Allison Steinberg, Chief Executive Officer
Allison is the Chief Executive Officer at JVS Toronto. She has spent over 20 years in the non-profit sector and has had an impressive career with JVS Toronto over her 15 years of service. Allison is a strategic leader with a proven track record of fostering critical relationships and designing and implementing innovative programs that have significant impact on clients, the organization and the community. Prior to moving into the CEO role at JVS Toronto in 2022, Allison was the VP, Strategy and Stakeholder Engagement. She oversaw fundraising, communications, program and partnership development, government relations, quality assurance and compliance. Allison is a results-oriented leader who is skilled at balancing new ideas, financial accountability and operational excellence. Before joining JVS Toronto, she honed her skills at two large foundations, in the health and education sectors.
Board of Directors, Executive Committee
Ariella Fuhrmann, Chair
Since 2020
Ariella is a lawyer with over 20 years of experience in the pension and benefits industry with a particular expertise in governance matters. She has been involved with JVS Toronto since 2015. S Ariella is JVS Toronto’s Chair of the Board and Executive Committee. She is also a member of Governance, Nominating and Pension Committees.
Franceen Bernstein, Vice-Chair and Secretary
Since 2022
Franceen has 25 years of experience in consulting and financial management. As a consultant at Deloitte, she worked across many different industries supporting clients with business strategy, software selection and implementation, and organizational design. She joined Bank of Montreal in November 2004 where she held roles in Corporate Audit, Wealth Management, Learning & Development, and Enterprise Transformation. Franceen was recruited to TD Wealth in March 2018 to establish a business management centre of excellence. From January 2020 through April 2023, she was the Vice President of Wealth Operations and is now Vice President of Financial Planning for Canada. Franceen is JVS Toronto’s Secretary of the Board, Chair of Governance Committee; and Member of the Executive Committee.
Eric Wilson, Vice Chair
Since 2022
Eric is an Assistant Professor of Finance at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis School of Business and Economics. He is also the founder of MerCapital LP, a quantitative commodities hedge fund. His previous work is in Mergers and Acquisitions at National Bank Financial. He holds a PhD in Finance from McMaster University and advanced degrees from the University of Michigan and the University of Toronto. Eric is a member of JVS Toronto’s Executive, Governance, and Pension Committees.
Aaron Goldstein, Treasurer
Since 2021
Aaron is a Partner in Crowe Soberman LLP’s Audit and Advisory practice. From his time in public practice, he is well-acquainted with the following components of business: administration, management, financing and revenue. Aaron is familiar with the challenges that entrepreneurs face and, in working with them, is able to see clients overcome setbacks and reach their goals. Using his diverse skill set, Aaron has helped many business owners and professionals improve their financial situations. He has acted as a Finance Committee member at Skylark Children, Youth & Families. Aaron is JVS Toronto’s Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee; member of the Executive Committee.
Tori Peacock, Secretary of the Board
Since 2023
Tori is currently the Senior Philanthropy Officer of Transformational Giving and Campaign at Sunnybrook Foundation. Her journey in non-profit leadership began with her studies at Carleton University, where she earned a Master’s in Philanthropy and Non-Profit Leadership. Prior to joining Sunnybrook, Tori significantly contributed to the mission of the SickKids Foundation and the $1.6 Billion VS Campaign, as well as The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Her commitment to advancing the field of philanthropy extends beyond her professional endeavours. Tori actively volunteers for the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy at both international and Canadian conferences, sharing her knowledge and learning from other industry experts to enhance her skills and stay at the forefront of best practices in charitable giving and donor stewardship. In 2023, Tori joined the Board of JVS Toronto and is a member of its Fundraising Committee.
Directors
Armand Abehsera, Director
Since 2023
Armand is an actuary and consultant with over 25 years of experience in the pension and benefits industry. He advises public and private companies as well as not-for-profit organizations on the operations, design, funding, accounting, governance and risk management of retirement plans. Armand regularly meets with human resources and finance management teams as well as committees and boards to provide education, regular updates, discuss changes, provide recommendations and assist with change management and communication to all stakeholders. Armand is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries. He graduated from the University of Toronto in 1995 with an Honours Bachelor of Science in actuarial science, commerce and statistics. Armand is a member of JVS Toronto’s Pension and Finance Committees.
Ruth Altman, Director
Since 2024
Ruth has over twenty years of experience working in the telecommunications and broadcasting industry. Since 2006, she has been with Rogers Communications, working in a variety of progressive roles in the Regulatory group. Currently, Ruth is the Director Regulatory Consumer Policy, where she provides guidance and advice on consumer-oriented matters. She represents the company with government, industry and community group stakeholders. Ruth has a Bachelor of Journalism from Carleton University and an MBA from York University’s Schulich School of Business. She is presently a Board Director at Canada VRS, a telecommunications service that lets Deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired Canadians who use sign-language access and make telephone calls with hearing people. There she serves on both the Finance and Audit Committee and the Technology Committee. Ruth is Chair of JVS Toronto’s Advocacy Committee.
Martin Boucher, Director
Since 2025
Martin is a recognized B2B sales leader throughout North America. He has built entire operations from scratch, scaled high-performing Canadian and American sales teams, and guided sales leaders to success. As a trusted advisor to C-suite executives and business owners, Martin helps businesses and broader public sector organizations grow by leveraging technology—whether it’s hardware, software, SAAS, or managed and professional services—through direct and partner channels in Canada. Martin is an incoming JVS Toronto Board Member.
Richard Goldberger, Director
Since 2024
Rick is a founder and partner in a Lease Audit firm, providing Lease Audit and Consulting Services, in Canada and the United States, throughout the life cycle of a commercial lease. He has over 45 years of commercial real estate experience, both as a landlord/owner and as a consultant to commercial tenants. Rick is a recognized industry expert and is regularly called upon by the legal and realty communities to provide seminars and consultative services. Over the last number of years he has become more involved in charitable causes, especially within the Jewish community. Rick also sat on the Board of Directors of his synagogue, serving on their Fundraising Committee and also led the real estate committee to find a new location. As well, he has served on the Board of Directors for two condominiums. Rick is a member of JVS Toronto’s Real Estate Advisory Committee.
Elana Hagi, Director
Since 2021
Elana is a pension actuary with over 25 years of experience in the pension and benefits industry. She is responsible for building and maintaining effective working partnerships with diverse clients – sponsors of a variety of funded and unfunded pension arrangements in various jurisdictions (defined benefit and defined contribution). Elana provides strategic advice tailored to a variety of businesses, corporate philosophies and evolving pension environments; and assists clients in understanding and solving various challenges that apply to their employee benefit programs, including design, funding, governance and risk management of their pension plans. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries and a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries. Elana is the Chair of JVS Toronto’s Pension Committee.
Matthew Lester, Director
Since 2025
Matthew is a highly accomplished senior Executive Search and Leadership Consultant with over 15 years of experience advising Fortune 500 and privately backed growth companies on the appointment of executives and corporate officers across functions. As a leader in True, the sixth largest global executive search firm, he spearheaded the foundational launch of True in Canada. His expertise spans executive and corporate officer appointments across diverse functions, with a specialization in venture and private equity-backed organizations. Previously, at IQ PARTNERS, Matthew was rapidly promoted to become the firm’s youngest Partner, successfully building and leading the firm’s fastest-growing practice. As an entrepreneur and former business owner, He is passionate about job creation and fostering opportunities for others. Matthew holds a Bachelor of Commerce, Majoring in Marketing Management from the University of Guelph and remains active in numerous charitable and community causes. Matthew is an Incoming Board Member.
Teresa Leung-Chin, Director
Since 2025
Teresa is a recently retired senior financial executive with over 25 years of experience leading finance, operations, and transformation in global organizations. She most recently served as Vice President Finance, North America at Brenntag, where she oversaw the financial strategy and governance for 11 entities across a $10B business. In this role, Teresa led major initiatives in M&A, working capital optimization, digital transformation, and finance modernization. She has also held senior leadership positions at Canadian Tire and Sears Canada. A CPA and MBA holder, Teresa brings deep expertise in financial governance, strategic planning, and organizational change. She is passionate about inclusive leadership and continues to mentor emerging professionals. Teresa is an incoming JVS Toronto Board member.
Samantha Manis, Director
Since 2024
Samantha is a Human Resource professional and entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience specializing in recruitment. She launched her career with Jewish Vocational Services in Montreal and went on to develop her recruitment skills at Quantum Management Services, Lovas Stanley Executive Search and Groupe Dynamite. Samantha currently operates as an independent recruitment consultant. Her expertise spans diverse industries as well as a broad range of organizational positions. Samantha has been a long time philanthropist having sat on the Board of Solomon Schechter Academy, Montreal, as Chair of Fundraising from 2010-2013. Furthermore, Samantha has acted as VP and Chair of Just for Kids with respect to its Dancing with the Stars Gala from 2011-2013, raising over 500k. Currently, she volunteers with March of the Living Canada amongst many other charitable endeavours. Samantha is Chair of JVS Toronto’s Employer Engagement Task Force.
Mana Nikaeen, Director
Since 2020
Mana is an accomplished Financial Services executive with over 22 years of leadership experience spanning Sales, Corporate Banking, Finance, and Risk Management. She currently serves as Vice President, Financing at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). Mana is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and holds a Master of Finance (MFin) from the Rotman School of Management. She is deeply committed to career mentorship and actively volunteers with organizations such as United Way, TRIEC, CFA Society Toronto, JVS Toronto, and its Canada InfoNet program. She also contributes her expertise as a member of JVS Toronto’s Finance Committee.
Toyin Omotoso, Director
Since 2025
Toyin is a lawyer with over 10 years of experience in employment law and human rights, demonstrating a strong record of navigating complex legal landscapes to support organizational success. As Senior Counsel in the healthcare sector, she plays a vital role in aligning workforce compliance strategies with broader business objectives. Toyin is called to the Ontario Bar and is a skilled workplace investigator. She holds a Master of Laws degree in Indigenous Law from the University of Saskatchewan and has completed the Health Leadership Certificate program at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. She is a public member of the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) Complaints Committee, adjudicating over code of conduct and human rights claims filed against HRPA registrants. Toyin is an incoming JVS Toronto Board Member.
Margot Perlmutter, Director
Since 2025
Margot is a dynamic people leader whose 25+ year career has spanned multiple industries and leadership roles. She began her career in advertising as a Media Director, then spent 15 years as a Camp Director overseeing camper recruitment, staff development, financial operations, and daily logistics at an overnight summer camp. Over the past five years, she has transitioned into People & Operations, shaping and scaling company culture, employee development and talent strategies. Margot is currently Head of HR at CANNEX Financial, where she is driving the people strategy to support long-term growth and business continuity. Previously, she was VP of People & Operations at Perpetua, a global SaaS company, where she supported international expansion across seven countries and navigated the organization through two major acquisitions. She is a certified Executive & Leadership Coach and holds a BA from the University of Western Ontario. Margot is an incoming JVS Toronto Board Member.
Janet Schoel, Director
Since 2020
Janet is a strategic marketing and business professional with over 20 years of experience in the corporate and not for profit sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University and an MBA from The Ivey School of Business. Janet’s career has had a strong focus on direct and digital marketing applying those skills to fundraising in her roles at SickKids Foundation and currently a Vice President, Individual Giving at UNICEF Canada. She also brings a passion for data to everything she does. Using data informed strategies to optimize revenue and customer/donor retention for the brands and organizations Janet has had the pleasure of working for, including American Express in Canada and Europe, SickKids Foundation and UNICEF. Janet believes in giving back to the community and has held volunteer roles with the Canadian Marketing Association, YMCA of Greater Toronto, Asthma Canada. Janet is JVS Toronto’s Chair of the Fundraising Committee.
Norman Shaw, Director
Since 2025
Norman recently retired from Toronto Metropolitan University, where he was a professor in the Ted Rogers School of Management. His research included the adoption of digital money. He has supervised students and provided career mentoring and guidance. Prior to joining Toronto Metropolitan University, he was Chief Information Officer for a Toronto based retailer that operated over 1,000 stores with such recognizable names as Harry Rosen, Tip Top, Fairweather and Bluenotes. He further gained experience in the world of hospitality as Vice President in charge of technology for a hotel management company that managed hotels under the flags of Marriott, Holiday Inn and Hard Rock. Norman is an incoming Board member.
Howard Simkevitz, Director
Since 2025
Howard is General Counsel and Privacy Officer at the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research. For over a decade, Howard was adjunct faculty at Toronto Metropolitan University where he taught courses in privacy law, information technology law, and business law. He is a dedicated volunteer with wide-ranging community service. Howard serves as the legal member of the Research Ethics Board at SickKids Hospital, has been an active member of Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am synagogue, where he has served on several board committees, and held several roles on the Board of Directors at TanenbaumCHAT, including serving as its board’s President. He received his BA from the University of Western Ontario, his MS in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University and his law degree from the University of Ottawa. Howard in an incoming Board member.
Richard Wajs, Director
Since 2025
Richard is an Executive Coach, following a successful career as a Lawyer, a Banker, and an Executive Search Recruiter for global firms and as an entrepreneur. He was most recently a Managing Director at global consulting firm KPMG, for which he recruited over 100 Partners. He is a past Board Director of Destination Toronto and has been either a Chair or Member of the Boards of several other not-for-profit organizations. He is an Internship Mentor at University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Business, where he advises MBA students. He is highly experienced in assisting executives and persons at all levels in the workplace in relation to career advancement, career change and overall workplace growth and has been a speaker at universities and career counselling firms in this regard for many years. He has recruited executives across the globe at the executive, C-Level and Board Level. One of his most complex and sensitive yet rewarding assignments was for client The World Bank, for which he successfully recruited a former Prime Minister of Peru to an executive role at the Bank’s Washington, D.C. headquarters. He is fluently bilingual in English and French. He holds a Bachelor of Civil Laws degree from Universite de Montreal. Richard is an incoming Board member.
