Don Taylor, MBA, CIM®

Senior Investment Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager

Don Taylor, a co-founding partner of the Taylor Spies Wealth Management Group based in North Vancouver, brings over two decades of expertise in the Investment Management sector. Don possesses a fervent commitment to providing exceptional client service and expert wealth management.

In his role, Don assumes responsibility for crafting strategic direction and portfolio strategies that align with his clients’ unique financial goals. With qualifications as a Portfolio Manager, Chartered Investment Manager and MBA holder, his commitment lies in assisting clients in growing their wealth and instilling confidence in their financial decisions.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Don a former professional football player, actively contributes his time and expertise to various community activities, which have included the BC Lions Alumni Foundation, Canadian Football League Alumni Dire Need Fund, BC Sports Hall of Fame, BC Special Olympics Lions Gate Hospital Foundation.

Kristen Spies

Senior Investment Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager

Kristen Spies is a partner of the Taylor Spies Wealth Management Group, based in North Vancouver. Kristen began her career in investment management in 1994 and joined BMO Nesbitt Burns in 2011. Kristen is passionate about taking care of clients’ unique needs and proactively helping them navigate all areas of investment, financial, tax and estate planning.

In addition to her own professional development, Kristen has taught introductory investment classes at a number of colleges in the lower mainland. She believes in sharing investment principles and perspective with her clients because, in doing so, they develop more confidence. Good communication and collaboration combined with the team’s professional expertise, makes certain every client knows they have comprehensive wealth management oversight, a solid and successful investment portfolio, and are on track to reach their goals.

Kristen graduated from UBC. For 20 years she has lived in Lynn Valley and has two children. She is committed to giving back to her community and has been involved with Girl Guides of Canada, the YWCA, and sat on a number of community boards, and volunteers with the school and other community organizations.

Roy Howell, CIM, CFP

Senior Investment Associate, Associate Portfolio Manager

A client focused, results driven, and knowledgeable finance professional with substantial experience both in the Canadian and UK financial industries, Roy has always been serious about investing and finance. Meticulous in his financial markets research, he’s capable of adapting to challenging economic times while harnessing a high degree of financial intelligence to bring his clients a sense of calm, alongside tailored, highly successful investment strategies.

He got his start over twenty years ago with Royal London in Edinburgh, Scotland and has been working in finance ever since, steadily building a wealth of financial acuity that has led to much prosperity for his clients. Roy’s been with BMO since arriving in Canada from the UK in 2012.

Born in Kenya and having lived and worked around the globe including the UK, South Africa, Kenya and Zambia, Roy loves to travel and experience off the beaten path adventures. When he’s not working hard for his clients, he enjoys hiking, trail running, golfing, and hanging out with his wife Abi and their two trusty dogs, Murphy and Gus.

Kristen Tynan

Senior Client Service Associate

Kristen Tynan joined Taylor Spies Wealth management in 2014 as a client service associate. With over a decade in the investment industry, Kristen has experience in all areas of the wealth management process. Kristen’s keen eye for detail and commitment to providing excellent client service are an asset to the Taylor Spies Team.

Kristen can assist clients with everything from administrative details to portfolio reviews. Kristen has a passion for portfolio creation and works closely with Don & Kristen in the planning and execution of client investment portfolios. Kristen is also working towards her financial planning designation and enjoys working with clients to create detailed financial plans for retirement and estate planning.

Outside of the office, you can find Kristen spending time with her husband and two young children exploring the north shore trails and skiing when she gets the chance.

Garret Hill

Client Service Associate

Garret became a part of the Taylor Spies team in 2019 after successfully completing his Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Victoria. His passion for finance and investing grew during his academic years and was further solidified by two banking internships.

Garret assumes a range of vital roles, including portfolio trading and financial planning. He is currently pursuing his financial planning designation, demonstrating his commitment to ongoing professional growth. Garret aspires to attain the Chartered Investment Manager qualification soon after. Garret's multifaceted skills, coupled with his commitment to excellence, make him an invaluable asset to the Taylor Spies team.

Outside the office Garret leads an active lifestyle and engages in various sport activities during his down time. Hockey, golf, and tennis are among his preferred choices, promoting both mental and physical well-being.

Sarah Wan

Client Service Associate

Sarah was born in China and moved to Vancouver in 2013 to attend Simon Fraser University. She joined Taylor Spies Wealth Management Group in 2021 as an administrative assistant and has progressed to the roll of client service associate. She prioritizes building strong client relationships based on trust, transparency, and clear communication.

Prior to working with Taylor Spies, Sarah was a Private Banking Associate at BMO and brings with her a comprehensive knowledge of BMO’s banking system and procedures. Sarah can assist with the administrative and banking needs for Taylor Spies clients. Sarah is also passionate about the investment research and is currently working towards her CFA designation. 

Claudia Sanchez Flores

Client Service Assistant

Claudia, originally from Peru, landed in Canada with her family in 2022. With a bachelor’s degree in accounting, she honed her skills in the accounting and financial departments of large international firms before joining BMO Nesbit Burns within the Taylor Spies Wealth Management Group. In her current role, Claudia takes a great delight working collaboratively with team members and clients by providing day to day operational support and administrative assistance.

Beyond her professional life, Claudia finds joy in exploring and appreciating the wonders of nature alongside her husband and their beloved daughter Camila. She enjoys photography, volleyball, and is very passionate about soccer.