By: Emily Rumball

When Mark Marshall talks about his work at Allan Marshall & Associates, one of Canada’s well-regarded Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) firms, his words are rooted in empathy.

“I treat every person that walks through our doors like someone I know personally, with honest, transparent talk, compassion, and no judgment,” he says.

The firm, founded by his father Allan over 45 years ago, has grown from a single office in New Brunswick to more than 20 locations across five provinces. Through that growth, one thing has remained consistent: the promise behind their brand name: We Can Help.

Mark and his brother Scott now lead the family-run firm, ensuring its legacy of compassion is preserved even as they expand nationally. Their mission is more than debt relief; it’s about giving Canadians dignity, clarity, and a new opportunity.

Keeping Humanity at the Heart of Finance

Mark describes his leadership style as approachable and grounded. “We’re real people. When you call us, you’re going to speak to a real person, no waiting in line, no bots, or endless voicemail loops,” he explains.

The core values that steer his decision-making are simple yet significant: honesty, compassion, and clarity. These driving principles were instilled directly from his father, who created the firm on a concept that may seem uncommon in the financial sector: success isn’t about numbers, it’s about helping people.

When setbacks arise, Mark draws on resilience. He often cites the comparison of a doctor and a patient: “Just like a doctor meets someone in a triage situation and generates a treatment strategy, we meet people in financial crisis and help them find a way through. Every situation is unique, so listening to their story is part of the path to financial recovery.”

To ensure an open, honest, and positive environment, he prioritizes open communication and mutual respect. “Leadership is about treating people the way you want to be treated. It’s built on mutual respect,” he notes.

His greatest strength? Simplifying complex problems. His focus for growth? Continuing to refine and pivot in his ability to lead teams through rapid, nationwide expansion while ensuring that the compassionate core of the business is never lost or compromised.

Where the Firm Is Headed, and Why Canadians Need It Now

Looking ahead five to ten years, Mark envisions Allan Marshall & Associates becoming a widely recognized national brand, a warm, approachable alternative to Canada’s larger “big-box” insolvency firms.

“Yes, we are growing, but we are dedicated to staying true to our values and commitments to debtors.”

The biggest opportunity lies in educating Canadians about Consumer Proposals, a court-approved process that can cut debt by substantial amounts and provide relief without the stigma of bankruptcy. Despite their potential, surveys show many Canadians aren’t familiar with them.

The challenges? Stigma and awareness. “Financial difficulty doesn’t discriminate. I see people on pensions, professionals, even doctors and politicians walk through our doors,” Mark says. Many arrive burdened with shame, unaware they even have options.

Why Education Is Canada’s Hidden Debt Solution

Mark is most proud of the cultural impact he and his family have cultivated. “Our staff treat clients like friends working through a problem, not as numbers on a page,” he reflects.

That approach has created a ripple effect. Many Canadians have walked into Allan Marshall & Associates’ offices feeling defeated, only to leave with confidence and hope restored. Client reviews echo this sentiment: “They made me feel very comfortable and addressed my debt issues very promptly. If you have any doubt, don’t hesitate in contacting them immediately” (Source: Google Reviews, 2025).

Mark also believes strongly in corporate social responsibility. For him, that means putting people first, even if the optimal solution lies outside the firm. “Sometimes helping a client means pointing them toward another resource. The job is to guide, not to sell,” he explains.

Lessons Learned on the Journey

For aspiring CEOs, Mark’s advice is straightforward: “Don’t let chasing growth and expansion come at the cost of trust & compassion. Treat people how you’d want to be treated. That will keep people returning or, in our case, referring. It’s that simple.”

In regard to his biggest influences, they remain close to home. Allan, his father, instilled the unwavering belief that honesty, respect, and empathy should guide every decision. His brother, Scott, inspires him through his visionary leadership, balancing the national expansion without losing sight of the crucial importance of a personal touch.

As the firm continues its national expansion, Mark’s vision is steadfast: helping Canadians understand there is hope, help, and they can reset their financial lives with fairness and dignity, not judgment.

For Canadians facing financial stress: You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. We Can Help.

To learn more or connect with the Allan Marshall & Associates team, visit WeCanHelp.ca

Disclaimer: The services provided by Allan Marshall & Associates are not intended to replace professional legal or financial advice. The effectiveness of debt relief options may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is recommended to consult with licensed professionals for specific financial advice or assistance regarding debt management or bankruptcy options.