Q & L Financial Services Inc. was created in 2015 by founder Mike Kelly. The “Q” represents Mike’s daughter, Quinn, which in Gaelic means to “advise”. The “L” represents Mike’s son, Liam, which in Gaelic means to “protect”. The logo is the coat of arms for the family name Kelly. It depicts two courageous lions protecting the castle. This represents the core of Q & L Financial Services. Advice and protection for the family and home.
To be recognized as a leading financial services company in the Durham Region and beyond, offering value added service, optimal financial growth, protection, and efficient intergenerational transfer of wealth.
To educate clients using simplified language and terminology, allowing them to understand and take control of their insurance and financial needs and objectives.
To build a compliant team of experts with superb cohesion and communication along with core values of honesty, trust, and integrity, to provide a high level of client service under the Q & L brand.
Principal Advisor
Mike grew up on a small town farm where he established a good work ethic and learned the value of a dollar. Mike graduated from Humber College with a Hotel and Restaurant Management diploma. He then spent 15 years in the hospitality industry. In 2000, Mike left this career to follow his passion for finances and joined London Life as a Financial Security Advisor. Mike uses his experience from the service industry to create long term meaningful relationships with his clients. In 2015, Mike founded Q & L Financial Services Inc., where he continues to work with clients to see and realize their individual financial goals and objectives, focusing on retirement and estate planning. Mike is an active member of Advocis, MDRT and The Clarington Board of Trade. He and his two children are active in local sports including coaching, participation, and sponsorship.
Advisor / Operations Manager
Knowledgeable financial advisor with years of experience helping individuals, families, and business owners build long-term financial confidence. As part of a family-owned financial services firm, Amanda takes pride in delivering personalized guidance rooted in trust, integrity, and lasting relationships. Her approach combines practical financial planning with a deep understanding of each client’s unique goals, whether preparing for retirement, growing wealth, managing risk, or planning for future generations. Known for her approachable style and commitment to client care, she values creating strategies that are both thoughtful, achievable and sustainable.
Before joining Q & L Amanda worked in the hospitality industry for over 15 years, so she knows the value of creating relationships with her clients and creating an environment of collaboration.
When she is not in the office working with the team and her clients she enjoys being at home with her 2 children and spending time with her family at the family farm.
Advisor
Linda Gratton is a seasoned financial services professional with 24 years of industry experience and a strong foundation in economics, planning, and client-focused advice. She earned her Honours Bachelor of Economics from Laurentian University before beginning her career with the Bank of Montreal, where she developed early expertise in client service, financial planning, and banking operations.
Committed to lifelong learning and professional excellence, Linda has earned several respected industry designations, including CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter), FCIB (Fellow of the Institute of Canadian Bankers), RIS (Responsible Investment Specialist), CEA (Certified Executor Advisor), CHS (Certified Health Insurance Specialist), and RWM (Real Wealth Manager).
For 24 years, Linda has been an active member of Advocis, championing the interests of independent advisors and advocating for consumer protection and choice within the financial services marketplace.
As a financial planner, Linda focuses on insurance protection, retirement planning, and estate strategies. She is known for her ability to translate complex concepts into clear, practical guidance and for staying ahead of industry changes to better support her clients’ long-term goals.
Outside of her professional work, Linda enjoys hiking, travelling, and reading. She is married with three adult children and two grandchildren, and she values a balanced life rooted in family, curiosity, and continuous growth.
Advisor
Phil Basciano brings a diverse business background to his financial advisory practice, beginning his career in hospitality management with CP Hotels, where he developed operational, service, and leadership competencies foundational to client‑focused work. He later advanced to managing a full‑service resort and golf course, overseeing business performance, staff management, and the overall customer experience.
He subsequently led a regional tourism marketing agency, directing strategic initiatives and industry partnerships—experience that continues to inform his analytical approach to market positioning and long‑term planning.
In 2007, Phil transitioned into financial services with Freedom 55 Financial. Over nearly two decades, he has built a successful advisory practice specializing in estate planning, life insurance solutions, and segregated fund strategies designed to manage risk and support long‑term wealth objectives. He holds the Certified Health Insurance Specialist (CHS) designation, reflecting advanced expertise in health and living benefits insurance.
Phil is married and a father of three, balancing his advisory work with a strong commitment to family and community.
Client Relations Specialist
Kathy joined the Q&L team in the fall of 2021 offering administrative support to advisors and clients. She brings with her over 26 years of experience working in the financial and insurance industry. Most recently working in the group insurance field. She holds both life insurance and mutual fund licences.
Kathy is the mother of two grown boys and has been happily married to her wonderful husband for three decades. Ask her the secret to her union and she will tell you it is because they both enjoy being active together. Kathy and her husband work out together and enjoy hiking and biking. When she has down time, you will find Kathy at home working on her quilting.
Client Relations Specialist
Bio coming soon.