THE TARGETED STRATEGIES GROUP - Key Persons
Alana joined The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) as an account manager in May of 2021. She has Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Professional Accounting degrees, as well as a CPA certification. She has also completed the CPA Canada In-Depth Tax Program. Alana said her work history and education allowed her to gain relevant accounting and tax knowledge, including tax advisory and estate planning.
Alana said her work has always been client centred. She enjoys helping clients achieve their goals through communication and building relationships. She said the values that influence her at work are teamwork, integrity, and accountability. At TTSG, Alana is inspired by the innovative, evolving business and being able to contribute to and be a part of its future growth.
When she's not at work, Alana enjoys travelling, recreational volleyball, golf and snowboarding, and going for walks or runs with her dog.
Job Titles:
- Life License and Contract Specialist
Allison is a Life License and Contract Specialist with The Targeted Strategies Group who maintains life insurance licenses, contracts, and errors and omissions insurance for TTSG employees and entities. With experience in the insurance and financial industries, she has a depth of expertise in processing and maintaining contracts and licenses.
Prior to joining the team in 2023, Allison gained over 8 years of experience assisting financial and life insurance agents with processing life insurance, living benefits, segregated funds and GIC's. She also maintained life insurance licenses and contracts, and error and omissions insurance.
Allison is driven by the value of giving, paying it forward, and ensuring others are taken care of in time of need. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing board games, and quality time at the lake.
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor, Advanced Planning
Anna brings with her 25 years' of corporate travel and customer service experience. She is highly motivated, resourceful and detail oriented. She is responsible for all office procedures and uses her organizational skills to ensure smooth operations in a busy work environment.
Job Titles:
- Senior Account Service Representative
Anna Hartley brings almost 30 years of accounting experience to her role as account service representative at The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG). "My duties included administration, financing loans and applications, deal processing, tracking and settlements, accounts payable and receivable, bank recs and weekly and month end processing and reporting," she said. "Through this experience I have gained great attention to detail."
Anna joined TTSG in August of 2020 and likes being part of a forward thinking and growing company. "There are so many people from different business backgrounds and such a wealth of knowledge and expertise available to you," she said.
Anna emigrated to Canada from Ireland six years ago with her family and moved to Saskatoon without knowing anyone here. "We have made a new life for ourselves. I became a Canadian citizen in January of 2020," said Anna.
When she's not working, Anna enjoys watching her son and daughter play soccer, or playing on her own co-ed soccer team. "We're a really big soccer family," she said. "I grew up watching the Liverpool Football Club with my family. It's something we all shared together. It's a game of great skill, pride, and passion."
Blair joined The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) working as a controller with the finance team. He will be preparing financial statements and reports and providing value added insight. Blair has a Master of Professional Accounting degree (MPAcc) and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA).
He worked previously as a tax specialist at Deloitte and was the CFO of the Crossmount Group of Companies for the past six years. Blair also works as a mixed martial arts (MMA) coach, which he has been doing for over 15 years. Teamwork is very important to Blair, whether in a sport or at work. He explained that in both, high performing teams come prepared with a plan and each person needs to execute their part of the plan. Next comes a debrief, time for adjustments, and continual growth and performance.
Blair said he is inspired by seeing the people who work at TTSG and he is excited to learn as much as he can from them. As well, he said the company has aggressive but achievable growth objectives that are going to be an exciting challenge.
Job Titles:
- Executive Assistant, Operations
Brandi joined The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) as a C-suite executive assistant in the fall of 2021. Brandi's administration experience at Canadian Natural Resources, paired with her experience as an accounting technician with SVF in Estevan, SK, has given her the knowledge and skill to thrive as an executive assistant. Her attention to detail, people focused personality and drive to create efficiencies within an office has made her an excellent addition to TTSG.
Brandon is working towards his CPA designation, and holds a Bachelors of Commerce with Great Distinction in Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan. Prior to joining the team, he has several years of experience in public accounting working in financial reporting, taxation and assurance services.
Brennen holds a Bachelor of Commerce with Great Distinction in Finance from the University of Saskatchewan and is a CFA® Charterholder. Prior to joining the TTSG team, he helped manage and operate a business in the agriculture industry. He gained valuable insight into sales, customer relationships, marketing, and small businesses.
Cameron holds a Bachelor of Commerce with Distinction in Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan. He has also completed the Master of Professional Accounting Program at Edwards School of Business. Cameron earned his Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) designation working for an internationally renowned accounting firm specializing in assurance services for a wide variety of clients.
Job Titles:
- Account Service Representative
- Credit Analyst
Chelsea has been with The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) since September of 2018 as legal counsel. In this role she drafts and reviews contracts, provides legal advice and general corporate legal support.
In addition to her law degree, Chelsea has a Bachelor of Science degree in applied microbiology, which gives her a unique perspective. "My science undergraduate degree helps me to think analytically and gives me a different perspective than others might have," she said. When she's not at work, Chelsea enjoys reading, listening to music, cooking, and walking trails.
Chris, an accomplished Account Manager at TTSG, leverages his diverse professional background to facilitate impactful strategies for clients, helping them in saving money and planning for the future through life insurance. With a Bachelor of Education degree from the U of S and a CPA designation, he brings a unique skill set to the table. His typical day involves client meetings to discuss policy year plans, consultations with banks to reduce costs, and data compilation for financial planning.
Drawing on a rich background that includes a role as a Senior Accountant in the agriculture sector at MNP and nine years dedicated to teaching and career counseling, Chris has accumulated a wealth of experience. His commitment to excellence shines through in the meaningful moments he helps create and cherishes, especially when clients express gratitude for the transformative service provided by TTSG. This dedication extends beyond the professional realm, shaping both his behavior at work and in his personal life, where Chris continues to embody the values of hard work and effective communication.
At TTSG, Chris draws inspiration from the dual impact of helping clients solve problems and build wealth. His career goals within the organization include continuous learning and providing the best possible service to clients, with success defined by his ability to contribute to clients' goal achievements, reinforcing his commitment to making a positive impact. Outside the corporate arena, Chris finds solace in various activities such as hockey, golf, running, biking, camping, hiking, and spending quality time with his family and dog.
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor, Advanced Planning
Chris obtained his Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation and holds a Bachelors of Commerce in Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan. Chris has also completed all three levels of the CPA In-depth Tax Program. Prior to joining TTSG, he gained experience at Saskatchewan's largest independent accounting firm working in financial reporting, taxation and assurance services. Chris is very committed to delivering services that meet each client's unique objectives.
Dan is an Account manager at the Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG). He earned his degree in business administration, specializing in accounting at Wilfrid Laurier University. Dan previously worked as a manager at KPMG in the US and cross border tax services group, where he also obtained his CPA, CA. Dan says having a tax background helps to understand TTSG's structures and benefits. He says his experience regularly communicating with clients and explaining unfamiliar topics is of great value with his role at TTSG.
Success for Dan is being proud of what you have done, and being content with your state of being. When he's not working, Dan enjoys golfing and following sports. He says golf is his favourite activity because it's a great way to get outside and he loves the idea of always trying to improve your own score.
Daniel graduated from the University of Saskatchewan and holds a Bachelor of Commerce Degree with Distinction in Finance. He played for the University of Saskatchewan Huskie basketball team and was a two-time Academic All-Canadian.
Dean holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan as well as a CPA designation. Prior to joining the team, Dean held the Assistant Controller and then Controller positions at an industrial distributor where he had responsibility for month-end, internal controls, external audits as well as a couple of ERP conversions. Previous to that Dean was the Controller for a family owned manufacturing business.
Dustin is an IT Systems Administrator at TTSG where he ensures the continuous operation of our organization while delivering outstanding IT services. Prior to joining TTSG, Dustin served as an IT Consultant for three ½ years and gained further expertise during a 2-year period as an IT Systems Administrator. In this role he provided support to a network spanning eight hundred users and forty dealerships across Canada.
Job Titles:
- Underwriting Administrator With
Edin is an Underwriting Administrator with The Targeted Strategies Group. In this role, he is responsible for administering the underwriting process, from preparing application and delivery packages to ensuring compliance while organizing and updating our systems. He works closely with the rest of the Operations team to provide exceptional service to TTSG clients.
Prior to his role at TTSG, Edin held positions that facilitated his dedication to personal growth, diligence, and expertise in areas such as compliance, documentation, and administrative support. Edin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and continues his education related to business to further his knowledge and skills.
Outside of work, he values quality time spent with his wife and two daughters. In those rare moments of spare time, he immerses himself in his creative passion for crafting dioramas, as well as building intricate aircraft and armour models of the WW2 era.
Job Titles:
- Director of Enterprise Accounting
Elena is the Director of Enterprise Accounting at The Targeted Strategies Group, bringing over 25 years of experience in diverse industry and public practice firms. With expertise in taxation and strategic planning, she provides comprehensive financial oversight for non-core entities.
Elena brings a diverse background to her role having formerly served as a director in both the high-net-worth family office and accounting sectors bringing expertise in consultancy, financial statement proficiency, and a proven ability to optimize performance. Her extensive professional journey also encompasses roles as a teacher specializing in foreign languages and as a university instructor teaching Accounting. Accredited as CPA, CGA, and holding an M.Ed., Elena exemplifies a commitment to financial excellence. She values creativity, self-improvement, and integrity as core principles.
Job Titles:
- Account Service Representative
With a robust background in accounting and tax, James brings over 9 years of experience managing high net worth private client files. James' career began in a unique realm as a professional athlete with the Detroit Tigers and Cincinnati Reds, where he honed leadership and teamwork skills. James holds CPA and CPA (IL) accreditations, emphasising his commitment to excellence and setting an example for his children.
In his previous role, James specialized in personal and business cross-border tax situations, assisting clients in navigating complex tax landscapes.
Outside of work, James enjoys golf, gym activities, reading a new book every month, and volunteering on the Board of Directors at Riverside Country Club.
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor, Advanced Planning
Jason Gill is an experienced professional specializing in private business restructuring, estate preservation for high net-worth clients, and due diligence in cross-border and domestic mergers and acquisitions. Possessing a strong technical foundation, Jason holds a CPA with a focus on Canadian tax and has successfully completed all three levels of the In-depth taxation course. His communication prowess, refined through teaching at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, emphasizes his ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.
In his previous role as Senior Total Wealth Planner at Scotia Wealth Management, Jason demonstrated excellence in delivering client financial plans and implementing strategies aligned with specific goals. As a Tax Manager at Ernst & Young LLP and MNP LLP, he provided expert advice on tax structures, executed due diligence for acquisitions and divestitures, and specialized in crafting tailored estate plans for high net-worth individuals and businesses.
Driven by values such as family, respect, and cultivating strong relationships, Jason dedicates his leisure time to outdoor activities, family, and volunteer coaching for his local soccer club in the Fraser Valley. Jason has represented Team Canada at the World University Games in Serbia and China, coupled with his three-year captaincy of the UBC-Vancouver varsity soccer team.
Inspired by the prospect of positively impacting businesses and families at TTSG, Jason defines success as diligent work and leaving a positive impact on family, friends, and clients. Guided by the motto "Discipline and Consistency are key," he brings a wealth of experience, commitment, and leadership to his role.
Job Titles:
- Head
- Head of Strategic Client Credit
Jason Knight serves as Head of Strategic Client Credit. Since joining in 2023, Jason has elevated our financing options by enabling us to focus on more providers, unique product options, and faster financing, even in the most complex of cases. Under Jason's leadership, we've built a team of experts who navigate lender processes and guidelines to secure the best results for our clients with the utmost efficiency. His industry knowledge and client focus have driven our innovation which ensure our clients feel understood and confident that their needs are prioritized.
Jason Knight is a financial professional with extensive experience in credit structures, private banking, and corporate banking. Prior to joining TTSG, Jason was the Director of Credit Structures at RBC Wealth Management, where he provided complex credit solutions and managed client relationships with high-net-worth families, driving significant loan growth and portfolio management. Jason's previous roles at HSBC and TD Wealth Management have honed his expertise in financial analysis, credit writing, and client service, making him a valuable asset in delivering tailored financial strategies.
Jason holds a Bachelor of Commerce, Honours, from the University of Guelph. He has completed the Investment Funds in Canada and Canadian Securities Course from the Canadian Securities Institute and is currently pursuing the Personal Financial Planner (PFP) designation.
Job Titles:
- Underwriting Administrator
Jenelle is an Underwriting Administrator at The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) and is responsible for administrating the underwriting process, which involves such tasks as preparing applications, delivering packages and ensuring compliance by organizing and updating our systems. She works closely with her Operations team colleagues to provide excellent service to our clients.
She brings years of experience working in fast paced, high stakes office environments and has held significant positions, including Dealer Relations Coordinator with a national company where she excelled in creating and managing local marketing initiatives, organizing auctions, and providing administrative support. Jenelle also served as a Sales Representative for several years, demonstrating exceptional skills in marketing, client relationship management, and CRM maintenance. With excellent communication and collaboration abilities, adaptability, multitasking skills, and a Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Jenelle brings valuable expertise to her role.
Jenelle is known for her strong commitment to integrity, kindness, and reliability in her work. Alongside her professional pursuits, she finds joy in baking and cherishes quality time with her family at the lake. Additionally, Jenelle is actively involved in building a small hobby farm, showcasing her passion for personal growth and fostering a fulfilling life outside of work. Her contributions are instrumental in driving the ongoing growth and achievements of TTSG.
Jenna is an account manager at the Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) with a background in accounting. She has BComm and MPAcc degrees from the University of Saskatchewan, as well as a CPA designation. From her prior position at a large, local accounting firm, Jenna gained experience in a wide variety of service areas, including personal and corporate taxes as well as assurance and financial reporting.
Jenna is driven by the values of integrity, professionalism, and enthusiasm. She defines success as finding fulfilment both professionally and personally: Helping clients find impactful solutions, while also spending time with loved ones and doing things she enjoys. She finds it inspiring to work collaboratively with a team at TTSG to best serve clients, and she says the best skills she brings to her job are a sense of teamwork, organization, and attention to detail.
Outside of work, Jenna enjoys spending time at her family cabin, trying new recipes and travelling.
Job Titles:
- Head of Technology and Data Solutions
Jessel Ackbarali is a dynamic professional with over 22 years navigating the ever-evolving world of Information Technology and Business Management. He holds a Diploma in Computer Technology, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and an MBA in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Known for his leadership and mentorship, Jessel is skilled at fostering strong, collaborative teams.
Beyond the corporate world, Jessel proudly serves on the Board of Directors for the Trinbago Association of Saskatchewan, supporting the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora, all while continuing to strum his guitar and ukulele with the wife and kids when the mood strikes, or dream about owning a cinema with a restaurant!
Job Titles:
- Executive
- in 2023 As President, COO
Jill Huls joined TTSG in 2023 as President, COO. Jill leads through empowerment, trusting her team to develop the best solutions and achieve thoughtful outcomes, while quickly identifying and addressing issues. Her calm demeanor strengthens relationships with the TTSG team, clients, and their advisors, and her financial industry insights elevate our Sales, Service, and Operations teams to look at challenges differently.
Jill Huls is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in financial leadership, operational management, and strategic planning. At Conexus Credit Union, she held key roles such as Vice President, Branch Manager, and Division Manager, where she led strategic initiatives, improved financial performance, and enhanced employee engagement. As the CEO of Thrive Wealth Management, Jill's focus on client outcomes drove significant growth in customer engagement scores and ultimately improved revenues and profit. Jill fostered a client-first and performance-oriented business culture, making her a highly respected industry leader.
Jill holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from the University of Saskatchewan and an Executive MBA from Royal Roads University. She is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and possesses extensive experience in investments and insurance. Her educational background emphasizes her commitment to excellence in financial planning and advisory services.
In addition to her formal education, Jill was a Member of the Advisory Committee to the Board of Aviso Wealth, where she provided guidance on delivering principles set out in the Member Experience Framework. Through to the end of 2023, Jill served the Financial Planning Standards of Canada via the Technology Task Force where she was instrumental in exploring the role of technologies and innovation in scaling financial planning services for Canadians.
Jill is an accomplished executive with a strong legal background, holding both an LL.B, and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta. As a forward-thinking leader, Jill brings over 15 years of experience, including roles as Chief Legal Officer at Aurora Cannabis Inc., and Partner at Brownlee LLP. Known for expertise in risk management, corporate governance, and compliance, she has a track record of steering organizations in highly regulated industries toward sustainable growth. Jill excels in building high-performing teams and fostering a results-driven culture, ensuring organizations meet strategic goals through robust legal and leadership strategies.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- Principal
- Principal, Chief Executive Officer of Targeted Strategies Group
John Durland is Principal, Chief Executive Officer of Targeted Strategies Group. John brings over 35 years of experience in financial strategy and risk management. He excels in helping clients navigate complex insurance solutions to protect and grow their wealth, ensuring TTSG remains a trusted partner in wealth preservation and legacy planning.
John collaborates closely with the President, COO and leadership team to drive the company's growth. John specializes in delivering value-driven strategies to business owners, professionals, and high-net-worth individuals, focusing on tailored insurance planning, cross-border financial solutions, and enhancing clients' overall health and quality of life. John Durland's unmatched drive and rapid flow of ideas keep the team continuously innovating. He tackles client problems head-on, often finding the best solutions with his team's support. His infectious energy engages clients and their advisors, collaboratively developing solutions. Clients benefit from John's advocacy and product placement, and if insurance isn't the answer, his knowledge guides them in the right direction. John shares his extensive knowledge and experience with his team, intentionally growing and empowering them to grow in their roles.
Prior to joining TTSG, John served as Vice President of International Tax Services and Regional Managing Partner of National Tax Services at MNP, where he developed practical international tax solutions for mid-market, privately held companies, as well as high-net-worth clients.
John earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and Economics from Dalhousie University. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in corporate finance, tax planning, and business succession strategies. His deep understanding of financial structures and risk mitigation facilitated his seamless transition to the life insurance industry.
Job Titles:
- Account Service Representative
Josh has worked for many large financial institutions and some of the largest publicly listed banks on the ASX. During this time he has implemented and developed front office financial market trading systems for retail equities and derivative products and been responsible for front office operations and client relations. Josh has a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Finance and Economics, while having completed Finance industry accreditations for retail advisory in equities and derivative products.
Job Titles:
- Senior Training Coordinator
Julie has held several roles since joining The Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) in 2006. Previously Julie was an account manager, and she has also been part of the service team. Most recently she has taken on the role of training co-ordinator. "I have had a few different jobs with TTSG which has helped me to gain knowledge of what and how different departments do things. That and the length of time I have worked here have helped me grow into the training co-ordinator role."
A seasoned professional in life insurance, tax, and holistic wealth planning, Kris brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role at TTSG. Kris is a CPA-CA, CFP, holds a Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc), and his TEP designation. His educational journey reflects his commitment to excellence and sets the stage for his impactful career.
Kris held different roles in his career collaborating with High Net Worth and Ultra High Net Worth clients, focusing on holistic financial plans emphasizing tax and estate planning, insurance strategies, and cash flow management. Kris developed comprehensive financial plans for mass affluent clients, with a significant emphasis on life insurance. Beyond professional success, Kris values doing what's best for clients, effective communication, ethical conduct, and being a positive force in others' lives.
Job Titles:
- Account Service Representative
Levi is an Account Service Representative with TTSG, where he actively supports the Account Managers in day-to-day servicing and implementation of clients. He collaborates with Client Solutions Managers, clients, and Client Advisors to gather and manage information required to move through the process of life insurance policy implementation.
Prior to joining TTSG, Levi spent two years as a professional hockey player for the Guildford Flames in the UK, where he cultivated teamwork and discipline skills. He transitioned from sports into a consultant role in sales and leasing, providing excellent customer service while helping clients attain their goals. Levi holds a degree in Business with a major in Management from the University of Saskatchewan and his values of integrity and honesty serve as guiding principles in both professional and personal pursuits.
Beyond his profession Levi is an avid sports enthusiast with a wide range of interests, including golf and hockey. He also enjoys time spent hanging out with family and friends and generously volunteers his time to organize an annual for the U of S men's hockey team.
Job Titles:
- Business Performance Manager
Before joining TTSG, Liam held CFO, controller, and corporate accountant positions. He has a track record of building respectful, enduring relationships and successfully managing changing demands and circumstances to produce positive outcomes. He holds an EMBA degree from the University of Fredericton, a BComm in Finance from the University of Calgary, and a BA in Political Studies from the University of Saskatchewan. Liam has a passion for connecting with people and utilizing numbers to inform decision-making.
Job Titles:
- Human Resources Administrator
Lina joined the Targeted Strategies Group (TTSG) as a Human Resources Administrator in January of 2022. She recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language Arts with a minor in Sociology.
Collaboration and respect are personal values of Lina's. She enjoys the opportunity to enable and support her team on many different levels. Lina defines success as embodying the traits which you sought out in a role model. When Lina isn't working, she enjoys reading, live music, trying new food, and helping around the community.
Lukas holds the position of Account Manager at The Targeted Strategies Group. With a proven track record in the field, he has held key advisory positions in renowned firms, including a 4-year tenure as an Advisor at ADVICO, focusing exclusively on corporate life insurance and tax planning for client files. Prior to that, Lukas served as an Advisor at Sun Life for 4 years, excelling in financial planning within the family market, offering valuable insights into insurance and investment advice.
Lukas brings a robust skill set to his role, with a profound understanding of insurance and corporate structures related to tax and estate planning. His educational background includes an Applied Bachelor of Commerce in International Business and Supply Chain Management, a Bachelor of Commerce in Sports Administration, and certifications as a Certified Health Specialist (CHS), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).
Driven by values such as prioritizing the client, transparency, and integrity, Lukas believes that adhering to these principles paves the way for long-term success in the industry. Beyond the professional realm, Lukas has a passion for animals and scuba diving, with other interests including watching sports, global travel, and quality time with family and friends.
Maria is a seasoned professional at TTSG, specializing in executive support. With extensive experience in schedule management, event planning, and project coordination, Maria ensures smooth and efficient operations. Driven by integrity, she consistently delivers impeccable work while maintaining strong moral standards and a commitment to kindness and fairness.
Maria holds a Bachelor's degree in Dentistry, a Diploma in Teaching and Training Adults, and a World Class Assistant certification. Outside of work, she enjoys volunteering, spending time with family and friends, learning new languages, and traveling. Her personal motto, "Always deliver a job well-done, and make sure to leave a piece of your heart in it," reflects her dedication to excellence and her heartfelt commitment to her career and those around her.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Mathew is an accomplished musician, playing guitar and writing music for his band, a successful puzzle solver, able to solve a Rubik's cube in less than a minute, and practices the fine skill of juggling . Defining success as achieving both long-term and short-term goals, he embodies a classic and positive approach to challenges with his personal motto: "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade". Mathew stands out as a valuable member of the TTSG team with a unique blend of analytical and creative expertise and talents.
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor, Advanced Planning
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor, Advanced Planning
Job Titles:
- Senior Advisor - Solutions
Myen Lim - COO, President
Job Titles:
- Chief Operating Officer
- President
Job Titles:
- Account Service Representative
- Credit Analyst
Job Titles:
- Director, Human Resources
Job Titles:
- Senior Account Service Representative
Job Titles:
- Senior Account Service Representative
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager, Sales Enablement
Job Titles:
- Senior Financial Administrator