Meet the Team
At R. Anderson & Associates Inc., you don’t just work with one person – you work with a team. Our partners, managers, accountants, bookkeepers, and client services staff collaborate closely so you get continuity, shared expertise, and people who know your file and your story.
We’re proud to be a mix of long-time Vancouver Island locals and newer arrivals to the region, all connected by a commitment to clients, community, and looking after each other.
On any given day, you may also meet a few of our four-legged “team members,” who help keep walks happening and stress levels down.
Managing Partner
Robert Anderson
Rob’s diverse experiences includes an extensive number of owner-managed and family owned businesses, as well as a significant background in the audit and assurance field, including public company, not for profit, film and television, technology and public sector realms.
Prior to purchasing the firm, he served as Chief Financial Officer for a variety of public sector junior mining and exploration companies listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. Rob obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Kwantlen Polytechnic University and spent his articling time with Staley Okada & Partners and Price Waterhouse Coopers in Vancouver, BC.
Rob’s main focus is providing auditing, accounting and taxation services to businesses and individuals in a variety of industries such as not for profit’s, public sector, construction, wholesale and retail, incorporated professionals, restaurants, and tourism industry to name a few.
He has a very focused dedication in developing and ensuring his relationships with his clients and understanding and meeting their needs and expectations are the firm’s number one priority. He also strongly believes and is passionate about supporting and giving back to the Alberni Valley community in which he lives and works.
Rob has completed the C.P.A. In-Depth Tax program, Canada’s leading program for tax specialists and is currently working towards obtaining his Trust and Estate planning designation.
He serves on the boards of the Alberni Valley Golf Course and PacificCare Family Enrichment Society.
Outside of office life, Rob enjoys playing recreational, slo-pitch softball, golf, fishing, and traveling and spending time exploring the Alberni Valley’s beautiful and endless outdoors with his wife Tracey and his rottweiler Isis.
Chief Operating Officer
Linda Kuhr
Linda moved to BC from Ontario in 1992 with her husband Peter, raising three children while working in various accounting positions across retail, manufacturing, and the entertainment industry.
Alongside her husband, she has owned two successful companies, honing her business acumen and a discerning sense for operational efficiency. Linda brings a wealth of corporate experience and a client-focused attitude that delivers results. Since relocating to Port Alberni in January 2015, she has remained dedicated to providing exceptional service to clients.
More recently, Linda enjoys spending time with her growing number of grandchildren and traveling. Her happy place is at home in the kitchen, where preparing food is her love language.
Payroll Manager
Suzy Van Herwaarden
Suzy has worked for the firm for the past ten years as executive administrative assistant. Her previous experience includes working for a financial institution, computer instructor for a private business school and various other office-related positions. She brings a very strong set of customer service skills acquired through these past employment positions to the firm. Suzy is very personable and always puts the client’s needs first.
Community involvement has always been an important part of her life and she has volunteered her time for a number of groups. Currently, Suzy serves as a director on Alberni-Clayoquot Continuing Care Society board and the Fir Park / Echo Village Foundation board.
In her free time, she really enjoys and is an avid beginner quilter.
Senior Manager
Vern Weiss
Vern Weiss, AAT, is not only the Small Business Expert but basically Port Alberni accounting royalty. Since 1991 (!), Vern’s passion has been serving owner-managers and not-for-profits alike. You need advice, complex accounting, tax help, or just a recommendation for the best golfing green, Vern’s your guy. Sporting organisation treasurer, valley explorer, and always ready with a handshake (or a solid spreadsheet).
Senior Manager
Mackenzie Wutke
Since 2019, Mackenzie’s been a bright spark in the office with her CPA officially earned in 2024. She handles everything from charity audits to corporate tax—and mentors the next generation, too. Hometown proud, she’s soon to start a new chapter as a parent, but for now, reading, fishing, and time at the family cabin keep her busy.
Associate
Morgan Francoeur
Morgan is as local as it gets—a lifelong Port Alberni resident whose cheerful spirit is known throughout the firm. She graduated from Vancouver Island University in 2016 and brings over nine years of bookkeeping experience and sunshine to the team. She joined R. Anderson in 2021 and is chasing her Bachelor of Business Administration at Yorkville University to keep her skills as sharp as her work ethic. Outside of work, Morgan’s all about family time, spoiling her dog Leia, and soaking up those classic Valley vibes.
Client Support Specialist
Tayla Haugen
Tayla’s earned her nickname as the “CRA pitbull”—in the best way! She attacks every client challenge with gusto, is unbeatable with QuickBooks Online, and is always first to volunteer for new projects. Team spirit? Through the roof. If she’s not lending a hand at work, she’s likely smashing softballs, catching fish, or baking up a storm for her family.
Operations Manager
Kristine Male
Kristine brings island roots and Alberta polish, transitioning from fleet management to office magic-maker after relocating back to BC in 2018. A master of keeping things running smoothly, Kristine’s positive, welcoming approach keeps the mood light and the clients happy. Off-hours, she’s travelling with her husband (over 30 years strong!), walking dogs, and soaking up sunny Island spots.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Nicola Tilbe
Nicola landed in Canada in 2020 with her husband, dog, and cat—fresh from a banking career across the pond. She switched pace (and scenery) for the Alberni Valley life and now flexes her payroll and bookkeeping know-how for the team. When not accounting for every penny, she’s exploring the wild side of the Island and plotting to volunteer at a wildlife recovery centre.
Director of First Impressions
Jen Richardson
Born and bred Port Alberni, Jen has 30+ years of customer service under her belt and a knack for making colleagues and clients feel at home. Well-respected for her work ethic and legendary for her laugh, she infuses the office with cheer. Jen’s happiest moments? Camping, family time, and doting on her grandson, Aiden.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Aimee Mather
Aimee’s journey started in 2004 when she arrived in Port Alberni and quickly fell for the friendly, slower pace. She’s a wizard at catching up backlogged books and government filings, earned her experience (and the scars!) working while studying at North Island College, and is aiming for a Payroll Compliance Professional credential. Off-duty, she reads, kayaks, and keeps the garden flourishing.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Joanna Stangowitz
Jo might be new-ish to the world of bookkeeping (joining in 2023), but she’s got a culinary and ranching past that puts “multi-talented” in bold type. Trained at CDI in bookkeeping and payroll, Jo spent a decade as a cook in her family’s restaurant and has also rounded up cattle, wrangled golf course divots, and now cultivates an urban farm. She draws, paints, hikes, fishes, forages, and even keeps the household aquariums thriving.
Corporate Liaison
Megan Currie
Customer service pro and fast learner Megan joined in 2023 with a ready-to-help vibe and an Office Administration Certificate under her belt. She’s always hungry to take on new tasks and outside work, loves hitting the trails with her two dogs, Olive and Juneau.
Associate
Chris Tilbe
Chris comes with global business chops, thanks to a Bachelor of Commerce from UVic and nearly two decades developing products in Hong Kong. Since 2020, he’s switched gears back home, now chasing his CPA and proving that manufacturing accounting and cross-border operations are his jam. When not translating East Asian business for the rest of us, Chris is tinkering, gardening, or rallying community events with his wife.
Associate
Chandra Campbell
Chandra landed on the west coast of Vancouver Island in 2015 and promptly traded city shoes for flip-flops—and maybe even a surfboard or two. Spotting a bookkeeping gap in the sunny, salty community, she launched her own business in 2019, partnering with local go-getters before joining R. Anderson in July 2025. She’s got a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Vancouver Island University and is working on her CPA (because who needs free time?). Chandra’s passion? Giving business owners rock-solid financial info, so their plans don’t just ride the waves—they make them.
Manager
Kari-Lee Burnham
Kari-Lee began her accounting career in 2008 as a bookkeeper and quickly advanced to managing a bookkeeping team. Today, she specializes in year-end preparation and personal tax returns, using her passion for problem-solving to help clients navigate complex accounting challenges. Kari-Lee provides both personal and corporate tax services, as well as support for not-for-profit organizations and incorporated companies. She is a graduate of Vancouver Island University with a BBA in Accounting. A lifelong Parksville resident, Kari-Lee enjoys camping, golfing, and cheering on her two daughters in their stage performances, alongside her husband and their family dog.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Jane McGrath
Jane has over 15 years of experience in bookkeeping, having studied at Vancouver Island University. She values the blend of organization and problem-solving that bookkeeping provides and takes pride in helping clients keep their finances on track. Outside of work, Jane enjoys Wes Anderson films, classic British sitcoms, and playing her Seagull Merlin dulcimer. She finds inspiration for her short stories while walking along the beach or forest trails and enjoys unwinding with crossword puzzles or Wordle.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Maren Low-Chernomaz
Maren’s journey started far away—in Germany. After 20+ years as a repeat visitor, she’s now a full-time Port Alberni local. Her background features management in hotels and marketing, and serious bookkeeping muscle was built in the Old Country. Since 2024 she’s brought her international flair to the team, balancing spreadsheets and enjoying life golf-clubbing, jet-setting, and being “Oma” to grandkids and friends.
Senior Associate
Ross Johnson
Homegrown talent alert: Ross grew up here, earned his Bachelor of Accounting at BCIT, and then zoomed straight into both forestry and public practice. Now a CFE conqueror and CPA nearly in hand, he’s big on giving clients that “aha!” financial insight. When off the clock, Ross might be tinkling the ivories or exploring near and far.
Client Relations Specialist
Anna Spik
Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Anna joined R. Anderson & Associates as part of the Brent Johnson CPA Ltd. acquisition. She brings more than 27 years of accounting experience and over 40 years in customer service and administration. Anna enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her two beloved dogs, making the most of Island life both at work and at home.
Bookkeeper/Payroll Specialist
Lacey Lalonde
Lacey brings a friendly, organized approach to bookkeeping, honed through years of experience in administrative roles across industries such as oil and gas, transportation, and laboratory services. After completing an Office Management course, she discovered her passion for bookkeeping and is focused on building her career in this area. Lacey has called Vancouver Island home since 1993 and studied administration at Malaspina College (now Vancouver Island University). When she's not at work, she enjoys camping, fishing, rock hounding, and spending time outdoors with her daughter and dog.
Associate
Teresa Smith
Originally from Edmonton, Teresa moved to Parksville with her husband and two cats in 2018. Her diverse career includes roles in retail management, training and development, and human resource management. She began bookkeeping in 2019, managing her husband's business accounts and her own small venture, before joining the firm in 2022. Teresa continues to expand her skills in corporate and personal tax preparation. Outside the office, she pursues her stained-glass business, enjoys gardening and baking, and loves exploring Vancouver Island or making trips back to Alberta to visit family and friends.
Certified Financial Planner
Tracey Anderson
As a certified financial planner (CFP) with over 25+ years of financial services experience, Tracey is passionately committed to providing clients a fully integrated financial plan that balances living life today with setting goals for tomorrow.
Tracey holds her Certified Financial Planner Designation through Financial Planning Canada, as well as her Financial Management Designation and Personal Financial Planning Designation attained through the Canadian Securities Institute.
Associate (On Leave)
John Vosper
John joined R. Anderson & Associates in May 2023 and has returned to the firm each summer while completing his Bachelor of Business Administration at Vancouver Island University, majoring in Accounting. He is set to graduate in April 2026 and plans to continue with the firm full-time upon graduation to begin the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation program. Before pursuing accounting, John spent seven years in radio broadcasting, developing strong skills in public speaking, interpersonal communication, and relationship building with community members, business owners, and elected officials. This background supports his work in public practice, where clear communication and professionalism are essential. In 2025, John became a father, and he is dedicated to balancing his growing career and family life. Originally from the mainland, John has called Vancouver Island home since 2016. Outside of work and studies, he enjoys exploring the island’s natural beauty and spending time outdoors.
Good Girl
Chase
Chase was born April 8, 2011 in Alberta. Her mom was a Border Collie and her dad a Blue Heeler.
Chase loves people and loves to please. She will greet you with nervous energy and a toy in her mouth. Chase is an emotional support dog. If you’re feeling stressed, she’s there to help distract you. Her big brown eyes beg you to reach down and pet her. When not at work Chase enjoys, hikes, car rides, playing ball (but she prefers sticks) and any chance she gets to go for a swim.
Naughty Girl
Isis
With a wag of her tail and a sparkle in her eyes, Isis has a knack for melting even the iciest of hearts. Her playful antics are like a dose of magic, leaving us all spellbound and smitten. We’re counting on many more years of her enchanting companionship to keep our spirits high and our hearts full of love. Paws down, she’s the queen of our office kingdom!
Sweetest Girl
Shelby
Shelby, the office’s very own shepherd extraordinaire! While her birthdate remains a mystery (adding to her mystique), this Shepherd Cross brings a whole lot of love and a whole lot of wisdom to our team. With a demeanor as sweet as honey, Shelby is the perfect antidote to the stresses of Tax season. She’s like a zen master in fur form, radiating calm vibes and keeping us grounded when the numbers start to spin. But don’t let her gentle nature fool you – Shelby’s got a firm paw when it comes to keeping the young pups in line. She’s the reigning referee of office shenanigans, knowing just when to put her paw down and restore order.
Wise Old Man
Otis
Otis is a 10-year-old Black Labrador with over a decade of experience in loyalty, leadership, and strategic snack evaluation. Known internally as “Wise Old Boy” and “Best Boy,” he is a steady and trusted presence who takes his responsibilities seriously — especially when treats are involved.
In addition to his culinary interests, Otis leads the firm’s Office Affection Initiative. He is committed to providing timely desk-side visits, morale-boosting tail wags, and on-demand emotional support. His collaborative approach and calm demeanor make him a favorite among staff and visitors alike. Outside of work, Otis enjoys beach excursions, water retrieval assignments, and advanced-level fetch. He continues to demonstrate that experience, dedication, and a well-timed nudge for snacks are essential to long-term success.
Escape Artist
Gus
Gus joined R. Anderson in 2021 as a part-time, wildly enthusiastic office visitor alongside his “sister,” Mackenzie. Each week, he bursts through the door with uncontainable excitement—as though it’s his very first day on the job. Gussie enjoys playtime with friends, walks almost anywhere, and has a lot to say when he’s excited.
Once he finally tires out, he can be found napping under a desk or settling into full couch‑cuddle mode at home. His specialties include expert-level treat eating, dramatic sighing when he’s bored or being ignored, and world‑class neighbourhood surveillance from the front window.
Gus brings joy, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos to everyone around.
Professional Good Girl
Leia
Born on January 19, 2025, Leia is our resident Golden Retriever and full-time morale booster. True to her breed, she brings boundless enthusiasm, loyalty, and a heart of gold to everything she does. Golden Retrievers are known for their intelligence, friendly temperament, and eagerness to please—traits Leia proudly demonstrates whether she’s greeting visitors, supervising meetings, or offering well-timed tail wags. When she’s not busy spreading joy around the office, Leia enjoys playtime, learning new tricks, and reminding everyone to take well-deserved breaks.
Dynamic Duo, Celebration and Clean-up Crew
Jill & Rose
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Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help your business succeed.
+1 (250) 724-5717
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