Senior Executives

Peter Kendall

Executive Director and Co-CEO

Kendall has been with Earth Rangers since its inception in 1999 and has been instrumental in the development of the organization’s many initiatives. Named one of Canada's Top 40 Under 40 business leaders in 2005, Kendall has contributed to many major, innovative projects in the non-profit sector. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Schad Foundation which funds environmental causes and projects worldwide. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, Peter held senior executive positions with technology and organic foods companies.

Mark Northwood

President and Co-CEO

Having joined the team in May 2010, Northwood is responsible for the management of the Earth Rangers’ brand and global expansion, as well as the Bring Back the Wild program. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, Northwood most recently worked with Nelvana Enterprises (Corus Entertainment) managing the Worldwide Licensing businesses and such brands as Bakugan, Beyblade, Babar and Max and Ruby.  Prior to Corus Entertainment, Mark worked for Disney, Thinkway Toys and Hasbro. Mark has a degree in economics from The University of Western Ontario and is a director of the Environmental Legacy Protection Fund.

Karen Bradt

Associate Director, Development

With over 15 years experience in non-profit management, specializing in corporate sponsorships and strategic partnerships, Bradt is responsible for achieving the fundraising goals and developing long-term strategic partnerships that both enhance and increase brand awareness and revenues for Earth Rangers. Bradt’s vast experience in governmental and foundation relations is further complemented by several years working in the entertainment industry. In this capacity, Bradt was largely involved with public relations efforts and the development and execution of special events.

Puneet Luthra

Associate Director, Government Relations

Bringing over 12 years of experience in government relations, policy development and public affairs, Luthra is responsible for advancing Earth Rangers’ advocacy efforts through multiple levels of government. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, Luthra led government relations activities in Ontario for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. Luthra holds a Masters of Public Administration from Dalhousie University. 

John Pepelnak

Sr. Manager, Development

Responsible for cultivating in-kind support and major gifts focused on the Earth Rangers Centre, Pepelnak’s projects range from the development of a green data centre to building automation systems. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, Pepelnak spent five years with DELL Canada, where he worked closely with corporate and public accounts. He has an undergraduate degree from York University.   
 

Rob Di Stefano

IT Systems Manager

With over 15 years experience in the Information Technology industry, DiStefano leads the acquisition, implementation and maintenance of IT systems at Earth Rangers. He is widely respected for his vast technical knowledge and his contributions have resulted in numerous awards for the Earth Rangers Centre. A driving force behind the world-renown Earth Rangers Data Centre, DiStefano spearheaded efforts to develop and prove that it is possible to build a small data centre without sacrificing performance. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, DiStefano was the Infrastructure Support Manager at Pitney Bowes Canada and provided support to over 3,000 employees across Canada.

Paul Woerner

Director, Live Productions

Bringing over 15 years experience, including some international work,  Woerner is responsible for developing and implementing best practice policies regarding the care, training and acquisition of Earth Rangers’ Animal Ambassadors, while also overseeing the development and operation of live shows. Prior to joining Earth Rangers, Woerner held key managerial positions in the Canadian and American Associations of Zoos and Aquariums.

Stephen Persinov

Controller

Stephen has been a member of the Earth Rangers management team since the spring of 2009. He oversees the full financial cycle of the organization and is accountable for HR, insurance, and finance portfolio of the organization. Stephen’s background includes work in finance and business development with the Hospital for Sick Children and Oracle Corporation. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto and he obtained his Certified Management Accountant designation in 2009.