OUR TEAM – spark inc

OURTEAM

We are backed by a network of the industry’s most experienced creative and production professionals – both in North America and around the globe. Our nimble business model allows us to create a custom team for each project, with the right expertise to fit your needs and budget. Our teams make the greatest use of resources while designing, planning, and managing your event.

Jane Shanab, President

As the owner and founder of Spark, Jane has been on the forefront of how live experiences and employee communications can radically affect and transform companies for more than 30 years. Her clients - ranging from the smallest of startups to the largest of multinational corporations - have consistently returned to Spark for Jane’s unique guidance towards success in strategically strengthening their culture and messaging to drive superior results.

A proud leader and mentor to the ‘A Team’ of industry professionals who work with her, Jane is also a member of the Women Presidents Organization, an RBC Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the Year, and is always looking for a new hobby that spurs her creative imagination - lately, that means the world of classic and vintage cars!

Howard Gopsill, Executive Producer

With more than 20 years experience in live event production and strategic communications, Howard Gopsill has built a reputation for being able to solve even the toughest of production problems with creativity and grace.

As Executive Producer at Spark, Howard is responsible for senior leadership of daily operations, ensuring that all deliverables meet the highest standards of quality while remaining aligned with budget and timeline expectations. In addition to supervising other members of the core team, Howard is also responsible for utilizing a deep and extensive network of specialists to meet the needs of any client request. In his spare time, Howard enjoys muddying it up on the bike trails of the Don Valley.

Lindsay Zaferis, Operations Manager

Lindsay brings over a decade of experience as the former Events Director for Ontario's largest college to her role at Spark. With expertise in planning and executing concerts, guest speakers, workshops, and social activities for 50,000+ students, she adds invaluable knowledge in live events to our team. Lindsay's meticulous attention to detail, excellent organizational and communication skills, and passion for supporting projects make her an asset for any planning and production needs at Spark. She also provides administrative support, ensuring smooth operations in our office.

Outside of work, Lindsay cherishes traveling with her family and embracing the great outdoors.

Alex Christensen-Ives, junior producer

Alex, Spark's dynamic Junior Producer, brings over a decade of experience in corporate events. Her unconventional foundation in professional dance equips her with strong discipline and a unique insight into show business as a performer.

Merging her artistic background with practical event production to create unforgettable experiences, Alex is involved with all aspects of event coordination and production. In her role, Alex adeptly manages venues, vendor sourcing & direction, assets, and reporting, with efficiency and attention to detail.