Our Team

Clarence began his career after graduating from McMaster University in 1983 with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the respective industry courses. Clarence has written investment column articles for the Hamilton Spectator, Christian Courier and the Ancaster News in the past. He also contributed to the bestselling book “Tips from the Top.” Through years of experience, Clarence has developed a clear, logical and disciplined investment philosophy. Technical competence is not enough; exceptional client service is delivered by a team approach with his assistant, and son, Davis Bick. Clarence lives in Ancaster with his wife Denise. He enjoys historical novels and music. He stays active with skiing, cycling and playing hockey; and he loves the challenge of trying to keep up his family when they tag along– so far it’s keeping him young.

Dan started with us in 2013 and has been a financial planner in this office since 2016. He worked closely with his father, Leonard, before Len retired, developing a thorough understanding of the industry and client management. He has not just adopted our viewpoints and how we work with clients; he has made valuable contributions to our thinking. I am wholly convinced you will feel very comfortable as well as confident in working with Dan. Dan has completed his BBA (Hons.) at Brock University and his Bachelor of Science at Waterloo. He also holds a Certified Financial Planner designation. Dan works with clients to create financial plans, optimizing tax and client goals for each individual and their unique situation. He has a 5.5lb toy Yorkie named Cassius (aka Cash) who comes to work most days and can be found greeting clients, looking for food and attention. Dan grew up in Ancaster, lives in Hamilton and enjoys the outdoors (for some reason, he thinks that canoeing for ten days is fun), hockey and spending time with his large extended family.

Warren has worked in the wealth management industry for over ten years. He began his career at a Bank owned dealership and was recruited to Bick Advisors in 2013. After spending a year mentoring with one of the firms founders, Warren decided to start his own wealth management practice. It wasn’t long after that he become a partner at Bick Advisors. As an Investment Advisor Warren believes the most important part of the financial planning process is helping clients understand and navigate risk in today’s complex financial markets. Using a holistic approach, he works with clients to create a unique financial plan, tailored to their specific needs and circumstance. Warren is securities licensed with IIROC and able to provide a wide range of investment solutions, including the use of derivatives. Prior to working in the wealth management industry Warren managed a small business gaining experience in finance and accounting. He holds a Certified Financial Planner designation, Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation, Honours Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Windsor, and MBA from the University of Maryland. Outside of the office, Warren is an active member in the Ancaster-Hamilton community, volunteering his time with the Colorectal Cancer Association. He lives in Ancaster with his wife Helena and family. Warren is an avid golfer, hockey player and snowboarder.

Letitia began her career with Bick Advisors as a student working part-time for Clarence’s team in 1998. She has worked with all the advisors in the office in the subsequent years, gaining experience in client management and administration. She has completed her BA (Hons.) at Redeemer University College, MBA at McMaster University, Certified Financial Planner, and Certified Investment Manager (CIM®) designations. Letitia works with clients to create financial plans, optimizing tax and client goals for each individual and unique situation. Whether you’re planning retirement, small business planning, or for your children’s education, Letitia would love to meet to discuss your unique situation.

Letitia enjoys engaging and challenging students while teaching business courses at Redeemer University College. She is also active in volunteer roles with the local school, church and Bible’s for Missions not-for-profit organization.

In her spare time, she loves playing at home with her three young children and working with her self-employed husband.

Insurance products available through Letitia Fluit.

Marie was awarded the 2023 Female Trailblazer of the Year and the Excellence Award for Philanthropy and Community Service in 2024 by Wealth Professional. Marie’s numerous personal and professional achievements have earned her a place among the industry’s best, and she has been published or profiled by a wide variety of media, including BNN, Investment Executive and Wealth Professional. Still, her impact extends far beyond her acclaimed financial acumen.

As an amateur musician, Marie has channeled her passion for the arts into philanthropic endeavours that enrich her community. As a panelist at the 2020 CAGP International Women’s Day, she spoke eloquently about the importance of using wealth to better one’s life and support loved ones. An active volunteer, Marie dedicates her time to advocating for financial literacy and championing initiatives that recognize achievement in the arts.

“I feel that the most important goal is to have a life that is filled with purpose,” says Marie, and her impressive list of accolades is a testament to the fulfilling path she has forged, including receiving the IPC Cares Award for Community Service, Value of Advice awards, Best Client Experience Awards and the George R. Robinson Award.

Whether you’re looking for Sound Advice in wealth-planning, starting your philanthropic foundation, scaling your existing initiatives or simply exploring new ways to give back, Marie’s expertise and unwavering dedication will empower you to achieve your financial goals.

Email: marie.phillips@ipcsecurities.com

Website: www.NextStepsPlanning.ca

LinkedIn: Marie Phillips, BA (Hons) RRC, PFP, FCSI, MFA-P, CEA | LinkedIn

Mary Kathryn Retzman’s goal for every client is to utter these three words: “I get it.”

Financial fluency is Mary Kathryn’s wheelhouse.

The Certified Financial Planner and Investment Advisor, has been developing custom-tailored plans for Canadian families for almost two decades. Whether it’s purchasing a home, saving for kids’ education, or building a retirement nest egg, Mary Kathryn believes a financial plan must mirror the phase of life for its owner.

In 2013, Mary Kathryn received one of the most recognized industry distinctions from the Financial Planning Standards Council, now FP Canada for her rigorous standard of competence and experience.

For the last decade, Mary Kathryn has specialized in Portfolio Asset Allocation for clients at all points in their financial journey. She completed her designation as a Chartered Investment Manager in April 2017.

Outside the office, Mary Kathryn’s focus is family, with her husband Frank, raising their two young daughters Isla & Elin.

I specialize in helping individuals and families gain confidence in their finances. With over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, I began my career in various support roles before becoming an Investment Advisor with a major bank in 2013.

In 2023, I made a significant decision to join Investment Planning Counsel, a firm that aligns with my values of prioritizing customer needs, emphasizing comprehensive planning, and valuing independence.

I firmly believe in fostering open dialogues to truly understand my clients' unique situations and provide personalized guidance. Continuing education is a top priority for me.

I have earned the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designation and am actively working towards obtaining the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation to enhance my knowledge and expertise.

Beyond my professional life, I find great joy in spending time with my wife, Eunice, and our two energetic young sons. We love engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, skiing, and cooking, as these experiences not only bring us closer but also teach valuable life lessons.

I have worked in the financial business since 1992, all at the same location in the old Carriage Works building on Wilson Street, Ancaster, with my fellow colleagues.

I also hold a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. We fully customize an Investment Portfolio, detailed Financial Planning and approach for you.

I also have a full client service team who would know all of your administrative needs personally:

• Carol Chisholm since 1997
• Helen Sardo since 2006

We look at each client as a lifetime relationship, related on attaining your goals which always includes financial security. We like to stay in contact and continue to provide a proactive detailed approach and to make adjustments along the way as your life and the world changes. We become the financial “quarterback” as I like to say.

The Bick Advisors work together as a team on our investment, tax, estate and financial planning philosophy for you. We know more, do more, and care more.

Please contact me by email or phone to have a short discussion to see if there would be a good reason to meet.

When we meet, my goal is to see if we connect first of all, and if there are mutually beneficial reasons to consider working together. I also have an information package that I could send if we decide to set up a meeting.

Brian is a Financial Advisor and primary advice-giver to individuals, families and businesses in need of financial and estate planning expertise. He specializes in building and managing a team of financial professionals to effectively assist clients in managing their tax, investment, estate and insurance needs. He focuses on maintaining contact with all clients and keeping their financial plan up to date. This involves tax, estate and investment planning as well as insurance and education plans.

Brian acquired his Bachelor of Commerce Degree from McMaster University in 1982 and his MBA in 1987. He holds a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. He brings over 30 years experience in both personal and corporate finance, the last 22 years as an Advisor associated with Bick Advisors. His professional background in financial planning includes specialization in the preparation analysis of formal financial plans, portfolio management and asset preservation strategies.

On a personal note, Brian and wife Deanna live in Ancaster and are involved in many community focused functions.

We would like to thank our clients for their trust and confidence. We pledge to continue to do our best to provide you with the best advice and service we can.

Bruce is a partner with Bick Advisors in Ancaster, Ontario. His values are strongly aligned with integrity, honesty and the Golden Rule. One of the prime reasons for joining the firm several years ago was the company’s culture and values which matched his personal experience.

Bruce understands the difference between average service and exceptional service. Bruce continually strives to provide his clients with unmatched, personalized attention. He firmly believes in the key requirement of individual planning first, with product selection being the last step to meet the unique financial goals of his clients.

His background of problem solving and appreciation of after-tax returns being of prime importance to portfolio performance has served his clients well. His use of tax reducing investment strategies provides the opportunity to create more wealth with less risk for all his clients.

For 25 years, Bruce and his wife, Jean, and their two children have been residents of Ancaster, Ontario. He is an active member of his community and contributes time and energy through Ancaster Rotary Club and the Hamilton/Halton Junior Golf Tour.

Joining the team at the start of 2021, Davis has focused on expanding his knowledge by communicating with clients directly and serving them behind the scenes. Davis has completed the Canadian Securities Course, the Conduct And Practices Handbook course, and the Wealth Management Essentials Course. Davis’s goal is to expand his knowledge base through client service and complete his Certified Financial Planner’s course.

Davis currently lives in Dundas. He likes to stay active in his local community with sports, connecting with friends, or enjoying the green spaces around him.

Catherine joined our team in 2007 as an Administrative Assistant and provides ongoing support to enhance the client experience.

She is the first point of contact for most clients when they call or visit our office. By servicing client’s day-to-day requests, processing and following up on security transactions and transfers, handling incoming and outgoing phone calls with clients, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience in financial services. Her continued commitment to client care makes her a valuable team member. Originally from Ireland, Catherine immigrated to Canada in 2002 with her husband Paul and two sons Colin and Sean. Catherine and Paul live in Ancaster and enjoys travelling, swimming, cycling, and reading.

Since joining the team in 2004, Jayne has consistently provided our clients with exceptional service. Jayne’s attention to detail, previous experience in the banking industry, and successful completion of the Canadian Securities course in 2010 support her dedication to provide quality service to our clients and the administration of their accounts.

Longtime assistant to Clarence Bick (2001-2023) and now working together with Letitia Fluit to grow her business. Vera plays a key role as the executive assistant on our team having accumulated a wealth of knowledge over the years. She has had diverse experiences in all areas of client management. Completing the Canadian Securities Course in 2012 has allowed her to help clients better understand the vast array of products and plans we offer. Her goal is having clients achieve financial success and enjoying their retirement when the time comes!
Vera resides in Ancaster with her husband and three children. She is an active volunteer at the local school and church. When she’s not driving her kids to their extracurricular activities she enjoys reading, cooking and exploring local attractions

Jennifer joined the Bick Advisors team in 2017 and has transitioned to Administrative Assistant to Marie at Next Steps Planning. Jennifer plays a key role on our team having accumulated a wealth of knowledge over her 5 years in the financial industry. With her previous years as a legal clerk, Jennifer brings her diverse experiences in all areas of client management. Her goal is having clients achieve financial success and enjoying their retirement when the time comes!

Jennifer resides in Ancaster with her children, Reilly and Kaiden and has recently become a puppy mummy to a new Berne doodle named Blu. When she’s not working, she enjoys travelling, baking, and decorating her new home.