IMPACT FINANCIAL GROUP - Key Persons


Brenda Kosakowski

Job Titles:
  • Advisor
  • Associate
Brenda brings her strong customer service background from previous roles at RBC and the retail sector. Her strengths are sitting with individuals, mapping out their short-term goals, and putting the protection in place to extend that map into a long-term plan. Brenda is committed to building professional relationships with her clients and providing the appropriate advice that suits the individual client as well as their families. She is a long- term resident of Grimsby, Ontario, where she raised her two daughters. Her strong commitment to her family, community and her volunteer efforts show the compassion she carries forward to working with new and established clients.

Jim Slaven - Founder, Managing Director

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • Managing Director
Jim's unique approach to financial planning has deep roots in his thirty years of experience in owning and operating small to medium size businesses. His past success facilitated a smooth transition into his current role in wealth management. Client endorsements say Jim is a results-oriented and detailed advisor providing a high quality of service. Jim focuses on short and long term planning, portfolio management, capital investments, acquisitions, group benefits, insurance needs and staffing. He offers personalized financial solutions with a sensible approach to wealth accumulation, retention and distribution. These solutions will inevitably involve structured investment plans, wealth protection mandates, tax implications, philanthropic giving components and effective succession concepts and estate planning. Jim has an appreciation that business owners have a different challenge in positioning revenues which will enhance and protect their assets. Whether you are a family planning for the future, or a business owner needing to grow and protect your interest, Jim and his team firmly believe in "PLANNING TODAY - IMPACTING TOMORROW"

Kyle Cassidy

Job Titles:
  • Financial Security Advisor & Investment Representative
Born and raised in Niagara, Kyle spent much of his youth dedicated to pursuing excellence both in his educational studies and through various competitive sports including hockey, baseball and golf. A high level of performance in these areas earned him the opportunity to attend Queen's University where he obtained a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mathematics and Engineering while being a proud member of the Men's Varsity Hockey team. Following three years working in the Engineering field, mostly time spent in Western Canada, Kyle returned to school to complete his Master of Business Administration in Finance at McMaster University with the intent of transitioning into a career in financial services. Acting as a trusted advisor, he has chosen to focus his efforts on supporting motivated individuals, households and businesses with their long-term growth plans through a commitment to a disciplined and empathetic approach. Kyle welcomes the opportunity to work alongside his clients, engaging in partnership as they move through the various stages of life together. Passionate about learning new things he is continuously evolving to both meet his client's shifting expectations and to make a greater contribution to the communities in which he lives and serves. Now an avid golfer and curious traveller much of Kyle's spare time is spent enjoying outdoor activities and new experiences with friends and family. He also enjoys a good read (flick/puzzle) as well as staying current on global affairs and the world of professional sports. Kyle has access to a complete range of financial planning tools and can help design and implement a plan that best fits a client's unique set of needs.

Meghan MacPherson

Job Titles:
  • Associate Financial Planner & Investment Representative
As a Qualified Associate Financial Plannerâ„¢, Meghan is passionate about helping her clients find their path to financial security through a personalized approach. She strives to make an impact by providing personalized advice while educating her clients each step of the way so they can feel empowered to achieve their unique goals, whatever they may be. Meghan specializes in financial planning for young families and young professionals and is our in-house Group Insurance expert. She has worked in the financial services industry since 2013 holding positions in retail banking and the group insurance space in various capacities before becoming a personal financial planner. Her experience allows her to offer a unique perspective, for both individuals and business owners. She holds an MBA from McMaster University with a specialization in Accounting and Financial Management (2020), and a BA from Trent University in Business and Mathematics (2014). When away from the office, she enjoys golfing, hiking, being outdoors, and spending time with friends, family, and her dog, Benji. She is a member of Advocis and volunteers with Junior Achievement Canada teaching financial literacy to students and youth. Meghan works out of our office in St. Catharines, Ontario, but with the help of virtual meetings, she is happy to serve clients throughout Ontario and Alberta. Connect with Meghan today using one of the methods below, anytime.

Nadia Potter

Job Titles:
  • Financial Security Advisor & Investment Representative
Nadia started with Canada Life in 2019 with a goal to help people. A firm believer in a full financial plan, Nadia enjoys getting to know her clients and creating personalized plans to help them achieve their financial goals. The main driver for her business is operating with integrity, honesty and the clients needs in mind. People are her priority. Nadia has a Bachelor degree in psychology from Brock University as well as a graduate certificate in public relations from Niagara College. She also has extensive knowledge in tax preparation and filing. When not working, Nadia enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering with the Welland Humane society and playing golf.

Rob Long

Job Titles:
  • Senior Financial Planner
Rob started his career in the Financial Services industry with London Life in 1980, after graduating from the University of Waterloo. During his time with London Life, Rob has brought his strong background in Life Insurance, financial planning skills and his desire to help his clients. Working with business owners, individuals and families, he uses a Financial Planning Process to help his clients reach their financial security goals in every stage of life. Over the years Rob has been active in his community and the financial services industry as a volunteer. He is a member of Advocis (The Financial Advisors Association of Canada), and an Executive for the Greater Niagara Advocis Chapter. Rob is married to Christine and lives in Niagara Falls.

Ron Shirton - Managing Director

Job Titles:
  • Managing Director
Ron studied at Brock University and then became a partner in his family's retail store. After enjoying a successful 28 years in retail, Ron made a decision to transition to the financial services industry and joined Freedom 55 Financial in 2014. The retail industry honed Ron's customer service skills, he values each of his client relationships bringing the same passion and integrity to the financial services industry In November 2016, Ron had the privilege to join Impact Financial Group as a Managing Director. Through collaboration with the Impact Financial Team, he has enthusiastically maintained a high level of service for his clients and relishes in providing meaningful advice to improve their financial well being. Ron is happily married to Jennifer for over 27 years and together they have 2 beautiful young adults. Ron is very active in his community and donates time to various organizations.

Ruba Alam - Managing Director

Job Titles:
  • Managing Director
  • Principal
As a Certified Financial Planner, Ruba specializes in full financial planning, investment portfolio design and intergenerational transfer of wealth. For the past decade he has served as a Director and Branch Manager for Freedom 55 Financial in Niagara, helping advisors build and grow their practices. Ruba has been invited as a keynote main platform speaker at various industry meetings. He works closely with product specialist partners to deliver optimal client experience and have a positive impact on their financial goals.