March 28 & 29, 2026: Vancouver Convention Centre - Hall C - East Building

Mike O’Brien brings over 30 years of experience in investment and financial services to his role at InvestPlus REIT as Investor Relations Manager. He has been instrumental in driving asset growth and building trusted relationships with both new and existing investors. Over the course of his career, Mike has worked extensively across Canada with leading financial institutions, including Raymond James, RBC, and boutique firms such as Canadian Wealth Management. He is well known for his excellence in relationship management and business analytics, consistently helping clients reach their financial goals through personalized strategies and innovative financial Education. A passionate advocate for financial literacy, Mike spent 20 years teaching Personal Financial Management at the University of Calgary’s Continuing Education department. He remains a lifelong learner and educator, committed to empowering investors with knowledge, clarity, and Confidence.

As a Manager in Business Markets at RBC, I’m passionate about empowering franchise owners to thrive through strategic financial solutions. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in the franchise sector, I’m dedicated to helping you navigate growth, scalability, and long-term success. My team and I bring tailored expertise to support your vision, whether it’s financing expansion, optimizing cash flow, or planning for the future. At RBC, we’re more than a bank—we’re your committed partner in building a stronger, more resilient business. Let’s turn your franchise ambitions into reality, together.

Chris Skelton has been assisting clients with franchise growth, sales, and operations for the past couple of decades. With a wealth of experience in assisting investors and franchisors, Chris has come to quickly identify what business opportunity aligns best with the right candidate.

Ahsan has been in his current role with as Regional Manager, Franchise Banking for 2 years at TD Bank, and with franchise industry for over 8 years.  As Regional Manager, Ahsan is one of TD's franchise industry experts and is responsible for growing TD's franchise banking portfolio while ensuring that franchisee customers are provided with legendary customer service.  Ahsan also brings to the table over 15 years of lending experience from Commercial and Small Business at TD. He enjoys collaborating with both franchisors and franchisees to assist them with all of their credit and Banking needs.

Terry has been in his current role with TD Bank as National Manager, Franchise Banking for 10 years.  As National Manager, Terry is one of TD's franchise industry experts and is responsible for growing TD's franchise banking portfolio while ensuring that franchisee customers are provided with legendary customer service.  Terry enjoys collaborating with both franchisors and franchisees to assist them with all of their credit and Banking needs. 

Professional business development manager with over 13 years of banking experience. Specialized in franchising, commercial business and small business banking.

Scott has extensive experience in the Canadian franchise landscape working with some of the most well-established brands in Canada and the United States. Scott began his career at Tim Hortons as a multi-unit franchise owner/operator. After ten years with Tim Hortons, Scott expanded his horizons and joined Kelsey’s as a Franchisee owner/operator.

Scott made a deliberate move to apply his talent and knowledge to corporate operations, joining companies such as Sunoco, McDonald’s, Medicine Shoppe/Rexall Inc., Luxottica Retail and Pearle Vision Canada. From 2014 to 2017, Scott held the position of Vice President of Operations at Mary Brown’s Famous Chicken & Taters.

Jocelyn has dedicated more than two decades to the world of Franchise Development, building a reputation as a trusted leader and growth strategist. Over her 20+ year career, she has helped transform brands from small to medium and medium to national scale, contributing to the success of iconic Canadian names such as Shred-it, Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, Second Cup, Pet Valu, and Mary Brown’s Chicken.

Today, Jocelyn brings her expertise to the dynamic team at Quick Bite Collective Co., where she is focused on expanding three QSR brands across Canada and into new markets beyond.