Our People

Meet the teamOur financial experts have a wide range of specialities and skills. When you engage with any one of us, you’ll get the support of the entire team to deliver the expert advice, knowledge, structure and support you need to achieve great results.
Thoughtful financial planning conversation

Advice on your side

Our financial experts are salaried employees. They do not earn commission or have requirements to promote a specific product or provider. When you engage with any one of us, you’ll receive the support of the wider team, bringing together the advice, knowledge, structure and ongoing support you need.

The Sureplan team

Specialists across advice, lending, planning support and client care.
John Schell

John Schell

Managing Director · Financial AdviserAccredited trainer (INALPTA) · Estate and Taxation Planning Council NZFor over 20 years, John has been running organisations that assist people and businesses to achieve more. John’s role is to create an environment where the Sureplan team can effectively deliver advice, knowledge, structure and support to clients in a way that produces meaningful results.
Gareth Dormon

Gareth Dormon

Client Development ManagerOver the past 25-plus years, Gareth has helped thousands of couples and families clarify their goals and take positive steps toward achieving them. In his dual roles, he not only assists potential clients in understanding the benefits of consulting with a professional Financial Adviser but also provides ongoing support as a coach, helping clients stay on track with their plans.
Charlotte Paterson-Hawes

Charlotte Paterson-Hawes

Financial EducatorCharlotte is passionate about making financial education practical, engaging and accessible. She believes everyone can benefit from understanding how to manage their money, invest with confidence and make informed decisions for their future. Together with the team at Sureplan, Charlotte is committed to helping New Zealanders improve their financial wellbeing.
Mike Allen

Mike Allen

Senior Estate & Financial Adviser · Head of Financial and Estate PlanningMike’s role encompasses the strategic and advice portion of client wealth plans and the investment portion of their implementation. His favourite quote is: “Plan for the future because that’s where you are going to spend the rest of your life”.
Leila Griffiths

Leila Griffiths

Senior Financial Adviser and PlannerLeila brings over 20 years of extensive experience in investments and finance, encompassing both the commercial and residential sectors. Her vast expertise allows her to provide invaluable insights and guidance to her clients, aiming always to exceed their expectations and deliver exceptional results. Beyond her professional endeavours, Leila is deeply passionate about sailing, and more than a little competitive as a member of a racing crew.
Kerry Burridge

Kerry Burridge

Senior Financial Adviser and PlannerKerry is an experienced investor in property, businesses, and managed funds and greatly enjoys helping others to build wealth. As a former economist she has a deep understanding of the financial markets, and a special talent for making complex topics understandable.
Thilini Arachchige

Thilini Arachchige

Lending Operations ManagerThilini is a key member of the lending team where she gets real satisfaction assisting clients by exercising her considerable talent at putting together lending deals that really assist clients in achieving great lending outcomes.
Paulette Foster

Paulette Foster

Office and Compliance ManagerPaulette has over 15 years’ experience in risk and compliance. Since joining Sureplan, she is also enjoying the ability to meet clients and assist them on their financial journey.
David Buckleton

David Buckleton

Financial Adviser · Associate Financial PlannerDavid’s role encompasses both the preparation and implementation stages of the planning process. He has a special interest in budgeting success and risk minimisation.
Theresa Esguerra

Theresa Esguerra

Lending SpecialistTheresa supports our financial advisers with the implementation of their lending advice.
Kimberly Peligrino

Kimberly Peligrino

Financial AssociateMaster’s Degree in Business ManagementKim’s extensive banking background, spanning over five years in loan processing, administration, and treasury, equips her with a wealth of expertise to assist clients effectively. Outside of her professional duties, she finds joy in cooking and cherishing moments with her family.
Yubert Vios

Yubert Vios

Financial AssociateBachelor of Science in Accounting · Certified Public Accountant (CPA)Yubert excels in numbers, software, and connecting with people, skills he leverages to assist clients in optimizing their financial products. He takes pleasure in helping clients gain clarity on their financial standing, crucial for making the most of advisory services.
Shellah Lariza

Shellah Lariza

Financial AssociateBachelor of Science in Accounting and Accounting Technology · Cum Laude · Certified Tax Technician · International Certification Level IIIShella’s dedication to her profession is matched by her enthusiasm for badminton, where she not only excels as a player but also actively contributes to her badminton community. Her approach with clients is characterized by both unwavering support and a keen focus, as she collaborates with them to pinpoint opportunities for quick wins and long-term gains.
Farrah Sajor

Farrah Sajor

Financial AssociateFarrah’s experience in technical finance and administrative roles is complemented by her time in customer-facing positions. Her strong foundation in analytical and interpersonal skills enables her to manage financial operations effectively while maintaining a strong connection with the people she serves. This diverse background allows her to balance precision in financial work with a deep understanding of customer needs.
Kim Noel Nabong

Kim Noel Nabong

Financial AssociateKim Noel brings a detail-oriented approach that has grown out of his extensive background in accounting and data management. With strong analytical and interpersonal skills developed over five years in client relations, he provides accurate and thoughtful insights to help clients navigate their financial decisions.
Ria Dumapias

Ria Dumapias

Financial AssociateCertified Public Accountant (CPA) · EY Learning Badge – Wealth and Asset Management · EY Learning Badge – Basics of BusinessRia is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with expertise in external auditing and general accounting, specialising in wealth and asset management. She is passionate about ensuring regulatory compliance while enhancing financial performance. Her combined knowledge of wealth management and financial accounting helps clients to navigate complex financial landscapes. Committed to continuous professional development, Ria stays updated on industry trends and regulations to provide exceptional service.
Shaira Lou Timtim

Shaira Lou Timtim

Financial AssociateBachelor of Science in Management Accounting, Cum LaudeShaira is a Management Accounting graduate with a solid background in cost management and strategic financial analysis. She's committed to providing accurate, insightful financial solutions that help support informed decision-making and contribute to achieving financial goals. Currently working towards her CMA certification, Shaira combines technical precision with a proactive, client-focused approach to consistently deliver high-quality results.
Miguel Floren

Miguel Floren

Financial AssociateMiguel is an accounting graduate with a solid foundation in financial management and operations. His experience in payable recording, customer support, and report writing makes him versatile in handling various financial and client-focused tasks. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Miguel brings valuable skills to every project he undertakes.
Nikka Aluba

Nikka Aluba

Financial AssociateBachelor of Science in Management Accounting, Cum LaudeNikka is a dedicated financial associate with a keen interest in building meaningful relationships with clients and coworkers alike. Her background as a General Ledger Accountant in the logistics sector has fuelled her passion for management accounting and contributing to financial growth. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family, café culture, and supporting local artists.
Caroline Hamilton

Caroline Hamilton

Contact TeamCaroline enjoys speaking with prospective and existing clients to ensure they are getting the support they need and doing the things that are important in their lives.
Stella Isaia

Stella Isaia

Contact TeamStella loves talking to people and making new connections. She is determined to help as many people as possible reach their financial goals.
Hailey

Hailey

Contact TeamHailey aims to make every client feel welcome and listened to from their first conversation. She helps with questions and connects people with the right support across the Sureplan team.
Christie Leibenberg

Christie Leibenberg

Contact TeamChristie loves connecting with people to see how financial advice can make a real difference in their lives. She gets real satisfaction from knowing that people are being set on a strong financial trajectory.

Talk with someone on the team

Have your questions answered by a real person – no pressure, no obligation.