Key People

It's true that we have decades of experience in the coffee industry. But what really sets us apart is our people. Meet the executive team that makes it happen...

Ken Waithman

General Manager

Also known as the Silver Fox, Ken provides counsel and guidance to all facets of the business based on his 30 years of management experience in the coffee industry. He's been an integral part of the Canterbury executive team for over 15 years.

Originally from Winnipeg, Ken is solidly entrenched in the West Coast lifestyle. Aside from coffee and his family, his passions include golf, travel and wine - often enjoyed simultaneouly.

Rosemarie Ho

Sr. Vice President - Administration

Starting at Canterbury 25 years ago as the Controller, today Rosemarie manages and directs Administration, Finance, Human Resources, IT and corporate matters.

The epitome of expense control, nothing gets by her. Her favorite past times are shoe shopping, fine dining and wine sampling. Rosemarie dreams of retirement daily, but finds it difficult to wean herself from her coffee family.

Eric Lightheart

Sr. Vice President - Sales & Operations

With his charisma and passion for the industry, it's easy to see why Eric has been so successful in building relationships with our customers. After 33 years of experience in the wholesale and retail coffee business, he most enjoys hunting for new and exciting coffee-related products to add to our lineup.

Eric believes that seeing the world is the best way of learning. It's a good thing he enjoys travel so much - he logged 70 nights in hotels last year!

John Gray

Roast Master & Vice President of Production

John started a summer job at Canterbury in 1983 and never left! Many long hours have been spent in the cupping lab building the blends and roasts we sell and carefully selecting the green coffee we buy. His hands-on expertise ensure consistent quality for all of our customers. Throughout, he maintains a steady focus on high quality coffee and efficient plant operations.

When not in the lab slurping, John plays oldtimers ice-hockey in the winter while golf and salmon fishing occupy idle hours in the summer.

Gary Senez

Vice President - Food Service

Gary has spent the better part of the last 30 years working in the coffee business. With a passion for coffee and a keen dedication to ensuring the success of our customers, Gary works diligently on improving our service delivery, efficiency and adaptation to market changes.

An avid dragon boater, his philosophy is best summed up by the words of Mary Jones: "Live a good and honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time."