Chair
Conquering Lion Pictures
Ontario

Reynolds Mastin works on behalf of CMPA members to ensure the continued success of Canada’s independent production sector and a vibrant future for Canadian content. Reynolds leads the execution of the CMPA’s strategic priorities in its Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver offices. Central to his role is the development of relationships with key stakeholders who are vital to the Canadian production industry. These include all levels of government, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), broadcasters, distributors, exhibitors, industry unions and guilds, the Hollywood studios and streamers, and other production associations from both Canada and around the world.

Prior to becoming President and CEO, Reynolds served as the CMPA’s Chief Negotiator and Chief Legal Officer. As Chief Negotiator, Reynolds represented CMPA members and the Hollywood studios in the bargaining of collective and independent production agreements with the unions and guilds representing talent and technicians in the film, television and digital production industries outside of British Columbia. He also led Terms of Trade negotiations with Canada’s large private broadcast groups, independent broadcasters and the CBC. As Chief Legal Officer, Reynolds provided strategic advice on a range of matters, including business affairs, industrial relations, copyright, Terms of Trade, Canada Media Fund policies and guidelines, CRTC regulatory proceedings and corporate governance.

In his professional capacity, Reynolds is a member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Retransmission Collective and of the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Film Producers Associations.

Prior to joining the CMPA in 2008, Reynolds served as Legal Counsel for the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, where his files included tariff proceedings before the Copyright Board of Canada, copyright reform, and corporate governance. He began his career in 2005 as an articling student at the CRTC, a position that gave him broad exposure to both broadcasting and telecommunications matters.

Reynolds completed his Common Law (LLB) and Civil Law (LLL) degrees at McGill University, with an exchange semester spent at the University of Arizona in Tucson. He has an honours BA in International Relations from the University of Toronto, and his Baccalauréat en éducation from the University of Ottawa.

Liz Shorten has been working to build capacity in the film, television and digital media sectors for the past 25 years. In her role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the CMPA, Liz leads staff and oversees organizational operations across the association’s offices in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver, and works to implement the CMPA’s corporate strategic plan. Liz previously held senior positions at the Ontario Film Development Corporation (Ontario Creates), British Columbia Film (Creative BC) and CBC Television.

Active in many organizations, Liz is currently Chair of the Board of Directors of REEL CANADA and Secretary/Treasurer of the Pacific Screenwriting Program. Liz was a founding board member of the Crazy8s Film Society, co-founder of Women in View and founding chair of Story Money Impact. She is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, was recently named one of BC’s top 500 business leaders by Business in Vancouver, and the recipient of the Founder’s Award at the Whistler Film Festival, in recognition of her leadership role in Canada’s film and television industry.

Representing the interests of independent producers working in Canada’s vibrant media industry, Alain oversees all day-to-day legal, industry, legislative, regulatory and public policy files at the CMPA.

A member of the CMPA’s executive leadership team, Alain provides strategic and legal advice to the President and CEO and CMPA leadership on all policy matters relating to the independent production industry, including business affairs, copyright, Terms of Trade and more. Alain leads and manages the Policy and Government Relations departments, and advocates on behalf of the CMPA and its members before federal and provincial governments on policies that affect the industry.

Alain is fluently bilingual, and has built extensive knowledge and experience in the media industry while working at the country’s largest media companies. Prior to joining the CMPA, Alain held the position of Assistant General Counsel, Regulatory Affairs at Bell, where he worked on a variety of files related to the Canadian broadcasting system. He also previously held positions as Vice President, Business & Regulatory Affairs, and Vice President, OMNI, Specialty TV & Development at Rogers Media.

Having volunteered as a coach and club administrator, Alain is now Vice-President of the board of the Toronto Soccer Association. He is also a board member at Accessible Media Inc., a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted.

Alain holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Civil Law and Bachelor of Arts in Economics from McGill University. He is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, called to the bar in 1996.

Andrew leads strategic communications and member outreach for the CMPA. This means he gets to tell the world about the phenomenal content created by Canada’s indie producers, and the impressive contribution the sector makes to the country’s economic growth and cultural identity.

A member of the CMPA’s senior leadership team, Andrew oversees media relations, marketing, member communications, advertising, sponsorship, professional development, and the organization’s social media and digital channels. He produces the CMPA’s annual Prime Time in Ottawa conference and the CMPA Indiescreen Awards—which recognize excellence among Canada’s feature film producers—and he is also editor-in-chief of the CMPA’s Indiescreen magazine.

Previously, Andrew was an associate vice-president with the global communications firm FleishmanHillard, and prior to that was the manager of media relations at the Canadian Bankers Association. He has also worked as a member of Scotiabank’s global public affairs team, and, while based in Taiwan, wrote for one of the country’s largest English-language magazines.

Andrew received an honours BA in psychology from Western University, and has a post-graduate certificate in public relations from Humber College.

Andrew’s favourite Canadian movie is Sleeping Giant—because it’s a great movie, of course, but also because he feels he could have been an extra in the film, were it shot 20 years earlier.

Working closely with the department director, Ladane assists with the day-to-day administrative tasks within the Mentorship and International Development department. Ladane loves to connect with and surround herself with passionate people, and assisting with the CMPA’s various programs allows her to do just that.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Ladane was a benefits and staffing specialist, providing HR support for Canada’s largest union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). She also worked for various grassroots organizations and NGOs focused on education and leadership.

Ladane holds an honours bachelor’s degree in International Development and Globalization from the University of Ottawa.

Ladane’s favourite Canadian TV shows are Schitt’s Creek (two Levys = jackpot), Workin’ Moms, Rick Mercer Report, and Orphan Black.

Debra joined the CMPA in July 2016, bringing with her over 25 years of experience in administration, customer service, logistics and the not-for-profit sector.

A member of the CMPA’s Operations and Finance team, Debra’s primary function is to provide day-to-day operational support to the Ottawa office, such as helping with tech systems, directing inquiries and overseeing facility requirements.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Debra was an operations administrator with FedEx Ground, and before that worked in various administrative capacities in organizations that work with Deaf, deafened and hard-of-hearing individuals, as well as seniors and persons with disabilities.

Debra studied communication and public relations at Mercer University.

When it comes to Canadian TV, Debra is keen on Heartland, as well as unscripted shows like Love It or List It. She enjoys watching animated series such as The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! and PAW Patrol with her grandkids.

Nicole oversees day-to-day financial operations at the CMPA.

Leading the Finance team, Nicole is responsible for leading and managing the finance and facility functions of the CMPA, including budgeting, forecasting, annual audit, design and implementation of appreciate internal controls.

Nicole joined the CMPA as the association’s Controller in 2018. Prior she held progressively senior roles for Newfound Resources, the Dental Corporation of Canada, and Landmark Home Solutions. She also previously ran her own accounting and tax services company. Nicole Cheng is a CPA, CGA, and holds a Master of Accountancy degree from Brock University.

One of Nicole’s favourite Canadian TV series is Anne with an E. She also loves watching documentaries; one of her Canadian favourites is Last Train Home.

Jean oversees the day-to-day operations of the finance department at CMPA, focusing on budgeting, forecasting, compliance with CMPA standards and providing relevant and reliable information to internal and external stakeholders.

Before joining the CMPA, Jean was the Ottawa City Councillor for Alta Vista from 2014 to 2022 and served as Chair of the Audit Committee and Co-Chair of Ottawa 2017 year-long celebrations.  Prior to his election, he had a successful career as a business professional and was the Chief Financial Officer at Tubman Funeral Homes for 12 years.

He is a CPA, CGA, and received the Queen’s Golden Jubilee medal in 2002, awarded to individuals for outstanding contributions to their communities.

An avid movie fan and entrepreneur, Jean began his career in 1975 as an usher at the Towne Cinema in Ottawa. He later became the manager and purchased the business in 1983. Together with a business partner, he bought the Nelson Cinema on Rideau Street in 1988, leading to the creation of the popular ByTowne Cinema.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Jean and his partner showcased many Canadian films such as Who Has Seen the Wind, Les Ordres and The Man Who Skied Down Everest. More recently, Jean has enjoyed productions such as Blackberry and the hilarious Letterkenny.

Sarolta manages the CMPA’s mentorship programs, leads the organization’s international initiatives and lands support in corporate affairs.

Working closely with members and up-and-coming producers, Sarolta is responsible for researching funding opportunities and developing mentorship programs that assist both independent production companies and emerging talent. She also leads the organization’s international development and outreach, ensuring that members have access to information and resources to strengthen their international business development strategies. Having worked with the CMPA since the early 2000s, she has worn many hats, from designer to webmaster and beyond.

Sarolta graduated from the University of Ottawa with a degree in communications.

She has a few Canadian favourites, but if pressed to pick, her top three would be Hatching, Matching and Dispatching because it’s so well written and hilarious and has a great cast; Durham County because it’s delightfully dark and beautifully crafted; and The Kids in the Hall because, well, it’s The Kids in the Hall.

Tracy is a member of the CMPA’s finance team, and works closely with other members of the finance team to integrate the CRM database with our accounting processes.

On a daily basis, Tracy works to identify and track production data related to our CMPA member and non-member productions. Tracy maintains and manages the CRM database and assists the finance team with remittance information, reporting and coordinating the CRM month-end and year-end functions.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Tracy worked for the Canadian Paediatric Society’s surveillance program as a program assistant.

Tracy has completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from the University of Saskatchewan.

Tracy has always had a passion for independent and Canadian content, and special favourites include the TV series Orphan Black and the film Giant Little Ones. 

Kanwal oversees the day-to-day operations of the finance department at CMPA. She actively engages in budgeting, forecasting, audits, and ensures compliance with internal controls while meticulously preparing financial reports for both internal and external stakeholders.

Prior to her tenure at CMPA, Kanwal garnered extensive experience as a Senior Analyst, Senior Accountant, and Acting Accounting Manager across various organizations.

Kanwal holds designations as a CPA, CGA, and ACCA, complemented by a Master of Science in Professional Accountancy from the University of London. Her expertise extends to internal auditing and controls, bolstered by her CIA designation.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Kanwal finds joy in Canadian cinema. She is particularly drawn to shows like Property Brothers, reflecting her passion for interior design, and Murdoch Mysteries, which fuels her penchant for problem-solving.

Lisa is responsible for all functions related to member service, and is one of the primary organizers of the CMPA’s annual Prime Time conference.

As the point person for both new and renewing members, Lisa enjoys the opportunity to deal individually with every company that joins the CMPA. She handles the day-to-day operations of the membership department, and also manages the membership database. Lisa handles all logistics related to the CMPA’s annual Prime Time conference, a national networking event for some 600 of Canada’s most prominent business leaders from the feature film, television, interactive media, broadcasting and telecommunications industries.

Prior to joining the CMPA in 1998, Lisa held positions in finance/accounting, human resources, office management, event planning and client relations. Before she joined the CMPA’s membership department, Lisa was the association’s Director of Finance.

Lisa holds a diploma in executive business administration from Algonquin College.

Lisa’s guilty pleasure is reality TV—Top Chef Canada, Chopped Canada, You Gotta Eat Here! and so on. Her single favourite Canadian TV reality show would have to be The Amazing Race Canada. She loves the competition and the camaraderie, as well as the dramatic and beautiful scenery across Canada. She wouldn’t mind being a competitor on the show either.

Prema assists in the day-to-day operations of CMPA’s finance department. A steadfast member of the finance team, she supports the staff and board members by dealing with all matters relating to accounting.

Her duties include all aspects of accounts payable and receivables. This comprises dealing with vendor queries, payments, analysis of receipts and customer accounts. Her other contributions include reconciliation of expense reports, processing financial reports and assisting extensively with year-end audits. Her skills are not limited to finance, and she helps with day-to-day administrative duties as required.

Prior to the CMPA, Prema worked in the accounting departments of the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC), Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa and Medical Arts Dispensary of Ottawa. She also worked as a teacher in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.

Prema holds a diploma in accounting from Algonquin College and a BSc in chemistry from Bharathidasan University in India.

Prema is a fan of documentaries, especially nature docs. Her favourite Canadian documentary is How to Be a Wild Elephant.

Nick Schiavo leads national advocacy and government relations for the CMPA, representing Canada’s independent producers who develop, produce, and distribute English-language content across TV, film, and digital media platforms. In this role, Nick builds and nurtures strong relationships between public officials, stakeholders, and the creative industry to shape public policy and bolster the media production sector. His advocacy strategy centers on placing creative entrepreneurs at the heart of legislative and regulatory decisions, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for the industry.

Before joining CMPA, Nick served as the Director of Federal Affairs for the Council of Canadian Innovators from 2022 to 2024. He has also held significant roles as Director of Policy and Government Relations at Impact Public Affairs, a Policy Analyst with Fisheries and Oceans Canada on the G7 Task Force, and as an Ontario Global Edge Fellow in Nairobi, Kenya. During the 2015 federal election, he worked with the Green Party of Canada, and over the years, Nick has had the opportunity to represent Canada at various global institutions, including the Commonwealth, the World Bank Group, and the United Nations.

Nick is the Founder and Executive Director of No Conversion Canada, a national grassroots nonprofit coalition he launched in 2018 to advocate for the ban of conversion “therapy” practices in Canada. His leadership was instrumental in the passage of Bill C-4, which officially outlawed these harmful practices. In addition, Nick serves on the Board of It Gets Better Canada, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ2+ youth.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours Specialization) in International Relations from Western University and a Master of Political Management from the Clayton H. Riddell Graduate Program at Carleton University.

Nick’s favourite piece of Canadian TV is Schitt’s Creek, or really anything that the Levy family touches.

Andrew leads strategic communications and member outreach for the CMPA. This means he gets to tell the world about the phenomenal content created by Canada’s indie producers, and the impressive contribution the sector makes to the country’s economic growth and cultural identity.

A member of the CMPA’s senior leadership team, Andrew oversees media relations, marketing, member communications, advertising, sponsorship, professional development, and the organization’s social media and digital channels. He produces the CMPA’s annual Prime Time in Ottawa conference and the CMPA Indiescreen Awards—which recognize excellence among Canada’s feature film producers—and he is also editor-in-chief of the CMPA’s Indiescreen magazine.

Previously, Andrew was an associate vice-president with the global communications firm FleishmanHillard, and prior to that was the manager of media relations at the Canadian Bankers Association. He has also worked as a member of Scotiabank’s global public affairs team, and, while based in Taiwan, wrote for one of the country’s largest English-language magazines.

Andrew received an honours BA in psychology from Western University, and has a post-graduate certificate in public relations from Humber College.

Andrew’s favourite Canadian movie is Sleeping Giant—because it’s a great movie, of course, but also because he feels he could have been an extra in the film, were it shot 20 years earlier.

Working closely with the Senior Leadership of the Business Affairs, and Policy departments, Indira assists with the administrative and day-to-day support of the CMPA’s policy and business affairs activities. With a deep-seated belief in the ability of storytelling to shape perceptions, challenge norms, and ignite change, Indira contributes to various governmental policy and business affairs initiatives which serve to strengthen the sustainability of Canadian independent productions.

Indira comes to the CMPA with a strong administrative background and a keen interest in the media production sector. Prior to joining CMPA, Indira held various roles at TIFF, Hot Docs & ReelWorld Film Festivals, at OISE/UofT at Festival of Literacies, a project advancing policy and social justice initiatives through Adult Education, and an Administrator & Product Manager for the Leadership business segment at Global Knowledge.

Indira holds a degree in Cinema Studies from the University of Toronto and a diploma in Television Broadcasting from Seneca College.

In awe of the filmmaking by prolific Alanis Obomsawin, one of Canada’s greatest filmmakers, Indira believes Obomsawin should be a household name. Has special affection for the first Caribbean-Canadian sitcom Lord Have Mercy! produced by trailblazer Frances Anne Solomon and by one of the first black filmmakers in Canada, Claire Prieto. A champion of Learning to Swim, made by a colleague from Hot Docs, and Siddhartha made by a university friend from University of Toronto. Loves the gritty procedural Cardinal, docs like Unarmed Verses and is inspired by new Canadian masterpieces from Brother, to Sort Of.

Lisa is responsible for providing strategic advice to CMPA members with respect to industry matters, business affairs, and production financing.

As a member of the CMPA’s senior leadership team, Lisa develops and executes strategies and advocacy related to sources of production financing, provides advice to members regarding industry and business
affairs, builds relationships with industry stakeholders, reviews and advises on public policy matters and engages in government relations efforts relating to industry and business affairs matters.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Lisa was Senior Vice President, Business Affairs & Production Financing with Boat Rocker Media, and before that she was Director, Production Finance and Operations with DHX Media
(now Wildbrain). She has hands-on business affairs and finance experience in the areas of children’s and youth, animation, scripted drama, factual, and documentary productions. She has also been an Executive Producer in commercial film production, and a producer and production manager for documentary feature films and television.

Lisa sits on Ontario’s Screen Industry Advisory Council and the Toronto Film, Television and Digital Media Board. She has been an instructor in Production Accounting and Tax Credits for Women in Film and Television – Toronto and is co-chair of Danforth Collegiate and Technical Institute’s School Council.

Lisa has a BA and MA in English Literature from McGill University.

Lisa’s favourite Canadian television program is Letterkenny – because her credit in the first two seasons is the thing that she is most famous for! Her favourite Canadian film is Jésus de Montréal, because it’s a
beautiful film that reminds her of her university days.

Gamiela is a passionate advocate for Canadian content and the talented independent producers who bring those stories to life. As part of the CMPA’s communications team, she plays a vital role in spreading the word about Canada’s world-class media production industry and supporting the creators behind it

Gamiela helps keep CMPA members and staff in the loop with the latest news and developments impacting Canada’s independent producers. As the CMPA’s primary media contact, Gamiela builds and maintains relationships with journalists and media outlets, and pitches stories that shine a spotlight on the industry’s achievements and challenges.

Gamiela is a contributing editor for Indiescreen, the CMPA’s flagship magazine. She is also a key member of the team that organizes the CMPA’s annual Prime Time conference, an event that brings together industry leaders in media production, broadcasting and policy.

Before joining the CMPA, Gamiela honed her communications skills at Rogers Communications Inc. and Starbucks. This diverse experience gave her a well-rounded understanding of the media landscape and the power of effective communication.

Gamiela holds a combined honours BA in communication studies and professional writing from York University, and an advanced diploma in public relations from Humber College.

Samia advises producers on the CMPA’s industry labour agreements, and represents the CMPA in all labour disputes arising under those agreements.

As the Director, National Industrial Relations and Associate Counsel, Samia is counsel for the CMPA in grievances and labour arbitrations. Samia advises and represents the CMPA in collective bargaining, labour relations and all other labour and employment law matters.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Samia was a Senior Associate at a leading employment and labour law firm, where she advised employers on many areas of employment and labour law, with a particular emphasis on employment agreements, policy development and implementation, occupational health and safety, and human rights and accommodation matters.

Samia is currently the Vice-Chair of the Employment & Labour Law Section of the Ontario Bar Association. She is also regularly invited to speak at conferences and events on key employment and labour law considerations for employers.

Samia obtained her law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School, where she was the recipient of the NA Taylor Scholarship and the Charles Edward Woodward Award for academic excellence. Samia completed her undergraduate studies at Queen’s University, obtaining an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

Samia currently enjoys watching Diggstown, and has binge-watched every episode of Being Erica.

Jakub manages the CMPA’s outreach initiatives, which include professional development, member outreach and networking events.

Jakub acts as a point of contact for member inquiries and administers the CMPA’s sponsorship efforts. Additionally, Jakub works closely with the Vice-President, Communications, Marketing and Membership, supporting activities related to Prime Time, the Indiescreen Awards and other initiatives.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Jakub worked at the Canadian Film Centre (CFC) as the coordinator for marketplace and outreach initiatives. In this role, he helped deliver on all marketplace and outreach programs, initiatives, events and activities. Before his time at the CFC, he was a publicity intern at eOne, volunteered his time as a talent wrangler for benefits and awards shows, and interned in acquisitions at Ouat Media.

Jakub has an honours BA from York University—a double major in communication studies and fine arts cultural studies, with a concentration in film and television.

Among his favourite Canadian films are The F Word, Mommy and C.R.A.Z.Y. They all share the ability to pull on his heartstrings.

Chris is responsible for overseeing employee relations and leading HR strategy, programs and initiatives at the CMPA.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Chris was the Director of Human Resources at TO Live, where she provided full-service HR support to all levels of management and staff at TO Live’s three performing arts venues. Chris started her professional career with ACTRA, where she worked for over 20 years, holding several labour relations positions including senior roles with the ACTRA Performers’ Rights Society.

A graduate of York University in Creative Film, Chris has a post-graduate certificate in Human Resources Management from Humber College and holds the CHRL designation. Chris also is a certified Workplace Fairness Analyst, and has specialized training in mediation for the workplace.

Chris is a passionate and enthusiastic advocate of workplace fairness and the fostering of employee well-being in all areas of people and culture, such as respect, diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion.

Gillian provides administrative and operational support to the National Industrial Relations team. Her work involves coordinating events that originate from the department, including member committee meetings, working groups, roadshows and labour negotiations. She also acts as a liaison with unions and guilds, participating in related joint committees.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Gillian was a showrunner’s assistant on a Netflix series. She previously held multiple roles at the Canadian Film Centre (CFC), working as part of the talent development, content development and production teams.

Gillian is an alumna of the Arts and Contemporary Studies program at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). She also holds a certificate in Film Studies from The Chang School at TMU.

Gillian’s favourite Canadian films include Jean-Marc Vallée’s C.R.A.Z.Y., Clement Virgo’s Rude, Myriam Verreault’s Kuessipan and Ivan Reitman’s Meatballs.

Reynolds Mastin works on behalf of CMPA members to ensure the continued success of Canada’s independent production sector and a vibrant future for Canadian content. Reynolds leads the execution of the CMPA’s strategic priorities in its Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver offices. Central to his role is the development of relationships with key stakeholders who are vital to the Canadian production industry. These include all levels of government, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), broadcasters, distributors, exhibitors, industry unions and guilds, the Hollywood studios and streamers, and other production associations from both Canada and around the world.

Prior to becoming President and CEO, Reynolds served as the CMPA’s Chief Negotiator and Chief Legal Officer. As Chief Negotiator, Reynolds represented CMPA members and the Hollywood studios in the bargaining of collective and independent production agreements with the unions and guilds representing talent and technicians in the film, television and digital production industries outside of British Columbia. He also led Terms of Trade negotiations with Canada’s large private broadcast groups, independent broadcasters and the CBC. As Chief Legal Officer, Reynolds provided strategic advice on a range of matters, including business affairs, industrial relations, copyright, Terms of Trade, Canada Media Fund policies and guidelines, CRTC regulatory proceedings and corporate governance.

In his professional capacity, Reynolds is a member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Retransmission Collective and of the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Film Producers Associations.

Prior to joining the CMPA in 2008, Reynolds served as Legal Counsel for the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, where his files included tariff proceedings before the Copyright Board of Canada, copyright reform, and corporate governance. He began his career in 2005 as an articling student at the CRTC, a position that gave him broad exposure to both broadcasting and telecommunications matters.

Reynolds completed his Common Law (LLB) and Civil Law (LLL) degrees at McGill University, with an exchange semester spent at the University of Arizona in Tucson. He has an honours BA in International Relations from the University of Toronto, and his Baccalauréat en éducation from the University of Ottawa.

Sean is the lead negotiator for the CMPA in labour negotiations with the industry’s unions and guilds. Sean also provides strategic and operational support to producers regarding the CMPA’s labour agreements. Sean helps producers understand the terms and conditions of the agreements and assists producers in managing and resolving disputes arising under these agreements.

As a member of the National Industrial Relations team and counsel to the CMPA, Sean represents the CMPA, and supports its members, in legal disputes including grievances and arbitrations. Sean also provides legal support to the CMPA in ​labour and employment matters and the advancement of labour- and employment-related legislative priorities.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Sean was an associate in the labour and employment group at McCarthy Tétrault LLP, where he advised and represented employers on a broad range of labour, employment and human rights matters. Before that, Sean articled and worked as an associate at Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP, a labour and employment law firm.

Sean received his Juris Doctor from Queen’s University and his Honours Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations from the University of Toronto (Trinity College).

Sean currently enjoys watching Kim’s Convenience, for the simple reason that it is very funny. Sean’s favourite all-time CanCon is Slings & Arrows.

Christine is the front-line resource for day-to-day inquiries relating to the CMPA’s labour agreements. As a member of the National Industrial Relations team, Christine provides support and guidance to producers on the application and interpretation of the CMPA labour agreements and assists in resolving disputes that arise from these agreements.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Christine worked for nearly two decades for a major industry guild, where she served as Manager of Agreement Administration and Director of Strategy & Outreach. Her experience included overseeing the enforcement of industry negotiated agreements and facilitating member outreach and education.

Christine is a graduate of Carleton University, with a bachelor’s degree in English and film studies.

Growing up, Christine watched plenty of Canadian comedy. Her favorites are SCTV and The Kids in the Hall. Her most memorable Canadian movie is Cold Comfort because it’s even creepier than Misery, but made with a lower budget.

Ashutosh supports the CMPA’s President and CEO in advancing the organization’s mission and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. He helps drive strategic priorities by providing executive support and contributing to internal coordination that strengthens the association’s impact across Canada’s screen industry.

At the CMPA, Ashutosh manages schedules, communications, and logistics in support of the executive office. He plays a key role in stakeholder relations, board support, and planning high-level meetings and industry events.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Ashutosh worked at BIPOC TV & Film, where he led national programs and advocacy initiatives promoting equity and representation in media. He has also held roles in public relations at Edelman and creative production at Under 25, gaining a broad skill set rooted in operations, storytelling, and community engagement.

Ashutosh holds a BA in Media and Communication and has pursued additional training in leadership and project management.

His favourite piece of Canadian content is Schitt’s Creek, for its heart, humour, and lasting cultural impact.

Patrick brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors to his role, where he oversees the CMPA’s regulatory files. His work primarily involves policy development and advocating for CMPA members before the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

In his role, Patrick focuses on developing and preparing interventions and submissions to the CRTC. He represents the CMPA and its members at CRTC regulatory proceedings, both monitoring and advising on public consultations, and regulatory decisions. Likewise, Patrick monitors and assists in the development of legislative proposals under the purview of the Department of Canadian Heritage. His efforts are aimed at supporting independent producers in the broadcasting and telecommunications sectors.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Patrick operated a civil litigation practice and public policy consultancy, as founder and principal. Prior to that, he worked as a Senior Policy Analyst with the Department of Canadian Heritage, working almost exclusively on Bills C-10 and C-11, which would later become known as the Online Streaming Act, legislation that brought long-awaited amendments to the Broadcasting Act.

Patrick holds a Master of Laws with a concentration in Law & Technology from the University of Ottawa, a Bachelor of Laws from City, University of London and an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Ottawa. Patrick has been consistently drawn to subjects relating to digital media, intellectual property, and tech policy, which ultimately became central to his ongoing career development. Patrick was called to bar in 2017 and is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.

Patrick has a particular fondness for Patricia Rozema’s film I’ve Heard the Mermaids Singing, starring the enigmatic Sheila McCarthy. He’s also a huge fan of Denis Villeneuve’s pre-Arrakis masterpiece Incendies. Rounding out the Letterboxd “four favourite CanCon films” is Matt Johnson’s recent trip down smartphone memory lane with BlackBerry and Edward Burtynsky’s painfully beautiful and sobering Manufactured Landscapes.

Representing the interests of independent producers working in Canada’s vibrant media industry, Alain oversees all day-to-day legal, industry, legislative, regulatory and public policy files at the CMPA.

A member of the CMPA’s executive leadership team, Alain provides strategic and legal advice to the President and CEO and CMPA leadership on all policy matters relating to the independent production industry, including business affairs, copyright, Terms of Trade and more. Alain leads and manages the Policy and Government Relations departments, and advocates on behalf of the CMPA and its members before federal and provincial governments on policies that affect the industry.

Alain is fluently bilingual, and has built extensive knowledge and experience in the media industry while working at the country’s largest media companies. Prior to joining the CMPA, Alain held the position of Assistant General Counsel, Regulatory Affairs at Bell, where he worked on a variety of files related to the Canadian broadcasting system. He also previously held positions as Vice President, Business & Regulatory Affairs, and Vice President, OMNI, Specialty TV & Development at Rogers Media.

Having volunteered as a coach and club administrator, Alain is now Vice-President of the board of the Toronto Soccer Association. He is also a board member at Accessible Media Inc., a not-for-profit media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians who are blind or partially sighted.

Alain holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Civil Law and Bachelor of Arts in Economics from McGill University. He is a member of the Law Society of Ontario, called to the bar in 1996.

Alexandrine serves as the primary contact for CMPA members seeking guidance on business affairs and production financing strategies. She oversees member and staff updates on funding guidelines, tax credits, and policy changes that impact members’ financing and business affairs needs. Alexandrine collaborates closely with the Vice-President, Business Affairs and Production Financing, to maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, advancing CMPA members’ interests across the industry.

Before joining CMPA, Alexandrine worked as a Business Affairs Consultant for independent producers and spent over 15 years at the National Film Board of Canada as a Line Producer and Studio Administrator, overseeing the studio’s business affairs.

Fully bilingual, Alexandrine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology from Université Panthéon-Sorbonne.

Her favorite Canadian series is Schitt’s Creek for its humor and resilience—qualities she values deeply in the industry.

Raila is the Director of Member Development at the CMPA-BC, where she supports BC independent producers. Working closely with members, Raila oversees professional development opportunities and international development. She also manages the event sponsorship portfolio and works with community partners on various committees to support industry-wide initiatives.

Raila was the inaugural Program Director for the Pacific Screenwriting Program (PSP), a non-profit organization co-founded by CMPA-BC, Netflix and Creative BC in 2018. The PSP provides support and career-advancement opportunities to BC-based film and television writers. Under Raila’s leadership, the PSP made meaningful strides in building and nurturing BC’s screenwriter community. Before the PSP, Raila served as Marketing Director at Corus Entertainment.

Jason oversees industrial relations for the BC Producers Branch of the CMPA, representing independent producers in collective labour matters and serving as a member resource for collective agreement interpretation and production practices.

As the lead negotiator in collective bargaining on behalf of the BC Branch Council, Jason is responsible for the negotiation and management of the CMPA’s labour agreements with BC’s guilds and unions, which represent writers, directors, performers and technicians. He assists members in the preparation of grievances and arbitrations, and represents the independent production sector in matters of employment standards, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.

Prior to joining the CMPA, Jason was vice-president of business and legal affairs with SEVEN24 Films, managing business and financial matters for the Canadian series Heartland, Young Drunk Punk and Wynonna Earp. During this time, he was co-chair of the CMPA’s national IR committee and was a producer representative in collective bargaining with ACTRA, the DGC and the WGC. Previously, Jason worked as an independent corporate, commercial and feature-film producer.

Jason received an honours BA and MA in social anthropology from the University of Calgary, and attended the National Screen Institute’s Drama Prize Program Producers Lab.

Jason’s favourite Canadian TV series is The Kids in the Hall, because it was irreverent and subversive, and remains funny 25 years later.

Ryan oversees the general office management of the BC Producers Branch and is the corporate secretary to the Branch Council.

Ryan acts as a point of contact for BC members and assists with the coordination of BC sponsorship commitments and networking events. In addition, Ryan is responsible for the administration of the BC accounts.

Prior to the CMPA, Ryan worked at BC Hydro as a business analyst with the SAP PPM Application Support team, analyzing education materials for consolidation and redevelopment. Before BC Hydro, he worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers as a client account associate, acting as a liaison between clients and senior management and assisting with the facilitation of the audit process.

Ryan’s favourite Canadian movies include One Week, Room and C.R.A.Z.Y. Each film has the ability to evoke an emotional response with its story.

Liz Shorten has been working to build capacity in the film, television and digital media sectors for the past 25 years. In her role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the CMPA, Liz leads staff and oversees organizational operations across the association’s offices in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver, and works to implement the CMPA’s corporate strategic plan. Liz previously held senior positions at the Ontario Film Development Corporation (Ontario Creates), British Columbia Film (Creative BC) and CBC Television.

Active in many organizations, Liz is currently Chair of the Board of Directors of REEL CANADA and Secretary/Treasurer of the Pacific Screenwriting Program. Liz was a founding board member of the Crazy8s Film Society, co-founder of Women in View and founding chair of Story Money Impact. She is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, was recently named one of BC’s top 500 business leaders by Business in Vancouver, and the recipient of the Founder’s Award at the Whistler Film Festival, in recognition of her leadership role in Canada’s film and television industry.

As a member of the BC Industrial Relations team, Jeremy assists with a range of priorities, from member inquiries to collective bargaining. He coordinates and schedules meetings with staff, members and external organizations; manages external communication for the BC Branch, including Notes to Members; and supports the IR team in preparing for labour negotiations and in creating CMPA-BC collective agreements.

Jeremy has a background in the independent sector, producing and managing the production of award-winning web and short-form content. Jeremy is a graduate of Capilano University, with a bachelor’s degree in Motion Picture Arts.

Jeremy’s current favourite CanCon series is Letterkenny, but he also regularly enjoys exploring much older works through the NFB, when the full potential of film was first being explored.

Natalie supports the BC Branch through various administrative duties.   

Prior to joining the CMPA, Natalie was at Sunset Visitor 斜陽過客, where she was the Producer of the Peabody Award-winning indie game, 1000xRESIST. She was also previously the Deputy Director at Centre A: Vancouver International Centre for Contemporary Asian Art, and worked in the private art sector in the UK, facilitating pop-up exhibitions and presentations at international art fairs. 

Natalie received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, and a Master’s in Arts Administration and Cultural Policy from Goldsmiths University of London.  

When reflecting on favourite Canadian content, Natalie’s mind goes directly to the teen TV classics (for Millennials), Breaker High and Student Bodies, and early 2000’s Canadian-made cooking shows like The Surreal Gourmet and Sugar. She also adores the work of artist collective, Isuma.