About Us
Rita Giraudier, CFP®
Financial Planner
Rita brings 17 years of experience in financial services to the team. Her extensive background allows her to view a client’s complete financial picture, an essential ingredient in designing a comprehensive investment plan. Rita has gained experience in many aspects of the business, through positions in investments, compliance, member service, lending and branch management.
Achieving the Investment Funds in Canada Course in 1997 was the onset of what was to become a true passion for Rita. In 1999, with a commitment to the continued training that is critical to solid financial planning, she finished the Canadian Securities Course as well as the Branch Compliance Officer's course. In 2006 Rita completed the Professional Financial Planning program and in June of 2007 Rita earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Practitioner Designation.
With each member encounter, Rita assures her clients that she is there for them, with them and because of them. Her priority is to listen, to be objective, and to assist people in finding solutions that fit with their lifestyle and their goals. Rita understands the importance of strong professional relationships in the development of a financial strategy.
Originally a farm girl from southern Saskatchewan, the roots run deep and Rita still likes to be there for calf throwing and round-up season. She also belongs to an amateur acting group which keeps her involved in the community and local charity groups.
Chad Elliott, BAFS, BComm
Investment Specialist
Chad began his career in the financial industry in 2005, working part-time during the summer as a Member Services Representative at Servus Credit Union. He joined the team at Servus Wealth Strategies Ltd. in the spring of 2008. Chad received his Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Athabasca in 2008. In 2007 he earned a Bachelor of Applied Financial Services (BAFS) degree from Lakeland College and completed the Canadian Securities Course.
Chad’s passion for the industry comes from a strong interest in learning how the markets work and the impact of global situations here in Canada. Chad most enjoys helping members to come to the realization that financial freedom is within their reach, working on plans to help them reach that goal and keeping them on track. He finds great joy in watching what happens to even small amounts of money when it is properly looked after!
Chad grew up on a farm in McLaughlin, south of Lloydminster. He and his wife recently welcomed their first child. In his spare time Chad enjoys wakeboarding, snowboarding, golf and playing hockey and baseball.
Dana Smith, CFP®
Financial Planner
Dana Smith is an Investment and Life Insurance Specialist, serving Servus Credit Union’s members in the Westlock, Barrhead, Athabasca and Slave Lake branches.
Born and raised in Calgary, Dana moved to Westlock in 2003 with her family, where she served as an independent investment advisor and life insurance specialist for several years. She recently obtained her Certified Financial Planning (CFP®) designation.
Dana is a life-long credit union member and is committed to their unique, member-first approach. “I value the relationships I build with credit union members and enjoy being challenged by their questions. It is always a pleasure to meet someone new and to get them as excited about their financial future as I am. To provide members with exceptional service, I make it a priority to continuously upgrade and add to my education."
