Management Team

Our dedicated group of Manager/Partners and Manager/Supervisors are here to consult on cases, maintain quality, and manage production.

Neal Russell

General Manager

CDT

Neal received his dental technician license in 1981 after graduating from Dental Technology at Vancouver Community College in 1979. He is President and General Manager of Protec Dental Laboratories Ltd., and is in charge of administration, human resources and marketing. Neal was recently elected as a director and board member of the Cal-Lab Group, an International Association of Dental Laboratories.

A strong advocate for education, Neal stays informed of industry advancements through continued education in all areas of dentistry. In March 2005, Neal received a "Certificate of Appreciation Award" from the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia recognizing his valuable contribution to the industry. Neal initiated a project in 2008 to allow Protec to begin the process of embracing and integrating new technology in the laboratory. Through this process the company has become an international leader in digital dentistry manufacturing techniques.

“The Baby Boomers’ pursuit of a better lifestyle through good health and appearance continues to drive restorative and esthetic dentistry, and the demand for services from dental technicians. The integration of computerized digital processes have changed the dental laboratory industry forever.”

Jeff Player

Orthodontics - Managing Partner

CDT

Jeff heads our orthodontics department and assists with the administration of the Protec group. He received his BC dental technician license in 1992, and has worked with Protec for over 30 years.

Jeff attends various national and international dental seminars and conferences each year in order to remain current with advances in dental technology. His knowledge of our vast array of orthodontic products, including removable appliances, dental alignment systems, sleep apnea and snoring solutions, and TMJ splints, is of great value and assistance to our customers.

“The field of orthodontics is ever-changing. With the advent of digital technology in the laboratory, there is an increasing premium on accuracy and consistency. Through teamwork, flexibility and leading edge technology, we strive to consistently deliver the best results for you and your patients.”

Neil Appelbaum

Removable and Fixed Prosthetics/Implants - Managing Partner

CDT

Neil Appelbaum is a seasoned dental technician with more than 20 years experience working in laboratories in South Africa and Canada. He specializes in Crown and Bridge, Implants and Removable Prosthetics, and holds the distinction of being a “Kois Specialist”.

Neil’s passion for technology has ensured that the laboratory is at the forefront of digital dentistry and he plays a key role in the development of laboratory software and processes for manufacturing and customer service.

“In a technology that continues to evolve, my focus is on continued education in implants, digital dentistry solutions and all aspects of removable and fixed prosthetics.”

Gerrit Van Schalkwyk

Fixed Prosthetics/Implants - Managing Partner

CDT

Gerrit specializes in all areas of crown & bridge and implants. He received his Master Ceramist accreditation from LVI in 2005.

Gerrit qualified in dental technology in 1991 from Pretoria Technical College in South Africa and immigrated to Vancouver, British Columbia in 1995. He is actively involved with client consultation, managing the laboratory, training, and quality control.

“My goals are to stay on the leading edge of changes in technology and continue to provide the best in esthetic restorative dentistry.”

Michael Malone

Technical Representative

Michael Malone has been with Protec for 30 years. Originally in the laboratory working in orthodontics, Mike's current role as a Technical Representative (outside sales) is to liaise between clients and our department managers to provide the highest level of laboratory services available.

Mike is also involved in organizing seminars for dentists and represents Protec at many meetings. He has assembled an extensive presentation entitled “Innovative New Products for the 21st Century”, and offers this valuable information to a host of student groups, study clubs and associations.

“I ensure that our doctors get the best customer experience possible by connecting them to our laboratory. I provide our clients with information on our new products and the latest techniques.”

Dawn Goodby

Accounting and Finance - Manager

Dawn oversees all aspects of the company’s finances and ensures that the accounting team is working to handle customer’s accounts efficiently and professionally. She moved to BC from Quebec where she developed her accounting career with a large manufacturing company near Quebec City. As Protec has grown, so has Dawn’s role as manager of finances and accounting.

Advances in technology have allowed the accounting department to offer more options to our clients. With the development of our online customer service portal – myProtec - customers can now view their account, print statements and make payments online.

“I have worked hard to develop a well-trained and happy team who will deal with our customers in a professional and friendly manner.”

Jesse Ursulak

Management Accountant

CPA/CMA

Jesse has an array of experience in a diverse group of industries, including ocean shipping, software development, security, and geothermal energy. He administers the payroll, and assists the accounting department with various other projects including onboarding for new accounts.

“ I enjoy developing systems and processes that are more efficient and easier for employees and customers alike. Ensuring resolutions are met to enhance the overall customer experience is a daily priority”.

Andrea Montenegro

Human Resources - Supervisor

Andrea has been with Protec Dental Laboratories since February 2018. Her interest in Human Resources began in 2013 while working for an e-commerce clothing company. She joined Protec as an HR Assistant specializing in Recruitment and Benefits Administration. After growing into the HR Supervisor role, her passion for people continues by improving the onboarding and employee engagement processes.

“My goal is to gather the best talent to join our Protec family, as well as helping them thrive in their new roles. Helping employees be the best version of themselves is my top priority.”

Matthew Birks

Human Resources - Supervisor

Matthew received his diploma in Human Resources Management from McGill University and has his CPHR designation. Originally from Montreal, he has worked as an HR professional in various industries including, real estate, technology, telecommunications, and health care. As HR Supervisor, Matthew will focus on Health and Safety as well as the implementation of HR policies and practices.

“A strong company culture is the difference between being a good company and a great company. It is this principle that guides my approach to the field of Human Resources at Protec”.

Kimara K. Ackerley

Customer Service, Shipping & Logistics - Manager

Kimara is an iLead certified leadership coach with an education background and training in Business and Finance. Her experience combined with solid leadership fundamentals has proven to be a powerful combination for developing teams into top performers. Kimara continues to expand her leadership skills with ongoing management education at Simon Fraser University.

“I have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience over the past 16 years working in fast-paced environments. Maintaining a focus on strategic goals and developing teams to achieve and retain optimum success is my forte”

Rosella Revel

Shipping - Supervisor

Rosella has been with Protec Dental Laboratories since 2003 with a strong background and experience in customer service. As Protec’s Shipping Supervisor, she acts as the primary communication liaison between the laboratory and customers, playing an integral role in coordinating all incoming and outgoing cases.

"My goal as Protec's Shipping Supervisor is to ensure that customers receive their cases timely while providing the best service and support"

Riza Atienza

Inventory & Purchasing - Coordinator

Riza joined Protec in 2020 as the Purchasing Coordinator. She has over 10 years of experience working in the same field across a few industries and has accomplished a diploma in Supply Chain Management. Riza leads and supports the purchasing needs of the company, maintaining vendor relations and managing inventory to ensure that the company has everything it needs from materials to equipment.

"I strive to collaborate with industry vendors and my peers to guarantee that Protec has the best value products to achieve its business goals simultaneously providing the highest quality and services to our customers”.

Hon Lai

Logistics Team Lead

Hon got his start at Protec in Shipping & Logistics in 2017 and has since evolved in the company across the various departments. His education at the University of British Columbia has helped him continually seek out new challenges. As the Logistics Team Lead, Hon will oversee the Smile Express Fleet to ensure the timely delivery of cases and that the utmost customer experience is provided to all.

"With the complexities of the changing times, it is a balance between meeting timelines while coordinating available resources. My goal is to put in the extra mile and go beyond expectations."

Nasheel P. Soni

Digital Scanner Specialist

Nasheel is a graduate from the Beedie Business School of Simon Fraser University, whose passion and expertise evolves around Digital Product Management and Project Coordination. Having previous experience in the dental industry, he understands the clinical requirements and application of dental scanning technology. From handling front-line product inquiries, research and development, Nasheel supports a positive purchasing experience in Protec’s digital product line.

“While ensuring that our digital products and packages add significant value to Canadian dentistry, I embrace the opportunity of delivering meaningful innovation to dental businesses and their patients”.

Milton Provedor

Valley Distribution Hub - Team Lead

Milton joined Protec’s Valley delivery fleet in 2017 and became the Head Driver in 2018. Currently, Milton is the Team Leader of the Valley Distribution Hub, responsible for Surrey Inventory Levels and the Valley Delivery Fleet.

“I strive to work as a team player with an excellent fleet, and meet our goals for more efficiency and accuracy. Keeping our Customers and their Patients happy is Protec’s ultimate satisfaction.”

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Management Team