Kent R. Emerson, Principal

Kent is a founding partner of Valorem Insights. He is a strategist, policy and stakeholder relations expert,  garnering his in-depth public-sector knowledge from senior roles at the federal and provincial levels of government -- including at Ontario’s Ministry of Finance -- and as a corporate government relations executive.

Kent has over 12 years of experience understanding and influencing decisions made by provincial, municipal and federal governments, and is highly regarded for his knowledge of labour relations, property assessment/tax, and the finance industry.

Kent has a passion for  thought-leadership through his dedication to serving on The Empire Club of Canada  President (2018-2019)  and currently as a board member. Kent also has a background in the arts through his performance career as a musician.

Elizabeth Mendes, Principal

Elizabeth is a founding partner of Valorem Insights. She is a  public policy and strategic communications professional with over 15 years experience. 

Elizabeth previously worked at Airbnb Canada, where she led government relations and strategic partnerships for Ontario and Atlantic Canada.  

Prior to her time at Airbnb, Elizabeth spent 11 years working for the Ontario Government, most prominently as the Director of Policy & Budget for the Ministry of Finance. Elizabeth provided strategic advice to the Minister and Chief of Staff as well as liaised with the Premier’s Office, Deputy Minister’s Office, and ministry staff to coordinate the work of the ministry and deliver on the Minister’s mandate. She also played a key role in the development of the Government of Ontario’s Budget and Fall Economic Statement.

Elizabeth is an active member of the Portuguese Canadian community and currently serves as the Corporate Secretary for Magellan Community Charities, a non-profit charity established to build and operate a culturally sensitive long term care home and seniors residence in Toronto.