Our Team

Gary Harris has been helping clients navigate their investments, tax strategies, and legal planning since the early 2000s. His dedication to philanthropy has led him to serve on multiple charitable boards, including Catholic Charities and his own Private Supporting Foundation, a cause close to his heart. Currently, he is actively involved with KIBIR in Ethiopia, working in private equity and mission-based initiatives. Gary has been married to his wife, Jill, for 28 years, and they are proud empty nesters with their son, Xavier, 23, and daughter, Maria, 21. While they don’t have grandchildren yet, he is certainly looking forward to that chapter in the future.

Shane Hemphill began his career in the financial industry after graduating cum laude from Northwood University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He joined Vertis Wealth in 2011 and became a partner in 2012. Shane is passionate about empowering his clients with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions and is committed to supporting them throughout their financial journeys. He lives in Freeland, Michigan, with his wife, Amanda, and their two children, William and Eleanor. Shane credits his success and happiness to his strong family values and faith. In his free time, he enjoys coaching his children in basketball, baseball, and football.

Justin Pippert has been drawn to the financial services industry since a young age, which led him to earn a degree in Finance in 2012. Shortly after, he joined Vertis Wealth, where he has played a key role in the company’s growth. Now serving as CFO, CCO, and Managing Partner, Justin specializes in integrating financial, legal, and tax planning to help clients achieve long-term financial success. He finds great fulfillment in seeing his clients thrive through a comprehensive approach to wealth management. Outside of work, Justin is a dedicated family man, an avid Detroit sports fan, and has a deep passion for the automotive performance industry.

Allan Peil is a financial professional with seven years of experience in the financial industry, with a background in insurance sales and investments. Dedicated to guiding clients through their financial journeys, he holds a degree in business finance from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater and has obtained his Series 6, 65, SIE, and insurance licenses. In his free time, he enjoys snowboarding, lifting weights, hiking, and traveling.

An Investment Adviser Representative and insurance professional, Stan Eden has nearly three decades of experience assisting retirees and pre-retirees. He founded Eden Financial Group, Inc. before joining Vertis Wealth in January 2017.

With over 20 years of experience in accounting and tax, plus another 20 years as a Financial Advisor, William Barnett brings extensive expertise in tax planning and strategy. As Tax Director at Vertis Wealth, he works closely with clients to prepare returns, navigate tax changes, and minimize tax exposure. Committed to integrity, he values long-standing client relationships built on trust and a client-first approach.

As a Client Services Coordinator, Alicia stays on top of organizing multiple schedules for our Wealth Managers, Financial Advisors, and Account Managers. She studied Business Administration and has over 20 years of experience in the field. She is passionate about helping people. Some of her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, enjoying the sun, and reading in her hammock.

With over 30 years in the financial industry, Sue Jacobson is deeply committed to client relationships and personalized service. Since joining Vertis Wealth in 2017, she has taken great joy in truly caring for each client she works with. A lifelong resident of Tacoma, WA, she values time spent with family and friends. She lives by the quote, “Be someone who makes everybody feel like somebody.”

Ryleigh Schoenborn graduated from Central Michigan University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She began working as the HR/Payroll Specialist for Vertis Wealth in May 2023. She enjoys the problem-solving aspects of her job and helping employees and clients. In her free time, she enjoys golfing, reading, exercising, and spending time with friends.

Jill Harris has been a part of Vertis Wealth since its earliest days, having been married to its founder, Gary Harris, since its inception. As the Controller, she has a passion for details and project management. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, being outdoors in nature, and spending time with family and friends. She lives by the quote, “If you want to do something good in life, live, don’t just get by. Live!” – Pope Francis.

A former Vertis Wealth client, Christian Look joined as an intern during his junior year. Now a senior at Aquinas College, he is set to earn his business administration degree in May 2025, with minors in economics and clinical exercise science. His background in sports instilled teamwork and leadership skills, driving his passion for helping others achieve financial goals. He enjoys Detroit sports, volunteering, golfing, and spending time with his girlfriend.

Joe Bretz is currently studying accounting and communications at Aquinas College while serving as captain of the Men’s Lacrosse team. He is actively involved as the President of the Accounting and Finance Club and the Vice President of the Outdoor Recreation Club. He enjoys the outdoors, all things Detroit sports, and golfing.

Brady Weese is a student at Colorado State University pursuing an undergraduate degree in corporate and investment finance. Originally from Denver, Colorado, he enjoys meeting new people and values developing meaningful connections.

Arden Houck is a junior at Colorado State University, studying business with a concentration in finance and accounting. Beyond a passion for numbers, Arden enjoys skiing, hiking, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with friends and family