Rochelle Barber’s journey with Experior Financial is deeply woven into the very foundation of the company. As Experior’s first employee, she was there before departments, titles, or even a proper office—working instead out of the top floor of a flower shop, surrounded by blooms, laughter, and a shared belief in something bigger. From those early days through every stage of growth, Rochelle witnessed the bumps, breakthroughs, and bold leaps that shaped Experior, choosing time and again to stay, support, and believe when it mattered most.
Reflecting on those early years, Co-Founder Lee-Ann Prickett shared just how pivotal Rochelle was to Experior’s beginnings. “Rochelle saw everything—the good times, the hard times, and all the uncertainty in between,” Lee-Ann said. “There were moments when we couldn’t even afford to pay ourselves, and she still showed up every day believing in us. She didn’t just work here; she invested in us, in this company, and in the vision when it was still just an idea.”
Those who joined Experior after Rochelle often describe the same first impression: warmth. Lawrence Lawson recalls arriving shy and unsure, only to be welcomed with coffee, conversation, and genuine care. “She tried to make me feel welcome, asked me if I needed something,” he shared. That openness soon grew into friendship and community, extending even beyond the office walls. “That generosity and that approachability, that kind-heartedness is what I would miss in the office,” Lawrence said—adding with a smile that he’ll still see her every Sunday at church.
Rochelle’s generosity became something of a legend at Experior. Whether it was Tim Hortons treats, homemade baking, or full meals shared with love, food was just one of the many ways she took care of people. Dylan DiPietro shared a story of helping troubleshoot audio issues at Rochelle’s church—twice—and being “paid” in egg salad sandwiches on homemade sourdough, plus a jalapeño cheddar loaf that “didn’t last very long.” “She’s an amazing cook and has been a nice presence around the office the whole time that I’ve worked at Experior,” Dylan said.
As Rochelle steps into retirement, her legacy at Experior is not defined by a single role or title, but by the culture she helped create. She was payroll, new business, contracts, support—and often the heart of the office all at once. To many, she was lovingly known as “Mama Ro,” a steady presence who made people feel at home, cared for, and valued. Though she may be retiring, the warmth, loyalty, and belief Rochelle poured into Experior will continue to shape the company for years to come.
