Our Team

David Després holds a master’s degree from HEC Montréal and is a CFA^® charterholder. He has completed the Harvard Business School’s General Management Program (GMP).

Since joining Letko Brosseau in 2001, he has held various positions, namely Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager and Director of the Investment team.

As of 2020, Mr. Després is designated Vice President, Investment Services, covering client relationship, communications, and business development, and chairman of the Executive Management Committee since 2022.

After an abundant career spanning over 20 years at Letko Brosseau, clients recognize him for his dedication to the firm, his rigorous investment approach, and his dynamism.

David Newman graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Commerce degree and has completed the CPA and CMA accounting designations. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) and holds a Certified Investment Manager (CIM®) designation.
Prior to joining Letko Brosseau, he was Managing Director, Institutional Sales at Desjardins Capital Markets. He has over 25 years of capital markets experience in equity research, portfolio management and institutional sales.
Mr. Newman is known for his strong work ethic, great integrity, and infectious personality.

Brian Bedernyak is a Concordia University graduate, with a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.), and CFA® charterholder.

Prior to joining Letko Brosseau in 2009, he worked as a Portfolio Manager at Royal Bank Financial Group, as well as HSBC where he mainly dealt with private clients, and CFG Heward Investment Counsel, where he was also awarded the Vice-President title.

Mr. Bedernyak is known to be passionate and dedicated, continuously striving to build relationships with clients built on trust and respect, by ensuring thoughtful and thorough communication.

Madeline Bogdan holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours), and a Graduate Diploma in Accounting from the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University, in Kingston, Ontario.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2023, she was a staff accountant at Deloitte, serving publicly traded audit clients with a focus on the mining and metals industry.

Ms. Bogdan is known for her hardworking and dedicated nature.

Peter Burke is a graduate of the University of Toronto (MBA, Finance and Marketing) and Concordia University (B.Com.).

Prior to joining Letko Brosseau in 2017, he spent seven years consulting for RPM Risk and Portfolio Management AB, a Stockholm-based investment manager, representing the firm in North America. Previously, he was with UBS Group for 10 years, focusing mostly on structured investment solutions in Canada and abroad, and with RBC for 15 years in the corporate banking and capital markets divisions.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Mr. Burke prides himself on his ability to understand client needs and passion for providing customized service.

Pierre Camu graduated from the University of Ottawa with a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) and holds the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation.

He joined Letko Brosseau in 2002, managing the Investment Counsellors Team.

Prior to joining the firm, he worked in sales for Scotia McLeod® and Nomura Securities Co. Ltd. (Nomura Holdings Inc. – NHI). Furthermore, he was Senior Product and Project Manager for the international settlement and clearing area at Canadian Depository Securities (CDS).

Mr. Camu’s rich experience in his field of work makes him attentive to his clients’ needs. He is known for his knowledge, dedication, approachability, and communicative skills.

John Clancy holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) from McGill University and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Windsor. He is also a CFA® charterholder.

Prior to joining Letko Brosseau in 2011, he worked as a regional sales manager, Ontario and Atlantic Canada at AIM Trimark Investments Inc., where he was managing, and mentoring sales professionals. Furthermore, he was managing director at Guardian Ethical Management (GEM) Inc., developing and marketing sustainable investing solutions to institutional investors.

Mr. Clancy is known for his curious mindset, as well as his penchant for developing long-term relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

Melissa Fiorelli holds a Bachelor of Arts, Honours in Economics from Concordia University, and is a CFA® charterholder.

Before joining Letko Brosseau in 2007, Ms. Fiorelli was Head of Business Development at the Bank of International Settlements (BIS) in Basel, Switzerland, where she was responsible for marketing a range of financial products and services to the world’s central banks. Prior to this, she was a Senior Analyst with BCA Research Group, focusing on macroeconomic and capital markets research.

With more than 25 years of financial markets experience, Ms. Fiorelli is dedicated to helping high net-worth individuals, families, and endowments achieve their investment objectives. She is known for her clear, transparent communication style and solutions-driven approach.

Lea Fiorino holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University. She attended semesters abroad at NEOMA Business School in Rouen, France and Lund University in Lund, Sweden.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2022, she completed a 6-month mentorship program (Women in Investment Management) with RBC Global Asset Management, as well as a summer internship as a Corporate Banking Analyst at HSBC Bank – Canada.

Lea Fiorino is detail oriented, and a team player. Her responsibilities include managing the firm’s performance analytics and data, helping produce client communications, and supporting the client servicing and business development teams.

Grant Hughes completed his Bachelor of Commerce at Queen’s University and is also a CFA® charterholder.

In 2021, Mr. Hughes joined Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc., bringing with him a wealth of experience. Prior, he held a managerial role at Reliance, a large private corporation, where he gained invaluable insights into strategic decision-making and leadership.

Known for his client-focused approach and professionalism, Mr. Hughes is committed to understanding the unique needs and objectives of everyone he advises. He leverages his diverse background and industry knowledge to provide tailored solutions that help clients navigate their financial goals with confidence.

Parham Kia is a McGill University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in commerce (B. Com.). He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, holds the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation and the title of Financial Planner (F.Pl.).

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2023, he worked as a Financial Planner at TD Wealth Financial Planning and as an Investment and Retirement Specialist at National Bank.

Mr. Kia is known for his curious and attentive nature, as well as his client-centered approach.

François Lefebvre holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Université de Montréal, as well as a DESG (diplôme d’études supérieures en gestion) diploma from HEC Montréal. Furthermore, he holds the CIM® designation.

He worked as a global equity trader in the European markets from 2000 to 2003, and as a Senior Project Manager with the portfolio transition management team from 2003 to 2015 at Pavilion Global Markets Ltd. He joined Letko Brosseau in April 2015.

Mr. Lefebvre is known for being detail oriented, attentive, and prioritizing customer satisfaction.

Joé Marcone holds a bachelor’s degree in economics (BA) from Concordia University, a Master of Sciences in Finance from HEC Montreal (M.Sc.), and is a CFA® charterholder.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2020, he was a junior director in institutional sales at Casgrain & Company Limited, as well as Desjardins Securities, and Blackmont Capital. He was also an executive director in institutional sales at CIBC – Capital Markets.

With a rich experience spanning over 25 years in institutional sales, Mr. Marcone is known for his integrity, as well as his excellent initiative – both of which are grounds for his solid reputation among Montreal’s institutional clients.

Richard Mercier holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Université de Québec à Montréal (UQAM). He is also a CFA® charter holder.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2023, he worked as an Investment Analyst for Consumer Products and Small Cap equities for a broker and two institutional investment firms. He was also an investment counselor for the private banking division of a Canadian bank. Furthermore, for more than 9 years, he worked as a Senior portfolio manager for the Delegated Management Program.

With over 25 years of experience in finance, Mr. Mercier is known for his honesty, enthusiasm, creativity, and perseverance.

Paul Mihailescu earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from HEC Montreal in 2022. He joined Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. shortly after graduating. In 2023, he took on the role of Analyst, Investment Services, where he is fully devoted to supporting the team.

Mr. Mihailescu’s diligent, thorough approach serves the best interests of clients.

Muriel Munoz holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the John Molson School of Business (JMSB, Concordia University – B. Com.), as well as the CIM® designation. She has also completed Level 1 of the CFA® program.

Her career began at EdgeStone Capital Partners where she was responsible for the administrative and operational aspects of the Venture Capital Fund of Fund, before joining Letko Brosseau in 2004. In addition to her role as Senior Investment Counsellor at the firm, she is responsible for managing the Investment Services Associates team.

Ms. Munoz is dedicated to helping high net worth individuals and families, as well as institutions, achieve their long-term investment objectives. She strives to build a relationship of trust and open dialogue, ensuring that clients’ needs are addressed in an attentive and timely manner.

Noemy Ruel holds a Bachelor of Administration (B.A.A.) with a concentration in Finance and soon-to-be graduate of Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Social and Environmental Responsibility from Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM).

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2024, she worked as a Finance Advisor at Desjardins, and completed internships at CDPQ and Jarislowsky Fraser as an ESG and Sustainable Investment Analyst.

Creative and organized, Ms. Ruel role as an ESG Analyst on the Investment Services team.

James Selvaratnam holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics and Sociology from McGill University.

His career began at Sun Life, where he spent over eight years in various roles such as Customer Service Representative, Business Analyst, and Financial Advisor. Furthermore, he worked as an Education Specialist (Group Benefits and Group Retirement) at iA Financial, and as a Client Relationship Manager in Group Retirement Services at National Bank.

He joined Letko Brosseau in 2023.

Mr. Selvaratnam is very client-oriented and is known to reframe any change into an opportunity.

Paul Vaillancourt holds a Bachelor of Administration (B.Admin.) from Concordia University (JMSB.) He is also a CFA® charterholder.

Prior to joining Letko Brosseau in 2017, he occupied several positions in the industry, namely as Portfolio Manager at RBC Wealth Management, and Senior Vice-President and Director of Portfolio Strategy at Franklin Templeton Investments. He was also CEO and CIO of Société Générale’s Private Banking division in Canada, as well as Executive Vice-President, Private Wealth in Canada at Fiera Capital Corp.

Throughout his professional career, Mr. Vaillancourt has acquired a great experience in strategic leadership, discretionary investment management, business development and relationship management for private and institutional clients.

Victoria Avetisian holds a Diploma of Collegial Studies (DSC) in Computer Science Technology, as well as a Certificate of Public Relations and Management from McGill University. She has also completed the Canada Securities Institute’s (CSI®) Conduct and Practices Handbook course (CPH®).

Ms. Avetisian joined Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2007. At the firm, Ms. Avetisian is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions. She is also involved in the coaching and training of less experienced colleagues, as well as in various team projects with the ultimate objective of continuously improving our services to clients.

With over 16 years of experience at the firm, Ms. Avetisian is known to be focused, detail oriented, and dedicated to her work.

Florence Tesoro Bagorio holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Northern Philippines and has completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) from the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI).

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2022, she occupied several roles in client service administration, namely Accounts Payable Clerk, National Account Manager, as well as Account Manager, Team Leader at T.E. Wealth (now C.W.B Wealth).

With over 15 years of experience as an account manager and team leader of client service administration, Mrs. Bagorio is known for being excellent in her chosen field of work, servicing high net-worth clients.

Angela Bansil graduated from West Visayas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) as well as the Fundamentals of Financial Planning (FOFP) at the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI).

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2022, she occupied various roles in investment services, namely account services associate at Templeton Management Limited, account manager at TE Wealth (now CWB Wealth Management Ltd.), and client service manager at Leon Frazer & Associates (business name for CWB Wealth Management Ltd.).

With over 20 years of experience in the investment services industry, Mrs. Bansil is known for her keen attention to details, excellent client services and a positive attitude in the workplace.

Terry Bruni holds a bachelor’s degree in modern languages and literature from McGill University.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2010, she worked at Computershare Trust Company of Canada in client services, specifically in employee plans, for 28 years.

At the firm, Ms. Bruni is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions.

With an extensive experience in client relations, she is known for being highly motivated to assist clients, as well as a team player.

Thomas Nusl holds a Bachelor of Commerce, with a concentration in finance from the University of Calgary.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau, and Associates Inc., he worked as a banking advisor as part of an internship with the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC).

Mr. Nusl is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including processing transactions, account openings documentation and client reporting questions.

He is open-minded, and known for his integrity, as well as his hard-working nature.

Julie Ross studied office system technology at Maisonneuve College and has completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) as well as the Conduct and Practices Handbook course (CPH®) offered by the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI®).

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2018, she held various client servicing positions at Laurentian Bank Securities, Sun Life Financial and National Bank of Canada.

Ms. Ross is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions. With more than 17 years of experience in financial services, she is known for her acute attention to detail, her dynamism, and her well rounded approach to clients.

Rita Saab is a Concordia University graduate with an Honours bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in Multidisciplinary Studies in Science. She has completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) from the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI®).

Before joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2007, Ms. Saab worked as a client service manager at RBC.

At the firm, Ms. Saab is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions. She is also involved in the coaching and training of less experienced colleagues, as well as in various team projects with the ultimate objective of continuously improving our services to clients.

With more than 16 years of experience in financial services, Ms. Saab prides herself on offering excellent client service, and is known for her flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Nattacha Soukaseum holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from HEC Montreal, a certificate in Personal Finance Planning and her Financial Planner title.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc., she worked as a financial advisor at Investors Group Inc. and Desjardins. At the firm, Ms. Soukaseum is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions. She is also part of the financial planning team.

With more than 7 years of experience in financial services, Ms. Soukaseum is known for her devotion to her work, and her enthusiastic attitude in the workplace.

Bernadette Valkonen holds a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from Concordia University.

Prior to joining Letko, Brosseau & Associates Inc. in 2017, she held various Client Service Representative positions in Group Savings and Retirement Departments at Desjardins Financial Security, as well as Standard Life of Canada. She also worked for the Credit Card call center, and in corporate leasing for industrial and commercial equipment (providing general and industrial loan institutions) at Teletech Financial Corporation (now called Citicapital Technology Finance Ltd.).

Ms. Valkonen is responsible for all administrative matters on client accounts, including transactions processing, account openings documentation and client reporting questions. With over 23 years of experience in the financial sector, she has developed an expertise, and ease in her client relations. Passionate about her profession, she is known for her leadership and dynamism.