Meet the Adroit team

Each of our team members bring distinct expertise, yet we operate as a unified practice – challenging assumptions, upholding rigorous internal standards, and guarding every client relationship as a shared responsibility.

Our team of experts

Linnea McKercher

CFA, MBA

Senior Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Manager

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: linnea.mckercher@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 780.969.8375

LinkedIn

“Investment management is my passion. It’s easy for me to come to work every day because I genuinely care about my clients and their financial well being.”

With over 25 years of experience working alongside high-net-worth families, business owners, corporations, and institutions, I’m passionate about helping people not only clarify their financial aspirations but also achieve them. My approach is rooted in genuine care and enriched by the diverse perspectives I’ve gained from a variety of roles throughout my career – insights that allow me to better understand and support each client’s unique story.

My journey in finance began at AIMCo, where I took on the roles of trader and investment research analyst. This early foundation led me to Adroit Investment Management, where I immersed myself in every aspect of the business. From trading and portfolio construction, to leading the operations team and serving as Chief Compliance Officer, I had the privilege of helping shape the firm’s success from the ground up. Later, I spent a decade managing the Canadian Equity portfolio, further deepening my expertise.

When Adroit was acquired by Canadian Western Bank, I was proud to continue the firm’s tradition of disciplined, institutional-style investing as Market Lead, Private Wealth, and Portfolio Manager, guiding a talented team of western-based Wealth advisors. Our integration with National Bank Financial Wealth Management brought my career full circle, allowing me to reconnect with the foundational principles and stewardship approach that continue to guide my work every day.

This breadth of experience enables me to anticipate challenges and smooth the way for clients, creating a seamless and supportive experience. I listen carefully – not just to what clients say, but to what they truly need – so I can provide solutions that make a meaningful difference in their lives. As a business owner myself, I deeply understand both the rewards and the pressures that come with entrepreneurship, and I strive to be a steady, empathetic partner for my clients on their financial journeys.

My commitment to lifelong learning and supporting the next generation of investment professionals is unwavering. Serving as past President of the CFA Society Edmonton gave me the chance to connect with peers who share my dedication, stay on top of industry trends, and give back to the profession I love.

Beyond the Office

I’m an avid equestrian and find joy in the challenge and camaraderie of Show Jumping and Eventing competitions. I also love hiking and dream of one day trekking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim. Until then, I’m making the most of the beautiful outdoors closer to home, exploring new trails and discovering hidden gems on foot.
Orest Fialka

CFA®, P.Geo

Senior Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Manager

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: orest.fialka@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 780.969.8383

“To say I’m an extrovert is probably an understatement. I’m energized by engaging with different types of clients – no one person is the same.”

After working for a few years as an exploration geologist, I followed my growing interest in investments and transitioned to the investment management industry in the early 1990s. This world ignited my passion for learning.

I started my investing career as an Investment Advisor and Planner for individuals, then moved on to become a stockbroker which further fuelled my passion to learn. Next, I transitioned to the role of Research Analyst and Portfolio Manager at a large Alberta-based pension fund, where I also earned my Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation. Working in a pension fund environment helped me develop my analytical skills, understand the value of teamwork, and gain valuable exposure to the many facets of the investment industry.

Having started as a client-facing investment advisor, then turning to a market-facing research and portfolio management role and back to my current client-facing role at National Bank Financial has given me a unique, full-circle view of the industry. The foundational knowledge gained from honing a detailed analytical perspective of the fundamentals, and of the psychology of investing itself, has been paramount in my role as a wealth advisor and guiding clients in achieving their goals. This entails creating tailored investment portfolios, avoiding common mistakes, and focusing on what’s important to them and their families through all timelines.

Beyond the Office

I believe it’s important to pass down knowledge and experience to the younger generation, so I’m pleased to be a mentor for the University of Alberta Business School’s PRIME program (Program for Research and Investment Management Excellence). I’ve also retained my Professional Geoscientist designation (P. Geo.), which is a great conversation starter!

Tapping into my creative side, I love to sing and dance. As a member of the Ukrainian Male Chorus of Edmonton and a proud alumnus of Edmonton’s Shumka Ukrainian Dancers, I’m involved in their productions where possible. When not cutting a rug, I stay active with various sporting activities like scuba diving in warm climates and hiking. I plan to hike the Grand Canyon from rim to rim one day!
Ann Babic

CIM®, B.Com

Senior Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Manager

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: ann.babic@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 587.489.5518

LinkedIn

“My passion for helping clients achieve their goals goes beyond the numbers. It’s about building strong connections.”

With over ten years of experience in the wealth management industry, working exclusively at boutique portfolio management firms, I have a passion for creating high-touch client experiences and building strong personal relationships.

My experience spans an array of roles including operations, trading, research, and asset management. I take a holistic approach to investment management, ensuring all facets of a client’s life are considered when building a portfolio and shaping a family’s financial plan. Learning and building around each client’s personal “why” is integral to fostering a strong long-term relationship, and in turn, achieving their financial goals.

I received my Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta School of Business with distinction and earned my Chartered Investment Manager® (CIM®) designation in 2015. During my time at the University of Alberta, I was a senior member of the Business Exchange Association (BEA), and spent a semester studying abroad in Uppsala, Sweden.

Beyond The Office

Whether engaging in athletics or spectating from the sidelines, sports are one of my go-to past-times. To stay active, I enjoy swimming, tennis, hiking, skiing and working out. I’m game for watching any sport and am an avid Oilers fan. Much of my time is now spent enjoying the outdoors or swimming with my daughter. Travel is also important to me – I love exploring new cultures as much as possible.
Kayla Ferreira

CFP®, CIM®

Wealth Advisor, Associate Portfolio Manager

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: kayla.ferreira@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 780.401.2058

LinkedIn

“I thrive in professional cultures that define success by the quality of advice given, rather than by the revenue generated.”

With diverse experience across wealth management, I bring a broad perspective to my role. Having lived in four cities across three continents, I’ve developed an appreciation for a wide range of viewpoints, which informs all of my client interactions.

Holding a Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary, I bring a strong interest in research and technical analysis to my work. I entered the world of finance in 2013 and, despite the different subject matter, discovered the same richness of data and boundless opportunities to learn—along with the added reward of work centered on building meaningful, long-term relationships.

I began my career with a major Canadian insurer and mutual fund provider. Across multiple roles, including investment fund wholesaler and business development manager, I spent years training, educating, and consulting with hundreds of advisors on building and optimizing their wealth management practices. As I completed my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP®) and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designations, I increasingly sought opportunities to work more closely with clients. My advisor partnerships fostered a passion for teaching and helping others achieve their goals—an approach I now bring to my work in private wealth.

As a Wealth Advisor and Associate Portfolio Manager, I support our Senior Wealth Advisors in delivering customized investment and financial planning advice to Adroit Wealth clients. Some days are spent behind the scenes analyzing portfolios or assisting with institutional investment policy updates; others are spent alongside our Advisors, supporting portfolio reviews and delivering financial plans. Wherever I am, I continually strive to deepen my knowledge and experience in service of our clients.

Beyond the Office

Much of my spare time revolves around my family, whether we’re travelling, camping, or gathering for Sunday dinner. Originally from the southeastern interior of British Columbia, I also enjoy returning to the mountains to hike and snowboard. A voracious reader, I’ve always got a few different books stacked on my nightstand, and enjoy attending live stand-up comedy and theatre events.

Client Service Team

Belinda Tan

Associate

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: belinda.tan@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 587.489.5538

LinkedIn

“I thrive on making the complex feel simple, and building trust through reliable support and thoughtful service.”

Teaching was my first calling. I come from a family of teachers and have always loved helping people learn and feel more confident. While my path eventually led me out of the classroom, that mindset stayed with me. From leading teams in the food and telecom industries for 15 years in both the Philippines and Canada, to working in finance for two of Canada’s top five banks, I’ve built a career around service, leadership, and making genuine connections with people from all walks of life.

My interest in banking began early, sparked by a childhood fascination with the professionalism of a neighbour who worked at a bank. Years later, I found myself drawn to the financial world not just for the professionalism, but for the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Today, as an Associate, I specialize in supporting Investment Advisors and clients by streamlining processes, managing details, and providing proactive service. I take pride in being the behind-the-scenes partner who ensures wealth management feels seamless, personal and efficient.

What sets me apart is my proactive mindset. I don’t just complete tasks – I anticipate needs, simplify complexities, and create confidence through consistency and clear communication before. My goal is to make every interaction smooth, meaningful and trust-building.

Beyond the office

Outside of work, I’m active in my church community, whether volunteering, speaking or teaching dance to youth. I’m also a proud mom to an energetic 4-year-old who keeps me busy with swimming and taekwondo. And when family or friends are celebrating life’s milestones, I often take on the role of wedding coordinator. Because creating joyful, memorable experiences is something I genuinely love – both personally and professionally.
Navneet Phul

Associate

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: Navneet.Phul@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 780.341.7395

LinkedIn

“I strongly believe you can make anything happen. Certain things may take longer than others, but there’s always a way.”

Eighteen years ago, I moved to Canada and began my career in banking in a client support role. At first, I wasn’t sure it was the right path, but the balance of client interaction and behind-the-scenes problem solving kept me going. Over time, it became clear why: I genuinely enjoy helping people manage life’s complexities, whether through lending, investing or guiding them through pivotal financial decisions.

I’ve since progressed through a variety of roles, spending a decade in lending and investing, and then six years focusing on portfolio management. What I’ve learned along the way is simple but profound: clients aren’t so different from me. They’re navigating life, doing their best, and sometimes they just need a listening ear and steady hand to keep them moving forward. That’s the role I love to play.

Day-to-day, I work closely with our advisors to deliver an elevated client experience. Whether I’m helping facilitate meetings, managing the details behind the scenes, or keeping clients informed every step of the way, my approach is always the same – get it done no matter what it takes! I explore the right resources, find the best solution, and make sure each client feels heard and supported.

For me, the smallest things often leave the biggest impact. I once sat with a client through a panic attack – while I was pregnant – until she felt calm again. She later returned with a handmade baby blanket. That moment reminded me that personal touches, though simple, can mean the world.

Beyond the office

I’m a mom of two daughters and a firm believer that it truly takes a village to raise a family. Outside of finance, you’ll find me hiking, gathered around a bonfire with my husband and kids, or freezing at the rink while cheering on my daughters in figure skating.
Michelle Paul

Associate

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: michelle.paul@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 780.341.7393

“Helping people feel confident about money isn’t just my job. It’s what makes this work meaningful.”

With over 15 years of experience in banking, I’ve built my career around helping people feel confident and secure in their financial decisions. Growing up with both parents in finance — my father an accountant and my mother a banking advisor — I developed an early appreciation for the importance of financial guidance and client trust.

What began as a part time job in banking quickly became a lasting passion. Over the years, I’ve held a range of roles including teller, financial advisor, administrator, and now, wealth management associate.

Each experience has deepened my understanding of service, teamwork, and what “client-first” truly means, while also strengthening my commitment to delivering a seamless and supportive experience.

In my current role, I serve as the primary point of contact for clients, consultants, and custodians — ensuring communication flows smoothly and every detail is managed with care.

If there’s one quality that defines my approach, it’s calm. The wealth management environment can be fast-paced and high-pressure, but I’ve learned the importance of staying calm and maintaining perspective. My colleagues often joke that nothing seems to rattle me — perhaps a trait inherited from my father — but I believe that a steady demeanor fosters confidence and balance across the team.

At the heart of my work is a genuine desire to help people feel secure and empowered when it comes to their finances. For me, banking isn’t just about numbers — it’s about building trust, fostering understanding, and helping others feel confident in their financial journey.

Beyond the office

When I’m not immersed in all things finance, you’ll probably find me travelling. I’ve visited 17 countries so far, Barcelona remains a personal favorite for its vibrant culture and cuisine. I also love traveling for concerts and spending time with friends and family, wherever those gatherings may take me.
Jamie Kim

Investment Analyst

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Email: jamie.kim@nbc.ca
Office Phone: 514.4120482 Ext: 20482

LinkedIn

“I’ve always been fascinated by what drives markets; why prices move and how disciplined, well‑informed decisions create long‑term financial strength.”

My introduction to the world of finance began early, shaped by my mother’s career as an accountant. Growing up around numbers, I developed an early appreciation for the tangible impact her work had on her clients’ lives. This foundational understanding drove me to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from the University of Alberta, where I solidified my knowledge in investment analysis and market behavior. This year, my focus is on completing my Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

I started my career in banking operations, a role that provided valuable insight into complex systems and institutional controls. The experience gave me a strong foundation in process, accuracy, and risk awareness; all principles that continue to shape my approach to work.

While these operational roots were critical, transitioning to the investment side allowed me to bridge my interest in technology with fundamental analysis. I thrive on identifying opportunities to streamline decision-making. In a previous role, I developed a custom dashboard to automate time-intensive tasks, an efficiency solution that was eventually adopted across the entire organization.

I’m driven by the prospect of looking at a problem and determining how to best use the resources you have available to find well-informed solutions. Trust is important in wealth management. You build that by helping clients translate complexity into clear insights that guide and aid their financial journey.

Beyond the Office

Much of my personal discipline is rooted in staying active. Working out is a non-negotiable part of my routine that provides both a stress reliever and a sharpened sense of focus.

I also enjoy travelling and experiencing new places, cultures, and perspectives. Having visited Japan last year, I can confidently say it is a place that I would revisit again. I found myself particularly inspired by their culinary traditions and the thoughtful ways they approach even a simple bowl of noodles.

Investment Team

Scott Blair

CFA

Head Portfolio Manager

Location: Victoria, British Columbia

“Experience turns uncertainty into insight. Although each market cycle is unique, there are similarities that can help long-term investors navigate difficult times.”

My interest in the investment industry began before I even set foot into the working world. In a high school accounting class, I’d done a project on the Canadian conglomerate Imasco Limited. I was intrigued by the process of analyzing the different businesses they owned, such as Canada Trust and Shoppers Drug Mart. And it fascinated me how these companies interacted in the firm’s financials.

Now, after 30 years’ experience in portfolio management and equity research, I find myself equally captivated by the scenarios that play out in the marketplace today. Investing is a world where experience matters. It’s always changing, but the longer you stay in the industry the more you can see patterns in investor behaviour and different markets. I’m grateful to lead a team of talented investment professionals in a spirit of trust and collaboration, who share the same passion.

In overseeing several investment mandates at National Bank Financial Wealth Management (NBFWM), as well as developing, refining, and managing the team’s investment approach across multiple asset classes and markets, I take a mentor-centric approach. I believe people perform at their best when they have freedom to make decisions and take responsibility for outcomes, while being well supported through knowledge-sharing and mentorship. Working collaboratively, our investment managers focus on carefully curated portfolios that provide enough flexibility to fully align with each client’s unique vision and needs.

Prior to joining NBFWM in 2025, I held the position of CIO at CWB Wealth beginning in 2018. Before then, I worked in the pension investment industry for 15 years. This tenure included being Head of Equity Research at one of Canada’s largest pension fund managers.
Ric Palombi

CFA

Senior Portfolio Manager

Location: Calgary, Alberta

“I’m right where I want to be.”

Having been in the markets for more than 20 years, I’ve navigated numerous business cycles, several financial crises and a global pandemic. In my experience, the key to survival – and ultimately success – is resilience. Resilience is the grit that allows us to bounce back stronger, wiser and more robust from any setback.

I’ve learned to be stoic when it comes to making portfolio decisions. To focus on what’s in our control and accept what isn’t. This helps me navigate uncertainty with clarity and purpose, to make better investment decisions for our clients. Our approach is built on fundamentals, avoiding knee jerk reactions, and digging beyond the headlines. With a cappuccino in hand, I start every workday knowing that my colleagues and I will stay vigilant amid lots of noise and volatility in the market. This practice resonates deeply with my personal investment philosophy.

Over my career, I’ve also learned that avoiding risk can lead to avoiding return as well. A rigorous and disciplined approach to assessing risk/reward is key to our long-term execution and strategies. The markets are in constant flux, and sometimes you need to discount the obvious and bet on the unexpected. Risk means something can happen, not necessarily that it will, so I look for ways to take advantage of the volatility.

I began my career as an investment advisor at RBC Dominion Securities and then moved on to become a portfolio manager at TD Asset Management. I then joined McLean and Partners in 2005, which transitioned to CWB Wealth in 2013, and later National Bank Financial Wealth Management in 2025. I hold a degree from the University of Alberta and am a member of the Toronto and Calgary Societies of Financial Analysts.
Lilly Tzvetkova

CFA

Senior Portfolio Manager

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

“Life is a magical journey—enjoy the ride!”

My journey into finance wasn’t a straight line. Born and raised in Bulgaria, I began my career in computer science but quickly realized this wasn’t my passion. With a natural affinity for numbers, analytical thinking, and psychology, finance felt like a good fit. After moving to Canada, I enrolled in the Kenneth Woods Portfolio Management Program at Concordia University, where I gained hands-on experience in investing and portfolio management. And I was hooked.

Investing can be challenging—and that’s exactly why I love it. It involves a lot of reading, a lot of thinking and a mastery of decision making. Paying the right price for great businesses can mean exceptional returns in the long run but beware of your emotions and behavioral biases and have a solid process in place. After all, investing is as much a science as it is an art.

More than 15 years have passed since I have embarked on my career journey. I spent most of them in Capital Markets and Investment Management, and half of those managing U.S. equity portfolios. In that time, I’ve also earned degrees in Computer Science and Commerce, obtained the CFA designation, put countless hours into company research, shared insightful conversations with management teams, learned from some of the world’s best investors and became a mom. Each experience has left its mark and shaped who I am today as an investor and as a person.
Malcolm Jones

CFA, MBA

Senior Portfolio Manager, Fixed Income

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

“I’m intrigued by watching the world, and seeing the gears and pulleys interact. I enjoy using these insights to help people achieve their financial goals.”

I was inspired to pursue a career in wealth management while doing the Queen’s Business Competition during my undergraduate degree. In our case study, we assessed investment options available to a family that owned a successful business, which no one in the family wanted to take over on the death of its founder (the father). I was moved by his widow’s plight (she needed near and long-term financial advice) and felt that working with people like her would be a rewarding career for me.

Having taken this decision, I dove headlong into the fascinating world of financial research and all that data swirling around. Every day is different when it comes to research, and I was drawn to distilling the data, seeing how data points interact, and then making informed forecasts to help people achieve their financial goals.

At National Bank Financial Wealth Management (NBF), we take a team-based and long-term approach to our research. Everyone brings something to the table, and with our egos firmly checked at the door, we make decisions with the clients in mind. I create fixed income investment strategies that are secure and enduring, with the goal of increasing profits to make asset growth and protection possible. Together with my colleagues, we execute the firm’s strategy of focusing on risks and rewards, distilling the wheat from the chaff in the deluge of daily headlines and topical investment trends.

I cut my teeth at TELUS, working in their Pension Investment department. I then joined Adroit Investment Management in 2005, which was later acquired by CWB and then National Bank. I hold a B.Comm and an MBA from the University of Alberta, as well as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.
Gil Lamothe

CFA

Senior Portfolio Manager

Location: Toronto, Ontario

“Successful investing requires a long-term plan, and the discipline to stay the course.”

My foray into finance began as a self study pursuit. While working on a diploma in Mineral Exploration Technology, I spent my summers in remote work camps where I engaged in books on investing and stock analysis to occupy my mind and satisfy my interest. That ultimately led to an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree and a job in the city, trading deer fly infested marshes for air-conditioned offices.

Initially, I held roles as an investment systems consultant, equity analyst and money market trader at several firms, arriving at Industrial Alliance (iA) in 1999. In 2001, I began co-managing a Canadian equity portfolio at iA, and later assumed responsibility for their Canadian Dividend portfolios. I kept that role until 2019 when I joined Leon Frazer & Associates (LFA), one of Canada’s first investment counselling firms. After Canadian Western Bank acquired LFA in 2020, I continued in my role as Head of Canadian Equities until that firm transitioned to National Bank. Today, I remain as Senior Portfolio Manager, providing strategy alongside National Bank Financial’s in-house investment research team.

Our clients’ unique goals inform the types of investments we make for them, and the ways in which we invest their savings to balance risks with rewards. I enjoy sharing our investment insights and my 35 years of industry experience with our clients, by writing on market performance in our quarterly investment commentary.

My educational background includes a diploma in Mineral Exploration Technology from Sir Sandford Fleming College, and an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from Laurentian University. I also hold the Charter Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation.