Robert Van Alphen, CFP®, CIM®
I’ve spent years helping individuals and families in the Okanagan build financial clarity and confidence. My approach is simple: listen first, plan carefully, and guide clients with honesty and transparency.
I believe great financial advice is built on trust — and trust is built on relationships. That’s why I take the time to understand what matters most to you, your family, and your future.
When I’m not working with clients, you’ll find me enjoying everything the Okanagan has to offer — from the lakes and trails to the incredible local community.
Felicia Cartier
Felicia is the cornerstone of the Van Alphen Advisory Team, always ready to provide exceptional support. With years of experience, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure clients are well taken care of.
James Amarelo
Financial Planning Specialist
James joined the financial services industry in 2003 and has held various positions in wealth management and retail banking. In 2010, he acquired his Certified Financial Planner designation (CFP) for the reason that he is passionate about promoting financial literacy and ensuring that clients are on track through various stages of life. Originally from Toronto, he moved to Victoria 10 years ago and has made this his home.
James is quite active in the community and in his personal life. He was the Head Coach of the Victoria Special Olympics Curling team and lead them to the Canadian National Games in 2020. He enjoys spending time with his wife (Michelle) and their toddler (Annabelle) and has an active lifestyle in various types of sports.
Aaron McEwen
Estate Planning Specialist
Aaron’s passion and belief in holistic financial planning drives his purpose to build deep client relationships. Utilizing a team that’s entirely focused on family planning, helps guide him to finding the right solutions. Aaron believes in a client-first approach and loves solving complex personal and corporate estate planning issues. He gives his time generously to family planning, focusing on what matters most.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys golfing with his wife Chelsey, and riding his motorcycle throughout British Columbia.
Brian Einarson, B.Comm., CFP, RRC
Senior Trust and Estate Consultant
Brian believes that a key component of any wealth management plan is an estate plan that protects our clients’ assets, preserves their legacy and ensures their estate is distributed efficiently. Brian has been in the financial services industry since 2000. He started his career with a major investment firm and joined CIBC in Victoria, BC in 2006. Since then he has been honing his skills in financial and estate planning. Brian provides clients with a personalized approach to Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Trust services. When it comes to estate planning, every family presents a unique set of circumstances and Brian helps clients establish a plan that is custom tailored to suit their distinct needs.
Anne Leistner, CIM, CFP, RRC, B.B.A.
Senior Private Banking Advisor
As a Senior Private Banking Advisor, Anne believes in the importance of understanding her clients’ values, dreams and goals and providing them with the financial stewardship to help realize them.
Anne and her associate work closely with colleagues from across the CIBC Group of Companies to provide answers to their clients’ immediate questions but also provide recommendations on how to best position their financial resources for the future.
Anne's clients greatly value this level of highly personalized attention and service.
Anne's been with CIBC since 2006 and is fluent in German.
James Amarelo
James joined the financial services industry in 2003 and has held various positions in wealth management and retail banking. In 2010, he acquired his Certified Financial Planner designation (CFP) for the reason that he is passionate about promoting financial literacy and ensuring that clients are on track through various stages of life. Originally from Toronto, he moved to Victoria 10 years ago and has made this his home.
James is quite active in the community and in his personal life. He was the Head Coach of the Victoria Special Olympics Curling team and lead them to the Canadian National Games in 2020. He enjoys spending time with his wife (Michelle) and their toddler (Annabelle) and has an active lifestyle in various types of sports.
Aaron McEwen
Aaron’s passion and belief in holistic financial planning drives his purpose to build deep client relationships. Utilizing a team that’s entirely focused on family planning, helps guide him to finding the right solutions. Aaron believes in a client-first approach and loves solving complex personal and corporate estate planning issues. He gives his time generously to family planning, focusing on what matters most.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys golfing with his wife Chelsey, and riding his motorcycle throughout British Columbia.
Brian Einarson, B.Comm., CFP, RRC
Brian believes that a key component of any wealth management plan is an estate plan that protects our clients’ assets, preserves their legacy and ensures their estate is distributed efficiently. Brian has been in the financial services industry since 2000. He started his career with a major investment firm and joined CIBC in Victoria, BC in 2006. Since then he has been honing his skills in financial and estate planning. Brian provides clients with a personalized approach to Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Trust services. When it comes to estate planning, every family presents a unique set of circumstances and Brian helps clients establish a plan that is custom tailored to suit their distinct needs.
Anne Leistner, CIM, CFP, RRC, B.B.A.
As a Senior Private Banking Advisor, Anne believes in the importance of understanding her clients’ values, dreams and goals and providing them with the financial stewardship to help realize them.
Anne and her associate work closely with colleagues from across the CIBC Group of Companies to provide answers to their clients’ immediate questions but also provide recommendations on how to best position their financial resources for the future.
Anne's clients greatly value this level of highly personalized attention and service.
Anne's been with CIBC since 2006 and is fluent in German.