At the heart of The Answer Company is an experienced team of professionals dedicated to help you succeed. We take the time to understand your business, carving out opportunities and utilizing proven processes to manage all aspecs of complex software projects. 

Our designers, technical staff, installation experts, trainers and consultants partner closely with your company to uncover key business needs and pain points, develop software solutions, and ensure effective and efficient implementation, as well as long-term support. Having worked with over 500 companies from all over North America, we bring a wide base of technical and application expertise, to cement our committment to provide excellent customer service. This is our team. 

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President

Shawn Ostheimer is the founder and president of The Answer Company. Beginning in 1994, Shawn has spearheaded the company’s growth to become the largest Sage provider in Western Canada. With a Masters in Business Administration and over sixteen years of implementing financial and management software systems, Shawn has contributed to every facet of improving clients' businesses. His experience includes business analysis, system design/analysis, training, implementation, data conversion, software installation, customer support and project management.

Taking an active role in the company’s operations, Shawn helps improve businesses by determining software solution fit that generates substantial return on investment for clients. His emphasis on integrity in customer service has been instrumental in the company's success and has become a pillar in The Answer Company’s culture. Shawn's hard work and commitment to seeing projects completed properly and on time, translate into long-term relationships with clients that return to fulfill the needs of their organizations as they grow and change.

Shawn is a leader and guest speaker for the enterprise software industry, focusing lectures on business processes, accounting, and the role software solutions play in attaining organizational objectives. Contact The Answer Company for more information or to have Shawn as a guest speaker at your event.

As a former member of BC Technology Social Venture Partners (SVP) he volunteereed both his time and expertise to support SVP, a charitable foundation created by individuals in BC's technology industries that supports groups serving children, women at risk and people living in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Presently through The Answer Company Shawn provides financial support to social initiatives like World Vision and SPARC BC. Shawn and his wife Rachel are proud parents of a son and a daughter and work together at The Answer Company where Rachel is an assistant bookkeeper.

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Professional Services Manager

Bob Cummings has been the Professional Services Manager at The Answer Company since 2009, after working with us periodically since 2001. Bob comes to The Answer Company after successfully starting his own manufacturing company and developing it into a multi-million dollar business in less than 5 years.  Bob has held executive level positions for the majority of his working career including a 34 year stint with a large international service based company, which included being the point man for a greenfield expansion into the USA.

Bob leads our group of Project Leaders, Consultants and Developers that drive the installation, implementation and training for new customers on a strict timeline.

In Bob’s leisure time he enjoys reading biographies, old-timers hockey and cooking.

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Customer Services Manager

Bill Der has been with The Answer Company for many years delivering comprehensive support to clients using all types of applications. Although an expert on most Sage software solutions, Bill's program specialties are Active Planner, Advance Allocation, Sage 100 Standard and Advanced ERP (MAS 90 and MAS 200). Bill can be depended on for his timely responses to any query.

Bill has fifteen years of experience with financial software systems and implementation (Mainframe and PC) mainly in the financial institutions industry, such as trust companies and credit unions. He has also worked in small-to-large systems consulting firms servicing clients in all industries, ranging from municipalities to pulp mills. In his leisure time, Bill enjoys beating his record on the Grouse Grind and is studying jazz piano.

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Sales Solutions Specialist

Ian Merkel joined The Answer Company in 2002 and is a Chartered Accountant with more than twenty five years experience in manufacturing and distribution systems. Ian specializes in consulting of all Sage's ERP Solutions including Sage 300 (Accpac), Sage 100 Standard ERP (MAS 90), Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500), Sage ERP X3, and Sage PFW ERP. 

With a valuable blend of financial and technology experience, Ian helps with the evaluation of possible solutions to overcome clients' business challenges. Having held various positions as both a user and implementer of solutions in a number of private and public companies, including managing his own software development company, Ian is experienced in providing solutions to the medical and dental industry, as well as manufacturing and distribution companies. 

Ian has also served as a board member and Executive Director on a number of non-profit and charitable organizations in Vancouver.  When he not resolving client challenges, Ian enjoys playing competitive tennis and is an avid film festival fan. A native of South Africa, he enjoys travel, visiting family in various parts of the world and exploring new places.

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Ontario Regional Manager & Solutions Manager

Jonathan joined The Answer Company in 2010, after 8 years of operating a Sage 100 Standard & 100 Advanced (MAS 90/200) company in Toronto.  Before that, for over a decade, he operated an Exact Macola reseller, becoming the largest international Macola VAR.

With 20-years' experience in supporting, training and selling mid-market ERP systems, Jonathan brings a significant amount of experience to The Answer Company.  Credits include "Outstanding Customer Service", "Top International VAR, (Exact)", and "Top 100 Resellers (Sage)".

Before working with ERP systems as a reseller, Jonathan was the Director of Finance for a well-known public payroll provider, held several Controller positions, and qualified as a Chartered Accountant in London, England, spending a number of years as a public accountant in Canada and the UK.

Hobbies include trying to control his two children, for one of whom he is Minor Novice Hockey Coach (Go Storm!).  Other interests used to involve Porsches, until his marriage anyway.

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Business Solutions Manager, Sage ERP X3

Richara joined The Answer Company in 2012 as a Senior Solutions Manager. She is a seasoned industry veteran with over 15 years of strategic sales experience in the IT industry and specializes in the implementation of Sage ERP X3. Prior to joining The Answer Company, Richara found success and was highly recommended for her innate understanding of customer needs in providing IT Infrastructure solutions including hardware, software, professional and technical services at Metafore.  Before venturing into IT Infrastructure sales she was successful in the enterprise software industry while at Business Objects, Crystal Decisions and J.D. Edwards.

Richara enjoys solving business challenges and improving the lives of company owners and their employees. She cherishes the opportunity to be engaged with members of all industries and levels of business. Known for her client advocate stance, Richara has found that listening and asking the right questions enables her to define businesses’ challenges and provide answers through technical expertise that ensure long term success.

Outside of the office, Richara is an avid cook and enjoys preparing gourmet meals spanning many different cultures’ cuisines for friends and family. She previously owned and operated her own catering service and is committed to local and organic food sources, for great tastes at a minimum impact to the environment. Richara enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as her Cairn Terrier, and following her son’s backpacking adventures through his blog. Like most Vancouverites, she can be found spending her free time hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, doing yoga, and travelling.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , CMA, ACMA (UK)

Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist, Epicor

Mark is a recent addition to The Answer Company, joining in 2011 from Epicor, where he worked for 13 years implementing Epicor Enterprise and E9 in large companies across Canada and into the US.  He brings with him extensive experience with Financials and Distribution, in industries including Manufacturing, Construction, and Chemical, and has been recognized as one of the top financials consultants in North America.

Mark enjoys implementing business management solutions in complex scenarios where clients need complete process reviews, or already have strong business processes in place. With exceptional understanding of ERP solutions, Mark's contributes at all stages of software implementation: from delivering critique and leadership in a client’s full system design, to managing Interface design for presentation to a client’s technical staff. The highlight of his job is helping people get the most out of their software and getting them through any problem they run into.

Outside of the office, Mark enjoys reading, keeping active through running, and travelling as often as possible.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , CGA

Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist, Sage 500 (MAS 500)

Aaron joined The Answer Company in 2004 and is a Senior Consultant specializing Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500) implementations. As a Certified General Accountant (CGA) with seven years of experience at Westminster Savings Credit Union, he brings to the team a valuable real-world understanding of the deployment of accounting software systems.

As a Sage 500 specialist (MAS 500), Aaron focuses on project management, installation, implementation, training, and ongoing systems support. He is an expert on Sage 500's financial software suite and its supporting products, including FRx, FRx Forecaster, Sage Fixed Assets (FAS), and Active Planner. His combination of technical and financial knowledge, as well as years of experience as an end-user of accounting systems, allows him to match the technological capabilities of the software he deploys to the business needs of The Answer Company's clients.

Aaron enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and biking.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BBA, MCPM

Senior Business Analyst and Implementation Specialist, Sage ERP X3, SalesLogix, and Sage 500 (MAS 500)

Since March of 2007, Glenn has been a key member of The Answer Company’s consulting team. A 20-year industry veteran with wide range of experience as a manager, business analyst and project manager, he cherishes the chance to work directly with customers to improve their business and deliver immediate tangible results.

Before joining The Answer Company, Glenn worked as a system engineer and project manager for IFS, as well as a Senior IT Manager for global information systems and infrastructure spanning manufacturing and distribution sites across North America and Europe. He has served as the lead consultant for numerous projects implementing SAP Business One distribution, manufacturing, and constructions firms.

An excellent leader and team member, Glenn enjoys working with clients at all levels of the organization, from CEO to the front lines, developing strategic vision and operational plans to solve challenges. Since joining The Answer Company, Glenn has overseen numerous successful implementations of Sage ERP X3, SalesLogix CRM, and Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500). He has brought immense value to companies operating in the manufacturing and distribution industries, as well as gas equipment and service industries.

In his spare time, Glenn enjoys coaching youth soccer, photography and exploring BC’s backcountry.

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Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist, Sage 500 (MAS 500) and PFW

After 15 years as an accountant, Cindy moved from an Assistant Controller position at one of the Answer Company's first clients, where she managed financials, personnel, and information technology, to join us in 1995. She started by installing and supporting Platinum for DOS and Windows, moving on to Epicor and then Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500) several years later. She continues to install the software, train users, troubleshoot configurations, and help programmers integrate the accounting systems with other applications.

Cindy's background in manufacturing and long experience with the full range of business processes in companies of all sizes has helped her work with clients ranging from small businesses to organizations as large as the British Columbia Teachers' Federation. She particularly enjoys providing customer support because she can both enlighten people and have them enlighten her.

Teresa Wahlroos

Senior Consultant, Sage ERP X3

Teresa began working with The Answer Company in 2009, however has specialized in Sage ERP X3 since 2004.  Her X3 highlights include implementations and acquisition integration, configuring X3 to meet customer needs, and offering both end-use & super-user training.

Bringing with her more than 20 years experience working with engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, distribution, up- & downstream supply chains, sales, customer service and finance building solid business processes, as well as efficiencies in multi-site & multi-national environments.  As cliché as it might sound, Teresa is the first to say that her favourite part of the job is sharing Sage ERP X3 with clients through solution exploration, demonstration, and training.

Teresa's work ethic is put to the test between working with The Answer Company, spending time with her family, exploring new places, reading mystery novels, and now, her new hobby - fantasy football!

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Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist, Sage 500 (MAS 500)

Jane joined The Answer Company as a Senior Consultant in 2009. A recipient of a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) from the University of British Columbia, Jane’s expertise includes business analysis, software implementation, and solving business problems for customers. She has vast experience working with Sage products, such as accounting and payroll software, but her main focus is Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500) implementation.

Outside of the office, Jane shows and is a breeder of award winning Golden Retrievers.

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Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist, Sage  X3 ERP

Lilly officially joined The Answer Company as a Senior Consultant in January 2011 after working closely with its staff for nearly a decade as a customer. While working as the Manager of IT and Business Solutions for Nalley’s Canada, an Answer Company client since 1996, Lilly oversaw the implementation and operation of Sage PFW ERP.  She comes from a diverse background, having fulfilled roles of Assistant Controller and Divisional Controller.

Lilly enjoys working with new people and has found the consulting world to be an enjoyable opportunity to work with unique individuals in an array of industries. She specializes in business analysis and oversees Sage ERP X3 implementation and support.

Outside of work, Lilly enjoys spending time with her family.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BEd

Implementation and Training Specialist, Sage HRMS (Abra), Sage 100 Standard (MAS90), PFW and Sage 300 (Accpac)

Jenny has been with The Answer Company since 1998. She has more than 18 years of experience in implementing and training for financial, distribution, and payroll software. With a background in teaching, administration, and accounting, Jenny now provides training and manages implementation for Sage's HRMS (Abra), as well as Sage Fixed Assets (FAS), and FRx Report Writer. She also implements and trains customers on Platinum for Windows (Sage PFW ERP) and Sage 100 Standard and 100 Advanced ERP (MAS 90/200) accounting systems.

Jenny's favourite role is being there for her customers, guiding them through the entire implementation process, from installation to going live with new software, to staff training. She shares her vast store of knowledge and experience during training, either one-on-one or in a group setting, and in post-implementation support.

Jenny enjoys traveling, particularly in warmer climates. Other favoured activities include biking, skiing, hiking and gardening.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BSc, BCI

Solution Specialist, Senior Consultant and Implementation Specialist - Sage CRM and SalesLogix

Scott joined The Answer Company in 2009, after years of a experience working in the CRM world. With a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Computer Information from DeVry University, he is The Answer Company's CRM expert.

When installing a new solution, Scott will work with clients to develop it, build integration points, and serve as a technical consultant working closely with each client until the solution is completed. Scott enjoys seeing a project all the way from conception, to training, to handing it over to a satisfied client.

Originally from a small town in Alberta, Scott's love of the mountains and outdoors brought him to British Columbia years ago and he now shares this passion with his family. He also enjoys running and is hoping to compete in his first marathon.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BSc, BBA

Consultant, Sage 100 Standard & 100 Advanced (MAS 90/200) and Crystal Reports

Angela joined The Answer Company in early 2004, and provides expertise in reporting, software customization, programming, data conversion, and data management to customers deploying Sage 100 Standard and 100 Advanced ERP (MAS 90/200) and Crystal Reports.

Her expertise in various programming and scripting languages, as well as data storage, exchange, and reporting standards — in addition to degrees in both Computer Science and Business Administration — give her a well-rounded advantage in making business processes work more effectively for The Answer Company's clients.

Angela previously worked with several prominent Vancouver technology companies, including Business Objects, the developer of Crystal Reports, delivering application and Web site development. Angela has also worked with several accounting packages, providing her with expertise in utilizing Crystal Reports to analyze financial information in a variety of environments.

When she's not working, Angela's favourite pastimes include cycling and jogging.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BComm, CGA

Consultant, Sage 300 (ACCPAC), Sage 50 (Simply Accounting), F9

Tony brings to The Answer Company 20 years of experience in accounting and consulting in British Columbia. With the company since 2006, he implements and configures Sage 300 (ACCPAC), Sage CRM, Sage 50 (Simply Accounting), and the F9 financial reporting tool. Tony also provides technical support and trains users, which is his favourite role.

Tony's expertise encompasses financial systems review and implementation, IT systems planning and review, internal control review and analysis, as well as technical support services. He specializes in data repair and accounting installations in complex environments using terminal services, virtual private networks, and web deployments, in addition to IT systems planning and internal control review and analysis.

Before joining the Answer Company, Tony ran his own business software consulting company. He obtained his B.Comm. degree from the UBC in 1986 and his CGA certification in 1993, when he also became a certified consultant for Sage 300 (ACCPAC). His combination of skills in accounting, finance, and technology make him a key contributor to The Answer Company team.

When Tony is not working on software related projects he can be found being a Scout Leader for his son's Scout Troop and spending time with his family.

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Technical Implementation Consultant, Sage 500 (MAS 500) and Platinum for Windows

Darren has been with The Answer Company since 1999, and specializes in implementing Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500), Platinum for Windows (Sage PFW ERP), Crystal Reports, and Epicor's Clientele, in addition to providing ongoing support clients. Previously, Darren served as the IT Manager and Web master for a large optical supplier, where he developed an online sales system and managed the internal network.

Darren provides installation, training, and implementation, as well as data conversion and customization, to help customers streamline their workflows. Darren devotes his skills to ensure that software fits the needs of clients, instead of forcing clients to adapt to the software.

When not racing to meet deadlines, Darren enjoys racing sailboats, long-distance running and spending time with his growing family. He is a past participant in the Vancouver Sun Half Marathon.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BSc

Programmer/Consultant, Sage ERP X3 & Sage 500 (MAS 500)

A teacher and research assistant in applied mathematics for ten years, Mihaela brings deep mathematical understanding and rigor of her degree from the University of Bucharest to bear on solving complex computer programming problems for The Answer Company.

She joined The Answer Company in 2007 as a Sage ERP X3 and Sage 500 ERP implementation specialist after over a decade as a software developer. Mihaela excels in various programming languages and different computing platforms, as well as the web, to complete IT projects both ahead of schedule and under budget. 

Working with The Answer Company's major clients on ERP deployments, Mihaela helps design, develop, and implement some of our largest software projects, customizing and fine-tuning programming code, interfaces, and data processing algorithms to operate efficiently and integrate with existing IT systems. She analyzes business processes, creates database and data reporting applications, and tests software to make sure that The Answer Company's systems best meet the needs of our customers.

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Consultant

Paul Fagerlund joined The Answer Company in 1995, and provides behind the scenes expertise in customization and interface development. With a bachelor degree in science from UBC and a diploma in computer systems technology from BCIT, Paul began developing accounting and employee time tracking systems over 20 years ago and has never looked back. Today, he works with Sage PFW ERP, Epicor and Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500) systems, customizing the processes and interfaces to solve each client's challenges.

Paul brings a solid understanding of how practical, effective, user-friendly software can be built to suit the needs of all businesses. He has extensive experience working with a variety of languages, systems, and network structures. Previous to his work at The Answer Company, Paul worked with Whistler Mountain Ski Corporation, adding utilities to increase functionality between their general ledger and accounts payable modules. As well, he has built a complex, multi-relational system to handle Eurocentres Canada College's accounting, scheduling, and programming functions.

Paul spends his personal time running, skiing, and playing floor hockey and tennis.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BSc

Programmer and Consultant, Sage 500 (MAS 500), Sage 100 Standard (MAS 90), Sage PFW

Sonny joined The Answer Company in early 2005 and brings broad experience in programming languages, databases, and data analysis to design and implement Sage 500 ERP (MAS 500). His degree in biochemistry and molecular biology and his work in pathology research and pharmaceuticals preceded his studies in computer information systems, and experience as a software developer.

Sonny's experience creating order management, production scheduling and tracking, and reporting systems allows him to build software that meet the specific needs of many different customers.

In his time off, Sonny enjoys many outdoor activities such as bird-watching, cycling, kayaking, fishing, windsurfing and dinghy sailing.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , BBA

Sales & Marketing Manager

Krista joined The Answer Company in 2010, after returning to Canada from over two years of living and working in Mexico.  Her successful International Sales & Marketing career in hotels had taken her abroad, however after many years in the hospitality industry, Krista decided it was time for an industry change and returned home.

Although travelling throughout Mexico is one of her passions, Krista is happy to back in her hometown of Vancouver BC, enjoying the mountains, participating in the local film and TV industry, and spending time with her nieces and nephews.

Santiago Henderson, BBA

Marketing Coordinator

Santiago has been with The Answer Company since 2011. A graduate from Simon Fraser University Business Administration program, Santiago majored in Communications and Business Finance. A native of Brazil, he has lived in the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates before making Canada his home. He has previously worked with local companies in marketing related roles as well as doing consulting abroad.

Santiago is a key contributor to all marketing efforts of The Answer Company, including social media, blogging, advertising and promotional campaigns, and website content. He enjoys learning about the business software industry and being part of the development of marketing strategies in the software reseller industry.

Outside of work Santiago enjoys getting involved with the local community, organizing fundraising events, playing music with his friends, skateboarding, playing soccer for the Meraloma, discussing ideas, and travelling. 

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Inside Sales

June has been with The Answer Company since February 2006 where she enjoys the opportunity to help customers find valuable solutions for their businesses. As a consultant, June specializes in determining and defining improvement areas for businesses and connecting customers’ with the right products.

June enjoys being a grandma and cherishes the time she can spend with her family, two dogs, and cat. She likes reading science fiction and spy novels, as well as being an avid learner, pursuing educational opportunities in a variety of energy medicines such as herbology, reflexology, and aromatherapy. As an artist, June works with porcelain, jewelry and watercolors.

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Controller

Jessica joined The Answer Company in May 2011 as a controller after graduating from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Jessica is responsible for creating and distributing invoice and credit memos, accounts receivables, and serves as a liaison between clients and consultants with regards to billings.

In her time off, Jessica enjoys the outdoors, be it rock-climbing, hiking, or camping, as well as road trips, going to the movies, reading, baking, and spending time with her friends and family, including her Rottweiler Deigo.