Expanding Internationally: Insights for Canadian Businesses (Ep. 29)

What does it really take to go global, and is your business ready for it? 

In this episode of From The Source, hosts Frankie Loreto and Sarah Netley sit down with Ben Lloyd, CEO of Baker Tilly Canada, to explore the strategic, cultural, and practical realities of international expansion. 

With more than two decades of global leadership experience across continents, Ben offers a front-row view into how Canadian businesses can seize cross-border opportunities without falling into common traps.

From supply chain challenges and regulatory risks to dinner etiquette and gift-giving customs, this conversation goes far beyond spreadsheets. Whether you’re just starting to think globally or already building bridges abroad, Ben’s advice will help you navigate uncertainty and build trusted connections around the world.

What you can expect from the episode:

• Why more Canadian companies are eyeing international growth
• Cultural insights that make or break cross-border relationships
• How to build in-market trust with local partners or agents
• Tips for mitigating global risk through strategy, not guesswork
• And more!

Connect with Frankie Loreto and Sarah Netley: 

• Courtice.BakerTilly.ca
• LinkedIn: Baker Tilly Canada
• LinkedIn: Frankie Loreto
• LinkedIn: Sarah Netley
• Call: [phone]

Connect with Ben Lloyd:

• LinkedIn: Ben Lloyd

About Our Guest: 

Ben has been involved with Baker Tilly since 2009. From May 2023, he assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer for Baker Tilly in Canada, bringing to the role over 24 years’ experience in the services industry. Ben will focus on strategy, growth, and alignment, working closely with the board of directors to drive forward key initiatives in the network’s continued evolution. His leadership and experience will support Baker Tilly in advancing its goals and expanding the scope of its service offering. A key leader for more than a decade, he brings a wealth of experience in international business, strategic planning, and change management.

Prior to this, Ben served as Chief Operating Officer for Baker Tilly International. He worked closely with the CEO in the development and implementation of the global network’s strategy and operational well-being. He had overall responsibility for the network’s functional areas of finance, services and industries, business development, marketing and communications, learning and development, legal and company secretarial affairs.

Before assuming the COO role, Ben was Regional Director for Asia Pacific, one of the network’s fastest-growing regions. In this role, he was responsible for the development and execution of the network’s regional strategic plan and initiatives, driving sustainable growth across the Asia Pacific.