goeasy, a Canadian alternative financial services company based in Mississauga, Ontario, has announced that chief executive Dan Rees will step down effective Dec. 31.
The board has appointed Patrick Ens, currently president of easyfinancial, as incoming CEO, effective Jan. 1. The company said Rees' blood disorder requires him to leave the role. He will remain with the company as special advisor to the CEO from Jan. 1 through June 30, 2026, to support a transition period.
Commenting on the move, Rees said serving as CEO of goeasy has been an honor. "Although my health requires me to step back from the demands of this role, I will be fine, and I remain deeply committed to supporting Patrick and the business through this transition," he said.
David Ingram, executive chair of goeasy, said the board extends appreciation to Rees for his leadership during his time with the company. He noted that Rees joined the organization during a significant stage of development and contributed experience and insight.
"While this was an unexpected development for Dan and for goeasy, we fully respect and support his decision to prioritize his health. We are grateful that he will remain involved to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities to Patrick," Ingram said.
The board has selected Ens following a succession planning process that identified him in 2023 as a potential future CEO. Ens joined the company in 2024 after 17 years with Capital One Canada, where he served as president in 2021. His earlier roles included positions in marketing, risk, and product functions.
During his tenure at goeasy, Ens has led easyfinancial and oversaw periods of growth in consumer lending.
Ingram said Ens was viewed as a succession candidate prior to joining goeasy, and the Board believes he is suited to guide the company through its next phase as it continues to expand non-prime lending services in Canada.
Ens said he appreciates the confidence shown by the Board and executive team. He stated he looks forward to advancing the company’s objectives, working with teams across Canada, and continuing goeasy’s lending approach.
