Irma T. Mattes, CFP®, FMA, EPC, RRC
Senior Financial Planner
Irma Mattes has always had a relentless curiosity-- about people, systems, and what makes both function at their best. Her career journey has taken her from managing law firms and leading government commissions, to tax planning, investment analysis, and helping clients envision a retirement they can’t wait to live.
Irma’s early career was grounded in administration and leadership, managing prominent law firms before taking on a pivotal role in the Royal Commission on Health Care in British Columbia. The commission’s goal was to improve the health care system, but Irma came away with a sobering insight: even the most well-researched recommendations can go unheeded. That experience sharpened her sense of purpose—and deepened her resolve to work where she could make a direct and lasting difference.
She then entered the financial services world via the insurance industry. She quickly realized that sales-driven models didn’t sit right with her values. Instead, she immersed herself in education, earning her Certified Financial Planner® designation. She has continued expanding her knowledge with the Financial Management Advisor (FMA), Elder Planning Counselor (EPC), and Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC) designations. She also holds a Certificate in Leadership Studies through Vancouver Community College and has completed 36 management courses through BCIT. And yes, she really does love tax!
Irma brings that same sense of lifelong learning and service to her work at Sophia. Whether she’s building a detailed retirement projection or diving into investment analysis, her meticulous attention to detail, clear thinking and calm presence have become a signature strength for our team and clients alike. She is our lead on financial plan preparation, and assists with client meetings, and ongoing tax and investment strategy.
A natural educator, Irma has also served on the boards of several community organizations, including the Vancouver Crisis Centre, Crimestoppers, and Little Mountain Place Care Home. At Vantage Point, she facilitated training for not-for-profit board members, focusing on governance and effective leadership.
Outside of work, Irma can be found cooking, baking, researching alternative health practices, or immersed in opera, theatre, and ballet. She’s also an avid weightlifter, her personal form of stress relief, and a dedicated writer.
Her greatest joy is following clients through life’s chapters: helping them meet their goals, celebrating their milestones, and seeing them enjoy the futures they envision.