Elite Trade Painting Corporate Team
Our seasoned team of professionals strives to please.
Mike Benteau
Founder
With over 40 years in the painting industry, Mike has transformed Elite Trade Painting into one of Canada’s most sophisticated service franchises. He recognized early on that success in the painting industry wasn’t just about quality work; it was about developing systems that deliver consistent results and exceptional customer service. As founder, he has played a key role in creating Elite Trade Painting’s proprietary estimating system and operational processes, drawing from decades of hands-on experience in the field. Based in Halifax, Mike continues to lead the company’s vision of combining professional expertise with technological innovation to revolutionize the painting industry.
Scott Murray
VP, Franchise Operations
Scott has nearly 20 years of industry experience, including 15+ years of experience in Elite Trade Painting. As a partner in the franchise system, and owner of the Moncton, New Brunswick location, Scott has a unique dual perspective that benefits the entire franchise network. He joined Elite Trade Painting during its first major expansion and played a key role in developing the company’s systems, technology, and software infrastructure. As a franchise owner, he ensures our support systems are practical and effective for franchisees across the country. Scott’s expertise in operations and technology helps drive the company’s growth and innovation.
Karen Benteau
Karen has been with Elite Trade Painting Halifax since its birth in 1991, bringing extensive administrative expertise in communications, advertising, and bookkeeping. She enjoys providing a professional experience for both customers and staff, and still finds it amazing how paint can transform spaces. Outside work, Karen cooks, gardens, boats, and provides respite care for families dealing with autism.
Wendy Winder
Wendy brings 25+ years of marketing experience to Elite, including work with five Canadian franchises. She’s passionate about helping brands stand out and believes the best ideas come from team collaboration. Outside work, she enjoys hiking with her family and reading a good book.
Alex Cochrane
Alex joined Elite in October 2023, bringing five years of software development expertise to bear on solutions that streamline our operations. He values innovation and bridges the gap between technical complexity and user-friendly solutions. On a different note—no pun intended—Alex is a music arts diploma holder who has volunteered at jazz festivals.
Cassidy Edwards
Cassidy joined Elite two years ago after moving to Halifax for a fresh start while pursuing her accounting diploma. With a BSc in Cell and Molecular Biology, she brings a scientific mindset to her administrative role. When not helping clients with their requests, Cassidy enjoys exploring Halifax restaurants, cooking, gaming, and water activities. She jokes she is a proud survivor of “Snowmageddon 2020” in Newfoundland.
Lauren Dominix
Lauren returned to Elite in 2016 after previously working with the company from 2005-2009. With administrative experience dating back to 2000, she enjoys working closely with customers—from initial booking through invoicing. When asked what she loves most about working at Elite, Lauren says, “seeing how happy customers are with a coat of paint changing the whole look of their room.” In her free time she enjoys puzzles, music, and traveling.
Viktoriya Galka
Viktoriya brought 20 years of accounting experience to Elite when she joined the tean in 2021. With master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Economics/Finance from Ukraine, she loves analyzing numbers and helping businesses organize their finances. Outside of work, Viktoriya enjoys swimming, skating, gathering with friends, and volunteering with the SPCA.