Our team

Kai Fahrion

Co-CEO

Being directly impacted by the side-effects of a polluted environment, my parents moved to Canada from Germany when I was only six years old. My family has always been early adopters of sustainable solutions, with my grandfather being one of the first engineers to design a solar farm in Eastern-Europe over 40 years ago. The need to preserve our environment and reduce humankind’s carbon footprint inspired me to commit both my professional and personal life to create a sustainable future for our home planet.

In 2015, I started Zeno with Gursh, then called Virtuoso Energy. At that time, there was (and still is) a gap in the way energy is used and viewed locally and globally. Starting a company allowed me to address this issue while empowering others to make a positive impact. Today, I occupy the role of Co-CEO, which gives me the exciting responsibility of working on special projects, growing the company, developing team unity, and providing leadership for our vision. It has been an amazing journey so far and it’s been very fulfilling to see the amazing individuals we have on our team come together to help achieve the greater vision of the company.

When I am not working, I enjoy working on renovations, running, Pilates, fitness, travel, and spending time with my family.

I have never been one to take the easy path in life. It has always been my goal to make an everlasting impact by making impossible goals possible. As Elon Musk once said, “When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor.”

Gursh Bal

Co-CEO

I have been able to meet individuals from all walks of life and have been able to determine a few absolutes: we all breathe the same air, and dream of a better tomorrow for ourselves and those around us. As I got deeper into the electrical trade, I learned that the avenues and options were unlimited in the general sense but somewhat limited locally. When I met Kai, we aligned strongly with personal values and goals – including building a company that was environmentally focused. The solution at the time that made the most sense was solar.

I am fortunate to hold the title Co-CEO which has my key focus on being company expansion, idea generation, industry research and development, company culture development, creativity, problem solving, and managing key relationships. My primary objective is to grow and nurture a team that feels valued and relevant to the future of what humanity has to offer to our home (earth) and beyond. I am excited about this industry because working in renewables is an opportunity to do good that is greater than yourself while also making a good living. It is a beautiful blend of advancing yourself at a personal and community level simultaneously.

I love being constantly humbled by my loving wife and three children. Every time I see them, I remember one thing above all else: “Love is the one thing we’re capable of perceiving that transcends dimensions of time and space.” — Dr. Brand, Interstellar. My professional goals have become more important and achievable since they entered my life.

Ian Frith

COO

I spent most of my career holding various senior positions within a top 10, global financial organization. The experience gained in my previous roles, together with coaching from C-Suite members, has developed and honed the very skills required to achieve Zeno’s ambitions and sustainably grow the organisation in the coming years. My focus and passion has always been developing high performing teams that deliver sustainable change delivering optimal business results. My proven track record of success will help Zeno grow to achieve its ambitions, making the world a better place to live now and in years to come.

My interest in joining the Zeno leadership team came from the alignment of purpose and values the organisation upholds. I live these values in my daily life. My passion runs deep when it comes to leaving a legacy behind for the next generation. I believe in leaving behind a world my daughters will be living and thriving in.

I hold the role of Chief Operating Officer, where I am focused on building a sustainable and scalable business model, execution of the company goals, and building a high performing team. I am qualified in Lean Six Sigma tools and practices, a Practitioner in Management of Portfolios and I hold a Diploma in Business Analysis and Operations from the Institute of Financial Services.

Azfer Asaria

Operations Manager

From a young age, my parents placed a high value on education. They realized the importance of learning and growing everyday. Throughout my life, I was able to think critically about the world around me and came to understand it in a way that many don’t have the opportunity to. 

In time, I realized how energy is inaccessible in many parts of the world, specifically in underdeveloped nations, unlike the one I was fortunate enough to have been born and raised in. I also realized how beautiful our planet is, and how that beauty is delicate and must be preserved. 

My studies and travels have gifted me with the tools, knowledge, and perspective to make a positive impact in the world. My goal is to use my talents and resources to help people live sustainably, and to help build a global community that future generations can be proud of. 

I aim to work in an organization that utilizes my skills, has a vision that is aligned with my values, and allows me to pursue my passions. I hope to see sustainability become an integral part of every industry and lifestyle in 5 years. If an organization is not thinking about how it can better use its water, dispose of its waste, utilize its employees, and reduce its energy requirements, it will be behind the curve. For people and businesses of the future to start thinking that way, it takes leaders today constantly raising the bar.

Royce Lee, CPA

Controller & HR/IT Manager

I joined the company in December 2020, being referred to the company by a friend. My role with the company mainly involves the management of day-to-day financial activities for the organization along with management reporting and financial modelling. In addition to financial activities, I oversee HR responsibilities as well as implementation of IT systems and policies.

I enjoy working with the company as no two days are the same and being in a fast-paced growing company provides daily challenges which makes everyday another adventure. All the while being involved in one of the industries of the future.

The industry is starting to ramp up and there is more excitement everyday relating to sustainable energy with more of daily society accepting that this industry will play a crucial role. The evolution of social norms and acceptance towards the industry makes this an exciting industry to be involved in.

In my off-time, I enjoy golfing and playing hockey with friends. I always love technology and learning about something new and playing around with technology.

Frances Teves

Marketing Manager

I joined Zeno in December 2018 after graduating with a combined degree in Business and Sociology at the University Calgary. Passionate about using business as a means to do good for society, starting my career at Zeno was a perfect fit. Every day, I get to apply my skills and knowledge while contributing to a cause dedicated to making the world a better place for future generations.

Working in the growing renewable energy sector has both been humbling and exciting. As the company has grown, I too have grown a lot along with it. I initially started with the company in an administrative capacity working all kinds of projects in many areas of the business. I’ve learnt a lot about myself both professionally and personally, even realizing that I enjoy the marketing side of the business the most. Today, I got to have the coolest job as the company’s Marketing Manager. I love what I do because I get to work with my team and bring our brand to life while communicating all the exciting things that we do as a company every single day.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with the people I care and love. I am always looking for opportunities to learn and try new things, from reading books to experiencing new cultures during my travels.

Klaus Schoenwandt

Chief of Staff

Solar technology has captivated my interest for many years, drawing me in with its blend of technological innovation and commitment to sustainability—an area of increasing importance in today’s world. Following a diverse and rewarding 40-year career spanning hospitality, technology, and finance, I am excited to embark on a new chapter as the Chief of Staff at Zeno Renewables.

Zeno, a dynamic and expanding company, provides me with an opportunity to leverage my extensive experience in program leadership, operational efficiency, and governance structures. I am eager to contribute directly to the growth and success of the company, making a meaningful impact on both the team and our valued customers. Aligning closely with my own principles, Zeno places a strong emphasis on values such as loyalty, reputation, kindness, and personal improvement.

In addition to holding certifications as a Project Management Professional and Change Management Professional, I find joy in programming and possess a passion for both constructing and leading high-performing teams—particularly those operating across diverse geographical boundaries.

On a personal note, my affinity for cooking may be a lingering influence from my early career as a trained chef. As a somewhat lapsed long-distance triathlete and cyclist, I still relish the thrill of cycling and hiking, finding solace and joy in these outdoor pursuits.