THE SMITH GROUP
Business and Estate Planning
Smith Group is a leading financial practice in Medicine Hat. We provide clarity and confidence to our clients by specializing in risk management, employee benefits, wealth management, estate and succession planning.
Kent D. Smith
B.A., B.Econ., C.L.U., President
Kent Smith is the founder and President of The Smith Group Business & Estate Planning Inc. Kent started in the Financial services industry in 1989 and incorporated his own Wealth Coaching Firm in 1998. In addition to being a Qualifying and Life Member of Million Dollar Round Table, Kent is also a member of Advocis and of CALU (Conference for Advanced Underwriting).
Education and Professional Designations:
- Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Economics from St. Andrews University in North Carolina, U.S.A., with a
- Chartered Life Underwriter, Canada’s premier wealth transfer and estate planning designation.
Kelly M. Schlenker
B.Ed., Director of Client Services
As the Director of Client Services, Kelly oversees the Operations of the firm, is involved in all product areas, and is fully engaged in our unique planning process adding value to our clients’ experience with our firm. Establishing and maintaining our valued client relationships, Kelly’s primary areas of focus are Estate Planning, Living Benefits, and Employee Benefits.
Education and Professional Designations:
- Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Lethbridge
- Life License Qualification Program
- Licensed with the Alberta Insurance Council
- Member of Advocis, the Financial Advisors Association of Canada.
Nicole M. Hills
Chief Compliance Officer
Nicole’s primary role is devising and implementing all systems and processes for the team at The Smith Group Business & Estate Planning Inc. Nicole assists in the critical area of client care, with a focus on Investment Administration. Nicole’s strengths are in designing, coordinating, and implementing the processes that are paramount to the success of our team.
Education and Professional Designations:
- Office Administration diploma from the Maritime Business College
- Completed Canadian Investment Funds Course through the IFSE Institute
- Commissioner For Oaths in and for the Province of Alberta
- Completed Financial Planning Foundations course through Advocis
Zachary S. Smith
B.Mgmt Accounting, Financial & Tax Analyst
Zach’s role within the firm is to assist the Principal within the areas of tax planning and financial analysis. As a post secondary graduate, completing a degree in Business majoring in Accounting, and 5+ years relevant Tax & Accounting experience via a public accounting practice. Zach is well equipped to provide relevant financial service experience to our clients. In particular, knowledge in the areas of Corporate and Personal tax for many different entities across Southern Alberta & Canada from large to small corporations, farms etc. Zach works hard to provides a technical approach to our tax planning and other analytics to assist the firm in producing and providing value. His integral character, tenacity in problem solving and passion for clients make him a valuable young asset to our firm. Working closely with the Principal and as a resource to our Team, we welcome Zach’s specialized contribution to our Values Based Planning(TM) Process.
Education and Professional Designations:
- Bachelor of Management: Major in Accounting from The University of Lethbridge
- Completion, with honours, in the Integrated Management Experience (IME)
Natalie L. Motz
Administrative Assistant
Natalie brings a distinct passion for excellence, and professionalism. Her primary area of focus is assisting our Team in the areas of both Wealth Management and Estate Planning, with integrity and precision. Her attention to detail, highly attuned organizational skills and warm, client-focused manner are a welcome addition to our Firm.
SPECIALIST RESOURCES
Access to a well rounded team of specialists
When you work with the Smith Group you have access to our multiple specialist resources.
Rob Gillings
CFA, TEP, Portfolio Analyst
Rob has a unique Consulting role with our firm. He brings a wealth of expertise and knowledge of the investment industry to the table and is continually researching and writing about the many aspects of personal finance. Rob offers unique value-added services in the area of portfolio analysis, working with Kent to bring solid solutions to a select group of our clientele.
Jason Belair
CIM
As a Chartered Investment Manager, Jason has been helping individuals and families achieve their financial planning goals by providing advice in the key areas of Planning: Investments, Insurance, Tax, Retirement and Estate Planning. Jason is dedicated to providing high-quality advice and integrated wealth management solutions for our clients that simplify and enhance the quality of their lives.
Terry Dusmann
Securities Specialist
In his role as Securities Specialist for our Firm, Terry brings a wealth of experience in the securities industry to the table. He is passionate about educating and advising Clients on their Portfolios, utilizing disciplined strategies that are tailored to their specific needs and situations. One size does not fit all, and Terry understands that each Client has their own unique requirements to see their goals achieved.
Access expert advice on stocks and bonds through Canada Life Securities Inc. Talk to us to find out more.
Canada Life Securities Ltd., Member of IIROC and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund
http://www.iiroc.ca/investors/knowyouradvisor/Pages/default.aspx
https://www.canadalife.com/investing-saving/brokerage-services/canada-lifesecurities-ltd.html
Michael Vukets
C.P.A., C.A.
As the Founder and Principal of Vukets & Associates, Michael works with affluent Canadian families, specializing in Estate Planning, Corporate and Personal Tax integration, as well as intergenerational wealth transfers. Formerly the youngest Partner ever appointed with KPMG, Michael brings a wealth of experience to his specialized practice with a focus on helping clients achieve their philanthropic objectives.