Our Team

Dean Benard is a visionary leader in the fields of investigations, mediation, and conflict resolution. With over three decades of experience, he has established himself as a trusted authority in regulatory and workplace investigations, handling some of the most high-profile and complex cases in the industry. Dean’s unique professional background, which includes critical care nursing, law enforcement, management, and mediation, gives him a distinctive perspective on resolving conflicts with empathy, strategy, and professionalism. As the Founder and CEO of Benard + Associates, Dean has grown the company from a one-person operation to a thriving team of over 20 professionals. Under his leadership, the firm recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, a testament to its continued success and impact in the investigations and conflict resolution space. Dean’s ability to guide his team while maintaining client-centered solutions has been pivotal in the company’s long-term growth. Dean is also a pioneer in leveraging technology for investigations. He developed the Excelsior+ App, a cutting-edge tool designed to provide users with easy access to educational resources and support. Dean also launched an online education platform that is setting a new standard for investigations training, offering dynamic, industry-leading courses that blend practical knowledge with innovative learning techniques. Dean is a passionate educator. He regularly offers workshops and seminars on topics such as workplace harassment, trauma informed investigations, and communications, helping to advance the field of investigations. He is an author, a content creator for the company’s YouTube channel, and the host of the popular “We’ve Seen a Thing or Two” podcast, where he shares insights and expertise gained from his extensive career. Dean’s commitment to excellence and innovation, combined with his dedication to mentorship, continues to make him a respected figure in the investigations community and a trusted advisor to clients seeking effective, tailored solutions.

Brenda Benard is the driving force behind the operational success of Benard + Associates. With a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive across diverse professional landscapes, Brenda’s journey has seen her excel in fields ranging from healthcare to policing to insurance investigations. Her sharp analytical mind, coupled with her exceptional communication skills, has equipped her to handle complex challenges across industries, consistently delivering excellence at every turn. Brenda plays an instrumental role in guiding the day-to-day operations of Benard + Associates. She is the steady hand that ensures the company runs smoothly, making sure no detail is overlooked. From overseeing critical business functions to bringing the company’s strategic direction to life, Brenda’s leadership is integral to the firm’s success. Her partnership with Dean Benard is a key element of the company’s growth and innovation. Brenda’s influence reaches far beyond operations; she is a cornerstone of the company’s leadership, embodying the spirit of collaboration and growth that defines Benard + Associates. Without Brenda’s leadership and dedication, Benard + Associates would not have achieved its current level of success and growth. She is the engine that drives the company forward, ensuring that every initiative aligns with the company’s mission and delivers exceptional results.

Stefanie brings international experience and a wealth of expertise in regulatory investigations to Benard + Associates. As the former Senior Case Investigation Officer for the Nursing and Midwifery Council in the UK, Stefanie tackled complex cases involving professional misconduct, criminal behavior, and health-related concerns. Her sharp analytical skills and deep knowledge of regulatory processes have made her a key asset in the success of the firm’s investigations. Known for her clear communication and client-centered approach, Stefanie ensures that her investigations are handled with precision, always tailored to meet the specific needs of the client. Stefanie’s contribution to Benard + Associates goes beyond her investigative work. She is instrumental in our decision writing services and has taken the lead in helping to develop this program, ensuring its success. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to deliver well-reasoned, clear, and concise decisions have added significant value to the firm’s services. With her dedication to quality, Stefanie continues to be a trusted advisor for clients navigating the complexities of regulatory investigations.

Paul Nicholson is a seasoned human resources and operations strategist with a wealth of experience across multiple industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and the non-profit sector. In his new role at Benard + Associates, Paul will oversee human resources, policy development, operational continuity, and strategy implementation, ensuring that the company continues to thrive and adapt to evolving business needs. Paul’s expertise in conflict resolution, employee relations, and workplace investigations remains at the heart of his work. Known for his ability to balance organizational needs with employee well-being, Paul has successfully handled complex cases involving harassment, workplace safety, and hostile work environments. His thoughtful, client-centered approach ensures that both internal and external stakeholders receive tailored solutions that foster a positive, productive workplace culture. Paul’s leadership in human resources and operational strategy is instrumental in supporting the company’s growth and ensuring seamless day-to-day operations. His commitment to both people and processes positions him as a key figure in shaping the company’s future, providing leadership that aligns with Benard + Associates’ mission of delivering excellence to clients and fostering an empowering internal culture.

With over 15 years of investigative experience, Ziggy Bardel has firmly established himself as a trusted expert in regulatory investigations. Since joining Benard + Associates in 2015, Ziggy has become known for his meticulous attention to detail and his relentless pursuit of the facts, even in the most challenging cases. His expertise spans a wide range of investigative areas, and his unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth has earned him the trust of both clients and colleagues. Ziggy’s commitment to his work goes beyond delivering results—he genuinely cares about ensuring client satisfaction. His incredible work ethic and focus on exceeding client expectations have made him a go-to resource for those seeking thorough, reliable investigative services. Clients and colleagues alike rely on Ziggy not only for his expertise but for his collaborative spirit and willingness to support others. Within the Benard + Associates team, Ziggy is highly respected as a trusted source of advice and guidance. His humble nature, combined with his deep knowledge of regulatory investigations, makes him the first person colleagues turn to when complex questions arise. Ziggy’s approach to collaboration and problem-solving is marked by his authenticity—he knows what he knows and doesn’t pretend to know more, a quality that further endears him to the team and clients alike. Ziggy’s dedication to providing high-quality, client-centered services, along with his respected role as a mentor and collaborator, makes him an invaluable asset to the Benard + Associates team. His relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that every investigation is handled with the highest level of professionalism and care.

With over 16 years of investigative experience, Lauren DeVriese is known for her exceptional ability to conduct discreet and effective investigations. Whether she’s working on undercover operations or handling complex regulatory matters, Lauren consistently delivers the crucial information clients need, and she does so with quiet diligence and unwavering reliability. She is the kind of professional who works behind the scenes, ensuring that no detail is overlooked, and no deadline is missed. Lauren’s expertise extends to open-source intelligence and background investigations, areas where she has developed innovative techniques that have not only benefited her work but also enhanced the capabilities of the entire Benard + Associates team. She created a learning manual for key investigative methods, which has been instrumental in raising the investigative standards across the board. What sets Lauren apart is her steadfast commitment to getting the job done, no matter how complex or demanding the investigation. She is highly respected by her colleagues for her quiet strength, dependability, and the thoroughness with which she approaches every task. Clients trust her to provide them with timely, accurate, and actionable information, knowing that Lauren will never let them down. Lauren’s combination of expertise, work ethic, and behind-the-scenes dedication makes her an invaluable member of the Benard + Associates team.

Valerie brings a thoughtful, methodical approach to every investigation she undertakes at Benard + Associates. Since joining the team in 2019, she has consistently demonstrated her ability to handle even the most complex cases with professionalism, reliability, and a keen attention to detail. Valerie is known for her calming communication style, which helps her build rapport with everyone she interacts with, including those she interviews for her investigative work. This approach fosters cooperation and ensures that each investigation proceeds smoothly. One of Valerie’s greatest strengths is her ability to juggle multiple tasks without ever compromising on quality. Her colleagues and clients rely on her to manage intricate investigations while maintaining a clear focus on delivering accurate and timely results. Valerie’s quiet determination and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to the team. Clients appreciate her, and her colleagues value her as a dependable collaborator they can rely on to get the job done, no matter how complex or demanding the case.

Ted brings over three decades of experience in law enforcement, specializing in criminal investigations, offender management, and intelligence gathering. His law enforcement background includes working in the Major Case Unit and the Special Victims Unit, where he handled sensitive cases including sexual offences and high-risk offenders. Ted is not only a highly skilled investigator but also a dedicated mentor. As a Major Case Management trainer, he has helped shape the next generation of investigators by designing and delivering advanced investigative training. Ted’s academic pursuits, including his studies in Sociology at the University of Waterloo, further enhance his ability to approach investigations with both strategic insight and compassion. Known for his hands-on leadership and strong problem-solving skills, Ted is a trusted resource for clients who seek expert guidance in complex, sensitive investigations.

With over 30 years of experience in criminal investigations and digital forensics, Eugene Silva is a trusted expert known for his commitment to detail and accuracy. Having spent much of his career with the Waterloo Regional Police Service, Eugene has held various critical roles, including drug enforcement, undercover operations, and cybercrime investigations. Eugene has conducted over 1,200 digital investigations, ranging from complex homicide cases to cyber crimes like ransomware and child exploitation. Eugene is also a seasoned court expert, having testified in many cases over the last few decades. His balanced, unbiased approach has earned him the trust of both prosecutors and defence teams alike. Recognized for his expertise, Eugene has been awarded several commendations, including the Canadian Police Exemplary Service Medal. Eugene’s work extends internationally, having presented at INTERPOL’s Crimes Against Children conference. His dedication to protecting vulnerable populations and providing high-quality investigative services makes him an invaluable resource for clients who demand precision and professionalism.

Sophia professional journey has been one of continuous growth and exceptional performance. With a background in nursing, Sophia developed a sharp ability to gather and analyze crucial information—skills that have translated seamlessly into her investigative work. Since joining the team in 2020, Sophia has conducted some challenging investigations, particularly in the area of illegal practitioners, and she consistently delivers thorough and reliable results. Known for her razor-sharp wit and approachable demeanour, Sophia has a unique ability to connect with people, whether they are clients, colleagues, or subjects of investigation. While Sophia may not hold a formal leadership title, her natural leadership skills shine through in everything she does. She is a person who consistently goes above and beyond, and always stepping in to support her colleagues. Her work ethic is unmatched, and her dedication to the team and to delivering high-quality investigative results make her an invaluable member of the Benard + Associates team.

Since joining the company, Courtnie’s impact has been remarkable. A Certified Human Resources Leader with over 11 years of experience in strategic business partnerships, employee relations, and workplace investigations, Courtnie’s work ethic and commitment to fairness have earned her the trust and respect of clients and colleagues alike. Courtnie is known for her impeccable ethics, consistently striving to ensure that every investigation she handles results in a fair outcome based on a fair process. Her experience in trauma-informed workplace investigations makes her particularly effective in cases involving harassment, discrimination, and workplace violence. Courtnie’s hands-on approach ensures that investigations are thorough, objective, and always aligned with current legislation and best practices. In one of her previous roles, Courtnie taught investigative techniques, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with others. Her passion for education and her dedication to maintaining the highest ethical standards have made her a sought-after investigator, both for her skill and her unwavering commitment to achieving just outcomes. At Benard + Associates, Courtnie brings her expertise and dedication to every case, ensuring that clients receive not only thorough investigations but also the confidence that their cases are handled with integrity and care.

Stephanie is a highly experienced Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) with over 17 years of expertise in employee and labour relations, workplace investigations, and strategic HR consultation. Her depth of knowledge in navigating both unionized and non-union environments makes provides her with the insight and understanding required to provide services within any environment. Throughout her career, Stephanie has led complex, high-stakes workplace investigations involving harassment, discrimination, workplace violence, and policy violations. Her ability to conduct thorough and impartial investigations, combined with her focus on delivering actionable recommendations, has consistently driven positive outcomes for the organizations she supports. She has successfully led cross-functional projects, redesigned organizational structures, and implemented comprehensive training programs. Her combination of hands-on experience, strategic insight, and commitment to excellence ensures that clients receive support that is both effective and trusted.

Elijah is a skilled client relations and marketing professional with a focus on delivering exceptional customer service. With a background that spans client support, social media content creation, and administrative roles, Elijah has developed a well-rounded approach to managing client relationships and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. Elijah has had an incredible impact on the internal coordination and operations of the company. As a right hand to the CEO, as well as a key support person for everyone on the team, Elijah finds a way to fulfil everyone’s needs and keep this big train on the tracks.  These abilities and his kind and supportive nature are why he is loved by everyone on the team.  

Avon is a seasoned human resources leader with extensive experience navigating the complexities of mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructurings. His expertise spans leadership development, change management, and conflict resolution, making him a trusted advisor to both public and private sector clients. Avon’s innovative approaches to conflict resolution and mediation have earned him praise from regulatory bodies across Canada, where he frequently consults on complaints and brings his incredible conflict resolution skills to the issue. Avon is truly one of the most likeable people you can meet, and he communicates in a way that brings calm, and allows for opportunities to restore relationships, and resolve issues.  We are blessed to have Avon on our team, and he has been with Benard + Associates for over 15 years, making him the longest serving member of our team.  

With a 37-year career in law enforcement and having achieved the rank of Superintendent with the Ontario Provincial Police, Tom brings unparalleled experience to his role at Benard + Associates. Tom’s expertise in investigations, conflict mediation, and leadership has been further honed through roles as the Director of Investigations at OMVIC and Manager of Investigations for Legal Aid Ontario. Tom has established strong relationships with law enforcement agencies across Ontario, conducting workplace investigations, conflict mediation, and organizational assessments. Known for his patient, insightful approach to resolving workplace conflicts, Tom can be depended on to deliver the best. His long-standing commitment to public service has earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Merit of the Police Forces and the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, reflecting his deep dedication to fostering fairness and integrity in every aspect of his work.

With over 14 years of experience in professional regulation, Tracey has carved out a reputation as a leading investigator and manager of professional conduct matters. Tracey has handled a wide range of cases, from professional competence and impaired practice to drug diversion and conduct unbecoming, consistently delivering thorough and fair outcomes for all parties involved. Tracey’s certifications in mediation and her training through the Council on Licensure Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR) have equipped her to handle complex conflict resolution with tact and diplomacy. Her commitment to creating safe, inclusive work environments is further demonstrated by her training in psychological safety and Indigenous cultural safety. As a former nurse and considering her background in healthcare regulation, Tracey brings a unique perspective on the cases she investigates, allowing her to navigate both the legal and human elements of each situation with care and precision.