Discovering the Story Behind the Numbers
Ryan joined the Willems Wealth Planning Group with a clear interest in the human side of financial planning — the conversations, experiences, and turning points that shape how people think about money. In his role on the planning team, he works behind the scenes assisting in the development and refinement of client financial plans, helping ensure that recommendations are well-researched, organized, and thoughtfully implemented. While he is currently working toward his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER designation, Ryan’s focus today is building the technical depth and practical experience that allows him to support families with confidence and consistency.
Before entering the profession, Ryan earned his Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from the University of Manitoba, majoring in finance. It was during a personal financial planning course that the industry first clicked... not as abstract theory, but as applied decision-making that could meaningfully improve people’s lives. That realization set him on his current path.
Prairie Roots and Early Exposure to Client Work
Ryan grew up in southern Manitoba in a family where work ethic and accountability were simply expected. After university, he spent more than three years working in his family’s general insurance brokerage, gaining firsthand exposure to client service, policy analysis, and the practical realities of helping people navigate important financial decisions. That experience introduced him early to the responsibility that comes with trusted advice and the value of clear communication when people are making choices that affect their families and businesses.
He and his wife later relocated to Abbotsford, her hometown, where they now raise their young son. Family life remains a steady influence on how Ryan approaches his work: with patience, reliability, and a long-term perspective.
Driven by Discipline and Teamwork
Athletics have played a consistent role throughout Ryan’s life. After growing up playing a range of sports, he went on to compete in basketball at the collegiate level. Today he stays active through pickleball, strength training, and time outdoors. The habits formed through sport - preparation, discipline, and the quiet competitiveness to continually improve — carry directly into his professional life. Within the team, Ryan is known for steady focus, strong follow-through, and a willingness to put in the extra effort required to get details right.
Due to the volume and complexity of planning work the firm processes, Ryan has had the opportunity to accelerate his learning curve quickly, gaining exposure to a wide variety of client scenarios and planning strategies early in his career.
A Steady Presence Behind the Scenes
Colleagues and clients alike often describe Ryan as approachable and even-keeled. He has a natural ability to listen carefully, find practical solutions, and support progress without unnecessary friction. Whether coordinating planning details, organizing information, or contributing research to complex cases, he takes satisfaction in helping plans come together in a way that feels clear and actionable.
Looking Ahead
As Ryan continues to develop in the profession, his goal is straightforward: to become a dependable financial planner known for thorough preparation, thoughtful analysis, and genuine care for the people he serves. He is motivated by work that matters and by the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the families who place their trust in the team — helping them move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and direction.