Liam Johnston CFP, RRC
Liam Johnston is a highly accomplished financial professional with over 16 years of experience in the financial services industry. Starting at IG in 2009 and with a background in financial services dating back to 2007, Liam has become a trusted leader and advisor, helping clients achieve their financial goals and optimize their financial strategies.
Liam holds his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) and Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC) designations and graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2008. Prior to that he also attended Neumann University on a hockey scholarship, where he played NCAA Division 3 hockey, further cultivating his leadership, teamwork, and competitive spirit. His athletic background is matched by a dedication to coaching, having volunteered his time as a coach for hockey teams ranging from U8 to Junior B.
As a Division Manager and Executive Financial Consultant, Liam is passionate about mentoring new hires, helping them navigate the path to becoming successful entrepreneurs. He believes in fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and empowering his team to reach their fullest potential. His leadership approach is grounded in the values of integrity, transparency, and delivering value for clients.
Liam’s commitment to education extends beyond his professional work. He has devoted countless hours volunteering to support student education, particularly at Conestoga College, where he has served as part of the Financial PAC Committee since 2018. This role allows him to help shape the next generation of financial professionals while contributing to the local community.
Outside of his career, Liam is a devoted family man with two young daughters and a loving wife. The family shares a passion for travel, exploring new destinations and making lifelong memories. In his downtime, Liam enjoys skiing, motorcycling and spending time with his loyal dogs.
Armando Damiao CFP, RRC, EPC
Armando Damiao is a seasoned financial consultant with over three decades of experience in the industry. He began his career in 1989 at a major Canadian bank as an investment specialist, where he honed his skills in financial planning and investment strategies. In 1998, Armando joined IG Wealth Management as a senior financial advisor, where he continues to provide expert guidance to our clients.
Armando holds several prestigious designations, including CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP), Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC), and Elder Planning Counselor (EPC). His commitment to helping people manage their finances is evident in his personalized approach and dedication to our clients' financial well-being. He continues to grow his practice and specializes in private wealth clients, estate and retirement planning.
Outside of his professional life, Armando enjoys spending quality time with his family and grandchildren. He is passionate about motorcycle trips and frequently travels to Portugal, embracing his heritage and exploring new adventures.
Mark J. Gerber
Mark J. Gerber brings more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, helping individuals, families, and business owners navigate important financial decisions with confidence. He graduated with honors from what was then the Insurance and Financial Planning program at Mohawk College in June 1986.
Throughout his career, Mark has provided guidance in areas including retirement planning, intergenerational wealth transfer, and business succession planning, with particular experience supporting family businesses, farm families and agri-businesses. He believes that effective financial planning goes beyond investments, which is why he collaborates with tax, estate, and insurance professionals to help ensure clients receive well-rounded advice and coordinated solutions.
Mark is committed to building long-term relationships with clients by providing clear, practical guidance that simplifies complex financial matters. He understands that financial needs evolve over time and works proactively with clients to adjust strategies as life circumstances and goals change. His approach is grounded in trust, consistency, and helping clients make informed decisions that align with their long-term vision.
Outside of work, Mark enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren. He is also involved in his local church community and values maintaining a balanced lifestyle centered around family, work, and personal interests.
David White
With over 20 years of experience in finance, David has built a distinguished career in a variety of roles, including a position as a Commercial Credit Manager with a large Canadian bank and Canadian Operations Manager at GE Finance. In 2006, David began working with IG Wealth Management, where he quickly became recognized for his exceptional performance and dedication to client service. In 2021, he joined Johnston & Associates Private Wealth, continuing to leverage his extensive expertise to help clients achieve their financial goals.
David’s financial journey began with the completion of his Canadian Securities designation, and he was registered as an Agent for TD Green Line Brokerage while based in Newfoundland and New Brunswick. David’s commitment to high standards has earned him recognition for his exceptional client service initiatives and for maintaining top grades during his academic years.
David holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Human Resources Management from St. Mary's University, where he was an active member of the Board of Governors and Senate, as well as a senior resident assistant. He was honored with the prestigious HOOD Award at graduation for his outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements.
David’s passion for helping others is rooted in his belief that financial success begins with understanding and listening to clients. He takes pride in guiding clients on their journey to achieving their financial objectives, and there is no greater satisfaction for him than seeing a financial plan come to fruition.
Outside of his professional life, David is deeply committed to community involvement. He has a long history of coaching baseball and hockey, working to develop and support young athletes. He has also served as a parent representative and treasurer at the local school level, as well as a member of the Parent Advisory Council at the school board level.
A Montreal native, David has had the privilege of living in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario. He enjoys traveling and has explored much of Canada, as well as Europe. In his downtime, he loves reading and spending time with his family, which includes his wife, two daughters, son-in-law’s and two grandchildren.
Christine Ryan
Christine Ryan is an accomplished professional specializing in building strong, meaningful relationships with clients. With a diverse skill set that spans finance, human resources, and language education, Christine brings a unique perspective to her role as an executive financial assistant.
Christine holds a TESOL certification, allowing her to effectively train English to speakers of other languages, as well as a Canadian Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation earned from Conestoga College. Her career in the finance industry began in 2007, and she joined Johnston & Associates Private Wealth in 2018, where she has played a key role in helping clients navigate the complexities of financial administration.
Christine is passionate about ensuring that clients have the best possible experience, always striving to make their financial journeys smoother and more efficient. She continues to demonstrate her commitment to helping others, not just in her professional life, but also through her volunteer work.
In her personal time, Christine enjoys learning about new cultures, reading, and spending time outdoors walking her dog with her husband.
Faith Gerber
Faith Gerber is an Executive Assistant with Johnston & Associates Private Wealth, where she supports client accounts, financial planning processes, and day-to-day administrative operations. She plays an important role in helping ensure a smooth and organized client experience by assisting with account management tasks, coordinating client communications, and supporting advisors in delivering personalized financial plans.
With a strong focus on organization, accuracy, and reliability, Faith works behind the scenes to help clients feel informed and supported throughout the planning process. She enjoys contributing to an environment where clients can feel more confident and less overwhelmed when it comes to their finances, and values being part of a team focused on long-term planning and financial stability.
Faith holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and is also a Certified Personal Trainer. Her background reflects her passion for helping others improve their overall well-being through structure, consistency, and goal-oriented planning.
Outside of work, Faith enjoys staying active through fitness and spending time outdoors walking her dog, Bella. She has a strong interest in health, wellness, and personal development, and also enjoys creating content, working on social media projects, and doing video editing on the side. She values balance, routine, and meaningful time spent with family and friends, while also serving in youth ministry and digital marketing through her local church community.
Catia Valois
Born in Portugal and raised in Kitchener, Catia has spent her life building both her personal and professional foundation in Canada. She first began her career in the financial services industry in 2007 while studying business, working as an administrative assistant at IG Wealth Management alongside Armando Damiao. Catia’s passion for helping clients and supporting financial advisors quickly grew, and she has been working with Armando ever since, building a strong, collaborative relationship. In 2025, she and Armando made the exciting transition to Johnston & Associates Private Wealth, where she continues to apply her expertise to assist clients in achieving their financial goals.
Catia’s dedication to excellence and her deep understanding of financial operations have made her an invaluable asset in providing administrative and client support. With a strong background in business and a commitment to ongoing professional development, Catia plays a key role in managing financial documentation, assisting with report preparation, and supporting clients with their day-to-day financial needs.
Today, Catia lives in the picturesque town of Ayr with her husband, their energetic 3-year-old daughter, and their dog, Puma. Outside of her professional life, Catia enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and creating lasting memories with her family and friends.
Christine Dobbie
Christine Dobbie is a dedicated Business Development Coordinator with a diverse background in real estate investment, property management, and business strategy. Beginning her real estate journey in 2012, Christine specialized in flipping homes, managing rental properties, and serving as a General Contractor. Her hands-on experience has given her a keen understanding of both the operational and financial aspects of real estate, allowing her to successfully grow her portfolio and develop strong leadership skills.
In 2025, Christine joined Johnston & Associates Private Wealth, where she applies her wealth of knowledge in business development to support clients' financial goals. She also holds a diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE), demonstrating her versatility and commitment to lifelong learning.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Christine is deeply committed to her community, volunteering for local animal causes and contributing her time to her children’s school. Her passion for making a positive impact extends to all areas of her life.
Outside of work, Christine enjoys spending quality time with her husband, two young daughters, and two dogs. An avid traveler and culture enthusiast, she loves exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and spending time outdoors—particularly by the ocean. Christine also has a flair for shopping and decorating, and she cherishes making lasting memories with her family, often hosting events that bring loved ones together.