About Us

Ahmed brings a world of experience to his position at Educators – literally. After studying economics in Lausanne, Switzerland, and living in Dubai, Qatar and Egypt, he decided to build his future in Canada. With the Canadian Securities Course, Personal Financial Planner designation, and 7 years working with RBC under his belt, he now helps others create their futures as well. “Canada welcomed me almost 10 years ago and ever since I’ve tried to give back, providing advice to help Canadians grow their assets, maximize their retirement income and achieve their lifetime goals.” Ahmed’s grandfather was the Dean of a college, giving him an insider’s perspective of the education community. He is also fully bilingual in French and English. Ahmed appreciates Educators’ focus on the community and how it provides valuable, in-depth advice around issues unique to the education community, such as understanding the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan and OMERS pension, and navigating pension income gaps.

Ayo attended Memorial University in Newfoundland, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science. But fate had other plans for her, and she left ‘the rock’ and pursued a career in the financial and investment field, starting at Desjardins Group. After 3 years, she joined Educators. Having worked in the Operations department and as a Client Service representative before becoming a Financial Advisor, she knows the company inside out.  She now has completed the Canadian Investment Funds Course (IFIC), and enjoys using it to empower her clients.

“I come from a family of educators and growing up, I saw how confident and comfortable my parents were in making financial decisions because they had the knowledge they needed to do so. I am happy to share my knowledge with clients so that they, too, will be able to make smart financial decisions in their lives”.

There’s a lot to managing ones finances today – from establishing convenient and economical day to day finances, to understanding debt, to choosing investments to save for your future. With his diverse experience, Bill can help Educators Financial Group clients with it all. At the Bank of Montreal, Bill started as a teller and worked his way up to become Financial Services Manager, acquiring his mutual fund license along the way. He has helped clients build their portfolios with investments such as GICs and mutual funds. “I am looking forward to helping education members with their financial needs at every stage in their careers – from just starting out, to preparing for retirement”, says Bill.

Born and raised in the London area, Caitlin has the know-how and experience to help with all of your financial needs, from mortgage and savings advice, to planning for retirement. A Certified Financial Planner professional, she is also a Registered Retirement Consultant and Registered Financial and Retirement Advisor. Caitlin has worked with 2 of the 5 major banking institutions in different roles, from working closely with mortgage specialists to various Senior Financial Advisor roles. “The best part of my day is celebrating financial milestones with people,” she says. “It can be advising how to pay down debt, purchase a new car or retirement! My satisfaction comes from knowing I helped in some way.” At Educators, she loves “working with members of the education community who are shaping our future leaders. They deserve the best sound advice, and a financial service team dedicated to helping shape their financial future.”

Education members working with Chris Knoch truly have the best of both worlds. As he worked as a teacher for 32 years, Chris knows first-hand about an educator’s financial challenges, and the importance of financial literacy. “As a teacher I witnessed the gaping void in educating our youth in the area of financial literacy, therefore my favourite aspect of working in the financial field is educating clients of all ages in the intricacies of the financial world”, he says. Now, as an Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP) and experienced Mortgage Agent, he combines this personal insight into educators’ needs with an in-depth and specialized education in mortgages and the real estate market. Working at Educators, Chris has found that there is a “team atmosphere, which creates an atmosphere of ease and camaraderie as we all strive to assist our clients.”

Chris Tamber brings to Educators more than 20 years’ experience in the financial services industry. Prior to joining the Educators team, Chris spent many years working for Phillips Hager and North, RBC Global Asset Management as an Investment Funds Advisor, working with both private and non-profit clients providing financial and investment advice and solutions to guide them on the path to financial success. Chris earned an Honours Business Administration Diploma from Seneca College and is working towards becoming a CFP® (Certified Financial Planner). He also holds a financial planning certificate from George Brown College. Chris explains why he was drawn to Educators: “Advisors and teachers share a sense of service. They both want to make a clear, tangible difference in the lives of others.”

With 15 years of experience in the financial industry, Darryl brings specialized knowledge in the realms of pension and retirement plans, in addition to his proven ability to offer sound, strategic advice on a wide range of other financial planning areas. Darryl has a diploma in Business Administration from Algonquin College in Ottawa, a Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC^®) designation from the Canadian Institute of Financial Planning, as well as a Life Insurance License from the Financial Services Commission of Ontario. He also recently achieved his Certified Financial Planner^® designation. As for what he enjoys most about working with the education community, “I would have to say it’s educating the educators… helping them to clarify and prioritize their financial goals, then implement a plan of action.” Darryl can answer your needs in both French and English.

A resident of Orleans, Ottawa, Ed comes to Educators Financial Group from BMO Nesbitt Burns. After 20 years of helping people from all walks of life achieve their financial goals, he’s enjoying working specifically with education members. “It’s an opportunity to apply my skills to a unique group, which I believe is underserved by the financial community”, he says. A believer in ongoing education, he has his Financial Planner 1 and 2, Personal Financial Planner certification, Canadian Securities Course, and is taking his Certified Financial Planner certification. A father of two, Ed says, “serving the education community is a way to say thanks for their service to our children and communities.”

Federica is all about time with family. Her belief in the importance of family, combined with the knowledge and experience gained in 40+ years in the financial industry, drives her passion for helping educators see their homeownership dreams come true. As an Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP), Federica finds solutions for clients of all financial backgrounds. “I enjoy working with the education community, providing help and guidance to clients who consistently help others,” says Federica.

With a passion for putting financial plans into action, it’s no surprise that Certified Financial Planner professional Franc Oliveri is a big fan of Warren Buffet quotes. One of his favourites is “In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love.” Before joining Educators, Franc put his love of the financial field to work at Scotiabank, providing proactive planning and advice so individuals and families could put their finances on autopilot and focus on other aspects of their lives. He is pleased to be at Educators, because he believes it provides incomparable service to education members who work so hard in the formation and development of others.

Graham has had a lifelong link to the education community. Not only did he grow up in a household headed by educators, but after getting his Bachelor of Science and MBA at Niagara University, he taught at Niagara College’s School of Business. Before joining Educators, Graham worked in advisory roles at TD Canada Trust and Meridian Credit Union and currently holds both a PFP (Personal Financial Planning) and CFP designation (Certified Financial Planner). Graham enjoys applying his financial planning expertise to empower the education community. “Having been raised by educators, I understand the sacrifices the education community makes for the growth and development of our future generations. I am passionate about giving back to the community that gave and continues to give me so much, so I can help enrich their lives like they did for me.”

When it comes to knowing educators firsthand, Jim Wanamaker has an advantage—he comes from a family of educators. Jim brings many years of experience in financial planning, retirement counselling, and investment advice. Prior to joining our team, he was a Financial Services Manager at one of the largest banks in Canada and has also worked for a leading insurance company. Jim holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor, a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Guelph and the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. What advantages does he bring to his clients? “It’s the fact I understand the financial concerns of our client. This enables me to recognize their needs, and assist them in attaining their personal financial goals.”

After receiving a BA from the University of Western Ontario, John studied Marketing at Humber College. His early career with large media companies such as Postmedia, Rogers, and TorStar gave him invaluable insight into how people view their goals and dreams. Today, he’s putting that knowledge to great use, helping people achieve one of their greatest goals – purchasing a home.

“What I like about the financial industry is being able to help people achieve their dreams. As a mortgage agent, I’m a key part of the process, whether it’s a first-time home buyer, a family looking to do renovations, or a couple searching for a vacation property.”

Before joining Educators, John took the REMIC Mortgage Course and worked with TD Bank as a Mobile Mortgage Specialist. He feels at home at Educators because “the education community is very close to my heart. My sister is a guidance councillor and I have many friends who are part of the teaching community.”

Lisa’s love for knowledge and comprehensive background in the finance and investment sector enables her to provide educators with the sound financial solutions they’re looking for with the right combination of smarts, and heart. The ‘smarts’ comes from 15 years experience in several roles within the financial services sector. Having graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Economics, Lisa has also obtained her Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Financial Management Advisor (FMA), and Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI) designations. She completed the Registered Retirement Consultant designation through the Canadian Institute of Financial Planning. Lisa’s love for knowledge and dedication to learning motivated her to join the Junior Achievement Program.

Malavika graduated from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies degree. During her three years working in the financial field, she achieved her certification in Mutual Funds (IFIC) and rose through the ranks at TD Canada Trust to the position of Financial Advisor.

She is excited to work with Educators Financial Group as it allows her to sit down with her clients and curate an in-depth and personalized financial plan to reach their personal goals. “Coming from a family with generations of educators, I am eager to help understand what the members of the education community need to help reach their financial goals,” she says.

Mariam’s career reflects her strong passion to help others achieve financial excellence. Before joining Educators Financial Group, she held a number of positions at Scotiabank, most recently as a Financial Advisor, Investment and Retirement Planner. She has achieved accreditations at IFIC and is an accredited Financial Planner. Outside of work, her passions include hiking, biking, and pursuing martial arts with her 14-year-old son.

As a mother, Mariam understands both the value of education and of educators. She agrees with Epictetus that, “Only the educated are free,” and adds her own note to the Greek philosopher’s famous quote: “Teachers shape the future of a country. I am honoured to serve them, working with Educators.”

Marjan’s background combines post-secondary studies in business, working with one of Canada’s major banks, and a personal commitment to helping educators – making her the perfect addition to Educators Financial Group!

After graduating from Ottawa’s Carleton university with an MBA degree, she developed a solid understanding of financial products and services as a financial advisor at the Royal Bank of Canada for 4 years.

Marjan’s interest in educators is personal. She has two teachers in her family and admires them for their efforts to increase levels of education and culture in our society. Because of this, she says, “I want to live in a world where educators have no financial concerns … where teachers are in good financial standing, especially when they retire.”

To ensure she helps Educators’ clients achieve their personal financial goals, she is committed to continuing to increase her own financial knowledge and keep up-to-date. To this end, she will complete her PFP designation in the near future.

Mathew’s strong interest in investment and finance began in high school. His passion for educating others started with tutoring at a young age and translated successfully into a position at TD Bank, and consequently as Financial Advisor at Educators Financial Group.

As a student, Matthew was thankful for the guidance and education his teachers and professors gave him, that helped him achieve his career. Today, at Educators, Matthew delivers the same positive experience to his clients by providing the utmost care and attention in helping them make informed financial decisions. By offering detailed explanations and honest guidance, he hopes to alleviate all the complexities that come with financial planning. “Helping members meet their financial goals will help them meet their life goals, as well,” says Matthew.

Mathew has completed the CSC (Canadians Securities Course) and is working towards becoming a CFP® (Certified Financial Planner).

Michail Tsirikos is all about focusing on goals. In his spare time, he’s an avid soccer player and coach who shows his team how to score. And professionally, for the past 6 years at Educators Financial Group, he’s honed his skills as a Customer Service Rep, Account Manager, and now Senior Financial Advisor, to help his clients reach their financial goals. Certified as a Personal Financial Planner, his own goals include completing the CFP® certification, and then moving on to become a Chartered Financial Analyst. Michail believes that being a member-driven institution helps to make Educators unique. “Being part of a community and looking out for one another is great”, he says. He looks forward to continuing to make a difference in his clients’ lives and knowing they are on the right path.

Early retirement. Pay grids. Pension income fluctuations. Mike Cunningham understands that education members have a lot of financial considerations, and that navigating it all can be puzzling. Using his education and experience to help clients solve the puzzle of their financial situation is what he enjoys most about the job. His qualifications help. In addition to taking the LLQP (Life License Qualification Program), Mike is a Certified Financial Planner professional (CFP) and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM). He brings over 10 years of experience working with Edward Jones and Sun Life Financial to Educators Financial Group, and is looking forward to working with educators. As he says, “Educators are knowledgeable, detail-oriented clients. They understand that knowledge is power, and are fully engaged in making the most of their investments.”

Mohammad has had two major influences in his life: the study of finance and the love of basketball. While working towards his Bachelor of Commerce degree at York University, he was able to apply both – studying Finance while playing basketball. After graduation he worked for CIBC, where his background in finance helped him grow quickly, hold multiple positions, and acquire an in-depth understanding of the industry.

Mohammad says that basketball has taught him countless lessons about life, and his profession. As an athlete, he experienced the impact a good coach can have. That’s one of the reasons why he’s now with Educators. “Some of the most influential people in my life were my coaches in school,” he says. “To be able to give back to that community is a major reason I chose Educators Financial Group.”

Now, he’s continuing to pursue both his passions. As a Financial Advisor at Educators Financial Group, he is augmenting his studies by acquiring his Certified Financial Planner certification, while in his spare time volunteering as a coach/trainer for youth in the non-profit organization, Play Forever.

Nadeen acquired her true passion for financial planning early in her career when she started to see the impact her advice and guidance had on her clients.  She has since obtained her Personal Financial Planner (PFP^®), Qualified Association Financial Planner (QAFP^TM), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP^®) designations.

Before joining the team at Educators Financial Group, Nadeen has spent over a decade in banking including a position as an Assistant Branch Manager at RBC, where she also volunteered for community events. She is excited about how Educators is dedicated to helping the education community with their financial needs.  “Teachers are my super-heroes,” she says. “They’ve made a huge impact on who I am today, and I am proud to give back to this incredible community.”

“As a coach, you need two things – you need to understand your subject, and you need to understand people,” says Nick Rao. Coaching and relationship building are Nick’s passions. As a mortgage specialist for the Royal Bank of Canada for 7 years, he helped hundreds of clients achieve their short- and long-term goals. Then, as a lending consultant at Canada Life for 3 years, he coached a team of financial planners on how to help their clients achieve their financial goals by utilizing their lending solutions.

At Educators Financial Group, Nick brings these passions – along with his Bachelor of Commerce degree – to help members of the education community with their finances. “I am proud to be at Educators Financial Group and find it extremely rewarding to help the people who are shaping the future of our nation,” he says.

After graduating from York University with a degree in Economics, Robert worked in the IT industry for a few years before shifting gears to become a Financial Consultant with Investors Group Financial Services. An avid Formula 1 Racing fan, he has a ‘track record’ of helping families build their financial future and plan for retirement. At Educators, he says he is looking forward to helping “a unique and intelligent group of professionals” with all their financial needs. Have questions about retiring? Talk to Robert – as well as being a Certified Financial Planner professional, he is a Registered Retirement Consultant, whose retirement dream is to follow the Formula 1 on its global tour!

Shannon knows how to make a dream become a reality. Growing up, she had two dreams: becoming a teacher, and working in the business world. Today, she has achieved both, through a career where she teaches clients about the business of finances. She has her CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) and RRC® (Registered Retirement Consultant) designations and aims to ultimately become a CFA® (Chartered Financial Analyst).

Working as a Financial Advisor at Scotiabank, she developed in depth knowledge of borrowing and investing. She has chosen to work with Educators Financial Group because, “Some of the most influential people in my life have been my teachers. Working for a company that has the teaching community’s best interests at heart really drew me in.” Shannon looks forward to helping her clients at Educators achieve their dreams.