Blair Brace

Senior Investment Advisor, Portfolio Manager

I bring a very different level of expertise to the field of retail investment management.

Less than 0.05% of Canadians (0.002% Globally) hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.  Most of them are employed as Mutual Fund Portfolio Managers or research analysts.  As one of a select number of Investment Advisors who holds the CFA designation, I have demonstrated my commitment to the investment industry and achieved the highest level of accreditation that measures the competence and integrity of financial and technical analysts.  Blending fundamentals with technicals is powerful, and my process is best described as fundamentally screened, yet technically driven.
 
I also hold a Masters of Economics, specializing in macroeconomics, statistics and quantitative methods. This provides me with excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to understand the macro environment that we are in and the major forces that are driving the markets.  
 
My previous work as a Director of Wealth Management for one of Canada’s largest firms revolved around strategic analysis, model development, risk management and other quantitative research. As a result of this valuable experience, I understand how the different sides of this business work.
 
I am a proud Newfoundlander, born and raised from humble beginnings.  My mom and dad taught me early on to pursue a career that I am passionate about. From an early age I developed an interest in the markets and the economy.  Then, in my 20+ year journey in the investment industry I discovered my passion in life is helping people.   I am honoured and privileged to put my knowledge and experience to use every day to help wonderful families achieve their life goals.
 
My mom was a home-maker and my dad was a schoolteacher for 35 years.  Together they raised 5 children, which required a tonne of patience. I must have absorbed some of these teaching skills, since my clients frequently thank me for my educational approach, and my ability to take complex concepts and explain them in a way that is easy to understand.
 
I have four beautiful children, an amazing wife, and wonderful family that are truly my pride and joy. I'm thankful for the flexibility to be active in their lives, and I am grateful that my parents always emphasized the importance of putting family first.

Cari-Lin Thurlow

Senior Sales Assistant

Cari grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and moved to Waterloo to attend Wilfrid Laurier University.  After graduating with an Honours B.A in 1995, Cari and her husband Rod decided to put down roots and start a family in Waterloo. With three daughters, their activities, and all their pets, life was always busy with many adventures, challenges and fond memories. While the girls are all now adults daily life doesn’t seem any quieter, just a different kinda busy.

When not in the office during the winter you’ll find Cari dressed in the warmest gear enjoying the snow on the OFSC trails and in the summer trying to avoid mosquitos and blackflies while camping and kayaking with family and friends.

Cari enjoys talking with clients about their own unique households and lives and is always there to listen and help clients anyway she can. With over 15 years of working within the financial industry Cari’s experience and knowledge will provide you with dedicated service and support.

Stephanie Chiasson

Administrative Assistant

Stephanie Chiasson is a Sales Assistant in our Nesbitt Burns Division. Stephanie may be new to the financial industry, but she brings with her over 15 years of customer service excellence across various industries such as Telecommunications and Environmental Services. Stephanie is a certified Yoga Instructor and Medical Aesthetician.

 

Stephanie is a Kitchener Waterloo local, born, raised and still resides in the region. A former WCI Viking, an Usher at The K-W Auditorium and a volunteer for K-W Oktoberfest, she enjoys giving back to this wonderful community she calls home.

 

She has been with her partner, Kevin, for over 6 years, and they have 2 adorable dogs together, Riley and Zeus. In her spare time, you can find Stephanie paddle boarding with her puppies, cheering on the Anaheim Ducks, reliving Y2K nostalgia on her podcast, and traveling to new places. Pink is not just her favourite colour, it’s her WAY of Life.