntario Credit Union, Kevin Tom is responsible for generating revenue outside the core retail business through the operations of Alternative Investments and Non-Margin Income, Wealth, Credit – Commercial and Retail, FirstOntario Insurance Brokers and our Business Banking Group.
Kevin has more than 25 years of experience within the financial services industry through progressive roles held at banks and credit unions.
His most recent experience includes Divisional Chief Operating Officer of the Corporate Investments Division and progressive senior roles within Wealth Management and Corporate Credit. He is also a Past President of the Okanagan chapter of Chartered Financial Analysts.
Kevin received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba and holds the designations of Chartered Financial Analyst, Chartered Director and Chartered Investment Manager. He is active in the community and currently sits on the boards of directors for the Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion and the Hamilton Community Foundation.
Chief Risk Officer, Mark Perkins, oversees Risk, Credit, Operations and Administration, Strategy, as well as FirstOntario’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Social Purpose programs.
Mark has worked in the financial industry for over 30 years.
He has been with FirstOntario since 2012 and has extensive experience in business process improvement, project management, change management, product management, commercial sales, credit adjudication, risk management, strategy and syndication. He spent six years in consulting and technology roles, followed by 20 years in increasingly senior commercial sales and credit roles.
Mark holds an honours degree in economics from McMaster University and is involved with a number of local charities focused on improving the lives and safety of individuals within the FirstOntario footprint. He’s on the Board of Directors for Credit Canada, a national not-for-profit focused on credit counseling and financial literacy, as well as Food For Life, a grassroots-driven organization committed to food rescue and sustainability.
Lloyd Smith has been instrumental in FirstOntario’s ongoing success for more than 30 years. His commitment to growing the credit union to benefit members, employees and communities is central to everything Lloyd does. Over the years, this commitment has been evident in his leadership and achievements in a number of strategic areas including finance, treasury, corporate services, risk management and corporate investments.
Lloyd began his career in 1990, working at Family Savings & Credit Union (Niagara) Limited as Controller. In 1999, he was actively involved in the merger between Family Savings and Avestel Credit Union, which formed FirstOntario Credit Union. Lloyd became FirstOntario’s CEO in 2019.
An active participant in FirstOntario’s employee Blue Wave volunteer program, Lloyd is often seen out in the community, supporting a variety of initiatives that align with the credit union’s charitable priorities of youth health and wellness, affordable and sustainable housing, food insecurity and financial literacy. He also currently serves as Vice Chair of the board of directors for the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines.
Lloyd holds a Bachelor of Administration degree from Brock University, is a Chartered Professional Accountant, a Certified General Accountant and a Certified Chief Executive.
With extensive experience in governance, banking and human resources, Audrey brings a well-rounded skill set to FirstOntario’s Board of Directors. She has served on Boards overseeing corporate strategy and currently teaches business and communications at the college level.
Audrey holds a strong academic and professional foundation, including an MBA in Financial Services and an MA in Communications. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers and holds the ICD.D designation, reflecting a deep commitment to Board governance excellence.
Carey Smith has been a member and exclusively banking with FirstOntario Credit Union for over 30 years and has had the privilege of serving on the Board for 13 years, with most of those years serving as Board Chair. During his tenure, FirstOntario survived the challenges of global recession, the ultra-low interest rates, and the pandemic. FirstOntario survived without laying-off employees and had record growth and profitability.
Carey is excited at the prospect of returning to the Board to ensure our member-based values continue, that “numbers aren’t everything” and “caring about our communities.”
A dedicated credit union member for over 30 years and a former Board member, Peter Scott is enthusiastic to return to the Board of Directors. With three decades of Board, committee and leadership experience, as well as a business owner, Peter brings valuable insights and a strong sense of responsibility to the role – one he has always viewed as an honour and privilege.
I have had the privilege of serving on the Board of FirstOntario for the last 3 years, including serving on various committees. I have gained a deeper understanding of member needs, versus the value that FirstOntario is seeking to deliver. I understand the opportunities and challenges that we need to navigate to grow FirstOntario membership in an efficient and profitable manner for the long term. The opportunity to continue serving on the Board, and partner with management, to deliver exceptional service and positive experiences to members and their communities, would be a privilege.
Lorri has been a member of FirstOntario since 1982. She has worked both for and with Canadian Credit Unions for over 35 years as an employee of The CUMIS Group Limited/The Co-operators (insurance providers to Credit Unions).
Lorri has a passion for efficiency and holds certifications as a certified business process management practitioner, CBPMP, and Lean Six Sigma Black belt. She also has experience in Information Technology, Project Management, Corporate Finance, Internal Audit, Business Architecture, Security, Customer Service, Business Resumption Planning and Strategic Planning.
In addition she was a member of the Canadian Systems Development Committee for Life Insurance companies (LOMA) for over 4 years. As a retiree, Lorri is eager to both learn and contribute to FirstOntario and its Members, by providing effective governance and stewardship.
Julie Fleet has been a member of FirstOntario Credit Union since 1975, back when we were known as Stelco Credit Union. Julie shares the core values of the credit union movement. Her goal is to learn and contribute to the FirstOntario Board of Directors to keep the vision going and to move FirstOntario forward in the financial services industry.
Julie brings over 40 years of financial experience, experience with small business and risk management and Board experience with not-for-profit organizations. She also possesses her Investment Funds in Canada (IFIC) license and is a Certified Financial Planner through the Canadian Securities Institute.
As the inaugural Director of Risk Management at TAI, Ophelia has led the development and implementation of a comprehensive risk strategy, established key performance metrics and promoted a strong risk-aware culture. She brings a solid foundation in financial literacy and oversight through both governance roles on non-profit Boards and professional positions as an accountant, auditor and risk management.
Ophelia holds a Master of Science in Technology Management and a Bachelor of Commerce degree. She also has professional audit designations as a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
In addition, Ophelia has earned a Technology Infrastructure Certification and is certified in ITIL, reflecting a strong foundation in both governance and technology management.
Steve Boucouvalas brings 25 years’ expertise in financial markets and leadership roles to FirstOntario Credit Union.
He shares the values of the member/owner model benefitting individuals, businesses and local charitable causes. Serving the community is very important to Steve and he has an active role on the board of his local hospital.
Steve possesses a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance & Accounting, has taken the Canadian Securities Course as well as leadership and management training courses.
Carrie has been a member of FirstOntario Credit union for over 25 years and currently resides with her family in Hamilton. After having the privilege of beginning her career within Ontario’s cooperative banking, she began a career in Ontario’s healthcare system which led her to hold various health care planning and implementation positions across Canada in leadership roles, executing complex change initiatives for health care providers and health system planning and oversight bodies.
Carrie holds an EMBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business. She also holds the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors, demonstrating her commitment to boardroom excellence and ongoing governance education.
Additionally, she is an Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director (ACCUD) and currently serves as Vice Chair on the FirstOntario Credit Union Board.
Update regarding Board of Directors Election. Learn more
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