YOUR TEAM AT VFG Wealth
James Arnold
Partner
Investment Funds Advisor
James and his wife Christine, along with their three children Aaron, Logan and Megan, moved to Stratford in 2002.
James has a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and is currently finishing his Certified Financial Planner designation. Prior to joining the VFG Wealth team in 2006, James taught accounting at Conestoga College in Kitchener for four years. During this time, James and his wife owned and operated Play Fair Sports Camp for kids which had locations in Cambridge and Kitchener. James has been involved in various volunteer community activities (Board Director/Treasurer for Epilepsy Huron Perth and Board Director for Stratford Aces, Coaching). He has helped out financially for numerous non-profit organizations in Huron Perth.
James’ knowledge and ability to listen to clients, then find a solution that meets their needs in a non-pressure environment, has paved the way for a successful career in the financial arena in Stratford and surrounding areas.
Tara-Lynn Burton
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Tara joined the VFG Wealth team as an Executive Assistant in May 2023, and received her CIFC certificate in September 2024.
Throughout her career Tara has gained a vast amount of customer service and administrative experience in a diverse field of industries including veterinary, medical, manufacturing, plumbing and law. She enjoys facing new daily challenges in the financial industry, and is dedicated to providing top care and service to all of our clients.
Tara lives in Hespeler with her partner, Chris and their cat, Bobbi Jo. In her spare time she loves to travel, play cards and boardgames with friends, and spend time with her large family. She also enjoys playing sports such as softball, pickleball and pool.
Gesi Commisso
Managing Partner
Certified Financial Planner
Gesi is passionate about culture, family, and delivering exceptional client service. With over 15 years in the financial services industry, he combines expertise with a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. He lives in Woodstock with his wife, Alex, and their two children, Agostino and Siena.
As a Certified Financial Planner® and Group Benefits Specialist, Gesi is known for going above and beyond for his clients. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures he remains current and well-equipped to meet their evolving needs.
He focuses on his clients’ financial well-being, helping them make confident decisions and achieve their goals. Outside of work, Gesi is an avid soccer fan who plays and coaches locally in Woodstock, he enjoys spending time with his family, along with visiting loved ones back in Italy when he has the chance.
Brian Cressman
Partner
Certified Financial Planner
Brian was born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario and has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Prior to joining the London Life Insurance Company in 1999, he was in the banking industry for eight years and also worked as a brokerage sales manager for Canada Life for two years. Since joining Canada Life, and now being part of VFG Wealth, Brian’s focus has been on building long-term relationships with present and future clients, assisting in all aspects of their financial security plans.
Brian moved to Stratford in 2011 with his wife Gayle and their young daughter Alexa.
Brian has also earned his Certified Financial Planner designation and maintains his commitment to professionalism, ethics, and education.
Nikki Davidson
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Nikki joined the VFG Wealth team in January of 2021 and received her CIFC certification in May of 2022. In 2007, she began her career in the London Life legal department as a Law Clerk and moved up to a Team Lead position in 2009. In 2016, she moved back to her hometown of Stratford, where she would eventually find herself working at VFG Wealth. Nikki has a combined 21 years of administrative and management experience under her belt and takes great pride in servicing the needs of our clients.
In her free time, Nikki enjoys spending time with her Husband, Scott and their family. Nikki enjoys going to concerts, the theatre, hiking and being outdoors. She is a self-proclaimed Foodie, an avid baker and a collector of all things vintage.
Debbie Dawson
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Debbie joined VFG Wealth October 2017 as an office administrative assistant.
She received her CIFC certificate in December 2019 and has over 25 years experience in the financial service industry as a bank teller and loan associate. She also has experience with operating/admin for a small construction company and owned a hobby farm for 4 years. Debbie completed her small business course at Conestoga College and accounting course at Naylor McLeod. Customer care is a top priority for her as she enjoys the daily challenges her job entails.
Debbie has two adult children, Carter and Sarah who she enjoys spending time with when she can now that they both live out west. She enjoys driving cross county to visit her family.
She enjoys hanging out with her friends playing board/card games, bingo, going to movies and the beach.
Dino Ferrera
Managing Partner
Certified Financial Planner
Dino Ferrera is a Managing Partner and Certified Financial Planner® at VFG Wealth. He has a background in Marketing with his Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Guelph and has been working in the financial services industry for over 20 years.
As a Financial Planner, a large focus for Dino is helping his clients learn about the importance of financial preparedness and risk management. His focus is on helping people accumulate and distribute wealth while protecting their families and their assets. Your retirement, your child’s education, your business, and your home are all dreams he can help plan for and protect.
In his personal life, Dino and his wife Nicole spend most of his time with family and friends. He has a passion for physical fitness (running), spending time outdoors and a strong interest in helping the community. They have two sons, Matthew and Thomas, who keep them on their toes and constantly moving.
Rob Flood
Partner
Investment Funds Advisor
Rob grew up in Woodstock, Ontario, and has spent more than a decade helping individuals, families, and business owners make confident financial decisions. He is also actively involved in the local business community as a Director of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Co-Chair of its Finance Committee.
With a Bachelor of Administrative and Commercial Studies in Finance and Administration, along with a minor in History from Western University, and 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, Rob brings a straightforward, personal, and relationship‑focused approach to his work. He takes the time to understand what matters most to each client and develops practical strategies that align with their life, goals, and long‑term plans.
His areas of focus include financial and investment planning, retirement strategies, life insurance, estate planning considerations, wealth accumulation, and group benefits solutions.
Outside of work, Rob enjoys life with his wife, Val, and their two boys. Most days, you’ll find him at a hockey rink, on a baseball diamond, or spending time with family and friends in the community he’s always called home.
Trina Herman
Operations Manager
Licensed Assistant
Trina joined VFG Wealth in November 2015. She brings with her over 10 years of experience working in the financial industry. Trina received her CICF Certificate in May 2018 as well as her LLQP in February 2022. She has experience in front line customer service, and as a financial service associate to multiple advisors at one of Canada's leading financial institutions.
Born and raised in Stratford, Trina lives here with her husband Scott and their two children, who are both active in minor sports within the city.
Alyson Kent
Partner
Financial Planner
Alyson joined VFG Wealth in 2011, first as an assistant to Mike Vancea, and later transitioning to an advisor. In 2023 she passed her Qualified Associate Financial Planner exam, and is currently working toward her Certified Financial Planner designation. Alyson began her career in finance and investments over twenty-five years ago, after completing a BA and MA in Canadian History at the University of Victoria.
An active volunteer in her community, Alyson has a special interest in arts, heritage, and social justice, and has served on many boards and committees. From 2010 through 2018 Alyson served as Trustee for the City of Stratford on the Avon Maitland District School Board. Currently she is serving as Vice-Chair of the board of Professional Artists Lodge (PAL) Stratford, and also is involved with several social justice causes. In 2019 Alyson began to study Martial Arts with Foley's Family Karate. She currently holds the rank of Sankyu (Brown belt 3rd rank), and is working towards a Black Belt.
She lives in Stratford with her partner, Mark. Their children are all adults, and they now have three grandchildren.
Reilly McCann
Partner
Investment Funds Advisor
Reilly, a native of Stratford, Ontario, is a seasoned financial professional with over 10 years of experience in the industry. After graduating from the University of Guelph with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree in 2016, Reilly has dedicated his career to helping clients achieve their financial goals.
Reilly's focus is on creating personalized financial plans that cater to the unique needs of each client. He understands that no two individuals or families are alike, and therefore strives to tailor his services to each client's unique situation. He is committed to providing exceptional service and advice to his clients at all stages of life.
At VFG Wealth, Reilly is part of a team that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. The company's culture is centered around creating a positive and supportive environment for both clients and employees.
Outside of work, Reilly enjoys travelling, playing golf and hockey, along with spending time at his family cottage.
Rachel Monaghan
Executive Assistant
Rachel Monaghan is an Executive Assistant at VFG Wealth's Woodstock office. She joined the team in February 2026. Rachel brings over 20 years of office administration experience with her.
Known for her ability to manage competing priorities, she excels at coordinating schedules, handling communications, and ensuring day-to-day activities run seamlessly. Rachel holds a certificate in Office Administration, further strengthening her expertise in organizational management and effective administrative practices. She brings a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining high standards in every aspect of her work.
Outside of work, Rachel loves spending time with her husband, Chris, and their young son, Jensen, who keeps them busy. She is a big fan of horror/thriller movies and true crime podcasts. Rachel also enjoys exploring local markets and going on nearby adventures.
Samantha Lewis-Davis
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Samantha Lewis-Davis is an Executive Assistant and Group Benefits Associate at VFG Wealth’s Woodstock office. She is a graduate of Fanshawe College’s School of Information Technology, where she specialized in Executive Office Administration.
Samantha brings over 15 years of customer service experience and more than two years in frontline financial services. Since joining VFG Wealth in February 2023, she has earned her Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC) certification and continues to expand her knowledge in group benefits to better support clients and advisors.
She is committed to delivering a thoughtful and seamless client experience, with a focus on ensuring every client feels valued. Samantha takes pride in contributing to VFG Wealth as a place of trust and integrity by building strong relationships and working collaboratively with her colleagues.
Outside of work, Samantha enjoys spending time with her family. She is an avid reader, enjoys gaming in her spare time, and makes the most of her weekends exploring local trails with her dogs or kayaking the Thames River.
Trevor Neeb
Managing Partner
Certified Financial Planner
Born and raised in Stratford, Trevor has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Guelph and holds a Certified Financial Planner Designation.
With more than 20 years of experience in financial services, Trevor focuses on providing quality service and honest advice. His personal goal is to ensure clients are well informed, and to assess their unique situations and tailor a solution to match.
Trevor resides in Stratford with his wife Mallory, their two young children and their poodle, Walter.
Julian Piwowarski
Partner
Investment Funds Advisor
Julian is an experienced and knowledgeable Financial Security Advisor and Investment Funds Advisor, ready to work with you on your family’s financial future.
He has a B. Comm degree, an MBA in Business Administration and is finishing his CFP designation.
Specializing in comprehensive investment management, retirement planning and insurance protection, he believes his breadth of experience and knowledge in wealth management and advanced financial planning, are key factors in helping his clients achieve their financial goals and insurance protection.
Julian has had a variety of careers, including a tax auditor for the CRA, a Manager of Hospital Information Systems, a Project Manager for a large project with the Ministry of Health’s ehealth division and a Financial Advisor.
After a 10 year career as a Financial Advisor, serving businesses and families, Julian joined the VFG Wealth team in 2021.
Julian is a member of the Festival City Rotary club, previously treasurer of the foundation and a member of the local Music and Opera Appreciation group, as the treasurer. Julian also enjoys golfing and curling and keeping fit at the gym.
When he’s not spending time helping his clients in Stratford protect and grow their wealth, Julian is spending time with his partner, Rosemary.
Sarah Temple
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Sarah joined VFG Wealth as an Executive Assistant in August 2024 and received her CIFC certificate in May 2025. A graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University in 2009, she brings over 20 years of experience in customer service, finance, administration, and office management to her role.
Her career has been marked by her ability to create welcoming environments and foster positive client rapport while supporting senior leaders in client-facing positions. She excels in project management, coordination, and thrives in collaborative settings.
Outside of work, Sarah is a nature enthusiast. She enjoys hiking, kayaking, and traveling with her two daughters.
Abigail Vancea
Employee Benefits Specialist
Abigail is an Employee Benefits Advisor with VFG Wealth. She holds a degree in Criminology and Sociology and began her career as a Legal Assistant, where she developed strong communication, organization, and client service skills. She enjoys helping businesses and their employees understand and make the most of their group benefits plans.
Outside of work, Abigail enjoys staying active by playing soccer and volleyball. She also loves spending time with her dog, Mabel, and enjoys being with friends and family whenever she can.
Carla Vancea
Executive Assistant
Carla was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie and moved to Welland in 1990, where she met Mike. Carla attended the University of Waterloo, graduating in 1996 with a degree in Psychology and Management Studies. After marrying Mike, they lived and worked in Waterloo before moving to Stratford in 2000.
Carla worked at Manulife Financial as an executive assistant before choosing to stay home to raise their daughters, Micaela and Abigail. She later worked as an elementary school secretary before returning to a flexible, part-time administrative role supporting Mike and the business.
Carla also volunteers with the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth. In her free time, she enjoys photography, relaxing at the family cottage, travelling, and spending quality time with her daughters and their cherished dog, Mabel.
Michael Vancea
Managing Partner
Certified Financial Planner
Mike has been in financial services since graduating from the University of Waterloo in 1996 where he received his B.A. degree in Economics. In 2013, Mike earned his M.B.A. from Dalhousie University. Mike is also a Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Life Underwriter and continues to upgrade his education to help ensure he stays at the top of his game. In 2001, Mike moved to Stratford where he, along with his wife Carla, raised their daughters Micaela and Abigail. They have both graduated from Western University and are beginning their careers.
Mike’s goal is to offer his knowledge and experience in the area of wealth and estate planning. Mike enjoys working on the many boards around Stratford as well as golfing and playing ball in the summers.
Makaila Willmore
Executive Assistant
Licensed Assistant
Makaila joined VFG Wealth as an Executive Assistant in March 2024. She holds a degree in Criminology from Wilfrid Laurier University and discovered an interest in finance shortly after graduating.
Since transitioning into the industry, she has been committed to expanding her knowledge while providing thoughtful, client-focused support. In May 2025, Makaila earned her CICF Certificate, further strengthening her industry expertise.
Originally from Stratford, Makaila now lives in Seaforth with her partner, their dog Ranger, and their cat Menace. An avid reader, she can often be found with a book in hand. When the weather is warm, she enjoys spending time at the beach, hiking, swimming, and making the most of the sunshine.
Tim Ziegler
Partner
Financial Planner
Tim was born in Stratford to acting parents at the end of a run of King Lear in 1985. After his own twelve year acting career, he made the leap into personal finance in 2018. He has clients from all walks of life, but specializes in self-employed individuals, including corporations. He believes that everyone’s financial situation is unique, and that we simply do not learn enough about personal finance – in school or after. Education on our financial system is a big part of his business, and his years as an actor have left him with excellent communications skills.
Tim lives with his wife Karen, his four year old son Matthew, and his two rescue dogs Mani (a whippet-adjacent from Costa Rica), and Miga (a black lab cross from Mexico). He plays a lot of cricket, and is currently learning Punjabi.
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VFG Wealth Difference
We’re confident that our unique approach to financial planning will provide you with new insight into your financial needs now and in the years to come.