Elected Board of Directors
2026-27 Term
Joel Davies, President
Joel is the co-founder of Render Developments, a company that enhances pre-construction real estate projects through advanced 3D architectural visualization. From high-quality renderings to immersive virtual walkthrough tours, he stays at the forefront of technological innovation to provide clients with effective visualization tools that help sell their real estate projects.
A proud Whitby resident, Joel has worked with numerous companies across the Durham Region and remains committed to giving back to the community where he lives and works. His strong local ties and collaborative spirit have made him a familiar face at business events and an active supporter of shopping and sourcing local.
Andrew Lee leads the labour and employment law practice at Mack Lawyers. Since obtaining his law degree from Queen’s University in 2011 and being called to the Ontario bar in 2012, he has spent his entire legal career advising and representing business owners, employers, management and HR professionals in all areas of workplace law.
Andrew also previously managed the entire business operations for a major franchise company, with franchises all throughout Ontario. This real-world business experience, combined with his primary calling as legal counsel to business clients, gives him a heightened motivation to serve the business community and advance the mission of the Chamber.
Guy Lacroix, Treasurer
Guy Lacroix, CPA, CA, CGA, LPA, is a Partner with MNP’s Assurance and Accounting Services group in Oshawa. A trusted advisor and key resource to owner-managers and a wide range of not-for-profit and charitable organizations, Guy delivers tailored solutions to help his clients achieve their business goals and thrive.
Guy earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in accounting from Laurentian University. He is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), Licensed Public Accountant (LPA) and Certified General Accountant (CGA), qualifying in 2011.
Michael Richards was a General Manager at Landmark Cinemas Whitby. With a career steeped in the world of cinema, Mike's journey began at the Whitby location under AMC Theatres ownership in 2002. Over the years, he has cultivated a wealth of experience managing theaters in Oakville, Mississauga, Indianapolis, Chicago, and Las Vegas.
Beyond the realm of cinema, Michael is deeply committed to community service. Currently serving as a member of the Town of Whitby Accessibility Advisory Committee, he actively contributes to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in the local community. Michael uses his leadership position to ensure that community charities receive the support they need. His passion for philanthropy is evident in his proactive efforts to contribute positively to the community whenever possible.
Josh Wartman
Josh is a Whitby-based finance executive and community-minded leader with over 15 years of experience in commercial finance, risk management, and strategic growth across the banking, transportation, construction, and manufacturing sectors. He brings a strong blend of financial acumen, governance mindset, and people-focused leadership to his candidacy for the Whitby Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, with a particular interest in serving as Treasurer.
Prior to starting Lendix – a commercial Bookkeeping, Financial Management, and fractional CFO company – Josh worked for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), where he originated more than $60 million in new commercial financing solutions to support local businesses and supported Durham entrepreneurs with practical advice.
Janene Vanderwerff
Janene Vanderwerff is the Director of Sales and Business Development at Royal Ashburn Golf Club, where she leads weddings, corporate events, and signature experiences with a strong focus on elevated service and memorable guest moments. With a background spanning from hospitality operations, food & beverage leadership and large scale event execution, Janene brings both strategic insight and hands-on experience to every event.
Since re-joining Royal Ashburn in 2023, Janene has been an instrumental part in the growth of the club’s wedding and special events portfolio. While strengthening partnerships with local vendors and community organizations she has also brought the launch of the Stay & Spa experience partnering with Thermea spa village in Whitby. Known for her attention to detail, creative approach, and client-first mindset, she works closely with couples, corporate clients, and community partners to bring their vision to life.
Anurag Arora
Anurag Arora is a Whitby resident and strategic leader with over 16 years of experience in management consulting and strategy planning. Currently serving as the Director of AI Strategy at TELUS, Anurag focuses on how industry trends and data can be used to drive practical, meaningful outcomes.
Anurag bridges the gap between global corporate strategy and grassroots entrepreneurship. He holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Toronto and a Marketing degree from York University, credentials he applies locally as the founder of Moon Rabbit Strategy – a Whitby based branding and advertising firm focused onnstartups and small businesses. Having worked and travelled in over 20 countries, he brings an international perspective to local economic challenges. He has previously served as a Director for Experiences Canada, where he focused on supporting organizational growth and advocacy.
Ross Cadastre
Ross Cadastre, a proud native of Saint Lucia, is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion fordriving change. As the founder of Innovative Technology Strategies, a tech firm specializing in AI-driven recruitment solutions, Ross has built a career centred on empowering business growth through talent acquisition. He is also a Partner and Vice President of Client Engagement at MIR Digital Solutions, where he leads strategic client relationships and growth initiatives.
Ross' commitment to inclusivity inspired him to create BIPOCJobs.ca, a leading job board connecting Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) talent with opportunities across North America. The platform is instrumental in breaking down barriers and championing diversity in the workforce.
Kaitlin Daley
Kaitlin Daley is SVP, Head of Global Marketing at Prollenium Medical Technologies, where she leads global brand strategy, product innovation, and commercial marketing across international markets. Having built and led the teams responsible for launching Prollenium’s portfolio in Canada as well as part of the team who prepared for entrance into the U.S., Kaitlin brings deep experience across sales, marketing, and commercialization strategy.
She also serves on the company’s M&A committee, guiding portfolio expansion through both innovation and acquisition. In addition to her role at Prollenium, Kaitlin consults with early-stage med-tech and healthcare companies, advising on go-to-market strategy and global commercialization.
Lucy Darrah
With over a decade of Human Resources leadership across industries including retail, aviation, entertainment, and manufacturing, Lucy brings a people-centered perspective to governance and community leadership. As HR Manager at Gerdau Whitby, she is closely connected to the local community and partners strategically with leaders to enhance organizational effectiveness, decision-making, and workplace culture.
In addition, Lucy serves as a Board Member with the Association of Women in the Metals Industry (AWMI) and as a Council Member with the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), experiences that have strengthened collaboration and the planning of networking, development, and community-focused initiatives. Recognized as a trusted advisor who values ethical leadership and sustainable growth, she is committed to building inclusive, high-performing teams and resilient organizations. This combination of experience and dedication positions Lucy to contribute meaningfully to the Whitby Ontario Board of Directors, supporting its mission to serve the community with integrity and impact.