Our Staff
Christine Robertson
Owner & Chief Executive Officer Gateway Customs Broker and Transborder Services Inc.
Christine Robertson is an accomplished customs broker with a rich history in the industry, currently serving as the Owner and President CEO of Gateway Customs Broker and Transborder Services Inc. She brings over three decades of experience in customs brokerage and logistics, having dedicated her career to mastering the complexities of international trade.
She began her career at Russell A Farrow Customs Brokers in 1989, where she honed her skills until 1994. She then expanded her expertise at SM Hewitt for a brief period before joining Blaiklock Customs Brokers in 1995. Following the acquisition of Blaiklock by Livingston Customs Brokers in 1999, she successfully managed a team at Livingston until 2003.
In 2003, Christine took a significant step in her career by joining her mother, Deirdre Robertson, at Gateway Customs Broker, where she has played a pivotal role in managing operations and steering the company toward success. Under her leadership, Gateway Customs Broker remains committed to enhancing its capabilities and services, utilizing advanced software and continually improving skill sets to meet the evolving needs of clients.
Christine obtained her qualifying status with the CBSA Broker Licensing regulations in 1995 and achieved Professional Status as a Customs Broker in 2004, underscoring her commitment to excellence in her field. As the second generation to lead Gateway, Christine is proud of her family’s legacy. Her mother, Deirdre, was instrumental in establishing the company, with support from her father, a lifelong civil servant who contributed to Gateway’s foundational growth. This familial dedication to service and community has inspired Christine to invest in making her community a better place.
Christine’s values reflect a deep commitment to her profession and a passion for contributing positively to society. At Gateway Customs Broker, the mission is clear: to better serve clients by continuously improving skills and software, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve in customs brokerage and transborder services.
Lisa Nichols-Swain
Account Manager
Lisa Nichols-Swain is an accomplished Account Manager at Gateway Customs Broker and Transborder Services Inc., where her journey began in 1997 as a high school co-op student. Since then, she has dedicated her career to the company, demonstrating unwavering commitment and expertise in customs brokerage. Lisa graduated from Lambton College in 2001 with a degree in Law and Security, all while balancing full-time work, showcasing her strong work ethic and determination.
In 2020, Lisa furthered her professional development by obtaining her Certified Customs Specialist qualification. Her extensive knowledge spans several key areas, including Transport Canada, Health Canada, and Ocean Freight, as well as a profound understanding of client relations, which she has cultivated throughout her long tenure at Gateway.
Passionate about her family and community, Lisa values the connections she has built both personally and professionally. She enjoys playing various sports and actively participates in local clubs dedicated to giving back.
At Gateway Customs Broker, Lisa is focused on providing clients with a steady hand in the storm, ensuring they have the support they need to navigate complex customs processes. She looks forward to helping clients build strong, lasting relationships with Gateway, reinforcing the company’s mission to deliver exceptional service and support.
Kayleigh Rodger
Chief Financial Officer
Kayleigh Rodger is the Chief Financial Officer at Gateway Customs Broker and Transborder Services Inc., where she has been a vital part of the team since 2012.
With a strong foundation in customs brokerage, Kayleigh has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success. In 2020, she enhanced her expertise by obtaining her Certified Customs Specialist qualification, further solidifying her commitment to the field.
Kayleigh brings extensive knowledge in regulatory areas, particularly with Health Canada, the Canada Food Inspection Agency, and Global Affairs. Her in-depth understanding of these sectors allows her to navigate complex compliance landscapes and offer innovative solutions tailored to client needs.
As the third generation in her family to contribute to the legacy of Gateway, Kayleigh is passionate about continuing the dream of her grandparents, Deirdre and Graham Robertson. She is dedicated to expanding her role within the company, taking on the responsibility of overseeing Accounts Receivable and ensuring a dynamic approach to service delivery.
At Gateway Customs Broker, Kayleigh is focused on evolving the company for the future, always striving to serve clients in the most effective manner possible. Her values of dedication, innovation, and family legacy drive her work and commitment to excellence in the customs brokerage industry.
Buster Thiel
Chief of Operations
Buster brings a wealth of leadership and operational expertise to his role as Chief of Operations at Gateway Customs Broker & Transborder Services.
As the Son of the Gateway owner and CEO, Buster is deeply committed to upholding the company’s values of accountability, honesty, and service. Specializing in operational optimization and the implementation of new services. Buster is dedicated to enhancing efficiency and driving initiatives at Gateway.
Buster began his career at Gateway while in high school in 2013, working nights where he received his introduction to customs clearance from the current CFO, Kayleigh. This early experience laid the foundation for his passion in the industry.
After Graduating High School, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves in 2017. This is where he developed a strong foundation in operational management and logistics.
Buster participated in Operation LASER in 2020, supporting COVID-19 response efforts as a signaler for a platoon working in one of long-term care homes in Toronto during the height of the COVID-19 crisis.
He Later deployed to Lebanon with Operation IMPACT in 2021, serving as a Force Protection Driver and Quartermaster. He was responsible for sourcing essential equipment from local and international vendors for the training being conducted. As result of his deployment to Lebanon, Buster was the recipient of the Canadian Operational Service Medal.
Additionally, Buster held the role of Transport Rep for the First Hussars Armoured Regiment Operations, overseeing the maintenance and utilization of the regiment’s vehicle fleet in 2022. Eventually taking on the role of Lead Mounting Unit Coordinator, he assisted with the tracking and implementation of the training of overseas deploying troops from 31 Brigade in 2023.
With a commitment to excellence and a proven track record of leadership in high-pressure situations, Buster is well-equipped to lead and innovate within the family business, ensuring Gateway continues to thrive as a trusted partner in customs brokerage.