FORT GROUP CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants
Aaron was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba and earned his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in April of 2005 from the University of Manitoba, majoring in Accounting and Finance.
In July of 2007, Aaron became a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants by receiving his Chartered Accountant (CA) designation, placing on the national honor roll.
Aaron joined Fort Group in January of 2008 and was made a partner in 2014. In addition to his work at Fort Group, Aaron is a board member and advisor to a leading Manitoba kitchen and bath manufacturer and solutions provider.
As a partner, Aaron primarily services small business clients in advisory and taxation across various business sectors including but not limited to manufacturing, construction, real estate, consulting and professional services. Aaron also services not-for-profits and First Nations in assurance, taxation and advisory. He has furthered his technical tax knowledge by completing the CICA Income Tax Practice Course and completing the CICA In-Depth Tax Course.
In 2014, Aaron was a recipient of the Early Achievement Award from The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Manitoba (now CPA Manitoba), honoring his significant career achievements within the first 10 years of achieving his CA designation.
Aaron gives and has given generously of his time and talents as a volunteer to many not-for-profit organizations, including Camp Nutimik, Rowandale Baptist Church and Springfield Heights Nursery School in various financial board roles.
When he is not in the office, Aaron enjoys spending time with his wife, Laura and their three boys. They are avid sports fans and attend Jets, Moose and Bomber games. Much of their summer is spent at Pinawa Lake sunbathing on the beach, cruising around in the boat or wakeboarding. In the winter, he prefers to be somewhere hot and tropical. Aaron's family is very involved in the life of their church. His idea of a good time is getting together with friends, cracking open a craft beer and playing board games.
Alex was born and raised in Winnipeg and currently lives in River East with her partner, Marc. After attending Red River College Polytechnic and completing the Business Administration diploma program, Alex went on to finish her Bachelor of Business Administration at the University of Winnipeg and is now pursuing her designation as a Chartered Professional Accountant. In her free time, Alex enjoys playing volleyball, cooking, walking through the Bunn's Creek trails, or curling up on the couch with one of her three cats.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Staff Member
- Executive Assistant
Alyssa was born and raised here in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and has graduated from the Administrative Assistant program at Red River College. Alyssa has over 15 years of customer service experience, as well as three years as an Administrative Assistant working in insurance and accounting. Alyssa loves spending time outdoors, whether it be camping and fishing with her family and friends, or just riding around town on her electric scooter with her husband.
Anastasiya was born and raised in Ukraine. She moved to Winnipeg in 2011. She graduated from the University of Winnipeg in 2020 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, majoring in accounting. Anastasiya successfully passed the September 2023 CFE. She enjoys long walks in the park with her dog and is passionate about travelling and gaining new experiences.
Ariana was born and raised in Manitoba and attended the Asper School of Business. She graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting. She joined Fort Group after graduating and plans on pursuing her Chartered Professional Accountant designation. In her free time, Ariana enjoys baking, watching movies, and cheering on her favourite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.
Brad Klassen adds decades of experience, and sophisticated tax knowledge in both consulting and tax preparation to Fort Group. He earned his CA designation in 1988, completed CPA Canada's In-Depth Tax program in 1991 and has been continuously serving clients and providing tax advice to both private business and not-for-profits on both a local and global scale.
Joining the company as a partner in 2021, after 27 years at a major Canadian accounting firm, Brad has taught tax courses for CPA Manitoba, has served as a tutor for the national In-Depth Tax program and continues to lead development courses for CPA Manitoba in taxation.
Throughout his career Brad has primarily serviced small to medium-sized businesses across all industries, and specializes in structuring transactions in a tax-effective manner including: mergers and acquisitions, estate planning, and reorganizations.
Known for his dedication to volunteering in his community, Brad currently serves as secretary-treasurer of the Executive Committee, and chair of the Finance and Stewardship Committee for Concordia Hospital. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Concordia Wellness Projects Inc. In the past, has also volunteered with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, McIvor Avenue Mennonite Brethren, and House Blend Ministries.
Brad laces up his running shoes and brings an extra measure of competitive spirit to Fort Group, (not that we needed any more). As someone who enjoys competing in triathlons, Brad can surely hold his own with the other partners who merely run marathons.
A family man, Brad loves to spend time with his wife, Cheryl, their three adult children (and their spouses) and his 6 active grandchildren. He enjoys travelling overseas and all over North America. Some of his favourite destinations have been France, England, Italy, Australia, Arizona and New York, and hopes to soon visit New Zealand, Australia (again), Virginia, and try a European river cruise.
Bradley joined Fort Group Chartered Professional Accountants in 2017 and became a partner in January 2019. At Fort Group, Bradley provides extensive experience in assurance engagements and specializes in this area. Bradley also provides consulting services in areas such as accounting, process improvement and other areas. Bradley prides himself in clear and timely communications in all engagements he leads. Bradley is also the Director of HR and leads this function for the firm.
Bradley is actively involved in the profession and leads professional development courses for CPA Manitoba including the authoring of assurance related course materials.
Prior to Fort Group, Bradley worked with the office of the Auditor General of Manitoba (OAG) for 15 years. As well, Bradley was an experienced facilitator, session leader, exam reviewer, and author with the CPA Western School of Business (formally CASB) and CPA Canada, where he worked in this capacity for over 10 years. Bradley has volunteered his time to mentor many aspiring CPA/CA candidates throughout his career and helps lead candidate support at Fort Group.
In 2016, Bradley was awarded an Early Achievement Award by CPA of Manitoba honouring his career achievements. In 2017, Bradley was awarded the Kouri Berezan Heinrichs award for his work with the CPA Western School of Business.
Bradley was a University of Manitoba Bison track and field member from 2001 to 2004 and was a local competitive runner for many years. Bradley placed in the top three in six consecutive years at the Manitoba Marathon (2011-2016), culminating in finishing 1st in the 2016 Manitoba Marathon. Bradley also has a passion for automotive racing and has travelled to many NASCAR races throughout the US with his family.
Bradley is married to a dance and school teacher, Randi, with whom he has three children. Their family enjoys spending time together racing at Manitoba Karting Association events, preparing for the next dance recital, and travelling!
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Brett graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science from the Department of Computer Science in 2003. After nearly two decades in the IT sector, Brett decided to continue his personal education and sought a CPA designation in his spare time - he successfully passed the CFE in 2022 and is excited to be involved with Fort Group moving forward.
Brian was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is a graduate of River East Collegiate (2000) and earned his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Degree from the University of Manitoba in 2005. In November, 2007, Brian became a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants by receiving his Chartered Accountant (CA) designation.
As a student, Brian articled with a local Winnipeg accounting firm where he serviced many private companies and not-for-profit organizations. Brian has been employed by Fort Group since January 2008 and became a partner in 2014.
Brian primarily services small business clients in advisory and taxation, as well First Nations in assurance. Some of the private client industries he works with include medical corporations, law corporations, trades and construction, transportation and real estate. He is also well studied in U.S. tax. Brian has furthered his technical tax knowledge by completing the CICA Income Tax Practice Course in November of 2010 and completing the CICA In-Depth Tax Course in the fall of 2015. He is also an active board member of the Manitoba Athletics Association.
Brian gives generously of his time and talents as a volunteer to many not-for-profit organizations in the community and is particularly involved serving Athletics Manitoba as a member of the Board of Directors and as Treasurer.
In his spare time, Brian spends quality time with his wife, Darolyn and their three small children. They love to spend time outdoors, bike riding, skating and playing at the park. They are excited to spend many summers at their Lake Winnipeg cottage. Brian is an elite runner and placed first in the Manitoba Marathon in 2014 and first in the Half Marathon twice (2007, 2011). He usually leaves work in track pants and can be seen running around East Kildonan and North Kildonan with Bradley Keefe.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Staff Member
- Junior Administrator
Bronwen was born and raised in Winnipeg and joined Fort Group in 2024. She graduated high school from College Louis Riel, holds a Master of Music from the University of Manitoba, and a Master of Philosophy from Yale University. In her spare time, Bronwen enjoys spending time with her son, playing word and logic games, and listening to music on long walks.
Candice was born in China and moved to Winnipeg in 2013. She attended the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting and Finance. Candice is currently pursuing her designation as a chartered professional accountant. In her spare time, Candice enjoys traveling and trying new foods.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Staff Member
- HR & Operations Manager
Carly was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She brings over a decade of experience in an office environment including holding roles in bookkeeping, administrative assistance, and office management. She also has vast experience in customer service in addition to her formal education from the University of Winnipeg majoring in Criminal Justice. Outside of work, Carly likes spending time with her friends and family, walks with her dogs, and is a passionate yoga student and teacher.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Staff Member
- Receptionist and Client Service Administrator
Catherine was born and raised here in Winnipeg. Catherine comes to Fort Group with over 20 years of customer relations experience in various professions, including healthcare, credit counselling, and the airline industry.
Outside of work, Catherine enjoys time spent with her 3 kids and pup. Hiking and travelling with her husband, or spending time with family and friends.
Job Titles:
- Administrative Staff Member
- Executive Assistant
Chantal graduated from l'Universite de Saint-Boniface in 2010 with a diploma in Business Administration. She has since worked in various administrative roles within the accounting industry before starting with Fort Group in 2021.
Darryl is a native of Winnipeg, Manitoba. In May of 2004, he received his Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Manitoba, and became a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants in 2009, earning a Chartered Accountant designation. Darryl joined Fort Group in 2003 and became a partner in 2020.
As a partner, Darryl primarily services Canadian small and medium-sized owner managed clients and U.S. tax clients. Some of the private client industries he works in include professionals, trades and construction, and real estate. For U.S. tax clients his main focus is on individuals with both U.S. and Canadian tax filing obligations. Darryl has extensive experience advising upon Canadian/U.S. cross-border tax matters and related filing requirements.
Darryl volunteers and has volunteered in various capacities with St. John's Presbyterian and the Presbytery of Winnipeg.
Away from the office Darryl spends time with family near Clear Lake. He is a games and puzzles enthusiast. In particular, he enjoys playing board games with friends while partaking of some quality scotch.
Derek's goal is to help create an organization that makes Winnipeg a better, more inclusive place to live while gaining important life experience to grow both as an accountant, and as a moral member of the community. He graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2015 with a Bachelor of Commerce with a focus in Accounting and Supply Chain Management. In addition to obtaining his CPA designation in 2019, he has accounting experience in the food industry and in public practice. Outside the office you can find Derek at every heavy metal show in Winnipeg, haunting the stacks at the local book or record store, or trying for a new deadlift PB at the gym.
Edwin was born and raised in Cartagena, Colombia. He completed a bachelor's in accounting at Polytechnic Colombian Jaime Isaza Cadavid. He moved to Canada in December of 2021 and has gained experience as a general and senior accountant in Canada. He worked with H&R Block as a tax professional in the 2022 tax season before joining Fort Group. Edwin is in the final assessment to enroll in the CPA program. When he is not working, he enjoys traveling with his family and playing sports.
Griffin was born and raised in Winnipeg. He graduated from the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba, with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in Accounting. Griffin then spent two years at a national firm before joining Fort Group in 2020, obtaining his CPA designation in 2021. Outside of work, Griffin enjoys traveling, playing a variety of sports, and spending time with family and friends.
Jaspreet was born and raised in India and moved to Canada in 2015. She has recently completed her Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Winnipeg. She is currently pursuing her designation as a Chartered Professional Accountant. Outside of work, she enjoys spending her time with her family and loves to explore different places every summer.
Jena started working as an Administrative Assistant in 2018 before starting at Fort Group in 2023. When Jena is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, 2 rescue pups, family, and friends. Her favourite activities include camping, board games, soccer, and golf.
Jennifer was born and raised in Winkler, Manitoba, and has called Winnipeg home since graduating from University of Manitoba in 2009. In 2012, she received her CA designation. She joined Fort Group in May 2019.
Joel was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He has completed over two years of education at the Asper School of Business, hoping to later graduate with a major in Accounting. He is currently enrolled in a co-op program working program at Asper to further develop his workplace skills. Out of the office, Joel spends time with his family and practices long-distance runs outdoors.
Josh was born and raised in Winnipeg. He graduated from Red River College with a Diploma in Business Administration, majoring in administration. He then went on to the University of Winnipeg where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in accounting. Josh is working towards earning his CPA designation. In his spare time Josh enjoys cooking, many things computer-related, playing online games and spending time with friends and family.
Kevin was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and grew up in North Kildonan. He earned his Bachelor of Physical Education Degree from the University of Manitoba in 1999 and his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Degree from the University of Manitoba in 2002. In October 2004, Kevin became a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada by receiving his Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) designation.
Kevin became a partner at Fort Group in 2015. He has 18 years of combined experience in both public accounting and industry, where he serviced private companies and not-for-profit organizations of all sizes. In 2011, Kevin completed the CICA In-Depth Tax Course to compliment his assurance and business advisory skills. Kevin has developed an exceptional toolkit to service all of the needs of small and medium sized owner-managed entities and not-for-profit organizations, and strives to provide the best service possible to all of his clients.
Kevin gives generously of his time and talents as a volunteer to many not-for-profit organizations in the community and is currently the Treasurer of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund and Covenant Christian Reformed Church.
At home Kevin finds his time filled by wrangling and wrestling his four energetic young children with his beautiful wife, Christy. With so many school and extracurricular events to attend, there is little time for much else, but Kevin finds time to enjoy watching his son's hockey team and his daughters' ringette games. Kevin, with Christy, enjoys travelling internationally, and warmly remembers trips to Murren, Switzerland and to Holland.
Kevina graduated from the Asper School of Business with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing and Human Resources. She has 10+ years of experience as an Executive Assistant in the telecom, manufacturing, and financial services industries, including 5+ years of experience with C-Suite executives and corporate event planning. She loves spending time with her two young kids and husband, and loves travelling!
Kyewan was born and raised in South Korea and completed her Bachelor of Public Administration degree from Korea University. After graduation, she embarked on a career in sales management and analysis, working in both the medical industry and an art auction company. In 2016, Kyewan and her family relocated to Winnipeg. With the move, she decided to pursue a CPA designation and is currently working towards achieving it. Outside of her work and studies, Kyewan values quality time with her husband and three children. She also enjoys gardening and tending to plants.
Lauren comes to Fort Group bringing 16 years experience as a medical administrator, and is thrilled to be working so close to the area of the city that she grew up in. When she is not learning about auditing and taxation she can be found baking, practicing yoga, or spending time with her dogs.
Mariangel was born in Caracas, Venezuela, where she graduated as a public accountant. She holds a postgraduate degree in Applied Leadership and Project Management from the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her professional journey includes experience in auditing and consulting. Outside of her professional life, she is an avid traveler with a passion for immersing herself in different cultures. This pursuit not only satisfies her curiosity but also contributes significantly to her personal growth.
Martyn was born and raised in Winnipeg. He recently graduated from the Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba, with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in Accounting. Martyn plans to further his education by pursuing the CPA designation while gaining experience at Fort Group. Outside of work, Martyn enjoys the outdoors, playing sports, and hanging out with friends.
Mikael was born and raised in Winnipeg. He graduated from Canadian Mennonite University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Music degree and minor in Mathematics. In recent years, he has spent time in the fields of music, politics, and finance, and is now pursuing a CPA designation while working at Fort Group. When he is not studying, Mikael may also be found playing piano, singing in a choir, or going to the gym.
Moe was born and raised in Winnipeg. After graduating from the University of Manitoba in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, he worked as an Environmental Engineer on various heavy construction projects in Manitoba. Since 2018, Moe has been pursuing a career in public accounting and has worked with small businesses and individuals all over Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. He is currently working toward earning his CPA designation. Outside of work, Moe plays saxophone in a local band and enjoys hiking, traveling and softball.
Qasim, originally from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, moved to Winnipeg in 2019 to study at the University of Manitoba. He graduated with a double major in Accounting and Management Information Systems. Qasim is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth, and excited about the opportunities ahead on his journey towards becoming a CPA. In his free time, he enjoys gaming, keeping up with technology, travelling, cars, and reading.
Nicole graduated from Red River College in 2021 with a Diploma in Business Administration, majoring in accounting. Over the years Nicole has gained experience working and assisting with her family business. She has experience and knowledge in both public and industry accounting. In her leisure time, she enjoys traveling, hiking, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing at the cabin with family and friends.
Owen was born and raised in Winkler, Manitoba. In 2022, he graduated with a business degree in accounting from Athabasca University. Owen is currently pursuing the CPA designation while gaining experience at Fort Group. Outisde of work, Owen enjoys spending time at the lake, staying active, and travelling.
Job Titles:
- Senior Accountant
- Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
Born and raised in India, Pavan became a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India in 2017 and the Institute of Company Secretaries of India in 2019, achieving All India Top Rank Holder status in both courses. He holds a master's degree in commerce and is currently pursuing the CFE Examination and Level III of the Chartered Financial Analyst program. Pavan has three years of experience in the Audit and Assurance Department of Deloitte and five years as a Finance Manager in the industry. Reading is his favourite thing in the world, whether it's academic, socio-cultural, or any other topic.
Ritten was born and raised in India and moved to Canada in 2021. She has completed a Bachelor of Commerce (Honors) and Master of Commerce in India. She has also completed a Bachelor of Education in India. She is currently pursuing a CPA designation. Ritten brings to Fort Group previous accounting and finance experience in the property management industry. In her spare time, she likes spending time with family, reading books, and exploring her creative side by trying different art skills.
Rohit was born in India and moved to Canada in 2019. He graduated from the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia with a postgraduate diploma in Accounting. Now, Rohit is working toward becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant. In his free time, Rohit loves to travel and spend time with his family and friends.
Sunil Reddy, originally from India, completed his bachelor's degree in commerce. Presently, he works as a Staff Accountant and is actively working towards achieving the CPA designation. Apart from his professional endeavors, he dedicates his weekends to playing cricket.
Varun was born and raised in India and in 2018, moved to Canada. He started his education at the Asper School of Business pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours). He gained accounting skills and knowledge working at his part-time jobs while also operating his family business simultaneously. At Fort Group, Varun hopes to gain experience in the accounting field and use his theoretical knowledge in practice. Outside of studies and work, Varun enjoys watching Netflix and exploring restaurants in a hunt for delicious food. He also enjoys exploring different parts of Manitoba to take in its scenic views.