Our Team

Wealth creation and protection, retirement planning, legacy building, and strategic investment solutions are a few of the key focuses that Diego concentrates on with every client interaction. 

Diego is currently a credentialled Associate Portfolio Manager and a Certified Financial Planner Professional of Gold Leaf Financial Group - IPC Securities Corporation. 

With a knowledge base of more than 35 years of industry experience and strong integrity, Diego has redefined wealth management by understanding and appreciating each client's situation before making recommendations. He believes in educating clients and works diligently to help them develop their goals, understand their financial choices and portfolios, and implement strategies that assist them in attaining their objectives. His purpose is to build a unique experience that connects with each aspect of his clients’ lives – from wealth to family and health. Diego is also an expert in executive compensation in Group Retirement Services, ensuring that the plans work for both the employer and employees.

Diego Favero graduated from Laurentian University in 1984 with an Honours degree in Economics. Prior to joining DiBrina Sure as the Wealth Management Partner in 2001, Diego held several senior positions with one of the major banks. Born and raised in Sudbury, Diego is deeply rooted in the Sudbury community and has volunteered on a number of non-profit boards.

In addition to successfully completing his Canadian Securities Course, Wealth Management Essentials, Personal Financial Counselling and Chartered Investment Manager Designations, Diego has also been awarded the Wealth Management Advisor of the Year in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 by IPC Securities. His team has also received the Wealth Builder Team of the Year every year from 2010 to 2022.

Alyssa joined Gold Leaf Financial Group in June of 2021 as an accredited Investment Advisor, contributing over a decade of knowledge in the finance industry. She has been recognized for her dedication to creating a distinctive experience for her clients with a holistic approach beyond wealth creation. Confidence, comfort, strategic vision, and personalized advice is what Alyssa strives to achieve every interaction. 

Alyssa graduated from Laurentian University with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Sports Administration, in 2013. She held several advisory and managerial positions with one of the major Canadian Banks and has successfully obtained her Canadian Securities Course, Investment Funds in Canada, and Branch Compliance Officer Course.

Born and raised in Sudbury and now based in Muskoka, Alyssa is a strong believer in community. She has dedicated her time to many organizations like Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation JDRF, TD Tree Days and has supported local Pride initiatives as an ally. Alyssa also has a passion for helping others develop and unlock their potential. She has organized a number of financial literacy seminars and created mentorship programs to help individuals grow and succeed.

Thomas completed his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Management at Wilfrid Laurier University in 2021. He became a licensed investment advisor in September 2021 and has earned the Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) designation. Thomas is also an Associate Portfolio Manager (APM). He has completed the Canadian Securities Course (CSC), Wealth Management Essentials (WME), and the Life License Qualification Program (LLQP).

Currently, Thomas is working toward his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation. He helps families, business owners, and professionals build wealth and protect what matters most.

Prior to joining Gold Leaf full-time, Thomas worked as a summer student for Michael Di Brina and Diego Favero, helping him establish his career path in the investment industry. Since then, he has liaised closely with Michael and Diego to establish practices that add value and enhance communication and strategy when dealing with clients’ financial affairs.

Thomas understands that managing financial wellbeing is a priority in a client’s life, next to family and health; he is committed to providing a tailored, detail-oriented approach that meets the specific needs of his clients.

With 35 years of industry experience to draw on, Michael empowers clients to take control of their financial future. A desire to provide peace of mind and protect the legacy of his clients is at the forefront of his approach to business. 

Michael is a facilitator of world-class management and product development teams. His entrepreneurial achievements and dedication to clients and the community have been recognized throughout his career. In 2013 he received the Bell Excellence Award for Entrepreneur of the Year in recognition of these accomplishments. Michael is a lifetime member of the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table and qualifies annually for the Top of the Table, a level of performance reached by less than 0.5% of financial advisors worldwide. He holds the esteemed designation of Trust & Estate Practitioner (TEP), along with the highest honours and recognition that can be awarded to a Life Underwriter. Michael is internationally recognized as a leader in the industry.  

Michael is a firm believer in reinvesting in the community. He has devoted his time to many initiatives, participating on boards including the United Way, the Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club, Cancer Centre, St. Joseph's Villa, local hospitals, the hospice and educational institutions. 

Distinguished as an extremely visible, approachable leader in the community, Michael has earned the respect of his employees, clients and industry colleagues across Canada and abroad. 

Insurance products available through Michael DiBrina.

Ryan Hunter is a Portfolio Manager who brings a disciplined, client-centric approach to investment management. Born and raised in Sudbury, he has a deep appreciation for the values of the community and a strong passion for financial markets that drives his work.

Ryan earned his Honours Bachelor of Commerce from Laurentian University, with a specialization in Finance and a minor in Economics. He began his career at the DiBrina Group as an Associate and has since earned the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

As a core member of the firm’s Investment Committee, Ryan co-manages our North American equity strategy alongside the firm’s partners and works closely with the Advisor Team to design and manage portfolios tailored to each client’s unique goals and circumstances.

Outside of the office, Ryan enjoys giving back to the community and currently serves as Treasurer of the Board for the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northeastern Ontario. In his free time, he enjoys playing hockey, golfing, and is an avid reader with a keen interest in history and investing.

With over two decades of experience in the financial markets, Eric Lafortune brings a deep understanding of wealth management, retirement planning, and investment strategy to his role as Senior Wealth Advisor at Gold Leaf Financial Group. Known for his thoughtful guidance and client-first approach, Eric has built lasting relationships with individuals, families, and business owners by helping them make informed decisions and navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence.

Eric is passionate about creating customized strategies that align with each client’s unique goals and values. His approach is grounded in trust, transparency, and long-term planning — always with the client’s best interest at heart.

What drew Eric to Gold Leaf was the firm’s independent mindset and its commitment to delivering a truly personalized experience. He is proud to be part of a team that values integrity, innovation, and care in every interaction.

As a Wealth Advisor with Gold Leaf Financial Group Inc., Christian Pottier is dedicated to guiding clients through clear, holistic financial planning. Operating out of Toronto, he partners with the Advisory team to craft personalized, well‑designed wealth strategies that support clients in reaching their long‑term goals.

Before joining Gold Leaf, Christian built a strong capital‑markets foundation through a series of progressive roles at a major Canadian financial institution, ultimately serving as a Senior Trader and Investment Strategist. In these positions, he developed deep expertise in portfolio structure, market analysis, and trade execution, which now enhances his ability to assist clients with clarity and confidence.

Christian’s approach reflects the combination of hands‑on market experience and continuous professional growth. Grounded in integrity, preparedness, and genuine care, Christian strives to help individuals and families make informed financial decisions and feel empowered about their futures.