For Partner and CEO John Chisholm, it’s all about the personal touch. Building and maintaining connections with a diverse group of clients is a priority for John.
At SB Partners, John is the go-to person for auditing and tax services, strategic planning and business development. He also has a special interest in transition planning and family owned businesses.
“Family businesses face some unique challenges, and working with them is something I enjoy,” says John. “I have a knack for handling the personal dynamics that take place within families. My goal is to help clients who are having problems and make their lives better. If I’ve helped them sleep better at night, then I’ve done my job.”
John is dedicated to building strong relationships with his clients so they can work collaboratively to shape effective strategies. He helps them see the big picture, and strives to make complex issues more manageable.
A community-minded volunteer, John helped establish the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice in Hamilton. He currently serves as Past Chair on the Burlington Economic Development Board, the Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital Foundation – Gift Planning Advisory Council and on the board of the YMCA of Hamilton-Burlington-Brantford.
You can count on John to go the distance. When he’s not contributing to the community or serving his clients, John can be found logging kilometres on his road bike with a local cycling club.
Admissions & Affiliations
- FPSC, Certified Financial Planner - 1998
- ICAO, Chartered Accountant - 1991
Education
- Wilfrid Laurier University, Diploma in Accounting - 1991
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There are few things that I find more enjoyable than hopping on my bike and going for a long ride. I like challenging myself and discovering new and unknown paths, both on my own and with friends. As a foodie there is no greater reward after a long ride than preparing an exciting new dish to share with family and friends or relaxing with a great book or discovering new music.
Along with engaging in these favourite pastimes, one of my most rewarding pursuits is serving the community. I am actively involved with many initiatives, and have served on the boards of organizations like the Burlington Economic Development Corporation and the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice in Hamilton where it was so rewarding to see its doors open in 2007. I also serve on the Gift Planning Council for the Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital Foundation where I have the opportunity to work with many professional colleagues in support of the Hospital. In 2011, I was Cabinet Chair for the accounting division of the United Way's Burlington Campaign. It was a rewarding experience, especially seeing the enthusiasm and generosity of our SB team members who initiate memorable internal fundraisers.
No matter what events or initiatives I become involved with, the thing that never ceases to amaze me is the passion of the people involved, and their dedication to the cause. Whether they are the hard-working hospital staff or the business owners trying to make positive changes in their community, I am always touched by their commitment, and I am honoured to be a part of their vision for a better world.











