Our Team

Home / Our Team

Alman Partners has a dedicated team of highly qualified and experienced financial experts who are uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals. Learn more about your Financial Adviser and our support team below.

Our Advisers

Paul Shepherd - Senior Financial Adviser & Partner | Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

Paul Shepherd

Managing Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP®️ Professional, BEng, DipMgt, DFS(FP)
Teneale Laister Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Teneale Laister

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP®️ Professional, ADFS(FP), BCom(Fin, FP, Mgt)(Hons)
Jason Kirk - Senior Financial Adviser & Partner | Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

Jason Kirk

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, SMSF Specialist Adviser, GradDip. App.Fin&Inv, B.Econ
Niyati Khanna - Investment Committee Chair at Alman Partners True Wealth

Niyati Khanna

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, CA, MBA (Finance & Strategy)
Kelsey Dent, Alman Partners Financial Adviser & Partner

Kelsey Dent

Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, GradDipFP, ADFP, BA Hons (Bus, Mgt)
James Alexander - Financial Adviser & Partner | Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

James Alexander

Financial Adviser

MFinP, GradDipFP, BBus (Fin, Mgt)
Katrina Dhu Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Katrina Dhu

Financial Adviser

MFinPlan, ABFP®, CRPC®, GradDipFinPlan, ADFS(FP), DFS(FP)
Veronika Holubova Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Veronika Holubova

Financial Adviser

MFinP, GradCertFP, ADFP, DipFP 
Caitlyn Kent Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Caitlyn Kent

Financial Adviser

GDipFinPlan, DipFP, BCom(Acc)
Ashleigh Thompson Financial Adviser at Alman Partners True Wealth

Ashleigh Thompson

Financial Adviser

BBus(FinPlan)
Mel Robin Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Mel Robin

Financial Adviser

MFinPlan, GCertFinPlan

Paul Shepherd

Managing Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP®️ Professional, BEng, DipMgt, DFS(FP)
Paul joined our firm as a partner in 2010 and is Alman Partners' Managing Director.
Paul's passion and natural ability to manage risk and deliver positive financial outcomes, along with his keen desire to understand the values that drive people is invaluable.
Paul's background is one of Mechanical Engineering and Project Management with over 12 years of experience in major projects in the mining and construction industries. This vast experience empowers Paul with a wealth of skills and knowledge, which he draws upon to keep his clients on track and accountable to their plan.
He continually seeks improvement opportunities and enjoys the challenges that this brings. Leadership and genuine care and concern for people are among his strongest attributes.
Attention to detail is second nature to Paul, so this, backed by the Alman Partner's brains trust of best-in-class Financial Planning experts, makes him the perfect man to have as your Trusted Financial Adviser.
Paul holds the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®️ which he completed in 2015 and in 2017 achieved accreditation as a Tax (financial) adviser from the Tax Practitioners Board. Paul currently sits on the Alman Partners’ Investment Committee.
Continuing the Alman Partners' commitment to bringing the highest standards and world-class solutions to our client community, Paul and Steve are founding members of the Global Association of Independent Advisers (GAIA) - an exclusive network of independently owned investment advisory firms who are committed to putting clients' interests first. Paul sits on the GAIA Board as one of two Australasian Executive Representatives.
ASIC Representative Number 001001430.

Teneale Laister

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP®️ Professional, ADFS(FP), BCom(Fin, FP, Mgt)(Hons)
Teneale commenced employment with our firm in 2008 and became partner in 2016.
Teneale is one of our highly qualified financial advisers who possesses a thorough understanding of the technical aspects required to deliver quality advice to our clients, within the ever-changing regulatory framework of our profession. She has a passion for working with people and demonstrates a high level of maturity and compassion when dealing with clients. With her empathetic manner, Teneale enjoys assisting clients to reach their most important life goals by providing comprehensive strategies in a way which is easily understood.
Teneale was awarded her Bachelor of Commerce (with Distinction) and an Advanced Diploma in Financial Services through Deakin University in 2012, majoring in Finance, Financial Planning and Management. She was awarded a lifetime membership to the Golden Key International Honour Society whilst studying at Deakin University. Teneale is a member of the Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA), and in 2016 received the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®️. She is a member of the Mackay FAAA Chapter. In 2017 Teneale achieved accreditation as a Tax (financial) adviser from the Tax Practitioners Board. She currently sits on the Alman Partners’ Compliance Committee.
Teneale has a wealth of knowledge in many areas of finance and financial planning strategies. Her ability to adapt this knowledge to help clients at all stages of their lives is second to none and provides clients with complete confidence and peace of mind.
As co-host of Wealth Experience podcast, Teneale thoroughly enjoys educating the broader community on all things financial. Teneale also has a monthly segment on ABC Tropical North Radio, Money Matters.
ASIC Representative Number 001001427.

Jason Kirk

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, SMSF Specialist Adviser, GradDip. App.Fin&Inv, B.Econ
Jason joined our firm in September 2020 as a Senior Financial Adviser, to manage and grow Alman Partners’ presence in South East Queensland. Bringing with him over 25 years’ experience, Jason has a vast amount of knowledge in the wealth management and financial services sectors.
Providing professional and quality financial advice to his clients is at the heart of what drives him on a day-to-day basis. Jason loves what he does and is extremely passionate about helping his clients achieve all that is important to them. Having managed his own financial planning firm, Jason has a thorough understanding and appreciation of what goes on behind the scenes in creating world-class investment solutions for his clients.
Jason holds the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner® (2003), a Graduate Diploma in Applied Investment & Finance from the Australian Securities Institute (1999), where he was awarded the KPMG Prize after ranking first in Australia for Financial Statement Analysis. Jason is a Self-Managed Superannuation Specialist (SSA) (2009) and holds a Bachelor of Economics (1993). In 2014, Jason achieved accreditation as a Tax (financial) adviser from the Tax Practitioners Board and in 2021, joined the Alman Partnership. Jason currently sits on both the Alman Partners’ Investment and Compliance Committees.
Outside of work Jason can be found in the bush – trail running or mountain biking, or spending time watching his boys playing rugby.
 
ASIC Representative Number 000275916.

Niyati Khanna

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, CA, MBA (Finance & Strategy)
Niyati moved to Mackay from Mumbai, India in 2014 and brought over 8 years of experience in the global financial sector. She is a qualified Chartered Accountant from the Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants and also holds a post-graduate diploma in Business Management from the Indian School of Business (Global FT Ranking 10). She has over 6 years' experience in Investment Banking.
Niyati's financial acumen and analytical prowess are second to none and together with her global experience, brings a new dimension of capability and cultural diversity to our team. Niyati is passionate about exceeding client expectations and delivering world-class advice, as she knows that this will increase the confidence and clarity our clients have for achieving their personal goals.
Niyati is a keen learner and in 2018 received the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®. She also completed her Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning and the Diploma in Financial Planning in early 2016. In 2021, Niyati joined the Alman Partnership. She currently Chairs the Alman Partners’ Investment Committee.
 
ASIC Representative Number 001250721.

Kelsey Dent

Financial Adviser

CFP® Professional, GradDipFP, ADFP, BA Hons (Bus, Mgt) 
Kelsey commenced employment with our firm in May 2016, after moving from the UK. She joined the Partnership in 2023.
Kelsey holds a Business and Management Degree, completed her Diploma in Financial Planning in 2017, her Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning in 2018, and her Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning in 2023. In 2024, Kelsey finalised her CFP Professional qualification.
She brings over 7 years of experience working in the UK financial services industry and enjoys continually developing her knowledge base, with a keen sense of personal evolution. Kelsey is passionate about building strong relationships with clients and assisting in meeting their goals through the development of technical strategies.
As a young adviser, Kelsey is passionate about driving positive change and evolution in the dynamic profession. She is enjoying making strong connections with her clients in this trusted position, providing meaningful change to their lives through quality advice.
As co-host of Wealth Experience podcast, Kelsey thoroughly enjoys educating the broader community on all things financial.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her partner and young daughter, keeping active and exploring the region.
ASIC Representative Number 001271571.

James Alexander

Financial Adviser

MFinP, GradDipFP, BBus (Fin, Mgt)
Originally from Brisbane, James spent almost a decade working for a global investment management firm across both their Sydney and Melbourne offices. As a member of their Global Client Group, his key responsibilities included leading and managing relationships with wealth management businesses across Australia & New Zealand and consulting with financial advisers on building an efficient practice while providing a successful investment experience to their clients.
His time with this firm introduced him to the Alman Partners team and in 2022 he decided to change paths and move into wealth management, joining Alman Partners’ Brisbane office.
James currently holds a Bachelor of Business (Majoring in Finance & Management), completed his Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning in 2019 and his Master of Financial Planning in 2020.
In late 2023, James joined the Alman Partners' Partnership.
ASIC Representative Number 001302887.

Katrina Dhu

Financial Adviser

MFinPlan, ABFP®, CRPC®, GradDipFinPlan, ADFS(FP), DFS(FP)
Katrina is one of our highly-skilled Financial Advisers with over 30 years’ experience in the banking and finance industry. In 2024 she received the accreditations of Accredited Behavioral Finance Professional and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor through Kaplan Professional. In 2023 she completed her Master of Financial Planning through Kaplan Professional, after completing a Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning in 2020.
She is passionate about empowering her clients through education and financial literacy. Katrina loves building lasting relationships with clients and assisting them to achieve their goals.
Katrina enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, practising yoga, swimming and visiting the beach. She also has a love of travel and embarking on new adventures and experiences.
 
ASIC Representative Number 001008822.

Veronika Holubova

Financial Adviser

MFinP, GradCertFP, ADFP, DipFP 
Veronika joined our team as an Associate Adviser in November 2020, having several years of experience in the industry. Originating from Prague in the Czech Republic, she moved to Australia in 2012 after living in the UK and the USA.
Veronika is passionate about raising awareness of the importance of financial literacy. She believes in a positive approach to life and transparency every step of the way.
Having accomplished a Diploma of Financial Planning and Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning at Monarch Institute in 2017, Veronika was awarded her Masters in Financial Planning from Griffith University in 2020. Veronika believes in achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients through exceptional service, ongoing rapport and above all else, having her client’s best interests at heart. Outside of work, Veronika keeps herself fit with outdoor hiking. She also loves exploring new interests, cultures and people.
ASIC Representative Number 001261567.

Caitlyn Kent

Financial Adviser

GDipFinPlan, DipFP, BCom(Acc)
Caitlyn is one of our skilled Financial Advisers. With over 7 years of experience in the financial services profession before joining Alman Partners, she spent several years within Alman Partners as an Associate, technical Client Service Officer and Financial Analyst.
With a thorough understanding of all aspects of the financial advice process, Caitlyn has a wide range of skills and technical acumen that allows her to confidently assist her clients.
Caitlyn completed her Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Accounting at the University of Southern Queensland in 2015. She completed her Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning in June 2022, completing many subjects with a High Distinction and is on track to complete her Masters in Financial Planning in 2024.
She always aims to provide the best customer service possible and is more than happy to assist with client enquiries.
In her free time, she loves to spend time with her husband and two children, going camping and exploring exciting new attractions.
ASIC Representative Number 001303253.

Ashleigh Thompson

Financial Adviser

BBus(FinPlan)
Beginning her journey in the financial advice profession, Ashleigh began as a Financial Analyst back in 2016, which led her to Alman Partners in 2020.
With a deep-held desire to continue developing her skills, both personally and professionally, Ashleigh went on to study a Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) where she graduated from RMIT in 2022 with Distinction.
Now a fully-fledged adviser, Ashleigh rejoined the Alman Partners’ team in 2023. Through her own life experiences and personal growth, she has discovered a passion for assisting others through their financial journey, allowing them to focus less on money and more on what matters most to them.
Born and raised in Mackay, Ashleigh enjoys exploring new destinations with her family, particularly visiting artisan markets and discovering new and exotic foods.
ASIC Representative Number: 001299165

Mel Robin

Financial Adviser

MFinPlan, GCertFinPlan
Mel is one of our highly-skilled Financial Advisers, rejoining Alman Partners in 2022. She was awarded her Master of Financial Planning from Griffith University in 2018 and her Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning in 2017. She brings with her over 20 years of experience in various Financial Planning firms from around Australia.
Mel is passionate about the financial planning process and the ability for advice to transform clients’ lives so they can obtain ‘True Wealth.’ Mel also thrives on the ability to work within a growing and diverse team of professionals, where personal and professional growth and learning is wholeheartedly embraced.
Away from work, Mel loves reading and camping, and even better when she can mix the two together. She is a raving Parkrun fan and loves to ‘parkrun tourist’ when possible (Parkrun is a free, weekly five-kilometre timed run/walk, held at multiple venues globally. Anyone can participate, the events are free and they are run by volunteers).
ASIC Representative Number 001303255.

Our Founder

Scott Alman Chairman & Founding Partner at Alman Partners True Wealth

Scott Alman

Founder

 CFP® Professional, AIF®, DFP, FPA Fellow

Scott Alman

Founder

CFP® Professional, AIF, DFP, FPA Fellow
Scott established Alman Partners in 1985.
Scott's skills in strategic planning have underpinned our firm's overall direction, while his problem-solving innovations for clients set the firm apart from its competitors.
Scott was one of the first generation of Certified Financial Planners in Australia and has been a pioneer within the profession, particularly in the area of fee for service advice and education. Nationally, Scott has received recognition for his achievements and the respect of his professional peers through industry awards, published articles and speaking engagements.
Scott was awarded a Diploma in Financial Planning through RMIT in 1995. He holds the designation of Certified Financial Planner and is a Fellow of the Financial Planning Association of Australia. Scott established The Mackay Community Foundation in 2003, being founding Director and Chairman to assist the less fortunate in the Mackay regional community.
In 2008, Scott's contribution to the Mackay community was recognised when he was selected as the winner of the Queensland Regional Achievement and Community Awards, in recognition of his work with The Mackay Community Foundation and with the development of a financial literacy program for children and adults.
ASIC Representative Number 001001428.

Alman Partners' DNA

Scott’s 30-year anniversary message

Our Advice Support Team

Mehak Advani - Financial Adviser & Partner | Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

Mehak Advani

Associate

MAdvFin, CFA Level III Candidate, MCom (Bus. Admin + Acc.), BMgt (Fin)
Ashleigh McKenzie Financial Adviser & Partner at Alman Patners Truewealth

Ashleigh Davis

Associate

Nadine Saron Senior Financial Analyst at Alman Partners True Wealth

Nadine Saron

Senior Financial Analyst

AdvDipFS (FP), DipFS (FP)
Emily Young Financial Analyst at Alman Partners True Wealth

Emily Young

Financial Analyst

DipFP
Yenuk Watapuluwa | Alman Partners | Financial Analyst

Yenuk Watapuluwa

Financial Analyst

DFP, MBA, BBus

Mehak Advani

Associate

MAdvFin, CFA Level III Candidate, MCom (Bus. Admin + Acc.), BMgt (Fin)
Originally from Mumbai, India, Mehak moved to Melbourne in 2019 and relocated to Queensland in 2021, to join our team as a Client Service Officer. She has now progressed to becoming an Associate in 2022, and aspires to become a successful Lead Financial Adviser.
Mehak has completed her Masters of Advanced Finance from Monash University, alongside being a Level 3 Candidate of the CFA Programme. She has previous experience in Wealth Management working as a Client Relationship Manager at a well-known firm back in Mumbai. Mehak also holds a Masters of Commerce in Business Management & Accounting. Her wealth of technical and analytical knowledge/skills coupled with her love for being a people person has helped her pave her way in the financial planning space. She is a member of the Alman Partners Investment Committee.
In her spare time, Mehak enjoys traveling and spending time with friends. She loves exploring new places and being outdoors. She has been very lucky to have traveled around the world, which has helped her grow as an individual and learn all about people and their different cultures.

Ashleigh Davis

Associate

Ashleigh has recently advanced in her career to one of our Associates, coming from our highly-skilled Client Services team.
Originally from Airlie Beach, Ashleigh is currently studying a Bachelor of Business (majoring in Financial Planning) and has 2 years of experience in retail banking along with extensive experience in administration. Combined with her experience as a Client Service Officer, she has a vast understanding of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into financial advice preparation.
She is always willing to help with a smile, and customer service is a top priority for her in her career.
Family is important to Ashleigh and in her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, riding horses, relaxing by the pool and playing video games.

Nadine Saron

Senior Financial Analyst

AdvDipFS (FP), DipFS (FP)
Nadine rejoined Alman Partners in 2023 as a Senior Financial Analyst, originally working with us over 20 years ago in our Mackay office. Having completed her Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Financial Services (Financial Planning) since that time, Nadine has flourished in the profession.
Her experience and down-to-earth approach have enabled her to establish successful relationships and she possesses a wide range of skills, from technical paraplanning to compliance and relationship building. Her astute market insights and innate ability to analyse complex economic trends have earned her an esteemed reputation among clients and peers alike.
Away from work, Nadine has a passion for the beach and is often found nearby the shore with her two teenage sons.

Emily Young

Financial Analyst

DipFP
Emily is one of our vibrant and knowledgeable Financial Analysts, bringing a unique blend of creativity and financial expertise to our office. Originally from Mackay, Emily moved to Brisbane to pursue her passion for music and graduated with a Bachelor of Music. Following this Emily worked in a family-run financial planning firm, quickly developing another of her passions - the financial planning profession.
Beginning her professional journey as a Receptionist, she quickly moved through to Client Services and Paraplanning. She has since completed a Diploma of Financial Planning in 2018 further committing to providing excellence in her chosen field.
Outside of work, Emily enjoys singing and tap dancing, hobbies that highlight a vibrant and creative spirit. A connoisseur of good wine and an avid cook, she enjoys exploring new recipes and sharing delicious meals with friends and family.

Yenuk Watapuluwa

Financial Analyst

DFP, MBA, BBus
Yenuk is one of our highly skilled and experienced Financial Analysts. He brings with him a robust background in finance having previously worked in business development, investment & funds management, corporate finance & banking, operations, and risk management.
Holding a Diploma of Financial Planning (DFP), a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Management & Leadership, and a Bachelor of Business (BBus) in Management & International Business, Yenuk thrives on knowledge and is an analytical thinker.
Outside of work, he enjoys expanding his culinary palate, exploring new locales and staying fit with a range of sports.

Our Operations Team

Jenean Du Preez Client Service Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Jenean Du Preez

Client Service Operations Manager

Kim Sartor Client Service Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Kim Sartor

Client Service Officer

Broc Nicholson Client Service Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Broc Nicholson

Client Service Officer

Alyisa Lette Client Service Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Alyisa Lette

Client Service Officer

AdvDip PP
Kylie Purser Client Services Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Kylie Purser

Client Service Officer

Jodie Coates Client Services Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Jodie Coates

Client Service Officer

Elana Clark Client Services Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Elana Clark

Client Service Officer

DipAcc
Erin Mackenzie | Alman Partners | Client Service Officer

Erin Mackenzie

Client Service Officer

Stevie Schuster | Alman Partners | Client Service Officer

Stevie Schuster

Client Service Officer

Shakara Rose Office Operations at Alman Partners True Wealth

Shakara Rose

Office Operations

Lily Barben | Alman Partners | Business Administrator Trainee

Lily Barben

Business Administrator (Trainee)

Dr Steve Garth - Independent Investment Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

Dr Steve Garth

Independent Investment Committee Member

Jenean Du Preez

Client Service Operations Manager

Jenean is our highly dedicated Client Service Operations Manager. With over 3 years of experience as one of our Client Service Officers, she has taken on the role to manage this team.
Originally from Bloemfontein, South Africa, Jenean has a strong background in the financial services industry, having worked for fund and asset managers for 10 years before moving to Australia.
Jenean has worked in various roles including Reception, Administration, Personal Assistant and Marketing Assistant, with skills in social media management and event planning. She has also completed programs in Public Relations and Office Management.
Jenean is dedicated to her work and loves a challenge, taking the lead on many improvement projects within the firm. With her guidance, many of our Client Service Officers have achieved great things in their roles.
In her free time, Jenean loves spending time with her husband and two teenage children, taking their two dogs for long walks on the beach and enjoying the outdoors.

Kim Sartor

Client Service Officer

Originally from far North Queensland, Kim moved from Townsville to Mackay with her family in 2009. Kim has a strong administrative background, having worked in banks, accounts administration and high-level Client Service Officer roles, coming to the financial planning profession after working for a criminal law firm.
Known for her caring and compassionate approach, Kim ensures that every client feels heard, respected, and supported. Her ability to understand and anticipate client needs allows her to provide personalized, solutions-focused assistance.
Kim has made Mackay her home and enjoys spending time with her 3 daughters, the family dog, and her daughters’ pets.  She has spent many years keeping active with a love of netball, touch football, and being part of the Mackay Dragon Boat Club. With her parents still living in the last family home at Forrest Beach, just outside of Ingham; you will find Kim travelling North regularly where she spends weekends and special occasions with her extended family.

Broc Nicholson

Client Service Officer

Born and raised in Carmila, Broc ventured to Sydney for 2 years where she began work in the financial services industry as a Client Service Officer. However, she returned to the Mackay region as she couldn’t resist the local charm.
Over the past 5 years, Broc has worked in numerous customer service roles. She has completed Certificates 2 & 3 in Business, and is looking forward to progressing her career by studying financial planning.
Broc loves providing clients with the best service and outcomes and is a great addition to our team.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring the outdoors, going camping, fishing and even spending time with the cows.

Alyisa Lette

Client Service Officer

AdvDip PP
Alyisa is one of our amazing Client Service Officers, with over 8 years of experience in the financial planning profession prior to joining Alman Partners. Having a genuine love of helping people, superior customer service is extremely important to Alyisa. Her friendly personality ensures that after every encounter you leave with a smile. Alyisa completed an Advanced Diploma of Paraplanning from Kaplan in 2024.
After a long day, Alyisa loves curling up with a good book and a cup of tea (or glass of red). She also loves spending time with her young family and watching her son play basketball.

Kylie Purser

Client Service Officer

Kylie is one of our highly skilled Client Service Officers and has been involved in the financial planning profession since 2003. After moving to Mackay from Newcastle in 2008 and originally joining our team as Director of First Impressions in early 2019, Kylie has a high attention to detail and adds her own creative flair to any work assignment with her personal motto being “live a creative life.” Kylie has a collection of skills and knowledge that allows her to comfortably assist any client or support our team.
Outside of work, Kylie enjoys DIY projects around the home, travelling, and spending time with family.

Jodie Coates

Client Service Officer

Jodie grew up in the Financial Planning industry with both her father and brother being Advisers. Previously working in the hotel industry, Jodie has a high level of client service skills and enjoys assisting clients wherever possible.
Having worked administration in the corporate office of Australia’s largest food service franchisee, Jodie has a high attention to detail and is extremely time efficient. Along with her friendly and helpful attitude, Jodie makes a wonderful addition to our client service team.
Being born and raised in Mackay, Jodie loves getting outdoors in her spare time, enjoying our amazing location, gardening and spending time with friends.

Elana Clark

Client Service Officer

DipAcc
Elana is one of our highly-skilled Client Service Officers and has been involved in the financial planning profession since 2019. With extensive experience in the retail sector, Elana can easily communicate with clients and achieve the best outcomes. Elana has completed a Diploma of Accounting from TAFE.
Originally from Noosa, Elana loves the beach and enjoying a cocktail or 2 with friends. As a mother of 2, she also enjoys traveling with her children and experiencing the sights of Brisbane.

Erin Mackenzie

Client Service Officer

Erin is one of our vibrant Client Service Officers currently pursuing dual degrees in Professional Communication and Financial Planning. She is due to graduate in early 2026.
Driven by a passion for understanding the intricacies of finance and its practical applications, Erin is eager to explore the nuances of making money work effectively. With experience in the food & services industries, Erin brings with her a wealth of customer service experience and interpersonal skills.
Beyond Erin's academic pursuits, she thoroughly enjoys outdoor activities, including beach visits with her dog and indulging in reading.

Stevie Schuster

Client Service Officer

Stevie joins our dedicated Client Service Officer team bringing with her over 14 years of experience in the finance arena. She has previously worked in asset management and financial planning practices in Client Service Leadership and Training roles.
Born and raised in Wollongong, Stevie moved to Mackay in 2024 with her partner and dog Rio.
Stevie thrives on building meaningful relationships whilst delivering exceptional customer service. A self-confessed people person, with a passion for animals and nature, Stevie has an extremely approachable nature and brings warmth, energy, and professionalism to every interaction.
In her personal time, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, walks on the beach with Rio and keeping fit with yoga and pilates.

Shakara Rose

Office Operations

Shakara joined our team in September 2020 in the role of Office Operations. Coming from the Aviation and Customer Service industries, Shakara is committed to providing positive client engagements. She is dedicated to building strong relationships with our clients and key relations.
Enjoying a challenge, Shakara is committed to assisting our team wherever possible while becoming the best version of herself.
Outside of work, Shakara enjoys travelling, spending time at the beach and with her family and friends, as well as dining out.

Lily Barben

Business Administrator (Trainee)

Lily joined us in May 2024 as our Trainee Business Administrator, assisting in office operations. Lily is new to the professional and financial world but brings with her enthusiasm and a fresh perspective. Coming from a customer service role, she thrives on providing the best experience in any interaction.
Lily will often be one of the first people you speak with at Alman Partners and is eager to embrace new challenges and expand her skill set. Her dedication, adaptability, and passion for learning make her an exciting addition to our team.
She holds Certificates II & III in Health (Nursing), and outside of work, Lily enjoys the outdoors, camping, spending time at the beach and travelling.

Dr Steve Garth

Independent Investment Committee Member

Dr Steve Garth is the Principal of Principia Investment Consultants and an independent member of the Alman Partners Investment Committee.
Steve's role is to provide his expertise, insights, academic rigour and experience to our Investment Committee around areas such as asset allocation, implementation and the evaluation of investment strategies and investment managers.
For nearly two decades, he played a key role in helping grow the Australian arm of global asset manager Dimensional Fund Advisors. During his career he has managed Australian and global equity portfolios, managed the Asia Pacific trading team and oversaw the introduction of direct market access trading, and for the last 10 years he specialized in managing the firm’s fixed interest strategies.
Before joining Dimensional in 2001, Steve was on the faculty of the University of New South Wales. His teaching and research interests were in optical fiber technology and quantitative finance.
Steve received his PhD in Applied Mathematics from the Australian National University. He also holds a BSc in Mathematics and Physics, a BA with majors in History and Politics, and holds a Masters of Applied Finance (MAppFin). As well, he has a Graduate Diploma in Business Administration.
Steve is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Our Executive Operations Team

Steve Lowry Senior Financial Adviser & Partner | Committee Member at Alman Partners True Wealth

Steve Lowry

Chairman

CFP®️ Professional, DFP
Rita Azzopardi Chief Financial Officer at Alman Partners True Wealth

Rita Azzopardi

Chief Financial Officer

BCom
Matthew Falzon Business Improvement Executive & Partner at Alman Partners Truewealth

Matthew Falzon

Business Improvement Executive & Partner

AssocDElecEng, DipBus (FM)
Kerri Wallace | Alman Partners | Creative Director/Executive Officer

Kerri Wallace

Creative Director/Executive Officer

AP Bear - Alman Partners | True Wealth | Financial Planning Service | Superannuation Advisers | Investment Advice Mackay & Brisbane

AP Bear

Client Relations

Steve Lowry

Chairman

CFP®️ Professional, DFP
Steve joined our firm in 1998 and became a partner in 2004. Steve possesses a deep level of financial theory and is able to adapt academic research to the real world of investing. His presentations make complex ideas not only understandable but also useful.
With over 25 years' experience in the financial planning profession and business management, Steve has assisted many clients achieve their most important goals. Steve is passionate about his client's future and providing exceptional advice and direction.
Steve has been instrumental in developing a team culture built on excellence and fun. This has resulted in Alman Partners being the employer of choice within our profession. Steve was awarded a Diploma of Financial Planning through Deakin University. He holds the professional designation of Certified Financial Planner®. In 2017 Steve achieved accreditation as a Tax (financial) adviser from the Tax Practitioners Board.
Steve is a founding Director of The Mackay Community Foundation and served on the board from 2003-2019. Upon his retirement from the board he was bestowed with the 'Pride of Mackay Award’ from Mayor Greg Williamson for his work with the Foundation.
In 2012 Steve was awarded the Financial Planning Association's Queensland Community Services Award for his work with The Mackay Community Foundation and commitment to providing financial literacy education to our community.
Steve is Alman Partners' Chairman of the Board.
ASIC Representative Number 001001393.

Rita Azzopardi

Chief Financial Officer

BCom
Born and raised in Mackay, Rita commenced with our firm in 2003.
As company accountant, Rita combines her exceptional accounting and business management skills to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our practice. In addition, Rita plays a major role in our human resources and compliance teams.
Rita has gained valuable experience from witnessing the inevitable market cycles which have impacted Mackay over the years and which she applies in her work with our firm.
Rita achieved her Bachelor of Commerce from James Cook University in 1990. Rita held for many years the professional designation of Certified Practising Accountant.

Matthew Falzon

Business Improvement Executive & Partner

AssocDElecEng, DipBus (FM)
Matthew joined Alman Partners in October 2018 and was born and raised in Mackay. Matthew has a passion for continuous improvement, with a deep understanding of how to increase efficiency and remove frustrations by the application of continuous improvement methodologies and technology. Matthew joined the Alman Partnership in 2021, becoming our first non-Adviser Partner.
He started his working life as an electrical apprentice and has a diverse work history across, predominately, the mining and manufacturing industries, in roles spanning engineering, project management, maintenance and technology.
Outside of work you'll find Matt fishing and crabbing, walking on the beach and enjoying time with his family and friends.

Kerri Wallace

Creative Director/Executive Officer

Kerri commenced employment with our firm in 2011 and has transitioned from Receptionist to Client Service Officer to Project Officer and Creative Director/Executive Officer. Kerri assists our Executive Team with administrative tasks, monitors and assists with project progression, assists in staff training and resourcing, and manages our marketing endeavours. Having a passion for graphic design, she is constantly refreshing our documents and marketing material to ensure our clients are always kept up to date.
Kerri’s friendly and helpful manner, combined with her exceptional work ethic ensures our clients and team have all the support they require. In her spare time, Kerri enjoys relaxing with her young family and pets, and studying Ancient Egyptian History.

AP Bear

Client Relations

AP Bear joined the Alman Partners team in 2016 as Head of Client Relations. With years of experience in this department, he is well known for having a cuddly personality.
An intrepid explorer with a mischievous streak, AP Bear loves going on adventures and making new friends. Each year,  AP Bear judges the infamous AP Bear Photo of the Year Award.
In his spare time, AP loves relaxing with a drink in hand by the beach.

Get Started Today

Contact us for more information on our financial services.
We will get back to you shortly.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.