Board Of Directors

CFA Societies Canada is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors from across Canada.

Meet the 2023-2024 Board of Directors

Together we strive to lead the investment profession in Canada by advancing the highest professional standards, integrity, and ethics for the ultimate benefit of Canadian society.

Ron Schwarz, CFA is a corporate director and capital markets consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. He currently manages his own investments and provides corporate consulting services. From 2009 until 2012, he served as Executive Director of UBS Global Asset Management Canada where he was responsible for a $650MM Canadian Small Cap Equity fund and sat on the asset mix committee. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Head of Canadian Cash Equities at CIBC Capital Markets where he was responsible for equity sales, trading, research and prime brokerage and electronic trading operations. Mr. Schwarz received his undergraduate degree in Finance at Concordia University in 1991 and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1995. He is currently a director and Chair of the Board at CHC Student Housing, a TSX-V listed student housing real estate company where he additionally serves on the Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance committees. Ron is also a director on the private board of SideDrawer Inc, an estate planning document management application company. Ron previously served on the private board of Electric Sky Wine LLC, a joint venture between Interscope Records and Anheiser Busch. He also served on the board of directors of Noble Iron Inc., a TSX-V listed rental equipment and software company, where he chaired the Audit Committee and KGIC Inc., a TSX-V listed English as a second language education provider sitting on both the Audit and Compensation and Governance Committees. Mr. Schwarz also recently served as a director on the board of CFA Society Toronto where he chaired the Society’s Communications Committee and is currently a member of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, he was a two-term member of the Ontario Securities Commission’s Small-Medium Enterprise Committee.
Ron Schwarz
Tristan is a portfolio manager at Vestcor, a pension fund based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He has over 13 years of experience in investing in public equities and his current focus is on REITs, Utilities and Financials across North America along with Canadian small cap. Tristan holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and has a BBA from the University of New Brunswick with double Honors in Finance and Accounting and a Major in Economics. He also serves as President of CFA Society Atlantic Canada and is the Treasurer of the Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation.
Tristan McBride
Patrick currently holds the position of Vice President, Investor Relations at Cenovus Energy, where he is responsible for the managing communications and relationships with investors, analysts, and other financial stakeholders. Prior roles include Vice President, Corporate Planning at Cenovus, Director of Business Development at Husky Energy, and Executive Director in the Investment Banking division at Morgan Stanley. Patrick graduated with Distinction from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) with an M.Sc. in Accounting and Finance in 2006, and from Western University with a BACS in Finance, Economics and Administration in 2005. Patrick served as a member of the Board of Directors of CFA Society Calgary for eight years.
Patrick Read
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s global funding programs. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies and borrowing programs for the Province’s $95 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $22 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments and pensions with assets under management of over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and manages relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities in all aspects of government finance across several global markets. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve is an active volunteer with several non-profit organizations in the areas of financial literacy, financial credentialing, market integrity and ethics.
Stephen Thomspon
Carl Robert, Ph.D., CFA, FRM, is Managing Director, Dynamic Asset Allocation and Currency Management within the CIO group at PSP Investments (more than $270B AUM). In his role, Carl leads the rebalancing of the fund, manages its Dynamic Asset Allocation, Total Fund Currency Management, the Quantitative Research, and leads the team advising the Total Fund Management Committee of the firm. Prior to joining PSP, Carl was Director and Portfolio Manager, Asset Allocation, at Intact Investment Management. He was leading the Asset Allocation team, managing different active and passive portfolios in equity and fixed income, and built and managed an external managers program (Private debt, Infrastructure). Carl has more than 20 years of experience in the capital markets working for institutional asset management firms (e.g., PSP, CDPQ) and hedge funds in Canada and the United States. He is combining a background in physics (Ph.D. University of Maryland, M.Sc., and B.Sc. Laval University), experience as a postdoctoral researcher and lecturer (University of California Santa Barbara, and Reims University) as well as training in finance (Financial Risk Manager 2007, he is a CFA charterholder since 2010 and volunteers at CFA Montréal since 2011). Carl has been on the board of CFA Montréal since 2013 and was its President (2019-2021). He currently is the Honorary President of the association. Finally, Carl is on the board and executive committee of both CFA Montréal and CFA Societies Canada (since 2021).
Carl Robert
Coreen is a single mother of three children, and in her leisure time, you can find Coreen on a sunny Okanagan golf course, cycling the hills of Vancouver, balancing in a yoga studio, or cruising the blues on her Gnu snowboard. Having enjoyed a professional dance career with Ballet B.C., Coreen feels passionate to support the community and arts in particular. Coreen proudly contributes to Ballet B.C., Ballet Kelowna, the Vancouver Art Gallery, CIBC Run for the Cure, and other vital organizations.
Coreen Sol
Sean serves as the Managing Director of Investments at Nunavut Trust, a $2 billion closed endowment located in Ottawa. In this role, he directs his expertise towards comprehensive asset allocation, manager selection, risk management, and portfolio monitoring. Sean actively contributes to the financial community, holding a position on the Board of CFA Societies Canada and having previously served as the President of CFA Society Ottawa. Beyond his commitments with Nunavut Trust, Sean is a dedicated Board member for the Pension Investment Association of Canada (PIAC). Within PIAC, he serves as the Chair of the Asset & Return Survey Working Group and is a member of both the Member Services Committee and the Alternatives Working Group. Sean’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Ottawa. His professional qualifications include holding designations as a CFA charterholder, a CAIA charterholder, and a Chartered Accountant. Sean’s multifaceted expertise and leadership positions underscore his contributions to the financial and investment landscape.
Sean Kulik
Pier-André is a portfolio manager at iA Financial Group. He has more than 12 years of experience in fixed income trading and portfolio management. He is responsible for managing portfolios backing insurance liabilities as well as total return mandates. His focus is on developing new interest rate hedging solutions in addition to value-adding strategies for different business lines within iA Financial Group. Prior to joining iA in 2012, he worked three years as a trader for the sinking fund of the Province of Québec and on the treasury desk. Pier-André is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds an MBA from Laval University. Pier-André has been volunteering for CFA Québec since 2014 where he has held many roles.
Pier-André_Blanchet
Jordan Wilson joined CFA Society Saskatchewan’s Board in 2018. Jordan was heavily involved in Candidate Preparation and University and High School Outreach activities. He has served as Vice-President and completed a two-year term as President in July 2023. Currently, Jordan serves as Past President and is filling in as Vice-President until a replacement is named in 2024. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta and possesses CFA, CPA, CA, and CFP professional designations. Jordan has over 25 years experience in various areas, including: public accounting and tax; oil and gas industry; taking an oil company public as VP-Finance, Treasurer, and Board member; international finance and fiduciary in The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Channel Islands, Singapore, and Switzerland; investment analysis of bankable, non-bankable, and operating assets; fiduciary product and risk management; mergers and acquisitions; managing the Global Trust Operations for UBS. Jordan has served on the Boards of over 100 companies, including non-profit, public, private operating, and investment companies. Jordan is currently President of Wilson Wealth Management and teaches Finance and Economics at Saskatchewan Polytechnic.
Jordan Wilson
Kathrin Forrest is an equity investment specialist at Capital Group, supporting both wealth management and institutional retirement with a dedicated focus on the Canadian market. Prior to joining Capital Group, Kathrin spent 17 years in multiple senior roles across Sun Life Financial. She most recently served as vice-president and portfolio manager of Sun Life Global Investments, overseeing equity, fixed income and asset allocation solutions, and partnering with cross-functional peers to facilitate the evolution of the organization’s product shelf. Prior to joining Sun Life Global Investments, Forrest was assistant vice-president, product and strategy at Sun Life Investment Management. Kathrin holds a Master of Arts in Economics and is a CFA charterholder. She is an active member at the CFA Society Toronto, currently serving as Vice-Chair, Programming on the Society’s Board of Directors.
Kathrin Forrest
Cecilia Wong joined Leith Wheeler in 1995 after seven years at Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants as an audit manager in their Audit and Assurance practice. As the firm’s Chief Financial Officer, she is responsible for the financial management, compliance, and operations of Leith Wheeler, and sits on the company’s Board of Directors. Cecilia is a graduate of UBC (B.Comm., Accounting) and has worked in the industry since 1995. Currently, she is a director of the Portfolio Management Association of Canada, and sits on the Board of Governors and Finance and Audit committees of Crofton House School. Cecilia also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, is a member and fellow (FCPA) of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia, and a member of CFA Society Vancouver.
Cecilia Wong
Chelsea Kittleson is the Executive Director of British Columbia’s Municipal Pension Plan (MPP), where she provides strategic advice to the Municipal Pension Board of Trustees. With 25 years of finance, capital markets and public sector pension industry experience, Chelsea has a deep understanding of the complexities of managing a defined benefit, multi-employer pension plan. Prior to joining MPP, Chelsea was a Director, Client Relations at British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCI), one of Canada’s largest institutional investors. There she advised statutory pension clients and trust funds on investment matters, including performance, strategy and policy. Chelsea also has over 15 years of experience in capital markets, including as director at CIBC World Markets, and as Manager, Financing and Investor Relations at British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. Chelsea holds an MBA from the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University. She has a Bachelor of Commerce and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Chelsea is the Past President of CFA Society Victoria and a former member of the Future of Finance Content Council with the CFA Institute. She is currently a board member for CFA Societies Canada.
Chelsea Kittleson
Emily is the Executive Vice-President and Chair of the Board at Cardinal Capital Management, Inc. a portfolio management firm that manages over $4B in assets. With 20 years of experience in the investment industry, she works with institutional and private clients across Canada and the United States to build and manage their investment portfolios. Emily also leads the business development and operations teams at Cardinal. Emily has a Master of Business Administration degree from the Schulich School of Business and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Emily currently serves as the Past President of CFA Society Winnipeg and is a board member for CFA Societies Canada. Emily also enjoys volunteering within the arts community and is a current board member for the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
Emily Burt

Ron Schwarz, CFA is a corporate director and capital markets consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. He currently manages his own investments and provides corporate consulting services. From 2009 until 2012, he served as Executive Director of UBS Global Asset Management Canada where he was responsible for a $650MM Canadian Small Cap Equity fund and sat on the asset mix committee. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Head of Canadian Cash Equities at CIBC Capital Markets where he was responsible for equity sales, trading, research and prime brokerage and electronic trading operations. Mr. Schwarz received his undergraduate degree in Finance at Concordia University in 1991 and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1995. He is currently a director and Chair of the Board at CHC Student Housing, a TSX-V listed student housing real estate company where he additionally serves on the Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance committees. Ron is also a director on the private board of SideDrawer Inc, an estate planning document management application company. Ron previously served on the private board of Electric Sky Wine LLC, a joint venture between Interscope Records and Anheiser Busch. He also served on the board of directors of Noble Iron Inc., a TSX-V listed rental equipment and software company, where he chaired the Audit Committee and KGIC Inc., a TSX-V listed English as a second language education provider sitting on both the Audit and Compensation and Governance Committees. Mr. Schwarz also recently served as a director on the board of CFA Society Toronto where he chaired the Society’s Communications Committee and is currently a member of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, he was a two-term member of the Ontario Securities Commission’s Small-Medium Enterprise Committee.
Ron Schwarz
Andrew currently holds the position of VP, Responsible Investment & Fund Management at ACM Advisors Ltd. Andrew is responsible for the implementation of the firm’s Responsible Investment initiatives, as well as financial and quantitative analysis of ACM managed funds. Prior to joining ACM in 2018, Andrew was the Manager of Public Investments at a municipal pension plan in Nova Scotia. His previous professional experience also includes VP of Sales and Trading, Fixed Income at a national broker in Halifax and Associate Analyst, Institutional Fixed Income at a large, Canadian fund management company. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Computer Science degree from Dalhousie University, and was awarded the CFA charter in 2009. He currently serves as President of the board of the CFA Society Atlantic Canada.
Andrew Walker
Michael currently is a financial consultant. His most recent position was the Chief Financial Officer at Wayfinder Corp., a privately held company focused on the manufacture and transloading of specialty proppants used in the hydraulic fracturing sector. Prior positions include CFO at Redrock Camps and EVP and CFO at Black Diamond Group. Previous experience includes senior finance roles in Insurance, Technology and the Oilfield Services sectors. Michael graduated from the University of Alberta in 1990 with a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting & Finance) degree. He is a Chartered Accountant (1992) and a CFA charterholder (2003).
Michael Burnyeat
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s global funding programs. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies and borrowing programs for the Province’s $95 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $22 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments and pensions with assets under management of over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and manages relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities in all aspects of government finance across several global markets. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve is an active volunteer with several non-profit organizations in the areas of financial literacy, financial credentialing, market integrity and ethics.
Stephen Thomspon
Carl Robert, Ph.D., CFA, FRM, is Managing Director, Dynamic Asset Allocation and Currency Management within the CIO group at PSP Investments (more than $240B AUM). In his role, Carl leads the rebalancing of the fund, manages its Dynamic Asset Allocation, Total Fund Currency Management, the Quantitative Research, and leads the team advising the Total Fund Management Committee of the firm. Prior to joining PSP, Carl was Director and Portfolio Manager, Asset Allocation, at Intact Investment Management. Carl has more than 20 years of experience in the capital markets working for institutional asset management firms (e.g. PSP, CDPQ) and hedge funds in Canada and the United States. He is combining a background in physics (Ph.D. University of Maryland, M.Sc., and B.Sc. Laval University), experience as a postdoctoral researcher and professor (University of California Santa Barbara, and Reims University) as well as training in finance (Financial Risk Manager 2007, he is a CFA charterholder since 2010 and volunteers at CFA Montréal since 2011). Carl has been on the board of CFA Montréal since 2013 and was its President (2019-2021).
Carl Robert
Coreen is a single mother of three children, and in her leisure time, you can find Coreen on a sunny Okanagan golf course, cycling the hills of Vancouver, balancing in a yoga studio, or cruising the blues on her Gnu snowboard. Having enjoyed a professional dance career with Ballet B.C., Coreen feels passionate to support the community and arts in particular. Coreen proudly contributes to Ballet B.C., Ballet Kelowna, the Vancouver Art Gallery, CIBC Run for the Cure, and other vital organizations.
Coreen Sol
Sean is the Managing Director, Investments at Nunavut Trust, a $2B closed endowment based in Ottawa. Sean focuses on overall asset allocation, manager selection, risk management, and portfolio monitoring. Sean sits on the Board of CFA Societies Canada, is a Past President of CFA Society Ottawa, and holds several roles at the Pension Investment Association of Canada (PIAC), as the Chair of the Asset & Return Survey Working Group and as a member of the Member Services Committee and Alternatives Working Group. Sean is also the Chapter Executive for the Ottawa CAIA Canada Chapter, and he currently sits on the investment committee for the University of Ottawa Telfer Capital Fund, and the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library. Sean holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Ottawa, is a CFA charterholder, a CAIA Charterholder, and also a Chartered Accountant.
Sean Kulik
Pier-André is a portfolio manager at iA Financial Group. He has more than 12 years of experience in fixed income trading and portfolio management. He is responsible for managing portfolios backing insurance liabilities as well as total return mandates. His focus is on developing new interest rate hedging solutions in addition to value-adding strategies for different business lines within iA Financial Group. Prior to joining iA in 2012, he worked three years as a trader for the sinking fund of the Province of Québec and on the treasury desk. Pier-André is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds an MBA from Laval University. Pier-André has been volunteering for CFA Québec since 2014 where he has held many roles.
Pier-André_Blanchet
Veronica, recently retired, worked as a Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor with CIBC World Markets and Merrill Lynch International for over 36 years, serving a clientele of affluent individuals, institutions, and corporations. She holds an MBA (McGill) in International and Corporate Finance as well as the CIMA (Certified Investment Management Analyst) designation. She is a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder as well as a CIPM (Certificate in Performance Measurement) certificant. Veronica has been the recipient of the Investment Dealers National Award of Distinction for the province of Saskatchewan, an annual award created to recognize excellence and professionalism in the industry. She has served on the boards of several charitable organizations, provincial crown corporations, and industry councils, and was President of CFA Society Saskatchewan.
Veronica Gamracy
Kathrin Forrest is an equity investment specialist at Capital Group, supporting both wealth management and institutional retirement with a dedicated focus on the Canadian market. Prior to joining Capital Group, Kathrin spent 17 years in multiple senior roles across Sun Life Financial. She most recently served as vice-president and portfolio manager of Sun Life Global Investments, overseeing equity, fixed income and asset allocation solutions, and partnering with cross-functional peers to facilitate the evolution of the organization’s product shelf. Prior to joining Sun Life Global Investments, Forrest was assistant vice-president, product and strategy at Sun Life Investment Management. Kathrin holds a Master of Arts in Economics and is a CFA charterholder. She is an active member at the CFA Society Toronto, currently serving as Vice-Chair, Programming on the Society’s Board of Directors.
Kathrin Forrest
Cecilia Wong joined Leith Wheeler in 1995 after seven years at Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants as an audit manager in their Audit and Assurance practice. As the firm’s Chief Financial Officer, she is responsible for the financial management, compliance, and operations of Leith Wheeler, and sits on the company’s Board of Directors. Cecilia is a graduate of UBC (B.Comm., Accounting) and has worked in the industry since 1995. Currently, she is a director of the Portfolio Management Association of Canada, and sits on the Board of Governors and Finance and Audit committees of Crofton House School. Cecilia also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, is a member and fellow (FCPA) of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia, and a member of CFA Society Vancouver.
Cecilia Wong
Mark Stephenson is a treasury analyst at the University of Victoria. He received his BA in Economics with a Business minor from the University of Victoria, and is a CFA charterholder. Prior to working at UVic, Mark has worked in investment services at a private lending firm, as well as an analyst at a real estate development company. At UVic, Mark is responsible for managing the University’s short term investment fund, forecasting operating cash flow requirements, as well as administering the Applied Portfolio Management Program. As Treasurer for CFA Society Victoria, his duties include drafting the budget for the year, ensuring invoices are paid, and providing monthly financial updates to the board. When Mark is not at work or working on the Society budget, he is likely out exploring Vancouver Island, or training for his next ultramarathon.
Mark Stephenson
Emily is the Executive Vice-President and Chair of the Board at Cardinal Capital Management, Inc., in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She leads the business development and operations teams at Cardinal. Working with institutional and private clients across Canada and the United States, she assists clients in building and managing investment portfolios. Prior to joining Cardinal, Emily gained a number of years of financial services experience in Toronto. Emily has a Master of Business Administration degree from the Schulich School of Business and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Emily currently serves as the Past President of CFA Society Winnipeg and also sits on the Board of CFA Societies Canada. Emily also enjoys volunteering within the arts community and is a current board member for the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre.
Emily Burt

Ron Schwarz, CFA is a corporate director and capital markets consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. He currently manages his own investments and provides corporate consulting services. From 2009 until 2012, he served as Executive Director of UBS Global Asset Management Canada where he was responsible for a $650MM Canadian Small Cap Equity fund and sat on the asset mix committee. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Head of Canadian Cash Equities at CIBC Capital Markets where he was responsible for equity sales, trading, research and prime brokerage and electronic trading operations. Mr. Schwarz received his undergraduate degree in Finance at Concordia University in 1991 and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1995. He is currently a director and Chair of the Board at CHC Student Housing, a TSX-V listed student housing real estate company where he additionally serves on the Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance committees. Ron is also a director on the private board of SideDrawer Inc, an estate planning document management application company. Ron previously served on the private board of Electric Sky Wine LLC, a joint venture between Interscope Records and Anheiser Busch. He also served on the board of directors of Noble Iron Inc., a TSX-V listed rental equipment and software company, where he chaired the Audit Committee and KGIC Inc., a TSX-V listed English as a second language education provider sitting on both the Audit and Compensation and Governance Committees. Mr. Schwarz also recently served as a director on the board of CFA Society Toronto where he chaired the Society’s Communications Committee and is currently a member of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, he was a two-term member of the Ontario Securities Commission’s Small-Medium Enterprise Committee.
Ron Schwarz
Andrew currently holds the position of Assistant VP, Fund Management at ACM Advisors Ltd. Andrew is responsible for the financial and quantitative analysis of ACM managed funds as well as the research and development of new fund strategies. In addition, Andrew servers as Head of Responsible Investment at ACM. Prior to joining ACM in 2018, Andrew was the Manager of Public Investments at a municipal pension plan in Nova Scotia. His previous professional experience also includes VP of Sales and Trading, Fixed Income at a national broker in Halifax and Associate Analyst, Institutional Fixed Income at a large, Canadian fund management company. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Computer Science degree from Dalhousie University, and was awarded the CFA charter in 2009. He currently serves as President of the board of the CFA Society Atlantic Canada.
Andrew Walker
Mr. Burnyeat joined the Board of Directors of CFA Societies Canada in 2019. Michael currently is a financial consultant. His most recent position was the Chief Financial Officer at Wayfinder Corp., a privately held company focused on the manufacture and transloading of specialty proppants used in the hydraulic fracturing sector. Prior positions include CFO at Redrock Camps and EVP and CFO at Black Diamond Group. Previous experience includes senior finance roles in Insurance, Technology, and the Oilfield Services sectors. Michael graduated from the University of Alberta in 1990 with a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting & Finance). He is a Chartered Accountant (1992) and a CFA Charterholder (2003).
Michael Burnyeat
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s Global Funding programme. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies for the Province’s $100 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $18 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments with AUM totaling over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve has over 12 years of experience as a Board Member of several Canadian CFA Societies and with the CFA Institute.
Steve Thompson
Carl Robert is Managing Director, Total Fund Investments at PSP Investments. Prior to joining PSP, Carl was Director and Portfolio Manager at Intact Investment Management; Carl has more than 19 years of experience in the capital markets working for asset management firms in Canada and the United States. He is combining a background in physics (Ph.D. University of Maryland, M.Sc. and B.Sc. Laval University), experience as a researcher and professor (University of California Santa Barbara, Reims University) as well as training in finance (CFA charterholder 2010, Financial Risk Manager 2007). He has volunteered with CFA Montréal since 2011, and was the President of the board from 2019 to 2021.
Carl Robert
Coreen Sol has been managing investment portfolios since 1992. As a Chartered Financial Analyst, Coreen acts as a fiduciary, manages discretionary portfolios using a fundamental and quantitative approach, and undertakes integrated wealth planning for multi-generations within a family. Her passion for managing investment biases provoked her first book, Practically Investing, Smart Investment Techniques Your Neighbour Doesn’t Know published in 2014, as well as lecturing at UBC Okanagan as an adjunct professor in behavioural finance in 2015 as part of the fourth year, undergraduate program. Coreen is currently in the process of publishing her second book, The Unbiased Investor, expected to hit bookstores in spring 2022. Coreen is a single mother of three children, and in her leisure time, you can find Coreen on a sunny Okanagan golf course, cycling the hills of Vancouver, balancing in a yoga studio, or cruising the blues on her Gnu snowboard. Having enjoyed a professional dance career with Ballet B.C., Coreen feels passionate to support the community and arts in particular. Coreen proudly contributes to Ballet B.C., Ballet Kelowna, the Vancouver Art Gallery, CIBC Run for the Cure, and other vital organizations.
Coreen Sol
Sean is the Managing Director, Investments at Nunavut Trust, a $1.8B closed endowment based in Ottawa. Sean focuses on overall asset allocation, manager selection, risk management, and portfolio monitoring. Sean is the President of CFA Society Ottawa, the Chapter Executive for the Ottawa CAIA Canada Chapter, and he currently sits on the investment committee for the University of Ottawa Telfer Capital Fund, and the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library. Sean sits on the Canadian Investment Performance Council and also holds several roles at the Pension Investment Association of Canada (PIAC), as the Chair of the Asset & Return Survey Working Group and as a member of the Member Services Committee and Alternatives Working Group. Sean holds a BComm from the University of Ottawa, is a CFA charterholder, a CAIA Charterholder, and also a Chartered Accountant.
Sean Kulik
Pier-André is a portfolio manager at iA Financial Group. He has more than 12 years of experience in fixed income trading and portfolio management. He is responsible for managing portfolios backing insurance liabilities as well as total return mandates. His focus is on developing new interest rate hedging solutions in addition to value-adding strategies for different business lines within iA Financial Group. Prior to joining iA in 2012, he worked three years as a trader for the sinking fund of the Province of Québec and on the treasury desk. Pier-André is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds an MBA from Laval University. Pier-André has been volunteering for CFA Québec since 2014 where he has held many roles.
Pier-André_Blanchet
Veronica is a Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor with CIBC World Markets in Saskatoon, and has over 30 years of experience serving a clientele of affluent individuals, institutions, and corporations. She holds an MBA (McGill) in International and Corporate Finance as well as the CIMA (Certified Investment Management Analyst) designation. She is a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder as well as a CIPM (Certificate in Performance Measurement) certificant. Veronica has been the recipient of the Investment Dealers National Award of Distinction for the province of Saskatchewan, an annual award created to recognize excellence and professionalism in the industry. She has served on the boards of several charitable organizations, provincial crown corporations, and industry councils, and is currently Past President of CFA Society Saskatchewan.
Veronica Gamracy
Kathrin Forrest is an equity investment specialist at Capital Group, supporting both wealth management and institutional retirement with a dedicated focus on the Canadian market. Prior to joining Capital Group, Kathrin spent 17 years in multiple senior roles across Sun Life Financial. She most recently served as vice-president and portfolio manager of Sun Life Global Investments, overseeing equity, fixed income and asset allocation solutions, and partnering with cross-functional peers to facilitate the evolution of the organization’s product shelf. Prior to joining Sun Life Global Investments, Forrest was assistant vice-president, product and strategy at Sun Life Investment Management. Kathrin holds a Master of Arts in Economics and is a CFA charterholder. She is an active member at the CFA Society Toronto, currently serving as Vice-Chair, Programming on the Society’s Board of Directors.
Kathrin Forrest
Jessie joined Burgundy Asset Management Ltd’s new Vancouver office in March 2020 as an Investment Counsellor. Prior to joining Burgundy, Jessie was a Portfolio Manager with Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel where she spent 7 years managing relationships on a discretionary basis for families in Western Canada and led the firm’s Associate Team. Prior to Dixon Mitchell, Jessie spent 5 years as an Investment Counsellor with MD Private Investment Counsel and 8 years with Phillips, Hager & North working with clients in a non-discretionary basis and as an Associate of the discretionary Private Client Department. Jessie is a Director and member of the Executive Committee of CFA Societies Canada, Past President and Chair of CFA Society Vancouver and was the recipient of the CFA Society Vancouver 2018 Volunteer of the Year award. Jessie is a CFA charterholder and has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
Jessie Bobinski 2
Mark Stephenson is a treasury analyst at the University of Victoria. He received his BA in Economics with a Business minor from the University of Victoria, and is a CFA charterholder. Prior to working at UVic, Mark has worked in investment services at a private lending firm, as well as an analyst at a real estate development company. At UVic, Mark is responsible for managing the University’s short term investment fund, forecasting operating cash flow requirements, as well as administering the Applied Portfolio Management Program. As Treasurer for CFA Society Victoria, his duties include drafting the budget for the year, ensuring invoices are paid, and providing monthly financial updates to the board. When Mark is not at work or working on the Society budget, he is likely out exploring Vancouver Island, or training for his next ultramarathon.
Mark Stephenson
Emily is the Executive Vice-President and Chair of the Board at Cardinal Capital Management, Inc., located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She leads the business development and operations teams at Cardinal. Emily works closely with the President on strategic planning and is a part of the Senior Management team. Working with institutional and private clients across Canada and the United States, she assists clients in building and managing investment portfolios that will meet their long-term goals and objectives. Prior to joining Cardinal, Emily gained a number of years of financial services experience at Assante Wealth Management and TD Waterhouse in Toronto. Emily has a Master of Business Administration degree from York University’s Schulich School of Business and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Emily currently serves as President of the board of directors of CFA Society Winnipeg.
Emily Burt

David is the Managing Director and founding partner of Pinnacle Fund Services, a firm which provides accounting and valuation services to hedge funds and private equity funds. David is responsible for the delivery services to Pinnacle clients and their investors and the strategic and business development of the company. David began his career with Grant Thornton in Vancouver and then worked in Bermuda, first at Ernst & Young and then at Prime Management Limited. David is a Chartered Accountant, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Queen’s University and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. David is the current chair of CFA Societies Canada, is the Presidents Council Representative for Canada to CFA Institute, is the past president of CFA Society Vancouver and was awarded the CFA Institute Volunteer of the year award in 2017.
David Smith
Portfolio Manager BMO Nesbitt Burns Halifax Saint Mary’s University Faculty, Sobey School of Business CFA Society Atlantic Canada: Founding Director President 3 two-year terms, most recent finishing June 30, 2019 Several board positions over the years Canadian Advocacy Council: Served 15 years, Past Chairman CFA Institute: Several volunteer activities
Ross Hallett
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s Global Funding programme. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies for the Province’s $100 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $18 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments with AUM totaling over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve has over 12 years of experience as a Board Member of several Canadian CFA Societies and with the CFA Institute.
Michael Burnyeat
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s Global Funding programme. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies for the Province’s $100 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $18 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments with AUM totaling over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve has over 12 years of experience as a Board Member of several Canadian CFA Societies and with the CFA Institute.
Steve Thompson
Odrée Ducharme, CFA, is Senior Director, Strategic relationships at Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), where she is responsible for the development and optimization of a network of sustainable and quality investment partners. She joined CDPQ in 2005 and has held various positions including Director, Performance analysis and Senior Director, Strategy. In that role, she advised the management team on the design, planning and execution of the investment strategy. Odrée started her career at the CIBC after graduating from HEC Montréal in 2001 and holds the CFA designation since 2008. She is also Vice-President of the Board of Directors of CFA Montréal.
Odree Ducharme
Coreen Sol has been managing investment portfolios since 1992. As a Chartered Financial Analyst, Coreen acts as a fiduciary, manages discretionary portfolios using a fundamental and quantitative approach, and undertakes integrated wealth planning for multi-generations within a family. Her passion for managing investment biases provoked her first book, Practically Investing, Smart Investment Techniques Your Neighbour Doesn’t Know published in 2014, as well as lecturing at UBC Okanagan as an adjunct professor in behavioural finance in 2015 as part of the fourth year, undergraduate program. Coreen is currently in the process of publishing her second book, The Unbiased Investor, expected to hit bookstores in spring 2022. Coreen is a single mother of three children, and in her leisure time, you can find Coreen on a sunny Okanagan golf course, cycling the hills of Vancouver, balancing in a yoga studio, or cruising the blues on her Gnu snowboard. Having enjoyed a professional dance career with Ballet B.C., Coreen feels passionate to support the community and arts in particular. Coreen proudly contributes to Ballet B.C., Ballet Kelowna, the Vancouver Art Gallery, CIBC Run for the Cure, and other vital organizations.
Coreen Sol
Wesley is a Portfolio Manager with MD Financial Management Inc. (MDFM). His responsibilities include being lead manager for the MDFM fixed income and balanced investments, including the Canadian Equity Segregated Portfolio within MD Private Investment Counsel. He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa with an Honours degree in Finance and Human Resources. Wesley was previously the CFA Society Ottawa’s Vice President and has been a volunteer since 2011. Wesley is a CFA charterholder and has earned the CIM and FCSI designations.
Wes Blight
Mathieu has been working in the financial services industry for the past 12 years. As an Investment Counsellor, Mathieu provides discretionary investment management services to high net worth individuals at RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Prior to joining RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Mathieu had worked for other large financial institutions such as Desjardins, RBC and Laurentian Bank. Mathieu holds a B.Com in finance. In addition to the CFA designation, he also holds the FRM designation (Financial Risk Manager), the Financial Planning Designation and the Canadian Securities Course (CSC). Mathieu has been volunteering on the CFA Quebec society since 2014. He has held many roles from VP to President of the society. Mathieu is now Past President.
MathieuDoucet
Veronica is a Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor with CIBC World Markets in Saskatoon, and has over 30 years of experience serving a clientele of affluent individuals, institutions, and corporations. She holds an MBA (McGill) in International and Corporate Finance as well as the CIMA (Certified Investment Management Analyst) designation. She is a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder as well as a CIPM (Certificate in Performance Measurement) certificant. Veronica has been the recipient of the Investment Dealers National Award of Distinction for the province of Saskatchewan, an annual award created to recognize excellence and professionalism in the industry. She has served on the boards of several charitable organizations, provincial crown corporations, and industry councils, and is currently Past President of CFA Society Saskatchewan.
Veronica Gamracy
Ron Schwarz, CFA is a corporate director and capital markets consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. He currently manages his own investments and provides corporate consulting services. From 2009 until 2012, he served as Executive Director of UBS Global Asset Management Canada where he was responsible for a $650MM Canadian Small Cap Equity fund and sat on the asset mix committee. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Head of Canadian Cash Equities at CIBC Capital Markets where he was responsible for equity sales, trading, research and prime brokerage and electronic trading operations. Mr. Schwarz received his undergraduate degree in Finance at Concordia University in 1991 and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1995. He is currently a director and Chair of the Board at CHC Student Housing, a TSX-V listed student housing real estate company where he additionally serves on the Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance committees. Ron is also a director on the private board of SideDrawer Inc, an estate planning document management application company. Ron previously served on the private board of Electric Sky Wine LLC, a joint venture between Interscope Records and Anheiser Busch. He also served on the board of directors of Noble Iron Inc., a TSX-V listed rental equipment and software company, where he chaired the Audit Committee and KGIC Inc., a TSX-V listed English as a second language education provider sitting on both the Audit and Compensation and Governance Committees. Mr. Schwarz also recently served as a director on the board of CFA Society Toronto where he chaired the Society’s Communications Committee and is currently a member of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, he was a two-term member of the Ontario Securities Commission’s Small-Medium Enterprise Committee.
Jessie joined Burgundy Asset Management Ltd’s new Vancouver office in March 2020 as an Investment Counsellor. Prior to joining Burgundy, Jessie was a Portfolio Manager with Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel where she spent 7 years managing relationships on a discretionary basis for families in Western Canada and led the firm’s Associate Team. Prior to Dixon Mitchell, Jessie spent 5 years as an Investment Counsellor with MD Private Investment Counsel and 8 years with Phillips, Hager & North working with clients in a non-discretionary basis and as an Associate of the discretionary Private Client Department. Jessie is a Director and member of the Executive Committee of CFA Societies Canada, Past President and Chair of CFA Society Vancouver and was the recipient of the CFA Society Vancouver 2018 Volunteer of the Year award. Jessie is a CFA charterholder and has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
Jessie Bobinski 2
Mark Stephenson is a treasury analyst at the University of Victoria. He received his BA in Economics with a Business minor from the University of Victoria, and is a CFA charterholder. Prior to working at UVic, Mark has worked in investment services at a private lending firm, as well as an analyst at a real estate development company. At UVic, Mark is responsible for managing the University’s short term investment fund, forecasting operating cash flow requirements, as well as administering the Applied Portfolio Management Program. As Treasurer for CFA Society Victoria, his duties include drafting the budget for the year, ensuring invoices are paid, and providing monthly financial updates to the board. When Mark is not at work or working on the Society budget, he is likely out exploring Vancouver Island, or training for his next ultramarathon.
Mark Stephenson
Joe has spent the past ten years at Great-West Life, leading the Investment Technology team. In this role, Joe provides technical strategy and consulting to Investment division executive and leads a team of 60 people that deliver and support the technology solutions used within the Investment division. Joe’s current area of focus and interest is in machine learning and artificial intelligence and its application to the investment industry. Prior to this role, Joe worked in Asset/Liability Management within the Investment division of Great-West Life, where he was part of team responsible for asset allocation and managing interest rate risk. Prior to joining Great-West Life, Joe worked for several companies, including MTS, Centra Gas and Ceridian Canada, where he held several positions within the software development field, including: Software Developer; Manager of Software Development; and Director of Information Systems. Joe has taught several courses at the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg on topics such as systems analysis and database management. Joe has served on the board of CFA Society Winnipeg for eight years and is currently past president. Previously, Joe was the Director of University Relations, Director of Candidate Relations, Vice-President and President. During his time on the board of CFA Society Winnipeg, Joe introduced the CFA Research Challenge to the local universities, expanded the university outreach, led two very successful forecast dinners, each with attendance of almost twice the number of local society members, refreshed the society’s strategic plan and supported the acceptance of the University of Manitoba into the CFA University Affiliation program. In addition to serving on the CFA Society Winnipeg board, Joe has served on board of the Catholic Foundation of Manitoba and the board of Columbus Courts – a seniors housing facility. Joe has a BCSc (Hons) degree, an MSc in Computer Science and an MBA in Finance, all from the University of Manitoba, as well as the CFA designation.
Joe Brekelmans

David is the Managing Director and founding partner of Pinnacle Fund Services, a firm which provides accounting and valuation services to hedge funds and private equity funds. David is responsible for the delivery services to Pinnacle clients and their investors and the strategic and business development of the company. David began his career with Grant Thornton in Vancouver and then worked in Bermuda, first at Ernst & Young and then at Prime Management Limited. David is a Chartered Accountant, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Queen’s University and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. David is the current chair of CFA Societies Canada, is the Presidents Council Representative for Canada to CFA Institute, is the past president of CFA Society Vancouver and was awarded the CFA Institute Volunteer of the year award in 2017.
David Smith
Portfolio Manager BMO Nesbitt Burns Halifax Saint Mary’s University Faculty, Sobey School of Business CFA Society Atlantic Canada: Founding Director President 3 two-year terms, most recent finishing June 30, 2019 Several board positions over the years Canadian Advocacy Council: Served 15 years, Past Chairman CFA Institute: Several volunteer activities
Ross Hallett
Stephen is the Executive Director of Capital Markets for the Government of Alberta and heads the Capital Markets Branch responsible for the development and execution of the Province of Alberta’s Global Funding programme. Stephen oversees the development and execution of debt management strategies for the Province’s $100 billion debt portfolio. Stephen also oversees development of investment strategy and investment policy for the Province’s $18 billion Heritage Fund and other provincial endowments with AUM totaling over $28 billion. He advises government on the use of the Provincial credit and relationships with the global capital markets and investor communities. Steve is a Chartered Financial Analyst and holds degrees in Finance and Economics from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Steve has over 12 years of experience as a Board Member of several Canadian CFA Societies and with the CFA Institute.
Michael Burnyeat
Rod Babineau
Senior Vice President, Head of Consultant Relations and Business Development, Institutional Markets Frederick Chenel is a member of Fiera Capital’s Institutional Markets team and leads its Canadian institutional business development and consultant relations activities. Mr. Chenel has 14 years of industry experience and joined the firm in 2010. Prior experiences include Practice Leader and Research Analyst positions at a leading Canadian investment consulting firm. Mr. Chenel graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), majoring in Finance. He later obtained the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Frederick is also president of CFA Montreal.
Fred Chenel
Gordon Fawcett
Wesley is a Portfolio Manager with MD Financial Management Inc. (MDFM). His responsibilities include being lead manager for the MDFM fixed income and balanced investments, including the Canadian Equity Segregated Portfolio within MD Private Investment Counsel. He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa with an Honours degree in Finance and Human Resources. Wesley was previously the CFA Society Ottawa’s Vice President and has been a volunteer since 2011. Wesley is a CFA charterholder and has earned the CIM and FCSI designations.
Wes Blight
Mathieu has been working in the financial services industry for the past 12 years. As an Investment Counsellor, Mathieu provides discretionary investment management services to high net worth individuals at RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Prior to joining RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Mathieu had worked for other large financial institutions such as Desjardins, RBC and Laurentian Bank. Mathieu holds a B.Com in finance. In addition to the CFA designation, he also holds the FRM designation (Financial Risk Manager), the Financial Planning Designation and the Canadian Securities Course (CSC). Mathieu has been volunteering on the CFA Quebec society since 2014. He has held many roles from VP to President of the society. Mathieu is now Past President.
MathieuDoucet
Veronica is a Portfolio Manager and Investment Advisor with CIBC World Markets in Saskatoon, and has over 30 years of experience serving a clientele of affluent individuals, institutions, and corporations. She holds an MBA (McGill) in International and Corporate Finance as well as the CIMA (Certified Investment Management Analyst) designation. She is a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder as well as a CIPM (Certificate in Performance Measurement) certificant. Veronica has been the recipient of the Investment Dealers National Award of Distinction for the province of Saskatchewan, an annual award created to recognize excellence and professionalism in the industry. She has served on the boards of several charitable organizations, provincial crown corporations, and industry councils, and is currently Past President of CFA Society Saskatchewan.
Veronica Gamracy
Ron Schwarz, CFA is a corporate director and capital markets consultant with over 25 years of industry experience. He currently manages his own investments and provides corporate consulting services. From 2009 until 2012, he served as Executive Director of UBS Global Asset Management Canada where he was responsible for a $650MM Canadian Small Cap Equity fund and sat on the asset mix committee. Prior to that, he was Managing Director and Head of Canadian Cash Equities at CIBC Capital Markets where he was responsible for equity sales, trading, research and prime brokerage and electronic trading operations. Mr. Schwarz received his undergraduate degree in Finance at Concordia University in 1991 and earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 1995. He is currently a director and Chair of the Board at CHC Student Housing, a TSX-V listed student housing real estate company where he additionally serves on the Audit Committee and Compensation and Governance committees. Ron is also a director on the private board of SideDrawer Inc, an estate planning document management application company. Ron previously served on the private board of Electric Sky Wine LLC, a joint venture between Interscope Records and Anheiser Busch. He also served on the board of directors of Noble Iron Inc., a TSX-V listed rental equipment and software company, where he chaired the Audit Committee and KGIC Inc., a TSX-V listed English as a second language education provider sitting on both the Audit and Compensation and Governance Committees. Mr. Schwarz also recently served as a director on the board of CFA Society Toronto where he chaired the Society’s Communications Committee and is currently a member of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, he was a two-term member of the Ontario Securities Commission’s Small-Medium Enterprise Committee.
Jessie joined Burgundy Asset Management Ltd’s new Vancouver office in March 2020 as an Investment Counsellor. Prior to joining Burgundy, Jessie was a Portfolio Manager with Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel where she spent 7 years managing relationships on a discretionary basis for families in Western Canada and led the firm’s Associate Team. Prior to Dixon Mitchell, Jessie spent 5 years as an Investment Counsellor with MD Private Investment Counsel and 8 years with Phillips, Hager & North working with clients in a non-discretionary basis and as an Associate of the discretionary Private Client Department. Jessie is a Director and member of the Executive Committee of CFA Societies Canada, Past President and Chair of CFA Society Vancouver and was the recipient of the CFA Society Vancouver 2018 Volunteer of the Year award. Jessie is a CFA charterholder and has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
Jessie Bobinski 2
Christian Mattenley is a Private Wealth Advisor and Partner with the Howell, Mattenley Group at Scotia Wealth Management in Victoria, BC. For 20 years, Christian has worked alongside world-class investors, advisors and financial industry executives. His expertise includes applied behavioural finance, investment, and wealth management. Christian has taught finance and investment management at both the undergraduate and graduate level and serves as Vice President for the Chartered Financial Analysts Society of Victoria. Christian is an active committee volunteer and advisor to the Financial Planning Standards Council of Canada, and Governor at St. Margaret’s School for Girls in Victoria, BC. Christian holds a Master of Science in Behavioural Science from the London School of Economics and a Professional Certificate in Investment Decisions and Behavioural Finance from Harvard University. He is both a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).
Christian Mattenley
Joe has spent the past ten years at Great-West Life, leading the Investment Technology team. In this role, Joe provides technical strategy and consulting to Investment division executive and leads a team of 60 people that deliver and support the technology solutions used within the Investment division. Joe’s current area of focus and interest is in machine learning and artificial intelligence and its application to the investment industry. Prior to this role, Joe worked in Asset/Liability Management within the Investment division of Great-West Life, where he was part of team responsible for asset allocation and managing interest rate risk. Prior to joining Great-West Life, Joe worked for several companies, including MTS, Centra Gas and Ceridian Canada, where he held several positions within the software development field, including: Software Developer; Manager of Software Development; and Director of Information Systems. Joe has taught several courses at the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg on topics such as systems analysis and database management. Joe has served on the board of CFA Society Winnipeg for eight years and is currently past president. Previously, Joe was the Director of University Relations, Director of Candidate Relations, Vice-President and President. During his time on the board of CFA Society Winnipeg, Joe introduced the CFA Research Challenge to the local universities, expanded the university outreach, led two very successful forecast dinners, each with attendance of almost twice the number of local society members, refreshed the society’s strategic plan and supported the acceptance of the University of Manitoba into the CFA University Affiliation program. In addition to serving on the CFA Society Winnipeg board, Joe has served on board of the Catholic Foundation of Manitoba and the board of Columbus Courts – a seniors housing facility. Joe has a BCSc (Hons) degree, an MSc in Computer Science and an MBA in Finance, all from the University of Manitoba, as well as the CFA designation.
Joe Brekelmans
Bob serves as the Director – Society Advocacy Engagement for CFA Institute in the Society Relations Division. He works to help member societies collaborate with CFA Institute in the areas of: • Policy & Regulatory Outreach, • Thought Leadership & Industry Outreach, • Ethics & Professional Standards, and • Investor Education & Public Outreach. Bob has worked for CFA Institute and its predecessor organizations since 1982, serving as: • CFO and Treasurer for 5 years; • VP of Curriculum and Examinations for 12 years, where he was responsible for CFA Program curriculum & exam development, and exam grading; and • VP of University Relations for 5 years. Bob has previous experience as in public accounting and in private industry. Bob has both a BS and an MS from the University of Virginia. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Bob Luck

David is the Managing Director and founding partner of Pinnacle Fund Services, a firm which provides accounting and valuation services to hedge funds and private equity funds. David is responsible for the delivery services to Pinnacle clients and their investors and the strategic and business development of the company. David began his career with Grant Thornton in Vancouver and then worked in Bermuda, first at Ernst & Young and then at Prime Management Limited. David is a Chartered Accountant, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Queen’s University and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. David is the current chair of CFA Societies Canada, is the Presidents Council Representative for Canada to CFA Institute, is the past president of CFA Society Vancouver and was awarded the CFA Institute Volunteer of the year award in 2017.
David Smith
Ty Saunders
Dan Spencer
Rod Babineau
Senior Vice President, Head of Consultant Relations and Business Development, Institutional Markets Frederick Chenel is a member of Fiera Capital’s Institutional Markets team and leads its Canadian institutional business development and consultant relations activities. Mr. Chenel has 14 years of industry experience and joined the firm in 2010. Prior experiences include Practice Leader and Research Analyst positions at a leading Canadian investment consulting firm. Mr. Chenel graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), majoring in Finance. He later obtained the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Frederick is also president of CFA Montreal.
Fred Chenel
Gordon Fawcett
Wesley is a Portfolio Manager with MD Financial Management Inc. (MDFM). His responsibilities include being lead manager for the MDFM fixed income and balanced investments, including the Canadian Equity Segregated Portfolio within MD Private Investment Counsel. He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa with an Honours degree in Finance and Human Resources. Wesley was previously the CFA Society Ottawa’s Vice President and has been a volunteer since 2011. Wesley is a CFA charterholder and has earned the CIM and FCSI designations.
Wes Blight
Mathieu has been working in the financial services industry for the past 12 years. As an Investment Counsellor, Mathieu provides discretionary investment management services to high net worth individuals at RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Prior to joining RBC PH&N Investment Counsel Inc. Mathieu had worked for other large financial institutions such as Desjardins, RBC and Laurentian Bank. Mathieu holds a B.Com in finance. In addition to the CFA designation, he also holds the FRM designation (Financial Risk Manager), the Financial Planning Designation and the Canadian Securities Course (CSC). Mathieu has been volunteering on the CFA Quebec society since 2014. He has held many roles from VP to President of the society. Mathieu is now Past President.
MathieuDoucet
Dan Lavallee
Jessie joined Burgundy Asset Management Ltd’s new Vancouver office in March 2020 as an Investment Counsellor. Prior to joining Burgundy, Jessie was a Portfolio Manager with Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel where she spent 7 years managing relationships on a discretionary basis for families in Western Canada and led the firm’s Associate Team. Prior to Dixon Mitchell, Jessie spent 5 years as an Investment Counsellor with MD Private Investment Counsel and 8 years with Phillips, Hager & North working with clients in a non-discretionary basis and as an Associate of the discretionary Private Client Department. Jessie is a Director and member of the Executive Committee of CFA Societies Canada, Past President and Chair of CFA Society Vancouver and was the recipient of the CFA Society Vancouver 2018 Volunteer of the Year award. Jessie is a CFA charterholder and has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
Jessie Bobinski 2
Shaila Ekramoddoullah
Bob serves as the Director – Society Advocacy Engagement for CFA Institute in the Society Relations Division. He works to help member societies collaborate with CFA Institute in the areas of: • Policy & Regulatory Outreach, • Thought Leadership & Industry Outreach, • Ethics & Professional Standards, and • Investor Education & Public Outreach. Bob has worked for CFA Institute and its predecessor organizations since 1982, serving as: • CFO and Treasurer for 5 years; • VP of Curriculum and Examinations for 12 years, where he was responsible for CFA Program curriculum & exam development, and exam grading; and • VP of University Relations for 5 years. Bob has previous experience as in public accounting and in private industry. Bob has both a BS and an MS from the University of Virginia. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Bob Luck

Clayton Gall
Ty Saunders
Dan Spencer
Rod Babineau
Gordon Fawcett
Wesley is a Portfolio Manager with MD Financial Management Inc. (MDFM). His responsibilities include being lead manager for the MDFM fixed income and balanced investments, including the Canadian Equity Segregated Portfolio within MD Private Investment Counsel. He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa with an Honours degree in Finance and Human Resources. Wesley was previously the CFA Society Ottawa’s Vice President and has been a volunteer since 2011. Wesley is a CFA charterholder and has earned the CIM and FCSI designations.
Wes Blight
Dan Lavallee
David is the Managing Director and founding partner of Pinnacle Fund Services, a firm which provides accounting and valuation services to hedge funds and private equity funds. David is responsible for the delivery services to Pinnacle clients and their investors and the strategic and business development of the company. David began his career with Grant Thornton in Vancouver and then worked in Bermuda, first at Ernst & Young and then at Prime Management Limited. David is a Chartered Accountant, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Queen’s University and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. David is the current chair of CFA Societies Canada, is the Presidents Council Representative for Canada to CFA Institute, is the past president of CFA Society Vancouver and was awarded the CFA Institute Volunteer of the year award in 2017.
David Smith
Shaila Ekramoddoullah
Bob serves as the Director – Society Advocacy Engagement for CFA Institute in the Society Relations Division. He works to help member societies collaborate with CFA Institute in the areas of: • Policy & Regulatory Outreach, • Thought Leadership & Industry Outreach, • Ethics & Professional Standards, and • Investor Education & Public Outreach. Bob has worked for CFA Institute and its predecessor organizations since 1982, serving as: • CFO and Treasurer for 5 years; • VP of Curriculum and Examinations for 12 years, where he was responsible for CFA Program curriculum & exam development, and exam grading; and • VP of University Relations for 5 years. Bob has previous experience as in public accounting and in private industry. Bob has both a BS and an MS from the University of Virginia. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Bob Luck

2023-2024 Board Committees

Committee members:

  • Chair, Ron Schwarz, CFA
  • Vice Chair, Kathrin Forrest, CFA
  • Treasurer, Cecilia Wong, CFA
  • Patrick Read, CFA
  • Carl Robert, CFA
  • Stephen Thompson, CFA

Committee members:

  • Chair, Emily Burt, CFA
  • Pier-André Blanchet, CFA
  • Chelsea Kittleson, CFA
  • Sean Kulik, CFA
  • Jordan Wilson, CFA

Committee Members:

  • Chair, Emily Burt, CFA
  • Pier-André Blanchet, CFA
  • Chelsea Kittleson, CFA
  • Sean Kulik, CFA
  • Jordan Wilson, CFA

Want to join the CFA Societies Canada team or volunteer with us? Contact us