About Stratos
Stratos is a management consultancy specializing in environmental, social and governance issues. We work across the space between government, industry, Indigenous peoples and NGOs to collaborate and support them in developing the ideas, strategies and tools they need to solve large scale, non-linear, complex problems.
We offer transformative yet practical solutions. We know when to listen and when to ask the right questions. We have the courage to go off script, to trust ourselves, to trust each other and trust the process. We achieve results by understanding the context, making connections, integrating perspectives, and designing solutions that promote sustainability, diversity and inclusion.
With over 20 years of experience, we have the ability to understand and balance different stakeholder perspectives and needs, providing sound advice that is supported by a practical implementation plan. We are at our best when co-creating solutions with our clients and stakeholders.
Our Vision:
A healthy planet. A productive and engaged society. A clean, diversified and inclusive economy.
Our Mission:
We work collaboratively with governments, Indigenous peoples, business and civil society to navigate complex challenges, develop integrated and practical solutions and support societal transitions that result in sustainable outcomes.
Contact us today to begin a dialogue on how we can support your organization in the transition to a clean and inclusive world.
Our Team
LEADERSHIP
CAROLYN HEDLEY
Principal Consultant, BSc, MES
CAROLYN HEDLEY
Carolyn Hedley is a Manager at Stratos. She works with government agencies, non-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations, and industry to advance environmental and socio-economic strategies as well as to track and report progress. Carolyn believes that an engaged public, progressive government policies, and industry innovation lead to continuous improvements in natural resource management. Her work spans many of Stratos’ service offerings and impact areas, grounded in her strong facilitation, research, analysis, and communication skills. Carolyn has supported the federal government’s Northern Contaminated Sites Program for many years, with a focus on advancing socio-economic approaches in Canada’s North. She also has extensive experience engaging stakeholders and rights-holders.
Prior to joining Stratos, Carolyn was an Environmental Risk Analyst at Intrinsik, where she provided research support for environmental and human health risk assessments.
Carolyn holds a Master of Environmental Studies from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Science (Biology) from Queen’s University. She has completed facilitation training and evaluation training. Living in BC’s Okanagan, Carolyn brings a unique perspective to the team. Outside of the office, Carolyn enjoys hiking, swimming, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. She volunteers with a local daycare society, having acted as previous Chair and Vice-Chair of the Maven Lane Board of Directors.
EMMA BEDLINGTON
Principal Consultant, BA, MBA
EMMA BEDLINGTON
Emma is one of Stratos’ reporting experts. She primarily works with private companies, industry associations and government departments to improve disclosure of their sustainability performance and management practices.
“What I love about my job is the variety. I have such interesting clients and colleagues and my work spans several different sectors – energy, mining, forestry and finance,” Emma says.
Emma also specializes in materiality analysis, performance management, sustainability program development and design, and Aboriginal relations. In 2011, she was involved in the redesign of of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business’ flagship Progressing Aboriginal Relations (PAR) Program.
Since then, she has helped Canadian companies develop Aboriginal engagement strategies, measure social impact and performance, and understand the emerging transparency and disclosure requirements.
“When people ask me what I do, I tell them I help companies and organizations make better decisions for the environment and the communities where they operate,” she says. “I’m optimistic about what we can accomplish when we collaborate.”
Joined Stratos: 2010
Specialty:
Corporate disclosure and reporting, sustainability program development and management, performance measurement, Aboriginal relations
Prior Work Experience:
- Lecturer on Corporate Social Responsibility, Nipissing University
- Geomatics Specialist, Natural Resources Canada
- Geomatics Specialist, Statistics Canada
Education:
- Master of Business Administration, Segal School of Business, Simon Fraser University, 2010
- Bachelor of Arts, Geography, McGill University, 2002
What Emma offers:
Emma brings a comprehensive knowledge of sustainability reporting and disclosure requirements as they continue to evolve both in Canada and around the world. She also specializes in materiality analysis, sustainability program development performance management and Aboriginal relations.
Working across sectors, Emma’s clients have included:
- Sustainable Development and Technology Canada
- Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business
- J.D. Irving Forest and Paper Products
- Syncrude
- The Royal Bank of Canada
- The International Council for Forest and Paper Associations
- Environment Canada
- Canada’s Eco-fiscal Commission
In 2011, Emma played a key role in the redesign of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business’ flagship Progressing Aboriginal Relations (PAR) Program. This program has provided numerous Canadian companies with a framework to understand and improve Aboriginal employment, business development, community investment and community engagement.
Since then, she has helped many Canadian companies develop Aboriginal engagement strategies, measure social impact and performance, and understand the emerging transparency and disclosure requirements
As a geographer, Emma gets her greatest inspiration from the “two Janes” – Jane Goodall and Jane Jacobs.
“Clients and colleagues can count on me to be resourceful, practical and persistent but that doesn’t mean I won’t challenge the status quo when it’s called for,” Emma says.
When she’s not in the office, Emma enjoys traveling and exploring the Ottawa valley with her family. Having lived in Japan for several years, she also speaks Japanese and makes a mean okonomiyaki.
JULIE PEZZACK
Partner, BAH, MES
JULIE PEZZACK
Julie is one of Stratos’ owners, Vice President of the firm’s Corporate Sustainability Practice, and has over 20 years of experience in the field of sustainability management. Julie works with clients across a range of sectors to more effectively integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into their overall strategy, management, performance measurement and disclosure. She has a wealth of experience and an excellent understanding of leading practices and tools; and draws upon this expertise to build customized solutions for Stratos clients.
Julie has conducted numerous gap assessments and strategic reviews designed to assess the effectiveness of client’s sustainability strategies, management systems and practices, as well as leading teams in developing strategies, policies, procedures and programs to manage specific ESG issues. She is very familiar with a range of management, performance measurement and disclosure standards, and draws on this knowledge to inform her work.
Julie has a particular expertise in designing and facilitating multi-interest engagement processes/ workshops, as well as training. She has worked with organizations to design and facilitate advisory groups and dialogues to provide advice and work towards collaborative solutions, as well as interactive training sessions built on adult education principles.
“My clients are looking to address challenges and prepare for future success,” she says. “The range of issues we tackle together makes my job so interesting – it’s dynamic and constantly evolving.”
Joined Stratos: 2000
Specialty: Environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy and management, program design, stakeholder and Indigenous convening, engagement and facilitation, training design and delivery, performance measurement and disclosure
Prior Work Experience:
- Environmental Management Consultant, Jacques Whitford Environment Ltd.
- Community Development Research Analyst, African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) (research placement), East Africa
- Associate, The Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto, Chairman’s Department
Education:
- Master of Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, 1998
- Bachelor of Arts (Hons.), Political Science, Queen’s University, 1992
What Julie offers:
As Stratos’ Vice President of Corporate Sustainability, Julie has a comprehensive understanding of the complex environmental, social and economic issues affecting the corporate sector today.
Her consulting expertise encompasses the full range of services organizations require to more effectively integrate ESG considerations into their overall strategy, management, performance measurement and disclosure.
Julie is also certified by the ISO as a Lead Auditor and has taken Sustainability Assurance Training as part of the international Certification Program for Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (CSAP), developed by AccountAbility and the International Register of Certified Auditors (IRCA) in London, England.
Examples of Julie’s clients include: a range of industry associations, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB), Enbridge, The Gordon Foundation, Hydro One, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Ivey Foundation, Mackenzie Valley Impact Review Board (MVEIRB), NEI Investments, NWT Board Forum, Pembina Pipelines, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Syncrude Canada Ltd.
Julie describes Stratos as committed to providing “quality tailored solutions.” Plus, she says, “I work with a great team of people, which keeps it fun.”
MICHAEL VAN AANHOUT
Partner, P.Eng. (ON)
MICHAEL VAN AANHOUT
Michael van Aanhout joined Stratos in 2000 as a Senior Consultant, became President in 2005 and Chairman in 2012. Michael is a driven by the desire to move towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future. He works collaboratively with corporate, public sector and civil society leaders to address environmental, social, and governance opportunities, challenges, and risks. In addition to strategy and management consulting, Michael works with clients and communities of interest to design, manage, and facilitate consultation and engagement processes on a range of sustainability issues.
Before joining Stratos, Michael was a Senior Environmental Management Consultant at Jacques Whitford Environment Limited. Prior to that, Michael was a Regulatory Affairs Manager Western Canada at Laidlaw Environmental Services Ltd and served as a Naval Officer and Marine Systems Engineer with the Department of National Defence for the Canadian Navy.
Michael holds a Bachelor of Engineering and Management from the Royal Military College of Canada, has completed the Marine Engineering Application Course from the Royal Naval Engineering College in the United Kingdom, participated in the Leadership Forum at the University of Ottawa, School of Management Centre for Executive Education, and is a Registered Professional Engineer in the Province of Ontario. Michael was honoured to be a recipient of the Delta Management 2015 Canada’s Clean50 Award.
Outside of the office, Michael enjoys self-propelled recreation and sports all year round with family and friends, and volunteers with local, regional and national community and environmental not-for profits including sitting on the boards of HOST, EnviroCentre and Nature United.
SIMON CHORLEY
Principal Consultant, BA, MA
SIMON CHORLEY
Simon Chorley is a human rights and social sustainability specialist with over 15 years of experience building partnerships with governments and companies. As a manager at Stratos, Simon helps mining companies enhance their human rights and social policies, processes, and practices. Simon brings an innovative and collaborative approach, focusing on integrating under-represented groups into sustainability strategies and solutions. Simon achieves these solutions through partnerships and collaborations with government departments, industry associations, mining companies, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders.
Before joining Stratos, Simon worked at UNICEF as their International Programs Manager and Acting Deputy Director, leading UNICEF’s engagement with the mining sector. Simon was a regular speaker at national conventions, gave evidence to governments and parliamentary consultations, authored numerous tools for businesses, enhanced the sustainability approaches of multiple individual companies, co-chaired the Devonshire Initiative, and represented UNICEF at the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights. Simon has also collaborated with Natural Resources Canada to develop the CSR Checklist for Canadian Mining Companies and Global Affairs Canada to produce the Child Rights and Security Checklist and Handbook, which was nominated for a global award. Before UNICEF, Simon helped lead government and business engagement for Stop the Traffik, a human rights charity in the United Kingdom.
Simon holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in International Relations with Development Studies from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. Simon is also trained in results-based management and gender-responsive programming. Outside of the office, Simon enjoys playing soccer and tennis with his family and volunteering for local and national charities.
STEFAN REINECKE
Principal Consultant, MASc, P.Eng.
STEFAN REINECKE
Stefan is a cross-disciplinary analyst, advisor and risk management specialist. Trained as a civil engineer, with a focus on the environment and water resource management, Stefan brings technical insight and experience to Stratos’s management and strategic advice.
“I enjoy helping clients address the technical, management and community realities of their business,” he says.
Stefan works primarily in the mining and energy sectors, providing his private and public sector clients with a range of services, including: risk management; socio-economic strategy, planning and reporting; sustainability program design and implementation; and stakeholder mapping.
As technical lead at Stratos, Stefan has led a number of studies to inform policy, protocols and management approaches on such issues as shadow carbon pricing, climate change risk in mining and water stewardship.
He has also played a key role in designing and implementing a risk management framework for a large portfolio of abandoned mine sites in Canada’s north.
“I’m proud of the work Stratos has done to help the Canadian government manage abandoned mine sites in Canada’s north,” Stefan says.
Joined Stratos: 2004
Specialty: Designing, implementing and facilitating processes and risk management approaches that combine management, strategy and technical content; leading research studies and reviews on key environmental issues
Prior Work Experience:
- Environmental Engineer, Franz Environmental Inc.
Education:
- Master of Applied Science, Civil Engineering (Environmental option), University of Toronto, 2000
- BaSc., Civil Engineering, University of Waterloo, 1996
- Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS): “Foundations of Water Stewardship,” “Advanced Training in the AWS Standard,” “AWS Specialist Training”
What Stefan offers:
Trained as a civil and environmental engineer, Stefan brings a technical understanding and advanced analytical skills to his projects, particularly those combining policy, management and technical content.
Stefan’s areas of practice include:
- Risk management
- Socio-economic strategy, planning and reporting
- Program design and implementation
- Stakeholder mapping
- Canadian and international companies in the mining and energy sectors
He has extensive experience supporting industry associations to develop protocols and standards in such areas as land management, biodiversity, water stewardship, and carbon/energy management.
For these engagements, Stefan has conducted reviews and benchmarking studies of global standards and practices as well as issues-specific management reviews and risk analyses. He has also designed and run interview programs with industry stakeholders and company representatives and facilitated working group processes.
Stefan has also led a number of research studies and reviews to inform policies, strategies and management approaches on a range of environmental issues, including climate change impacts on acid-rock drainage, water stewardship in mining, and shadow carbon pricing in the Canadian energy sector.
For the public sector, Stefan has focused on providing policy, management and implementation support to the Canadian federal government related to mine closure and contaminated sites.
Stefan’s clients have included:
- Industry associations such as the Mining Association of Canada, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada, the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers
- Government departments and programs such as the Mining Environment Neutral Drainage program (Natural Resources Canada) and the National Roundtable on Environment and Economy (NRTEE)
- Canadian and international companies in the mining and energy sectors.
Stefan is an avid cyclist – for pleasure, exercise and commuting – so it stands to reason that the one thing he can’t live without is his bikes!
STEPHANIE MEYER
Partner, MES, CEA
STEPHANIE MEYER
As one of Stratos’ founding owners, Stephanie works at the strategic level. She helps senior leaders set their organization’s sustainability vision, create alignment with staff and business processes, and develop sustainability management systems.
Stephanie leads Stratos’ work with the mining sector where she provides strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, performance management and reporting services for such clients as Agnico-Eagle Mines, Sherritt International, Teck, Hudbay and the Mining Association of Canada.
Helping clients strengthen their relationships with local communities is an important pillar of Stephanie’s work. “Those most directly affected by development need to have a voice and should see benefits to their communities, including through local procurement and employment,” she says.
Stephanie is also an experienced facilitator and trainer. “I aim to create an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere,” she says. “I believe that’s essential for true collaboration and partnership.”
As President of Stratos, Stephanie is proud to work with an amazing team. “Every one of Stratos’ employees is bright, passionate and out to make a difference,” she says. “That’s what makes this such a great place to work.”
Joined Stratos: 2000 (Founding Owner)
Specialty: Strategic sustainability planning and stakeholder engagement, primarily for the mining sector
Prior Work Experience:
- Consultant, Jacques Whitford Environment Limited
- Environmental Health & Safety Specialist, Nike
Education:
- Master of Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, 1995
- Environmental Professional (Certified Environmental Auditor) – Emeritus, 1999
What Stephanie offers:
Stephanie brings a powerful mix of strategic thinking, an ability to effectively engage with senior leadership and a deep understanding of environmental and sustainability management within the mining sector.
Her clients include Agnico-Eagle Mines, Sherritt International, Teck, Hudbay and the Mining Association of Canada. She works with leadership teams to set their organization’s sustainability direction and ensure staff and business processes are aligned with the strategic sustainability vision.
Stephanie is driven by her firm belief that environmental and social considerations need to be deeply embedded in decision making. “They can’t be an afterthought,” she says.
Stephanie also supports her clients in developing effective sustainability management systems, including for community engagement and development, and local procurement and employment.
As an experienced facilitator and trainer, Stephanie is able to create the positive environment needed for true dialogue and collaboration, whether that’s with internal staff or with external partners and stakeholders.
When not working, Stephanie enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, rock climbing or scuba diving. She is a founding member of Nature Canada’s Women for Nature, a network of leading women passionate about enjoying and conserving nature.
VICKY WEEKES
Principal Consultant, BSc, MRM (Planning), RPP
VICKY WEEKES
Vicky is a policy and planning specialist. She works with the public and private sectors to address policy issues and improve performance through sound analysis and planning.
Her clients include all levels of government, co-management bodies, industry associations and other collaborative organizations.
“I’m motivated by constant challenge,” Vicky says. “And being able to use my skills and experience to navigate complex issues and make a meaningful contribution.”
Vicky has a particular interest in environmental governance and natural resource management, and she credits her years of outdoor education experience for inspiring her to pursue her chosen profession.
“Whether it was implementing the 4 Rs as a family growing up, or leading youth on canoe trips through indigenous land or near resource developments, my early experiences have shaped my interests and passions today,” she says.
Joined Stratos: 2008
Specialty: Strategy, policy and planning; governance; program design, assurance, stakeholder engagement
Prior Work Experience:
- Outdoor & Environmental Educator, various organizations
Education:
- Masters, Resource and Environmental Management (Planning), Simon Fraser University, 2008
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology, University of Guelph, 2003
What Vicky offers:
Vicky understands the complex policy issues facing public and private sector clients in developing and managing natural resources.
Working with industry and other member-based associations has given Vicky insight into what it takes to make “collective action” successful.
She has supported the design and ongoing implementation of various voluntary industry sustainability initiatives aimed at strengthening performance across a sector. These include Towards Sustainable Mining and the pipeline sector’s Integrity First initiative.
Vicky is passionate about working at the regime level. Having worked across jurisdictions and in many different regions of Canada, she is familiar with the different environmental governance arrangements to manage resources.
In the North, Vicky has worked with co-management bodies, such as in the Mackenzie Valley and the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, sharing her knowledge of organizational effectiveness and collaborative governance practices.
Vicky’s combined background in natural resource management and human behaviour naturally lead to a keen interest in policy. She has worked with a range of government clients on policy files. In particular, Vicky is passionate about water and was proud to support the former National Round Table on the Environment and Economy with its Program on Water Sustainability and the Future of Canada’s Natural Resource Sectors.
Vicky holds a Masters in Resource and Environmental Management (Planning) and is a member of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute.
When not working, Vicky loves to spend time outdoors and in nature. “In fact,” she says, “that’s the one thing I can’t live without!”
Managers, Consultants & Administrators
COURTNEY SQUIRES
Senior Consultant, BSc
COURTNEY SQUIRES
Courtney Squires is a senior consultant and mining specialist at Stratos. Courtney is passionate about working with mining operations and their stakeholders to build practical, tailored sustainability strategies. Courtney has extensive experience in Canada’s north. She has experience implementing, impact benefit agreements, engaging Indigenous peoples, supporting capacity building initiatives, and developing socio-economic impact assessments.
Prior to joining Stratos, Courtney worked for Agnico Eagle’s Nunavut Division as a social performance specialist, with a focus on managing and implementing the Inuit Impact Benefit Agreements (IIBAs) in collaboration with the regional Inuit Association. Prior to that, Courtney worked as a mine planning engineer at Agnico Eagle’s Meadowbank Operation. Courtney’s unique background provides her with a broad understanding of both technical and non-technical mining processes.
Courtney holds a Bachelor of Science Mining Engineering from Queen’s University and is a licensed Professional Engineer of Ontario. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys horse-back riding and travelling.
EMILY CADDELL
Senior Consultant, MES
EMILY CADDELL
Emily Caddell joined Stratos as a Consultant in December 2018. She is motivated by tackling complex problems, recognizing the relationships between people and places. Emily works with corporate, public sector and civil society clients to address policy and regulatory issues and improve organizational effectiveness through strong analysis and planning. Emily provides a range of services, including supporting the design, management and facilitation of consultation and engagement processes on a range of environmental, social and governance issues. Emily’s interests include natural resource management, diversity, equity and inclusion, and work related to Canada’s north.
Prior to joining Stratos, Emily worked at Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Emily holds a Master of Environment Studies in Social and Ecological Sustainability from the University of Waterloo and a Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability and International Development Studies from Dalhousie University. Emily’s masters thesis research focused on regional land use planning for the Peel Watershed in Yukon. Emily is a proud Franco-Ontario, she enjoys being able to support her clients in both official languages.
GENEVIEVE DONIN
Consultant, MSc
GENEVIEVE DONIN
Genevieve joined Stratos in 2020 as a consultant. She works in collaboration with executives, experts, and catalyzers of change on projects throughout the full lifecycle of natural resource stewardship. Genevieve is an intuitive listener and analytical thinker who cares deeply about the varied relationships people hold with the land.
As part of the convening, engagement, and facilitation team at Stratos, Genevieve brings valued organizational and writing skills when planning and reporting on multi-interest rightsholder and stakeholder engagement sessions. Genevieve has supported engagements for multiple clients, including the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the World Wildlife Fund. She also provides ongoing secretariat support to the Mining Association of Canada’s Community of Interest Advisory Panel.
Before joining Stratos, Genevieve worked at the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network and policy think tank, where she contributed to a growing body of grey literature on the role of primary resources in a future circular economy. Through this work, Genevieve delivered specialized content from plain language summaries to detailed reports.
Genevieve speaks French and Spanish and holds a Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability and a Bachelor of Social Science, International Development and Globalization from the University of Ottawa. Her Master’s research evaluated integrated fisheries management plans across socio-economic themes and the implications of treaties on the allocation of Pacific salmon. Genevieve is a PADI certified rescue diver with over 60 dives logged underwater and remains passionate about working with clients in the fisheries and oceans space.
ISHA MISTRY
Consultant, MSc
ISHA MISTRY
Isha Mistry joined Stratos as a Consultant in 2021. She is driven by developing meaningful relationships to advance sustainability and resilience at the interface of social and ecological systems. Isha has worked with a range of clients and organizations in both her professional and academic career in the topics of water governance, agriculture, and systems thinking. She has experience in designing and implementing multi-stakeholder engagement and facilitation. Isha has supported multiple community-based initiatives through research and strategic advice to advance their sustainability goals. She translates complex problems and different perspectives into actionable deliverables within and between community and policy contexts.
Prior to joining Stratos, Isha worked at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Collective Responsibility, and Mount Wolfe Farm.
Isha holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Sustainability (MSc) from the University of Ottawa. Her research focused on collaborative governance in the Rideau Canal and stakeholder engagement. Previously, she completed a bachelor’s in environmental studies (BES) degree from the University of Waterloo. Isha also holds a Diploma in Environmental Assessment and a Global Experience Certificate. Her undergraduate research focused on using relationship building to bridge Western and Indigenous knowledge systems in small scale agri-business.
Besides her work at Stratos, Isha is continuing her research on Eastern Ontario’s national historic waterways as a Research Associate at the University of Ottawa and is on the Environmental Studies Association of Canada’s Board of Directors. Isha leads an active lifestyle and enjoys stepping out of her comfort zone.
JULIA IERULLO
Consultant, BSc, MES
JULIA IERULLO
As a consultant for Stratos, Julia supports facilitation, strategy, and research work across various sectors in the Natural Resources Management impact area team, with specific interest in conservation and nature, and Indigenous engagement within Canada’s northern context. As a strong analytical thinker with an interdisciplinary approach, she excels in research and report writing, and supporting stakeholder engagement initiatives to solve complex problems.
Prior to joining Stratos, Julia worked as Consultation Coordinator for Caldwell First Nation and was responsible for assessing project proposals on Caldwell Traditional Territory, drafting project updates for Chief and Council, and participating in meetings with external organizations to share knowledge and advise around best practices for consultation.
Julia holds a Master of Environment and Sustainability from Western University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Windsor. Julia developed her research-oriented and action-based approach through her academic experience, which allows her to apply the subject matter effectively and efficiently to project deliverables. Outside of work, you can find Julia travelling, baking, or exploring the outdoors with friends and family.
JULIE NGUYEN
Senior Consultant, BSc, MSc
JULIE NGUYEN
Julie Nguyen is a senior consultant at Stratos and supports organizations with environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. Julie is a strategic thinker, skilled researcher and writer. She incorporates her scientific and communication backgrounds to help her clients proactively capture opportunities and manage risks. Julie provides a range of services, including strategy and planning, performance management and reporting.
Prior to joining Stratos, Julie worked for Shell Canada and LNG Canada in Vancouver and Calgary, where she provided strategic leadership on communication functions and engagements, and liaised with corporate shareholders on environment, government, Indigenous Peoples, and corporate social responsibility topics.
Julie holds a Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Development from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of British Columbia. Julie enjoys listening to podcasts about business and science, travelling and baking.
MICHAEL BEN-ISRAEL
Consultant, Ph.D.
MICHAEL BEN-ISRAEL
Michael joined the Science, Innovation & Clean Economy team at Stratos as a Technical Consultant in 2020. With a keen sense for balancing attention to detail and avoiding ‘missing the forest for the trees’, he specializes in integrating inter- and multi-disciplinary technical subject matter for non-technical contexts. Michael’s key project areas include risk management, stakeholder engagement, cleantech, climate change, and sustainable resource and land management. He is driven by the impactful initiatives contributing to advancing Canada’s sustainability goals being undertaken with his private- and public-sector clients, such as Natural Resources Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Crown-Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, Baffinland Iron Mines Corp., and the Nunavut Marine Council.
Before joining the Stratos team, Michael supported legacy contaminated site management with the Morwick G³⁶⁰ Groundwater Research Institute, BP Canada, and a broad team of environmental engineering consultants. These experiences provided him with advanced knowledge in resource management and governance and foundational skills across the project management lifecycle.
Michael holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph. His research experience includes projects in contaminated site management, ecological monitoring, climate change, and sustainable resource management. Outside of work, you can find Michael spending time with family and friends in the outdoors.
MIKE SHOESMITH
Senior Consultant, BASc
MIKE SHOESMITH
Mike Shoesmith is a Senior Technical Consultant at Stratos who supports organizations to assess and respond to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities. He believes that fostering meaningful relationships and working collaboratively is the key to solving complex problems. Mike excels in leading complex projects that require his expertise in risk management and stakeholder engagement. Examples of Mike’s work include conducting climate change vulnerability assessments for the Government of Canada and designing and implementing an engagement process for a quantitative risk assessment for the Giant Mine Remediation Project.
Prior to joining Stratos, Mike worked for Ramboll as an Environmental Engineer. His work was focused on supporting companies to understand and mitigate their air quality and GHG emissions. Prior to that, Mike worked as an Environmental Manager at Sanofi Pasteur and was responsible for sustainability performance of a vaccine manufacturing facility.
Mike is a Professional Engineer and holds a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering with an environmental specialization from Queen’s University. Outside of the office Mike can be found tending to his vegetable garden, brewing beer and hanging out with his dog Archie.
RANA GHOUSSAINY
Consultant, BSc, MSc.
RANA GHOUSSAINY
Rana joined Stratos in June 2021 as a consultant. As a member of Stratos’ Science, Innovation and Clean Economy (SICE) impact area, she supports a wide range of public- and private-sector projects focused on the design and delivery of complex policies, programs and initiatives rooted in transformational changes in science, innovation and/or clean economy. Rana is passionate about environmental equity and sustainability. She appreciates culture, diversity, and collaboration, and believes community engagement is the key for environmental stewardship.
Prior to joining Stratos, Rana spent several years executing and delivering multi-disciplinary environmental consulting projects internationally. Her areas of expertise include environmental management, assessment, auditing, and compliance.
Rana holds a Master of Science in Environmental Monitoring, Modelling and Management from King’s College London, a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health from the American University of Beirut, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Management and Assessment from Algonquin College. Rana is a volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross and is a continuous advocate for animal welfare.
REBECCA LAFONTAINE
Consultant
REBECCA LAFONTAINE
Rebecca joined the Stratos team in October 2019, bringing exceptional skill in designing and managing large-scale events that target underrepresented populations, implementing data solutions, and developing materials for senior executives. As a consultant, she works on facilitation and engagement projects and supports the Stratos teams’ internal growth and development. Rebecca is involved across a variety of sectors and service areas through the Natural Resources Management (NRM) Impact Area Team. Her clients include Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board, Government of Nunavut, and Crown-Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. With a background in community health and harm reduction, Rebecca holds an understanding of on-the-ground socio-economic inequities and channels this sensitivity in her work.
Prior to joining Stratos, Rebecca worked at Mining Association of Canada and Shepherds of Good Hope. Rebecca is also an active volunteer in her community.
Rebecca has an Executive Office Administration Diploma from Algonquin College. She also has certifications and training in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Active Listening and Communication and Suicide Prevention. Rebecca was born in the Algoma Region of Northern Ontario and is a proud citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO).
SAVINA CAPORALI
Senior Consultant, MSc
SAVINA CAPORALI
Savina is a Senior Consultant on Stratos’ Science, Innovation and Clean Economy (SICE) impact area team with expertise in environmental sustainability. She has over 10 years of experience working for international organizations, the federal government, and nonprofits which has allowed her to see environmental issues through different lenses and to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders. She has implemented a broad range of strategies, projects, and programs to reduce negative environmental and social impacts within organizations.
She is skilled at generating buy-in and developing business cases for owners and executives, as well as using science-based approaches to better ensure positive outcomes. Savina takes a practical approach to her work and has an aptitude for negotiation and collaborative problem-solving.
Prior to joining Stratos, Savina worked at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Parks Canada, and the United Nations Environment Programme. In her past roles she worked with contractors and staff to install equipment to save energy and reduce food waste; developed sustainability benchmarks and performance metrics on areas such as water, energy, and waste; developed and implemented capacity building activities such as staff training on environmental standard operating procedures; and wrote annual sustainability reports.
Savina holds a Bachelor of Commerce in International Business and Strategy with a minor in Environmental Sciences, as well as a Master of Science Integrated Water Resources Management from McGill University. Savina is multilingual, speaking English, French, Italian and Greek. Outside of work, she enjoys playing sports and learning new skills.
TARA MATAR
Consultant, PMP, BIB, MA.
TARA MATAR
Tara Matar is a multilingual, business professional with over 8 years of experience holding positions in Project Management, Business Analysis and Consultative Sales. She joined Stratos as a Senior Consultant with a specialization in Project Management in August 2020. Tara works closely with key clients in the public sector including Natural Resources Canada and Public Services and Procurement Canada. She enjoys hands-on participation in projects that impact communities and organizations while working to build her skills in sustainability consulting.
Before joining Stratos, Tara was an independent consultant working with clients including Export Development Canada and the Office of Auditor General in IT Project Management and business solutions delivery. She worked closely with executives and senior managers on projects from initiation to completion, consulting and advising them on projects and business performance metrics.
Tara holds a bachelor’s degree in International Business from the Sprott School of Business with a specialization in Strategic Management and is currently pursing her Master of Art degree at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs (NPSIA) at Carleton University. Tara also holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. When not working, you can find Tara practicing yoga and going on hiking adventures with her family.
Associates
GUY FREEDMAN
Associate
GUY FREEDMAN
Guy is the President and Senior Partner of the First Peoples Group (firstpeoplesgroup.com), Canada’s leading Indigenous consulting firm. A fifth generation Métis from Flin Flon, Manitoba, he remains closely connected to his community and is dedicated to the revival, renaissance and resurgence of First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures through the arts, media and business. Guy is a thought leader on contemporary Indigenous issues, keynote speaker and writer.
As a former Senior Advisor (Reconciliation) for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), Guy assisted the TRC in developing the conversation around reconciliation with Canadians. He is a member of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights Standing Indigenous Advisory Committee. Guy’s first book of poetry, Little Athapapuskow, a Métis Love Story, was published in October 2017 by Saskatchewan’s Gabriel Dumont Institute.
JANE PORTER
Associate, BIB, MSc (Econ)
JANE PORTER
Jane is a facilitator, a communicator, an integrator. She works primarily in the natural resources sector, helping private and public sector clients in mining, forestry, and oil and gas manage and report on key environmental and socio-economic issues.
Jane’s clients include government bodies such as Natural Resources Canada Canadian Forest Service, private companies like Sherritt International and Hudbay Minerals, and industry associations like the Mining Association of Canada.
“Every day is different,” Jane says. “At any time, I could be working on a strategy job for a mining client in Toronto, or preparing for a training workshop in the north or a national stakeholder engagement plan for a federal government department.”
Skilled in stakeholder engagement and facilitation processes, Jane is both creative and practical in guiding groups toward their objectives.
Drawing on her extensive reporting and communications experience, she also helps clients understand the complex disclosure and reporting landscape and supports all elements of the reporting process.
“I love my work,” says Jane. “Helping clients understand and manage environmental, social, and governance issues is meaningful. Every project helps make this world a better place.”
As of April 2020, Jane has begun a new adventure, but continues to work with Stratos as an Associate.
Stratos employee: 2011 - 2020
Culture at Stratos
ERM acquires Stratos to strengthen leadership in sustainability advisory services
09 November 2021: The world’s largest pure-play sustainability advisory firm, ERM, has acquired Stratos Inc., one of Canada’s leading sustainability and ESG consultancies. As a management consultancy with more than 20 years of experience working across industry,...
Celebrating 20 Years of Stratos
In 2000, our ambition was to create a bold, values-based company that would support a sustainable planet. Our five founding partners spent a lot of time thinking about a company name, including one that was also available as a domain name on the internet. After much...