Meet the small but mighty team who are committed to building strong, vibrant and diverse communities throughout Nova Scotia by enabling and inspiring effective philanthropy. We are a group of talented professionals with a wide range of skills and experience. We love what we do and we do it with passion. We look forward to working with you.
Daniel Holland
CEO
About Daniel
Daniel joined CFNS as CEO in June 2020. A tri-sector leader with experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors, this role allows Daniel to combine his passion for community with his business sensibilities so we can do even more good. Recognized as a natural collaborator, convening conversations about how to effectively support others, his profile is one that leverages a mix of consulting, business development, financial markets advisory, and operational roles that support growth for businesses and charitable organizations. Through his facilitation experience and empathetic relationship building, Daniel is trusted to help the organizations he leads to develop, grow and realize important operational and business goals. A lifelong volunteer, Daniel is certified by the Institute of Corporate Directors with the ICD.D designation.
Sheryl Penny
CFO
About Sheryl
Sheryl Penny joined the CFNS team in December, 2025. She is an accomplished finance and administration leader with over 30 years of experience across education, professional services, and corporate environments. For15 years Sheryl was the Director of Finance & Administration at Sacred Heart School of Halifax, providing strategic financial leadership, overseeing administration, and supporting leadership and the finance committee of the Board. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from Saint Mary’s University, Sheryl brings deep expertise in financial reporting, internal controls, business analysis, and organizational leadership.
Julia Pollock
Accounting Manager
About Julia
Julia Pollack joined CFNS in June 2024, bringing over a decade of accounting experience in the charitable sector. Known for her versatility and problem-solving skills, Julia has been aptly described as a “Swiss army knife with a finance module upgrade.” Her extensive expertise and innovative approach enhance the organization’s financial operations and contribute to its mission. Her commitment to excellence and her proactive approach make her a cornerstone of the financial stability and growth of CFNS.
Kathleen Murphy
Director of Communications
About Kathleen
Kathleen joined CFNS in August 2024, bringing extensive experience in communications within the charitable sector and a fervent commitment to highlighting the transformative power of philanthropy. Guided by her belief that “Kind people are my kind of people,” she feels fortunate to spend her days connecting with generous Nova Scotians and sharing the inspiring stories of their kindness and its far-reaching impacts.
With a history of leading impactful campaigns, Kathleen is dedicated to making the act of giving both rewarding and enjoyable. Her passion for the charitable sector is supported by a Master’s degree in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership from Carleton University, extensive professional and volunteer experience across various nonprofits, and specialized knowledge in Philanthropic Psychology.
Carly Levy
Stewardship & Donor Relations Manager
About Carly
Carly joined CFNS in January 2024, adding a decade of dynamic experience in development, donor relations and communications to our team. With a talent for turning numbers into narratives, she’s not just about hitting targets, but creating meaningful connections.
Whether she is telling stories of impact, streamlining donor experiences, or raising funds for community good, Carly is on a mission to make philanthropy personal. Rooted in a small rural community, she values tight-knit and genuine relationships and sees every donor as a partner in building up Nova Scotia communities. Carly is dedicated to ensuring a meaningful and collaborative philanthropic journey, where every interaction is more than a transaction—it’s a catalyst for positive change.