Meet our Creative Minds

John Gualtieri
President

John Gualtieri

John founded NiMA twenty-five years ago with a straightforward idea and a willingness to work hard. His career began in construction, working alongside his father and learning the value of discipline, reliability, and hands-on problem solving. He later joined his family’s greenhouse business, gaining a practical understanding of what farmers face in their day-to-day operations. That experience eventually led him into logistics, where he saw how much farmers relied on dependable supply and how often those needs were not being met.

Recognizing an opportunity to serve farmers with a more reliable supply chain and solutions that made work easier, John started NiMA. He began by offering tomato vine clips and j-hooks, building the business himself from the ground up. Over time, his early product lineup expanded into a full packaging program that now includes rigids, flexible solutions, and corrugate.

What began in a modest 2,500 square foot warehouse has grown into a 100,000 square foot operation supporting many of the industry’s leading farmers. John attributes the company’s growth to consistency, long-term relationships, and a commitment to doing things the right way. His focus on quality and service continues to guide NiMA today.

When he’s not at work, John loves to travel and relax in the sun with his family and friends.

Nico Gualtieri
Sales and Marketing

Nico Gualtieri

Nico graduated from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. Before beginning his career, he spent a year in Italy playing semi-professional soccer, an experience that strengthened his discipline, adaptability, and competitive edge. Growing up, he worked at NiMA every summer in the warehouse, learning the business from the ground up and gaining a real appreciation for the work behind each order.

After completing his degree, Nico joined NiMA full time. He now oversees Sales and Marketing, focusing on building strong relationships, supporting customers, and driving the company’s growth with a mix of strategy and hands-on experience.

Outside of work, Nico is an avid sports fan and golfer. He’s often found at live sporting events or at his Nonna’s house enjoying homemade spaghetti, meatballs, and a perfectly timed espresso.

Nada Gualtieri
Administrative Director

Nada Gualtieri

Nada graduated from Western University’s Nursing program before joining her father’s family business, where she spent sixteen years helping build a newly established sales company. The experience gave her a strong foundation in operations, customer service, and the day-to-day demands of a growing business.

A natural self-starter, Nada later launched her own personal training business and pursued a competitive bodybuilding career, developing the discipline, focus, and resilience she carries into her work today. She now supports NiMA through daily operations and administrative management, bringing structure, steady energy, and a commitment to keeping things running smoothly.

Outside the office, Nada is a proud mother of two. She loves traveling to Italy whenever she can, staying active through fitness, and openly admits she’s a low-key coffee addict.

Ryanne Johns
Accounting & Inventory Manager

Ryanne Johns

Ryanne graduated from St. Clair College with a Business Administration diploma focused on Human Resources. She began her career at Mucci Farms, spending five years as an office administrator and building strong operational and organizational skills. It was there she met Nada Gualtieri, which would later lead her to NiMA. Today, Ryanne supports the company as Accounting and Inventory Manager, bringing reliability, attention to detail, and a steady commitment to keeping things running smoothly.

Outside of work, Ryanne is a proud mom of four. She plays hockey every week, loves to travel, and is happiest when she’s at Disney World. At home, she unwinds with her two dogs and her family.

Johnny
Key Account Manager

Johnny Araujo

Johnny earned his Master of International Business from Queen’s University. He began his career in marketing and advertising before moving into the produce industry, where he spent four years gaining a ground-level understanding of daily operations and customer needs. That experience now allows him to approach packaging solutions with genuine insight and hands-on expertise. His long-standing interest in packaging made NiMA a natural next step, and he brings a steady, service-driven approach to every partnership.

When he’s not servicing his customers, he can be seen on the tennis court or spending time with his wife and son.

Brandon Taggart
Business Development Executive

Brandon Taggart

Brandon Taggart brings over a decade of experience in the produce and packaging industries to NiMA Imports. Following four years in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he completed military and Finance trade training, Brandon built his career in the produce sector, beginning with packaging procurement for a major greenhouse operation in Leamington.

He later transitioned into packaging sales, spending six years specializing in produce packaging solutions. Brandon has extensive experience helping growers and packers streamline operations through automated packaging equipment, new product development, sustainability initiatives, and cost-saving programs. His practical industry knowledge allows him to identify innovative solutions that improve efficiency while delivering value to customers.

Known for his relationship-driven approach, Brandon is committed to building trust and providing exceptional service. Outside of work, he is a proud father of three who enjoys basketball, Nascar, and riding his Harley-Davidson along the 200+km of scenic Windsor-Essex shoreline.

Jules
Warehouse Operations Manager

Jules Ricci

Jules was born in Villa Canal, Italy, and moved to Canada in 1968. He began his career at Heinz, where he spent twenty-six years working as both a truck driver and warehouse manager. His time there shaped his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and steady approach to daily operations.

Jules later joined NiMA, where he now oversees operations, manages day-to-day warehouse responsibilities, and handles daily deliveries. His reliability and dedication play a key role in keeping the company’s logistics running smoothly.

Outside of work, Jules is a proud father to his daughter, Samantha. He can often be found at his local coffee shop or out golfing during the summer.

Cornelius Klassen
Shipping & Receiving

Cornelius Klassen

Cornelius graduated high school in Texas in 2012 before moving to Leamington, Ontario to be closer to family. Drawn to the pace and hands-on nature of the produce industry, he began working for a produce marketer, where he spent twelve years building deep warehouse management experience and sharpening his understanding of day-to-day operations.

He eventually joined NiMA as Shipping and Receiving Operator. Cornelius is responsible for receiving and shipping all orders and plays an essential role in keeping the warehouse organized, accurate, and running efficiently.

Outside of work, Cornelius loves to golf and spend time with his newborn daughter.

Sadallah Mesto
Shipping & Receiving

Sadallah Mesto

Sadallah graduated from St. Clair College with a diploma in Police Foundations. Originally from Syria, he moved to Canada and worked hard to build a new future while continuing his education. Throughout his studies, he developed strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills while preparing for a career in law enforcement.

Alongside his education, Sadallah worked Full-time at Nima Imports Inc, gaining valuable experience in customer service, teamwork, and responsibility. His dedication to both work and school reflects his strong work ethic and commitment to personal growth.

Today, Sadallah is focused on achieving his goal of becoming a police officer and serving his community. He is passionate about helping others, promoting safety, and making a positive impact wherever he can.

Outside of work and school, Sadallah enjoys playing soccer, spending time with family and friends, and following his favorite sports teams.

Mike Tiessen
Delivery & Warehouse Assistant

Mike Tiessen

Born in 1960 in Leamington, Ontario, Mike Tiessen is a lifelong Leamington resident with deep roots in the local community. Raised on a local farm, he developed a strong work ethic early in life while growing up in the heart of Essex County.

Mike discovered his passion for music at age 12 when he began playing guitar. By just 16 years old, he was already performing professionally and earning money from his talent. In 1976, he started a band called The Hitmen, launching a musical journey that would take him across Canada and the United States. Over the years, Mike has played countless shows, entertaining audiences far and wide, and he continues to play today.

When he’s not making music, Mike is part of the team at NiMA Imports, where he works part-time making deliveries to food-service customers. Whether on stage or on the road, Mike brings the same dedication, reliability, and passion that has defined his life and career.

Todd
Delivery & Warehouse Assistant

Todd Macvicar

Todd spent most of his career at Chrysler, where he built a reputation for reliability, hard work, and a steady, team-first attitude. During those years, he also owned a local bar in town, giving him a chance to stay connected to the community and put his outgoing personality to good use. Now retired, Todd helps out at NiMA part time, supporting the team wherever he’s needed and keeping the workplace lively.

Outside of work, Todd loves spending time in Florida with his family, traveling abroad whenever he can, and getting out on hunting trips. His easygoing nature and sense of humor make him a favorite among friends, family, and the NiMA crew.

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