Our Teams

I’m Kevin Sitka. As the President and CEO, I oversee all aspects of your credit union. I lead the executive team at the head of an organization of over 400 employees, who are all committed to the triple bottom line of people, planet and prosperity. Guided by the ACU vision, mission, and values, I’m accountable for executing our strategic plan, while continuing to foster a values-based banking culture. My goal is to ensure ACU is financially sustainable, a top employer, and carbon neutral, while providing products, services, and advice that will benefit our members. I’m also very engaged in developing strategic alliances with local community partners and the wider credit union system. I have over 30 years of business experience across numerous industries, and have been privileged to work in the credit union system for the last 17 years. I’m truly energized each and every day to work hard to realize our vision of a world in which financial services in local communities contributes to a sustainable future for all.  Outside of work, family is critically important to me.  We enjoy spending time taking in all Manitoba has to offer – from world-class cuisine, to the arts, our beloved sports teams, and the great outdoors.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Arts, Honours (Applied Economics) 
Masters of Arts (Economics) 
Masters of Business Administration
Chartered Professional/Managerial Accountant
Institute of Corporate Directors Designation
Chartered Director Designation

I’m Allan Godfrey and I’m responsible for the overall leadership and business direction of the Risk Division. I also maintain strategic relationships across the provincial and national credit union systems for the benefit of ACU. I’ve worked in the credit union system for over 20 years, assuming the role of Chief Risk Officer at ACU in 2018. My personal values are closely aligned with ACU. I strongly believe in fairness, honesty, integrity, being accountable for your actions, and being ethical. All values I live and practice in both my work and my personal life. In my personal time, I read, golf, curl and am a big fan of the Jets and Blue Bombers. I enjoy spending time at our cottage with my family, and try to stay active by going for walks or getting out for a run.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce (B. Comm.) from the University of Manitoba
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
Chartered Accountant (CA)

I’m Kim Champion Taylor and I oversee all people related policies and programs at ACU. At the end of the day, the people are the organization, and an organization succeeds because of its people. I’ve been in this field since 1996 as a human resources specialist, generalist, analyst, consultant, manager, director, vice president and chief officer. I believe that everyone has strengths and wants to feel like a contributing member of the team. I believe we all have more to learn, and that we all can learn from one another. I believe in accountability to our members and to one another. There isn’t anything I do that doesn’t reflect these values. And all these values can certainly be found at ACU. Outside of work, my two teenage boys and one golden retriever keep me busy. My life is all about spending time with family and friends, enjoying great food in Winnipeg’s awesome restaurants, walking the dog and exploring the beautiful lakes in Manitoba and neighbouring provinces.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), from University of Manitoba
Member of Chartered Professionals in Human Resources of Manitoba
Member of Credit Union Central of Manitoba’s Human Resources Advisory Committee.

I’m Michael Taylor. I am responsible for the overall leadership and business direction of the Finance division. I manage the finances and am responsible for financial reporting and analysis, including facilities and procurement, payment processing functions, and environmental sustainability areas. I’ve worked in the credit union system since 2003. After obtaining my designation, I began with Astra Credit Union and became part of ACU with the merger in 2007. Being honest, reliable, sincere and compassionate, while also being highly motivated to succeed, are values that are core to me. While I’ve always been comfortable working with numbers, I also really enjoy and appreciate the impact ACU has on its members, employees, environment and community at large. It’s much more than numbers and I can see the tangible impact we make on a daily basis. When I’m not working, I really enjoy the outdoors; hiking, canoeing/kayaking, fishing. I also enjoy reading and travelling.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce degree from University of Manitoba
Chartered Professional Accountant
Chartered Accountant

I’m Andrea Dysievick. I oversee the Retail and Wealth teams at ACU, which include the Branch network, ACU Wealth, the Member Communication Centre, Member Engagement, and ACU Dealer Finance. With over 20 years in the Financial Services industry, I am passionate about the employee and member experience. I am inspired by the simple things we do every day that have a positive impact. We have the opportunity to assist members in their daily banking needs and through some of the biggest moments in their lives. At ACU, we are using business as a force for good, and it’s a privilege that I, and everyone at ACU, take pride in. Outside of work, my children keep me busy with their sports activities. I enjoy running, adventure racing, time at the lake, and anything else that gets me out in the fresh air.

Education and Credentials:
BBA Marketing and Human Resources
Personal Financial Planner Designation

I’m Brent Turman. I oversee the Business and Community Financial Centres and Winnipeg Insurance Brokers, where I lead a team of talented professionals who serve the financial needs of ACU’s business membership. Together, we strive to help ACU members by delivering an exceptional banking experience in the pursuit of supporting members to achieve their dreams. My career in the credit union system spans over 30 years in many varied roles, starting in entry-level positions to most recently leading Entegra Credit Union as Chief Executive Officer. I believe in the values of the cooperative model that place the best interests of our members, employees, communities, and environment above all else. I appreciate that ACU is a purpose-driven organization that aspires to integrate those values into its day-to-day activities and is committed to using business as a force for good. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf, and collecting sports memorabilia as a hobby.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), from the University of Manitoba
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA)
Certified Chief Executive (CCE) Designation
Fellow of the Credit Union Institute of Canada

I’m Crystal Laborero. As Chair of the ACU Board of Directors, I oversee the various Board Committees and help guide the Board as it works towards ensuring the continued success of an important Manitoba co-operative. I have 10 years’ experience in the banking industry and opened the first on-reserve branch in Manitoba for RBC at Peguis First Nation. I sit on other boards and am exposed to a wide range of industries which provides for an even wider perspective and network. I’m also self-employed and the owner of Laborero Consulting, a management and HR consulting firm taking on innovative projects that can positively impact the community. As an Indigenous woman, I bring a different perspective. To me, community economic development and helping those who may not be receiving banking services is very important. I value community, fairness, integrity, caring and I see that in ACU. I am a Band member of Sapotaweyak Cree Nation, I’m married and a mother of two adult daughters and two adult stepdaughters. I love doing hot yoga, traveling, hiking, and reading.

Education and Credentials:
Certificate in Human Resource Management from the University of Manitoba
Certificate in Management from the University of Manitoba
Attended Queen's School of Business – Leadership Program
Certificate in Practical Workshop Facilitation from the University of Winnipeg
Directors Education Program from Rothmans Institute of Corporate Directors
ICD.D designation

I’m Paul Lacap. As a Board Member, I represent the ACU membership and act in the best interest in the credit union. For the majority of my career, I have led change at the intersection of marketing and technology while managing multiple operational departments. My clients have primarily been large multinational brands including some of the largest finance and insurance companies in Canada and the US. Early in my career, when I was a fundraiser at United Way, I was introduced to ACU and to values-based banking. My values have always focused on human potential through education, the community and the improvement of my profession. My involvement with the University of Manitoba and ACU, now directly aligns my work with my values. Personally, I spend my time with my wife, son and lively dog as a husband and father. . I love to travel and have visited 25 countries in the last decade. I’m continually inspired by human potential and the hope of a better world for our kids to grow old in.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)
Credit Union Director Achievement (CUDA)
Chartered Marketer (CM)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
PRINCE2 Practitioner
Prosci Change Management

ACU Board of Director Committees:
Chair Human Resources Policy and Compensation Committee
Member, Governance and Ethics Committee

I’m Marina James. As a member of the ACU Board of Directors I currently serve on the Audit and Finance and Risk Committee. I’m also the CEO of WinnipegREALTORS®. During my career, I’ve served as President and & CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.; Vice-President, Hotels with Westcorp Properties Inc.; General Manager Operational Effectiveness with Manitoba Lotteries Corporation; and as the General Manager of Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel. I serve on the Board of ACU because of its commitment to people and planet and because of its inclusive approach to those living in our province. My values of ethics and integrity guide everything I do, and are aligned closely with that of ACU and my fellow board members. When I’m not working I enjoy gardening, cooking and spending time with my family.

Education and Credentials:
MBA from the University of Guelph
National Advanced Certificate in Local Government Authority Administration and Economic Development from Dalhousie University
Certificate in Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management from Cornell University

I’m Jacqueline Keena, and I relish the opportunity to bring my expertise to the diverse ACU board in service of the membership. Currently, I am managing director of the Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI), an agriculture artificial intelligence accelerator working to increase the adoption and integration of intelligent technologies across the agri-food value chain in Manitoba. To the ACU Board, I bring a unique perspective as a young, Metis woman who is interested in policy, good governance and meaningful and significant diversity and inclusion.  Outside of work, I volunteer as the vice chair of the Women's Enterprise Centre of Manitoba, a non-profit that provides small business loans to female entrepreneurs. Previously, I was chair of “Be the Vote”, a non-partisan, non-profit created to encourage greater youth participation in the electoral system. I enjoy cross-country skiing in the winter, gardening and biking in the summer. All year, I enjoy making great food and sharing it with family and friends. I’m excited to be working with ACU, a company whose values connect deeply with my own.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Science (Agribusiness), University of Manitoba
Master of Arts, Public Policy, Carleton University
Professional Agrologist, Agrologists Manitoba

I’m Anne Lindsey, a member of the ACU Board of Directors. I currently serve as Chair of the Governance and Ethics Committee, and am a member of the Human Resources Policy and Compensation Committee. I’m semi-retired, with a modest consulting practice providing advice, research and planning assistance to non-profit organizations.

I believe every person has a right to financial security and empowerment and that financial services should be delivered locally and with a commitment to the benefit of the entire community. My values are ecological stewardship, human rights and social inclusion, and co-operation, all of which align strongly with the values of ACU. When not working, I’m passionate about growing healthy food for my family, and volunteering with local organizations. I love to spend time in nature, hiking, paddling, and cross country skiing.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg
University Gold Medal in Anthropology
Master of Arts from the University of Calgary, Archaeology
Credit Union Director Achievement

ACU Board of Directors Committee:
Chair of Governance and Ethics Committee

I’m James Magnus-Johnston. Along with the rest of the board, I’m responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of ACU in service of its members. In my role with ACU, I have served on the Nominating, Governance and Ethics, and Community and Member Relations committees. Outside of ACU, I am the Co-director of the Centre for Resilience at Canadian Mennonite University, where I lecture in the fields of business and political studies. I am also a doctoral researcher at McGill University in the field of ecological economics. As a future-oriented social entrepreneur and academic, I bring to the ACU board a keen interest in the pace and trajectory of social, ecological, and technological change. I am committed to upholding the ACU triple bottom line (people, planet, prosperity) as a crucially important demonstration of leadership in our  changing 21st century business environment. I have enacted these values in the community as an entrepreneur, collaboratively spearheading initiatives that have similar commitments, including Fools + Horses Coffee, Compost Winnipeg, Transition Winnipeg, and The Fireweed Food Co-op /South Osborne Market. Outside of work, I sing, cycle, work with a range of community organizations, and I enjoying spending time in nature with my partner.

Education and Credentials:
Working towards PhD in Renewable Resources, McGill University
MPhil, Land Economy, University of Cambridge
Accredited Credit Union Director (ACCUD), Dalhousie University / Credit Union Institute
Research Fellow, Centre for the Advancement of the Steady State Economy
Member, Canadian Society for Ecological Economics
Articled as a Trustee-in-Bankruptcy, Canadian Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals
Certified Financial Counsellor, Canadian Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals
Double BA in Political Studies (Hons)/Communications, and  Theatre (Hons, Gold Medal)

I’m Priti Mehta-Shah. I am a Board Member for ACU, and I serve on the Nominating Committee. As a new board member, my goal is to learn, learn and learn so that I can be highly effective as soon as possible. I am a leading transaction advisor who has provided valuable guidance to clients in Canada, and around the world, for over 30 years. My expertise includes assisting clients in the sale of their businesses by identifying and screening appropriate purchasers to yield premium pricing for the vendor, and effectively negotiating and structuring the entire transaction. My community work usually involves promoting entrepreneurship for women.

I believe you should do everything with integrity, always show kindness to others, and always strive to grow by learning. This aligns very well with ACU and its commitment to community inclusion, environment sustainability and community enterprise development. I enjoy volunteering, spending time with family, traveling and working out.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce, (Hons.) University of Manitoba
Chartered Professional Accountant
CICA In-Depth Income Tax designation
CF designation
Chartered Business Valuator designation
Fellowship from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba
ICD.D designation
Currently obtaining CUDA designation

I’m Alain Molgat. Together with the rest of the board I ensure that ACU has a strong governance framework and that governance structures and processes are leading edge. I’m a Chartered Professional Accountant (CMA) with over 30 years of experience in auditing, financial management and business advisory services. As the President of Alain Molgat Consulting Ltd., I provide management and business transition advice and solutions to small indigenous-owned businesses and businesses in the film production industry. I support Assiniboine’s values-based vision and mission. My volunteer activities have always focused on community development, social inclusion and supporting co-operative principles. ACU is a vibrant, inclusive and diverse corporate leader in Manitoba, demonstrating daily its commitment to the community, to its employees and its members, and to the planet.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in accounting
CPA, CMA designation
Credit Union Director Achievement Program

ACU Board of Director Committee:
Chair of the Audit and Risk Management Committee
Member of the Human Resources Policy and Compensation Committee

I’m Diane Lee Sousa. As a Board member, I am dedicated to ensuring that ACU lives up to our mission, vision, and values while working in the best interests of our members. My career has centred around helping organizations integrate digital technologies in all areas of their organization, and my expertise lies in accounting and technology. I’ve worked in credit union–adjacent industries throughout my career and led the team that implemented accounting systems at many Manitoba credit unions, including ACU and legacy Entegra Credit Union. I was also on Entegra’s Board of Directors for ten years, including two years as Vice-Chair.

I am deeply dedicated to my volunteer work. I strongly believe in the importance of giving back to your community, which aligns with ACU’s commitment to community inclusion and enterprise development. I am currently on the Board and the treasurer for Riverview Community Centre, serve on the Technology Advisory Committee for CPA Canada, and volunteer with CPA Manitoba’s Financial Literacy program. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family at our cottage, watching my children’s hockey games (and managing their teams!), and giving back to our communities together.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), University of Manitoba
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
Certified Managerial Accountant (CMA)

I’m Don Johal. As a Board member, I represent our members and ensure that ACU is operating in a sound and prudent manner in accordance with our mission, vision, and values. I’ve explored many avenues and business ventures throughout my career – I’m passionate about automobiles, commerce, and people, which has led me to work in and actively play a role in the local vehicle rental industry. I’ve built my career in the licensee/franchisee environment with Budget Car and Truck Rental and have been the President of the Manitoba Car and Truck Rental Association for several years. Before joining ACU, I was nominated to Entegra Credit Union’s Board of Directors in 2017 and served as both Vice-Chair and Board Chair during that time.

I am a dedicated, active member of my community and am passionate about making our city and province a better, more inclusive place for everyone. I give back to my community through my involvement with various local charitable organizations, and I strongly believe in the importance of using Business as a Force for Good. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in the community and attending community functions, taking trips with family and friends, and playing golf.

I’m Karen Di Quinzio and I look after the Wealth Business at ACU. This includes leadership, strategy, product, training, hiring, compliance and registrations, administration and the member experience from a wealth perspective. I am also the liaison with our mutual fund investment dealer: Credential Asset Management Inc. I have over 25 years of industry experience. I believe everyone is equally important no matter what you do, where you live or what your background is. I want everyone to be educated on the importance of saving, investing and planning for their future. For these reasons, ACU is a great fit for me. Outside of work, I love a variety of sports both watching and playing. I am very active and love to hike, jog, bike and swim. I love nature and a good book or puzzle at the lake on a quiet night is always something I look forward to. And I love, love, love travelling too!

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Commerce, (Hons.)
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

If you’re looking for solid financial advice, talk to me. I’ll introduce you to one of my expert team members.

Reach me at:
204.258.3375
kdiquinzio@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

Mutual funds and financial planning are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc.

I’m Karen Podgurnycormier. Since 2007 I’ve been in charge of ACU Wealth Compliance, Operations, Registrations and Administrative Support. I personally influence our processes, procedures, disclosure and education pieces to be timely and within our strict business practice and regulation guidelines. My goal is to ensure that our licensed team of Wealth Advisors with Credential Asset Management Inc. provides an excellent and consistent member experience, focused on the member's financial goals and comfort level. I listen to concerns and offer solutions to ACU Advisors and our Membership. When not working I enjoy biking, gardening and a good book.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Financial Management Advisor (FMA)
Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)
Senior Wealth Consultant (WC)
Certified Investment Dealer Compliance
Chief Compliance Officers Qualifying Exam

Reach me at:
204.258.3495
kpodgurnycormier@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

Mutual funds and financial planning are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc.

I’m Robert Rusak. I provide financial peace of mind by spending time with members and learning about what’s important to them. Whether it’s saving for an important goal such as retirement, helping their children pursue education, or legacy planning, I want to understand where people want to go, and then put together an achievable plan to help get them there. I’ve been in the industry since 2004 at Royal Bank, CIBC and now at Assiniboine. Family and community are very important to me. ACU is aligned to these values as an organization that helps build stronger communities for the benefit of all. Outside of work, my wife and I have two children and we keep busy with their active schedules including hockey and dancing. We love to travel and also spend a lot of time at our family cottage in the summer. I play hockey and like to stay active through running and going to the gym.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Bachelor of Commerce, (Hons.)
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)
Financial Management Advisor (FMA)

My goal is to help members achieve their financial goals and dreams. Let’s see what we can do together.

Reach me at:
204.258.3355
rrusak@acu.ca

IIROC Advisor Report

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

 

Mutual funds, other securities and securities related financial planning services are offered through Credential Securities, a division of Credential Qtrade Securities Inc. Credential Securities is a registered mark owned by Aviso Wealth Inc.

I’m Adam Richard. I provide financial planning and wealth management advice tailored to the needs and priorities of individual members and their families. I’ve been in the financial services industry for over 13 years and at ACU since 2015. For me, and ACU, the success of our members is paramount. I engage every member with a purpose that comes from a deep interest in ethics and interpersonal relationships built on honest interactions. When not working, I focus on my kids who are all are into sports and arts, so that keeps me grounded… and busy. I love to cycle. My brother and I started riding a Gran Fondo each year and have so far been to New York City and Vancouver.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Bachelor of Arts, (Hons.)​
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

My interest is in laying the foundation and helping them build their empire. Let’s see what we can build together.

Reach me at:
204.258.3382
arichard@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

Mutual funds and financial planning are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc.

I’m Justin McMahon and I provide financial advice and guidance to our members. I thoroughly enjoy being able to teach or advise a member on making the correct financial decision which in turn gives them peace of mind about their future. I’ve been studying and working in the financial services industry for just over seven years. After four years with TD I came to ACU to deal with investment registrations specializing in RDSPs and group plans. I’m proud to work for an organization that not only talks about improving the community through social enterprises but actually does it. I’ve never worked at an organization where my values align so well. When I’m not at work you can find me at a rink year round playing various versions of hockey. If I’m not at the rink I’m traveling with my spouse or thinking about sports. I’m a proud supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles, Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs with a soft spot for the hometown Jets.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Business Administration (BA)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

I’d love the opportunity to work with you to help reach your financial dreams.

Reach me at:
204.258.3390
jmcmahon@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

Mutual funds and financial planning are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc.

I’m Victor Lopes. I specialize in financial planning and investment advice for members looking for guidance with their investment and retirement decisions. I give them peace of mind knowing that a qualified and trustworthy partner is working alongside of them every step of the way. I have over 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry between ACU and TD. I value the relationships we have with our members, and that’s what I love about ACU. Just like me, they make the member their first priority, and their decisions as an institution are always arrived at with the member’s best interest in mind. I love to spend time with my wife and son, as well as volunteer at my cultural pavilion which I have participated in for over 40 years.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Bachelor of Commerce
Certified Financial Planner designation (CFP)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

Reach me at:
204.958.8483
vlopes@acu.ca

IIROC Advisor Report

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

 

Mutual funds, other securities and securities related financial planning services are offered through Credential Securities, a division of Credential Qtrade Securities Inc. Credential Securities is a registered mark owned by Aviso Wealth Inc.

I’m Nigel Mohammed. I oversee a team of Specialists providing creative financing to support small businesses, non-profits, co-operatives and social enterprises. I began my banking career with a chartered bank in 1987 while pursuing a degree in Business at University of MB. I left banking and Canada in the early 90’s to work in the international community within non-profit sector for several years before returning to my banking roots, this time with the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions. After many years in the Easter Caribbean within the non-profit and financial cooperative sectors across the region, I returned to Canada, joined the ACU team in 2001 and have never looked back! The focus of my work today is delivering banking services in a way that propels social impact, shapes our local economy and builds sustainable communities. I love family gatherings and fishing with my daughters…even on rainy days!

Education and Credentials:
International Credit Union Development Educator (I-CUDE) – WOCCU
CanadaDE1 Graduate –Saint Mary's University
Fellow with the Credit Union Institute of Canada – CUIC Canada
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification – Purdue University
Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) University of Manitoba

Reach me at:
204.258.3321
nmohammed@acu.ca

I’m Bill Dinsdale. My role in the ACU Community Financial Centre (CFC) is to assist non-profits, co-operatives, and social enterprises through financing and account management. I specialize in non-profit housing. I’ve been with ACU for over 15 years, starting out as a teller and working my way up to Senior Community Account Manager. Prior to this, I was a head golf professional. I believe in integrity, co-operation, accountability, diversity and inclusion. ACU has a strong focus on affordable housing and poverty reduction; issues that are important to me. On my own time, I love to travel and learn about different cultures. I love the outdoors, camping, and gardening with a special affinity for Bonsai trees. I also enjoy photography, and of course… golf.

Education and Credentials:
Accredited Business Lender – Credit Union Institute of Canada and Dalhousie University
Certificate of Achievement Financial Counselling – Institute of Canadian Bankers
Business Administration – General Management Option, Co-operative Education, Camosun College, Victoria, BC
Certificate in Professional Golf Management – Camosun College, Victoria, BC

Reach me at:
204.258.3378
bdinsdale@acu.ca

I’m Mihaela Pirlog. Since 2009, I’ve been working in the ACU Community Financial Centre (CFC) dealing almost exclusively with not for profit organizations, co-operatives and small businesses. I have over 25 years of progressive commercial lending experience in the financial industry in Canada and Romania, and I’ve been working in the credit union system since 2001. My background is in commercial lending with experience in the areas of business plan assessment, loan origination, risk mitigation and loan performance monitoring. Being honest and treating people with respect are the most important things to me. I grew up in a household where helping others was something that my parents were very driven by. Education was a key factor while loving and cherishing your family was fundamental. I see these same core values at ACU every day. On my own time, I enjoy traveling, trying new foods, discovering new cultures, and seeing new places. I like being active and spending time outside in nature.

Education and Credentials:
Master’s Degree in Engineering
Accredited Business Lender with CUIC

If you work with a small business, a non-profit or community organization, let’s see what we can do together.

Reach me at:
204.258.3325
mpirlog@acu.ca

I’m Heather Sadowy. I am proud to be a part of our Community Financial Centre where we specialize in working with non-profits, cooperatives, social enterprises and a variety of small local businesses. Ironically, I never wanted to work in the financial industry specifically, but I did want to work for a company that does good things, and is in touch with our local community. That’s ACU. My time there has connected me with so many other organizations that I’ve gone on to support or volunteer with. I love to travel, I sing in a choir, and I enjoy getting out to see live music. I am always looking for great recommendations for your favourite local restaurants or non-fiction reads.

Education and Credentials:
Red River College - Business Administration
Working towards a Commercial Lending Accreditation from Dalhousie University
Innovation Engineering Greenbelt
Leadership Winnipeg Graduate

Reach me at:
204.258.3150
hsadowy@acu.ca

I’m Charity Allen. I’ve been in the financial service industry since 2008 and came to ACU in the merger with Entegra Credit Union. Helping members achieve their goals while giving back to the community is very important to me. As part of the Community Financial Centre, I provide advice and financial services to non-profit organizations, co-operatives, social enterprises and a variety of local small businesses. Outside work, I’m a bit of a foodie, so I enjoy supporting Winnipeg’s vibrant restaurant scene. I like traveling, spending time with family and friends, and walking my dog actively.

Education and Credentials:
Working towards Commercial Lending Accreditation from Dalhousie University

If you’re in the non-profit sector and looking for financial guidance, let’s grab a coffee sometime.

Reach me at:
204.949.7832
CAllen@acu.ca

I’m Jane Czuboka. As a Wealth Advisor, I focus on advising members at all life stages, specializing in working with those approaching or already in retirement. I advise on complex planning strategies in retirement including: drawing income from savings, tax efficiencies, investing, estate, and other financial related matters. In addition to being very passionate about financial planning, I practice with great care, compassion, and take a comprehensive approach with our members. I’ve been in the business since 1988 and this long term experience gives me a unique insight into how to best navigate all of our members’ planning considerations.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

Reach me at:
204.982.1449
jczuboka@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

I’m Jesse Funk and it’s my job to help members strategize their financial needs and goals in order to make the best plan possible. My aim is to collaborate, guide them, and to follow up with them so we can confirm they remain on track. I’ve been in the financial industry since 2012 and have been with ACU since 2018 as a senior financial advisor with a strong focus on financial, retirement and investment planning. I value human well-being, open dialogue and responsibility. I’ve seen firsthand the impact ACU has on our local community, and am proud that we partner with companies that have similar values. Away from work, I enjoy movies and reading about history, culture, true crime, philosophy and religion. I also enjoy the outdoors and spend time travelling. I spend a lot of time in Central Mexico where I have family.  I enjoy playing basketball and am an avid fan of the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA.

Education and Credentials:
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

My aim is to be a main point of contact for those needing guidance in their financial lives because they value and trust my expertise. If this sounds like something you’re looking for, let’s talk.

Reach me at:
204.958.8691
jfunk@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

I’m Lisa Matwyko. As a Wealth Advisor, I provide advice to help members achieve short and long term financial goals.  It takes a lot of number crunching, but I love that part of the job. I’ve been in the financial services industry for 34 years, 22 with Royal Bank and 12 with ACU. My current focus is on planning, working with members to help educate them so they can make better decisions about pension, retirement, RESPs, RDSPs, and mutual funds. I believe in honesty, loyalty, respect for others, taking responsibility, and I believe that trust has to be earned. ACU values - to help and give back to the community - make me feel right at home. Outside of work, I love to relax and enjoy time with family and friends. I spend time at the lake during the summer and take a winter holiday to enjoy some sun.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Wealth Consultant (WC)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

Reach me at:
204.258.3536
lmatwyko@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.

I’m Mike Tarabalka. As a Senior Financial Advisor I provide investment advice and financial planning to help our members realize their dreams. I’ve been an advisor since 1990, starting with Rice Financial, CIBC and now ACU. My experience is probably the single most important thing I bring to the table. That, and really caring about doing what is the best for the needs of our members. I love helping people with some of the most important decisions in life, guiding them through the process and recommending the services and products to help get them where they want to be. I believe in treating people honestly and sincerely listening to them. Because of these beliefs, there is no better place for me to work than at ACU. I like cycling and motorcycles. Basically, if it has two wheels, I’m on it. I also love to scuba dive and taking care of my dogs.

Education and Credentials:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Chartered Investment Manager (CIM)
Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI)
Wealth Consultant (WC)
Responsible Investment Specialist (RIS)

I really enjoy getting to know the needs of our members and I take immense pride in helping them, and I’d love to work for you.

Reach me at:
204.958.8663
mtarabalka@acu.ca

Responsible investment (RI) is defined as the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into the selection and management of investments. Shareholder activism and corporate engagement have subsequently become common place. At ACU our Responsible Investment Specialists are here to educate and assist our members with this Investment Philosophy.