Meet the Excalibur Planning Team

Jason Desaulniers CFP, CLU, CIM, CHS

CFP®, CLU®, CIM®, CHS® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER

Jason Desaulniers has been a leader in the financial services industry since 1996, dedicated to helping businesses and families achieve financial security through comprehensive financial planning and risk management strategies. As the President of Excalibur Executive Planning, Jason leads a team providing customized advice in investment management, group benefits, insurance, and succession planning, with offices in Edmonton and Cold Lake, Alberta. In 2019, Excalibur expanded its offerings by acquiring BP Group Solutions, further enhancing expertise in group benefits and retirement plans.

Jason is a lifelong learner, holding certifications as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Canadian Investment Manager (CIM), and Certified Health Insurance Specialist (CHS). He frequently presents on financial and risk management strategies to organizations across Western Canada, sharing insights to help clients secure their futures.

Jason has served in numerous leadership roles, including several years as President of Advocis Edmonton, and he currently serves as Sponsorship Chair for Advocis Banff School. His volunteer work spans organizations like Junior Achievement, Scouts Canada, the Edmonton Food Bank, and the Edmonton Folk Fest. Jason’s previous 12 years of involvement with BNI reflects his dedication to building meaningful professional connections.

A proud father of three adult daughters and a grandfather, Jason is passionate about forming relationships that go beyond business, often turning clients into lifelong friends. He believes trust and genuine care are the cornerstones of meaningful connections.

Outside his professional life, Jason is an accomplished endurance athlete. He earned a Guinness World Record at Everest Basecamp in 2022, a testament to his determination and commitment—qualities he brings to his work helping clients “Wealth Disaster Proof” their businesses and families.

Tami Romanchuk, CFP, CLU

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER - SPECIALIZING IN LIFE & HEALTH INSURANCE

Tami has been building her extensive career in the financial services industry since 2003. Throughout her journey, she has excelled in diverse roles, including Associate, Advisor, and Insurance Sales Director. In recognition of her innovative approach, she received an award for creating a unique study group that enhanced collaboration and success among the advisors she supported.

Tami’s experiences have shaped her deep passion for helping clients navigate the complexities of financial planning and risk management. Drawing from personal and professional insights, she is dedicated to alleviating the stress that often accompanies these processes. Her commitment is further fuelled by the challenges faced by friends and family during unexpected health crises, which highlighted the critical importance of preparation.

In 2022, Tami’s dedication to financial preparedness took on new meaning when she became her own first Critical Illness claim after being diagnosed with a meningioma brain tumor while her daughter was just one year old. Having experienced the impact of an unplanned health event firsthand, she is even more determined to help others get their financial affairs in order, recognizing that tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Based in Victoria, BC, Tami is an active community leader who has served on several boards, including the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Advocis Edmonton, Advocis Banff School (Past Chair), Toastmasters, and most recently, the Cobble Hill Events Society (CHES). Her volunteer work spans organizations such as the Canadian Cancer Society, Women in Leadership Foundation, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

In her personal life, Tami enjoys concerts, camping, and exploring the outdoors with her family. A former avid motorcyclist with over 20 years of experience, she embraces life’s adventures with enthusiasm and purpose.

Shalaine Tuleack

GROUP BENEFITS ADVISOR

Since 2013, Shalaine has been working in employee benefits, pension administration, client service, and operational leadership. Throughout her career, she has worked with employers, plan members, boards of trustees, and executive leadership teams, helping organizations navigate the complexities of benefit plans while balancing member needs, financial sustainability, and organizational objectives.

Before joining Excalibur Planning, Shalaine spent six years with OpenCircle Benefits, where she advanced through a series of progressively senior roles, ultimately serving as Director of Benefit Services and Director of Special Projects. During this time, she led strategic initiatives, supported organizational planning, and worked closely with leadership teams to improve operations, strengthen service delivery, and enhance the client experience.

Shalaine has extensive experience in benefit plan administration, annual renewals, rate analysis, client onboarding, plan design, and board reporting. She has presented recommendations to boards of trustees, led large client meetings, and worked directly with employers to address complex benefit challenges. Her ability to translate technical information into practical solutions allows clients to make informed decisions with confidence.

Her professional background also includes benefits and pension administration with Operating Engineers Local 955, where she supported members with disability, benefits, and pension matters. This experience provided valuable insight into the member perspective and reinforced her commitment to delivering exceptional service and meaningful outcomes for clients.

Shalaine holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta with a major in Business Law and Economics and a minor in Marketing. She has also completed Project Management studies through the University of Alberta and is a licensed Benefits Advisor.

Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

Catherine Saunders

OPERATIONS MANAGER & NEW BUSINESS GROUP ADMINISTRATOR

With over a decade of experience as a customer service administrator and seven years in management roles, Catherine brings a wealth of expertise to her position as Office Manager and Licensed New Business Group Administrator. She has developed her skills across various industries, including six years in retail and ten years in the insurance sector, joining Excalibur in May 2014.

Committed to ongoing professional development, she completed a Business 101 course in 2016 and has been Life and Accident & Sickness (A&S) licensed since 2019. In her current role, she oversees the company’s day-to-day operations, including payroll, staff training, compliance, ad design, new business processing, and customer service. She specializes in managing group insurance new business, ensuring a seamless experience for clients and stakeholders alike.

Outside of work, Cat enjoys riding her Spyder, gathering around fire pits with friends, fishing, and visiting family in Newfoundland.

Kimberly Kilbreath

LICENSED ASSISTANT

With over 20 years of experience as a Financial Planner and Advisor with leading chartered financial institutions, Kimberly specializes in investment planning and brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. She joined Excalibur in April 2024, contributing her expertise to deliver exceptional service to clients.

Known for being highly client-oriented and detail-focused, she takes pride in ensuring that every client receives the best care and personalized attention.

Outside of work, Kim enjoys reading, learning new things, and spending quality time with her husband.

Chantal Lacasse

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & GROUP BENEFITS

Chantal brings 16 years of experience in the liquor industry, where she excelled in dispatch, logistics, and training. Now embracing a new challenge in the financial services industry, she leverages her exceptional organizational skills, keen attention to detail, and passion for supporting team success.

As an endurance athlete and world traveler, Chantal has tested her limits in extraordinary places such as Everest, the Grand Canyon, and the Liwa Desert. These adventures have shaped her resilience, adaptability, and drive to thrive in dynamic environments.

Chantal is also deeply committed to her community, dedicating decades to volunteering at the Edmonton Folk Festival and Blues Festival, as well as supporting organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, Food Bank, and Hope Mission. Her dedication to giving back and fostering meaningful connections underscores her collaborative spirit.

Outside of work, Chantal treasures time spent with her family, friends, and their beloved dog. She enjoys music, good food, and cherishing moments with loved ones. With her diverse background and dedication to service, she is excited to bring her skills and energy to the financial services field.

Tami Winter

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Tami began working with BPGS/EEPI in November 2019, initially focusing on providing administrative support to life insurance clients. In 2021, she transitioned to serving investment clients, expanding her expertise in client service.

In addition to her client-focused responsibilities, Tami plays a vital role in supporting the office’s daily operations. Her duties include answering phones, handling mail, and assisting wherever needed. She also takes on various administrative projects and provides backup coverage for both life insurance and investment client services.

In her spare time, Tami enjoys a variety of hobbies, including crafting, reading, and spending quality time with her family.

Amanda Kain

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Amanda joined the team in September 2021 after successfully completing her student practicum with the office. She graduated with distinction from Portage College in 2021, earning an Office Administrative diploma. Since starting her role, she has been a dedicated member of the team for over three years.

In her role, Amanda provides essential support to the life insurance team, ensuring smooth operations and exceptional service to clients.

Outside of work, she enjoys shopping, trying new restaurants, snowboarding, and paddle-boarding. She’s also a proud cat mom to Marinara, who she adores for providing endless cuddles.

Trixie the Wonder Pup

Chief Morale Officer (CMO)

Trixie joined Excalibur Executive Planning after an extensive career in client relations, office security, and treat acquisition. As Chief Morale Officer, she is responsible for greeting visitors, supervising staff productivity from under desks, and ensuring that no snack enters the office unnoticed.

With years of experience as a dedicated Border Collie, Trixie specializes in stress reduction, emotional support, and reminding the team to take regular walking breaks. Her keen attention to detail allows her to quickly identify important visitors, delivery drivers, and anyone carrying treats.

When not overseeing daily operations, Trixie enjoys hiking, camping, RV adventures across North America, playing fetch, and conducting thorough inspections of squirrels, rabbits, and other suspicious wildlife. She is also a strong advocate for work-life balance and believes every meeting can be improved with a dog present.

Clients consistently rate Trixie highly for her warm welcome, attentive listening skills, and ability to brighten even the busiest day.

Professional Credentials:
• Certified Good Girl (CGG)
• Advanced Studies in Treat Management
• Diploma in Office Security & Visitor Screening
• Lifetime Achievement Award in Tail Wagging

Favourite Office Activities:
• Greeting clients
• Supervising meetings
• Napping during compliance reviews
• Receiving belly rubs
• Monitoring the parking lot for unusual activity

“At Excalibur, we believe every financial plan should include room for treats, walks, and the occasional afternoon nap.” – Trixie 🐾