Our Team

As founder and Director of Zenith, Daniel Boyton is invested in every project in Zenith’s portfolio and believes that great commissioning work takes a passion for collaboration and communication.

Daniel’s commissioning experience spans over twenty years, working in both Europe and Canada on large-scale projects up to $600+ million in value. Working in a variety of sectors and building types including Commercial, Retail, Healthcare, Institutional, Industrial, Laboratories, Schools, Mixed Use, Residential, and Government projects.

Daniel’s experience allows him to appreciate and understand what’s needed from all aspects of the design and construction process, allowing for an agile and hands-on approach. He has a successful track record in managing the commissioning process for a range of complex projects. His natural curiosity brings an added skill by being able to identify potential issues and solutions to help minimize delays and mitigate costs. Problem-solving and superior client relationships are at the core of Daniel’s values, informing his collaborative and inclusive approach. The repeat client base that Zenith has built since its inception in 2014 is a direct result of his passion and his leadership.

Outside of work, his outgoing and affable personality, combined with his many interests, means he’s the one bringing people together, whether it be for a group bike ride, a ski trip or a social pub night.

Russell Smalley has been involved in the construction trades in British Columbia for over twenty years; starting in BMS controls installation, programming, and engineering, then moving into mechanical systems commissioning thirteen years ago. His driving philosophy regarding building systems is: “Trust but verify. If you don’t see it yourself, how can you know for sure it works?”

Starting with a small, west coast controls contractor Russ learned the trade the old-school way; from the top of a ladder and by doing. Starting with basic installation, this learning continued through to engineering the installations and ultimately to managing projects. This knowledge and experience provided a path to transition into mechanical systems commissioning at an established Vancouver firm in the early 2000s where he ultimately went on to manage the department.

Through his commissioning career, Russ has worked in every market segment within the lower mainland and BC region. Regardless of the project size or scope, Russ’ collaborative, problem-solving approach, and passion for understanding the ‘Why?’ behind all things have led to his success in the commissioning industry during his professional career.

This curiosity extends through all aspects of Russ’ life and the list of hobbies and interests is wide and currently includes silversmithing, blacksmithing, motorcycle trail riding and coaching beginner-level Olympic 3-position marksmanship.

Ron Foley brings his hands-on experience in the installation, troubleshooting and start-up of various equipment to his commissioning role. Originally from Alberta, Ron graduated from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology with a Diploma in Instrumentation Engineering Technology.

He spent over five years working in the automation industry, starting with oil and gas projects, bringing knowledge in designing, programming, and integrating HVAC systems for various facility types to the Zenith team. This hands-on and in-depth experience allows Ron to have a perspective that allows foresight into the issues that may arise and discuss the DDC programming attributes and integration points for multiple system types. Ron’s focus on relationship building within each of the project teams has allowed him to address the needs at hand with a collaborative approach.

Desmond Wan brings a wealth of knowledge from building science principles and a theoretical understanding of building systems to practical experience in control systems.  Originally from the United States, Desmond graduated from the British Columbia Institute of Technology with a Master of Engineering in Building Science.

Before coming to Vancouver for his Masters, he spent four years working to develop a quality-first approach to different controls projects. These projects included HVAC automation and residential lighting controls with an eye to overall sustainability and occupant comfort.

In his free time, Desmond can be found tinkering with computer projects, following the latest updates to Japanese manga and animation, and exploring Vancouver to find great restaurants and cultural activities.

In her capacity as Operations Manager, Kris Cox is responsible for all the behind-the-scenes management at Zenith. Her varied background includes a Diploma in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design, coupled with years of experience with human resources, administration, and bookkeeping. This diverse experience and skill sets have contributed to not only the company’s smooth operation but also to making the Zenith values come to life both in principle and in everyday practice.

Kris’s addition to Zenith was in 2017, bringing her from Calgary to Vancouver. She has the ability to recognize both the needs of the staff, as well as identify the requirements of Zenith as a company. Her personality and abilities are a natural complement to the team as she believes her most important goal is to support and build up its people. Her compassion, dedication and professionalism is continually demonstrated on a day-to-day basis.

When she’s not working, you’ll likely find Kris training for her next triathlon, enjoying a quiet night in or eating around whatever city she and her husband travel to.