Our Story & Our People

Over two decades of guiding Canadians toward financial confidence and lasting prosperity.

MapleTrust Advisors office interior in Vancouver
Our History

Founded on a Simple Belief

When James Lawson founded MapleTrust Advisors in 2003, he had a clear vision: every Canadian deserves access to the same calibre of financial advice typically reserved for the ultra-wealthy. Starting from a modest office on West Hastings, James built the firm on referrals, results, and relationships.

Today, MapleTrust manages over $2 billion in client assets from our Burrard Street headquarters. We have grown into a full-service advisory firm, but our founding principle remains unchanged — your success is our success.

We serve a diverse clientele including business owners, medical professionals, executives, retirees, and families at every stage of their financial journey. Our independence means our advice is never influenced by product quotas or corporate mandates.

What Guides Us

Our Core Values

These principles inform every recommendation we make and every relationship we build.

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Fiduciary Commitment

We always act in your best interest. As fiduciary advisors, our duty is to you — not to product providers or shareholders.

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Total Transparency

No hidden fees, no fine print. We clearly communicate our fee structure, investment rationale, and the risks involved in any strategy.

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Long-Term Partnerships

We measure success in decades, not quarters. Our goal is to be your trusted advisor through every life chapter.

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Continuous Learning

Markets evolve, regulations shift, and life circumstances change. Our team invests heavily in ongoing education and professional development.

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Community Focus

We actively support Vancouver's community through charitable giving, financial literacy programs, and pro bono advisory for non-profits.

Holistic Approach

Wealth is not just about investments. We integrate tax, estate, insurance, and lifestyle planning into a unified strategy.

Our Team

Experienced Professionals at Your Service

Our multidisciplinary team brings together decades of combined expertise in finance, accounting, tax law, and investment management.

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James Lawson, CFP

Founder & Managing Director

25+ years in financial services. Former VP at a major Canadian bank before founding MapleTrust. Certified Financial Planner and Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute.

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Sarah Chen, CFA

Chief Investment Officer

15 years of portfolio management experience. Previously managed institutional portfolios at a leading Canadian pension fund. CFA charterholder and MBA from UBC Sauder.

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Michael Patel, CPA, TEP

Director, Tax & Estate Planning

Dual-qualified CPA and Trust & Estate Practitioner. 18 years specializing in complex tax structures, cross-border planning, and succession strategies for family enterprises.

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Emily O'Brien, CFP

Senior Financial Planner

Specializes in retirement income planning and workplace pension optimization. 12 years of experience helping clients transition into retirement with confidence.

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Alex Tanaka, CIM

Portfolio Manager

Chartered Investment Manager focused on sustainable and ESG-aligned investment strategies. Manages discretionary portfolios for high-net-worth individuals.

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Nina Kowalski

Client Relations Manager

The welcoming first point of contact for all clients. Nina ensures a seamless experience from onboarding to ongoing service, coordinating across our advisory team.

Recognition

Industry Recognition & Affiliations

Our commitment to excellence has been recognized by leading industry bodies and publications.

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Top 50 Advisory Firm

Recognized as one of Canada's Top 50 Independent Advisory Firms by Wealth Professional magazine for five consecutive years.

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FP Canada Member

Our CFP professionals maintain active membership and adhere to the rigorous standards set by FP Canada.

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IIROC Regulated

Fully regulated by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada, ensuring the highest standards of compliance and client protection.

Join the MapleTrust Family

Experience the difference that personalized, independent financial advice can make. Let us show you what a true partnership looks like.