Wes Leavitt CFP®, RRC, CLU, B.Mgmt
Wes has been a member of Leavitt Group Private Wealth Management since its inception and has over 17 years of experience as a Financial Advisor. He earned his Bachelor of Management degree from the University of Lethbridge, majoring in both Accounting and Finance, and went on to complete his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation. Wes later enhanced his professional credentials by obtaining the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC) designations.
He has extensive experience in comprehensive wealth management and focuses on delivering meaningful value to clients through advanced tax planning, cash flow management, and integrated insurance strategies. He works closely with both individuals and corporations to create customized financial solutions that balance growth, security, and long-term sustainability. Wes believes that effective financial planning combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of each client’s goals, ensuring strategies are both practical and purpose-driven.
Beyond his professional role, Wes is devoted to his family and community. He enjoys spending time with his wife Hallie and their five children, and is an avid sports enthusiast who has dedicated many years to coaching youth sports in the community he proudly calls home.
Taylor Rice CFP®, RRC, B.Mgmt
Taylor Rice graduated with Great Distinction from the Dhillon School of Business with a Bachelor of Management, majoring in Finance. He has since gone on to earn his Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC) CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designations.
As an Executive Financial Consultant, Taylor delivers value through strategies centered around tax planning, integrating corporate and personal assets, and designing long-term wealth solutions that support lifestyle, succession, and legacy goals. Leveraging sophisticated modelling tools, he turns complexity into clarity, empowering clients to make confident and informed decisions.
Outside the office, Taylor enjoys travelling with his wife Nicole and doting on his daughters. An avid sportsman, he can often be found hunting or fly fishing across Southern Alberta.
Art Van Gaalen CFP®, RRC
Art Van Gaalan brings 25 years of experience as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional to Leavitt Group. He offers guidance in tax and estate planning. Art also provides clients with advanced savings strategies designed to accelerate wealth accumulation. He takes pride in providing clients with a plan that is specific to their current situation, and tailored to achieving their long term goals.
Art also loves going to Mexico for vacations and has plans for many more trips in the future.
Garrett Byam B.Mgmt
Garrett Byam joined Leavitt Group Private Wealth in early 2025 as an Associate Consultant. He earned his Bachelor of Management degree from the University of Lethbridge, majoring in Accounting, a foundation that strengthens his ability to analyze financial statements, identify planning opportunities, and build strategies that align with each client’s goals.
Garrett has completed both the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) and the Life License Qualification Program (LLQP®), allowing him to provide advice across investments and insurance. He is currently articling toward his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation as he continues to expand his expertise in comprehensive wealth management.
Outside of the office, Garrett enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, staying active through sports, and spending time on the golf course with friends. He’s passionate about helping clients feel confident in their financial future and takes pride in building lasting relationships based on trust and clarity.
Jared Steed RRC, B.Mgmt
Jared is a financial professional with over a decade of experience at Leavitt Group Private Wealth Management. He holds a Bachelor of Management in Accounting and the Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC) designation, reflecting his commitment to strong technical knowledge and ongoing professional development. He works primarily with incorporated professionals and business owners, helping them navigate retirement planning, investment strategy, tax-efficient structures, and succession considerations. His approach emphasizes clear analysis, practical solutions, and advice tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Recently, Jared has taken on a practice management role within the team, expanding his leadership responsibilities to include mentoring team members, optimizing operational efficiency, and supporting the continued growth of the practice. In this capacity, he remains deeply committed to upholding the team's standard of excellence while ensuring every client continues to receive the high-quality guidance and service they deserve.
Outside the office, Jared is an avid golfer, a watch enthusiast, and a dedicated family man. He and his wife are raising three daughters, which helps him hone his skills as a specialist.
Stacey Fox
Stacey became part of Leavitt Group in 2018 after spending almost 10 years in retail banking. Her extensive banking experience enhances the team’s capabilities, and she has continued to grow her knowledge by obtaining her Investment Funds license.
In her role, Stacey provides exceptional client service, ensuring accuracy, swift problem resolution, and consistent compliance. Stacey is readily available to assist clients with their accounts by phone or email whenever needed.
Outside of work, Stacey enjoys spending time at home with her two energetic boys.
Jonathan Smienk B.Mgmt
Jonathan operates as an Administrative Assistant with Leavitt Group Private Wealth Management. His role focuses on supporting our advisors and clients by keeping the daily operations running smoothly and making sure all details are handled with care. He manages a mix of administrative tasks, client coordination, scheduling, and document preparation. He is always looking for ways to improve how we work as a team. He is focused on efficiency and loves finding practical solutions that make our processes cleaner, faster, and easier for everyone involved. Whether it’s organizing information, streamlining workflows, or using technology and automation to reduce repetitive tasks, he is always working to make things better behind the scenes. At the end of the day, he is here to help our team stay prepared, professional, and focused on serving our clients well.
Patience Zucchiatti Administrative Assistant
Patience has been with Leavitt Group Private Wealth Management 2020 as an Administrative Assistant. She helps coordinate client appointments and supports the daily operations of our financial planning team. She has a focus on efficiency and client care, and prides herself on making sure every meeting runs smoothly so clients feel valued.
Outside of work, Patience enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons. She brings warmth, professionalism, and organization to every interaction.