Business services

Merchant services with Clover

Accept payments, manage sales, and keep your business flowing — all from one smart system.

All-in-one payment solutions for creative businesses

Creative Arts Financial partnered with Clover, the all-in-one point-of-sale solution built to make selling simple and stress free. Whether you’re running a studio, managing gigs, or scaling your creative business, Clover helps you turn passion into profit.

Enable eCommerce

Sell online and in person without skipping a beat. Integrate Clover with your existing site or build one in minutes — no coding required.

More ways to pay

Credit, debit, gift cards, recurring billing, electronic invoices — wherever your customers are, you’re ready.

Manage staff like a pro

Track timesheets, run payroll, and keep your team in sync with easy employee management tools.

Online invoicing made simple

Give customers options: pay online, by phone, in person, or through an app. Accept major cards and digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

The Creative Arts Financial advantage

Sign up through us and enjoy:

  • Preferred pricing
  • Next-day funding
  • Personalized support that understands your creative hustle

    And here’s the kicker!

    If we can’t beat your current processing fees, you’ll get a $1,000 Mastercard gift card. (Certain conditions apply.)

    What are merchant services and how do they help creative businesses?

    Merchant services allow creative businesses to accept customer payments through multiple methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and digital payments. They help streamline transactions, improve cash flow, and provide a professional and convenient checkout experience for clients.

    What payment options are included with merchant services?

    Merchant services typically include in person card payments, online payments, mobile payments, and contactless options. This allows creative businesses to accept payments wherever they sell, whether in a studio, on site, online, or at events.

    How are merchant services an all in one payment solution?

    All in one merchant services combine payment processing, transaction reporting, and fund settlement into a single solution. This reduces the need for multiple tools and makes it easier for creative businesses to manage payments, track sales, and reconcile finances.

    Can merchant services support both in person and online sales?

    Yes. Merchant services support in person payments through payment terminals as well as online and mobile transactions. This flexibility is ideal for creative businesses that sell across multiple channels.

    Why are merchant services important for managing business cash flow?

    Merchant services help businesses get paid faster and more reliably. Electronic payments reduce delays, limit cash handling, and provide clear transaction records, making cash flow easier to manage and forecast.

    Ready to sell more and stress less?

    Your art deserves a payment system that’s as innovative as you are. Get started with Clover today and make every transaction feel effortless.

    Lorie Peacock

    Personal statement of interest

    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.

    What can you specifically contribute to the Board

    • 30+ years Board experience
    • Mentor & Leadership
    • Strategic Planning
    • Risk Management
    • Mergers & Acquisitions

    Education & Professional Designations

    • Credit Union Director Achievement Program (CUDA)
    • McMaster University Labour Studies Program

    Work Experience

    • GM/CAW Workplace Training Facilitator
    • OFL Certified Health & Safety Instructor
    • WHMIS trainer
    • General Motors Employment Equity/Women’s Advocate
    • Human Rights Trainer & Investigator

      Board & Committee Experience

      Over 40 years of experience serving on a variety of Boards and committees:

      • Director FirstOntario Credit Union
        Committees: Elections, Governance, Corporate Social Responsibility, Risk
      • Executive Board St. Catharines & District Labour Council, Trustee
      • Board of Directors Niagara North Condominium, Chair
      • Women’s committee, Education, Community Services supporting a variety of community optimizations – Canadian Landmine foundation, Alzheimer’s Society, United Way, Hospice Niagara, Gilian’s Place, to name a few

      Carmelina La Vigna

      Personal statement of interest

      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.

      What can you specifically contribute to the Board

      • Board of Directors and committee experience
      • Extensive accounting and business experience
      • Oversight, Insight and Foresight
      • Commitment to the time required to be a diligent director/committee member
      • Proud community and small business representative
      • Independent and impartial voice

      Education & Professional Designations

      • Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director (ACCUD), Dalhousie University
      • Audit Committee Effectiveness Course (ICD), Institute of Corporate Directors
      • Bachelor of Accounting (Honours) – Brock University

      Work Experience

      • 30+ years of Financial Administration/Consulting for various businesses. Specializing in law firm accounting, law firm and small business start-ups and full-cycle accounting services
      • Entrepreneur/Small Business Owner
      • Commercial Property Owner

      Board & Committee Experience

      • FirstOntario Board of Directors (3 years)
        • Audit & Risk Committee
        • Strategic Oversight Committee
        • Governance Committee
      • Club Roma (St. Catharines) Inc. Board of Directors (2 years)
      • Annual Club Roma Ladies Auxiliary Golf Tournament for Tender Wishes Foundation, Committee Member (26 years)

      Rick Sroka

      Personal statement of interest

      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.

      What can you specifically contribute to the Board

      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.

      Education & Professional Designations

      • Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
      • Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
      • Bachelor of Arts Business, McMaster University
      • Audit Committee Certified (ACC) – Directors College (McMaster University)
      • Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director (ACCUD) – Dalhousie University

      Work Experience

      • Chartered Professional Accountant, Richard G. Sroka, 2012 – Present
      • Controller & HR Manager, Atlas Hydraulics Inc. 1999 – 2012
      • EHT Auditor, Ministry of Finance 1999 – 1999
      • Senior Accountant, Millard Rouse & Rosebrugh CPAs 1986 – 1999

      Board & Committee Experience

      • Audit & Risk Committee Chair/Vice Chair – FirstOntario
      • Strategic Oversight Committee Member – FirstOntario
      • Governance Committee Member – FirstOntario
      • Elections Committee Member – FirstOntario
      • Board Vice Chair – Three years, Rochdale Credit Union
      • Audit Committee Chair – Rochdale Credit Union
      • Governance Committee Member – Rochdale Credit Union
      • Board Chair – Polish Alliance
      • Audit Committee Chair – Polish Alliance

      Open a business account

      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.

      Become a business member

      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.

      Become a member

      If you’re new to Creative Arts Financial, book a virtual appointment or complete your membership application online.

      Business U.S. Dollar Investment Savings account

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      All balances

      Rate*

      0.20%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.
      Business Savings account

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      $0 – $100,000.00

      Rate*

      0.20%

      Balance

      $100,000.01 – $250,000.00

      Rate*

      0.30%

      Balance

      $250,000.01 – $500,000.00

      Rate*

      0.40%

      Balance

      $500,000.01 – $750,000.00

      Rate*

      0.60%

      Balance

      $750,000.01 – $1,000,000.00

      Rate*

      0.80%

      Balance

      $1,000,000.01+

      Rate*

      1.10%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.

      Open an account

      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.

      Creative Arts Financial is closed on the following days

      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 Eddy

      Branch Manager

      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.

      Judy Kudla

      Vice President, Internal Audit

      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

      General Counsel

      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.

      Sheila Ingram

      Senior Vice President, Risk

      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.

      Michael Walsh

      Senior Vice President, Information Technology

      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.

      Rob Cefaratti

      Senior Vice President, Alternative Investments

      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.

      Joanne Battaglia

      Senior Vice President, Marketing, Communications & Community Partnerships

      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.

      David Moore

      Chief Retail Banking Officer

      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

      Chief Financial Officer

      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.

      Kevin Tom

      Chief Investment Officer

      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.

      Mark Perkins

      Chief Risk Officer

      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

      Chief Executive Officer

      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.

      Audrey Wubbenhorst

      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.

      Audrey’s work experience includes:
      • Professor, Humber College (10+ years)
      • 13+ years working in banking including corporate banking, human resources and communications
      Audrey’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • Trustee, CAAT Pension Plan
      • Director, Humber College
      • Director, National Diabetes Trust (“Clothesline Program”)
      • Director, Scouts Canada
      • Director, Central LHIN
      • Director, BUILD Toronto
      • Director, Toronto Community Housing Corporation
      • Director, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter

      Carey Smith

      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.”

      Carey’s education and work experience includes:
      • Chartered Director (C.Dir), McMaster University
      • Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director (ACCUD), Dalhousie University
      • Regulatory Strategy Program, Harvard University
      • Professional Management Program, York University
      • Certified Adjudicator & Paralegal, Osgoode Hall Law School
      • Police Exemplary Service Medal (PESM), Governor General of Canada
      • Chief Executive Officer, Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO)
      • Director, Investigations & Enforcement, Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC)
      • Detective Sergeant, Halton Regional Police Service

      Peter Scott

      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.

      Peter’s work experience includes:
      • National Training Coordinator, General Motors/Unifor
      • Labour Studies Coordinator Niagara Region, McMaster University
      • Simply Voting, GM Lead Council
      • Facilitator, pre-retirement program
      • Curriculum Development Instructor, Niagara College
      • Former business owner, The Water Source
      Peter’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • Director, FirstOntario Credit Union
      • Director, Lookout Point Golf Club
      • Director, FirstOntario Credit Union/Family Savings
      • Executive Board, Unifor Local 199

      Sami Sappong

      Personal statement of interest

      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.

      What can you specifically contribute to the Board

      • Functional expertise in business transformation, strategic planning, project execution, M&A and change management
      • Financial services industry experience, including Credit Unions
      • Board governance experience
      • Leverage skills in teamwork, collaboration, stakeholder management, and facilitation to partner with other Board members to successfully deliver on First Ontario’s strategic objectives

      Education & Professional Designations

      • Accredited Canadian Credit Union Director (ACCUD)
      • MBA, MSc, PMP, CCMP

      Work Experience

      • SAPPONG CONSULTING, Principal 2018 - present
      • CONESTOGA COLLEGE, School of Business, Professor 2022 - present
      • GUARANTEED FUNERAL DEPOSITS, Vice President, Business Development
      • WORLD VISION CANADA, Vice President, Strategy & Efficiency Innovation
      • MERIDIAN CREDIT UNION, Vice President, Strategic Planning & Project Management
      • FORESTERS FINANCIAL, New York, NY, Vice President, Strategy & Planning
      • SUN LIFE FINANCIAL, Director, Market Development
      • FORESTERS FINANCIAL, Director, North American Strategy & Planning

      Board & Committee Experience

      • Board Member - FirstOntario Credit Union (Committees: Strategy, Risk and Governance)
      • Board Member & Secretary - New Life Prison Ministries
      • Board Member - Connecting To Africa, Nova Scotia (Committees: Strategy)
      • Branch Councilor, Ontario South - Foresters Financial
      • Board Member - Victorian Order of Nurses

      Lorri Meulendyks

      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

      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.

      Julie’s work experience includes:
      • Financial Advisor at the Royal Bank of Canada
      • Certified Financial Planner at Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
      Julie’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • Board Member/President - Community Support Centre for Haldimand Norfolk
      • Binbrook Agricultural Society

      Ophelia Chang

      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.

      Ophelia’s work experience includes:
      • Director Risk Management, TAI
      • Director Risk Management, Brookfield Business Partners
      • Director Internal Audit, Brookfield Corporation
      • Manager Internal Audit, Brookfield Corporation
      • Senior Manager Regulatory Compliance Monitoring and Testing, HSBC Bank Canada
      • Audit Manager, BMO Financial Group
      • IT Audit Manager, Sun Life Financial
      Ophelia’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • Director, FirstOntario: Strategic Oversight Committee, Audit Committee
      • Treasurer, Choirs Ontario
      • Secretary, Etobicoke Historical Society

      Steve Boucouvalas

      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.

      Steve’s work experience includes:
      • Deputy Bank Treasurer, Republic National Bank of New York (Canada)
      • Managing Director, HSBC Bank Canada
      • LTP Advisors, CEO
      Steve’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • Bank of Canada, Foreign Exchange Committee
      • RNB NY (Canada), Asset and Liability Committee
      • Toronto Financial Services Alliance, Co-Chaired RMB Hub working Group
      • HSBC, Top Team Committee, Global FX
      • Oakville Hospital Volunteer Association, Vice Chair of the Board, Chair of Fundraising Committee, Finance and Audit Committee, Executive Committee

      Carrie Beltzner

      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.

      Carrie’s work experience includes:
      • President St. Joseph’s Home Care and Executive Lead St. Joseph’s Health System Centre for Integrated Care
      • Implementation Lead, Health Quality Ontario & Program Development Branch Ministry of Health
      • Lead Provincial Standards Sustainability Office, Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network
      • Manager Implementation, Ornge
      • Project Manager, Development and Projects Central 1
      • Government Relations Specialist, Credit Union Central of Ontario (CUCO)
      • Volunteer Administrator, Ontario Credit Union Foundation (OCUF)
      Carrie’s Board and Committee experience includes:
      • First Ontario Credit Union
        • Vice Chair, (2023 – Present)
        • Member, Audit and Governance Committees (2024)
        • Member, Governance and Risk Committees (2023)
        • Chair of Elections Committee and Member of Strategic Oversight Committee (2022)
        • Member Governance and Elections Committees (2021)
      • Board Director & Not-for-Profit Designate, Home Care Ontario (2023-2024)
      • Chairperson, Peel Addiction Assessment and Referral Centre (PAARC) (2016-2021)
      U.S. Dollar Investment Savings account

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      All balances

      Rate*

      0.15%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.
      Daily Interest Savings account for seniors (60+)

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      $0 – $1,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $1,000.01 – $5,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $5,000.01 – $10,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $10,000.01+

      Rate*

      0.05%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.
      Investment Savings account

      Account options

      Rate*

      Account options

      Non-registered savings

      Rate*

      0.30%

      Account options

      TFSA investment savings

      Rate*

      0.60%

      Account options

      FHSA investment savings

      Rate*

      3.20%

      Account options

      RRSP investment savings

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Account options

      RRIF investment savings

      Rate*

      0.05%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.
      Daily Interest Savings account

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      $0 – $1,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $1,000.01 – $5,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $5,000.01 – $10,000.00

      Rate*

      0.05%

      Balance

      $10,000.01+

      Rate*

      0.05%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.
      High Interest eSavings account

      Balance

      Rate*

      Balance

      $0 – $100,000.00

      Rate*

      0.60%

      Balance

      $100,000.01 – $200,000.00

      Rate*

      0.75%

      Balance

      $200,000.01+

      Rate*

      0.80%

      * Per annum rate. Rate and terms subject to change without notice. Conditions apply.apply.