Our Story
A legacy built on family values, deep relationships, and a commitment to helping generations realize their financial dreams.
Rooted in Relationships. Guided by Purpose.
A Foundation of Shared Values
Our story began in 1984 when Brian Davies launched his career with a simple mission. He wanted to help families realize their financial dreams. Partnering with his wife Janet, Brian built a practice at Investors Group that earned deep trust within the London community. His dedication to multigenerational planning laid the foundation for a legacy of service that continues to this day.
The next chapter opened in 1992 when Neil Mahnke entered the industry in Guelph. Neil focused on business owners and built a successful practice grounded in care. Brian recognized a kindred spirit in Neil. He saw someone who shared his client-first vision. In 2002, they officially founded Davies & Mahnke to combine their expertise and better serve a growing client base.
A Partnership Forged in Family
The connection between our founders deepened when Brian’s daughter, Kimberley, joined the business. Her thoughtful approach caught Neil’s eye. Kimberley and Neil married in 2004. This union merged not just a business but a family. It reflected the shared values that guide us today.
As the firm grew, mentorship became a cornerstone of our philosophy. Brian embraced a new role as a guide to the next generation. He instilled a deep respect for meaningful relationships in everyone who joined the team.
Growing Our Commitment to Service
Under Neil’s leadership, the firm expanded to meet the evolving needs of our clients. In 2009, both Doug Steinberg and Neil’s sister, Lisa Pearson, joined the practice. Doug strengthened our London presence until leaving a legacy of care upon his retirement in 2024. Lisa brought a new level of empathy to the client experience that continues today.
Mentorship became a cornerstone of our philosophy. In 2017, Matthew Lippert joined the team. His fresh energy and resilience earned him a place as partner. The team grew further with Samantha Sheffield, whose passion for education became instrumental in serving clients. Behind the scenes, office leaders Margaret Knoop and Erin Robertson ensured operations ran smoothly. Their decades of wisdom keep the firm grounded.
Honoring a Legacy (1944–2025)
On December 10, 2025, we said goodbye to our founding partner, mentor, and friend, Brian Davies. Brian believed that personal care and professional excellence go hand in hand. He was known for his tradition of calling clients personally on their birthdays. Although he had retired from active practice, that spirit of connection remains the soul of our firm. We honor his memory by continuing to serve with the warmth and integrity he taught us.
Evolving with Purpose
Over four decades, Davies & Mahnke has evolved alongside the financial services industry. Yet our belief remains constant. We believe that personal care and professional excellence are inseparable. This philosophy inspired the creation of the L.I.F.E. Vue™ Process. This is our holistic, modern framework designed specifically to support business owners, founders, and their families. Today we look to the future with clarity. We remain committed to helping you build lasting legacies and empower the next generation.