In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we delve into the dynamic world of Sonia Couto, Managing Director at Konverge Digital Solutions. With an impressive 18-year tenure in software technology, Sonia discusses the pivotal moments that steered her towards founding her company and how she's navigated challenges and championed innovation along the way. Key Episode Highlights: Sonia shares the inspiration behind her venture into digital solutions and her transition from large consulting firms to entrepreneurship, highlighting key lessons learned during this shift. Dive into So ..read more

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we are joined by Guillaume Couture, Sales Manager at Desjardins Employer Solutions. With over 27 years of experience in sales and business development, including 17 years at Desjardins, Guillaume oversees the business development strategy for Canada and manages the sales team. His extensive background and insights provide a deep understanding of payroll, human resources, and time and attendance management solutions. Key Highlights: Guillaume discusses what sets Desjardins Group apart in the realm of payroll and HR services. The impact ..read more

In this engaging episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence and sales strategy with Shihan Fernando, Vice President - Sales at Modern Requirements. Shihan brings a wealth of knowledge in enhancing customer relationships and empowering sales teams through strategic innovation. Key Highlights: Shihan discusses the advanced capabilities of Copilot4DevOps Plus and its integration with Modern Requirements4DevOps. He highlights how this technology streamlines processes, enhances productivity, and improves collaboration across teams. Shi ..read more

In this enlightening episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we sit down with Vince Cordova, Partner at Workforce Mobility Advisory, Mercer. Vince brings over 25 years of experience in international HR operations and shares his insights on effectively managing compensation in a fluctuating economic landscape. Key Episode Highlights: Vince discusses how businesses can support their employees amid inflation and currency fluctuations, emphasizing the need for transparency in compensation. Exploring the challenges and strategies for managing international assignments in high-cost, low ..read more

In yet another interesting episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we were joined by Estelle Azemard, Vice President Americas at OVHcloud. Estelle discusses crucial topics such as hidden fees in cloud services, technology lock-ins, data sovereignty, selecting the right cloud solutions, and the future of cloud computing. Her insights are particularly valuable for SMEs navigating the complex cloud computing landscape, aiming to optimize their technology investments while maintaining control and transparency. Key Highlights: Estelle illuminates common hidden fees that SMEs encounter a ..read more

In another enriching episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Elisa Swern, a distinguished Consumer Markets Leader and Partner at PwC Canada. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, Elisa has shaped retail and consumer strategy, driving organizations towards achieving operational excellence. Her involvement with PwC's Alumni team in the GTA underscores her commitment to community engagement and fostering innovative programs. Key Highlights: Elisa discusses the motivations behind PwC's recent consumer behavior report, highlighting key demograp ..read more

In another insightful episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, e were thrilled to have Alison Simpson, President and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association, share her expertise. Alison’s distinguished career spans across top-tier brands like Holt Renfrew and Shopify, and now she’s leading transformative educational programs at the CMA that equip marketers with cutting-edge skills. Key Highlights: Alison detailed this pivotal program designed to train marketing professionals in essential digital skills, addressing the evolving needs of Canada’s marketing landscape. We discussed ho ..read more

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we are joined by Hesham Fahmy, Chief Information Officer at TELUS. Hesham has been instrumental in guiding TELUS through a significant digital transformation, incorporating advanced technologies like AI and cloud solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer service. He shares insights into TELUS’ journey, the impact of AI on customer support, and the ethical considerations of AI deployment. Key Highlights: Hesham describes TELUS’ transition from a traditional telecom to a digital-first, software-centric organization. Discu ..read more

In this enlightening episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we were joined by Katherine Clarke-Nolan, the Chief Operating Officer at Business Sherpa Group. With her extensive experience in enhancing business operations and fostering an employee-centric culture, Katherine shares valuable insights into strategic leadership and the role of a COO in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Key Highlight Points: Katherine discusses the critical timing and indicators for SMEs to consider when appointing a COO, highlighting the role's strategic importance in scaling operations and enhan ..read more

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we dive into the world of employee-centric business culture with Chris Collins, Vice President & Managing Partner at PeopleToGo Inc. Chris has dramatically influenced the staffing industry with his commitment to fostering an environment that values its people first, propelling PeopleToGo to impressive growth and recognition, including being named a Top 100 Staffing Leader to Watch in 2024. Key Highlights: Chris shares his strategies for nurturing a culture that puts employees first, highlighting how this philosophy has been integr ..read more