Kivi
noun \ˈkē-vē\ Estonian for stone, or rock
“Above all, stone is,” wrote noted philosopher Mircea Eliade. “Nothing is more basic or more noble. Through its hardness, its power, and its permanence, stone transcends the precariousness of humanity.”
A stone cairn is a human-made stack of stones often constructed as a trail marker. Placed at regular intervals, a series of cairns is used to indicate a path in places where the trail is not obvious, or to warn of a hidden danger.
Our mission at Kivi Financial Group is to empower our clients to navigate their financial future by helping them find a sure path, one that avoids pitfalls and becomes a journey with focused purpose.
Our Team

LICENSES & CREDENTIALS
- Series 24, General Securities Principal (held with NewEdge Securities, Inc.)
- Certified Retirement Counselor (CRC)
- Investment Advisor Representative License (held with NewEdge Advisors, LLC and NewEdge Securities, Inc.)
- Series 7, Securities License (held with NewEdge Securities, Inc.)
- Life & Health Insurance, License
EDUCATION
- Masters of Business Administration, University of New Mexico
- Bachelors of Arts, Fine Arts, University of New Mexico
CONTINUING EDUCATION
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) courses
- General Securities & Insurance Annual continuing education requirements
- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals Symposium, 2013, 2016
- Annual New Mexico Collaborative Practice Symposium, 2005-2016, 2018
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS
- Leadership New Mexico, CONNECT program, Class of 2007
- 2021 NMCPG Best Collaborative Practitioner of the Year Nominee
- 2022 NMCPG Best Collaborative Practitioner of the Year
OTHER
- President of the New Mexico Collaborative Practice Group

LICENSES & CREDENTIALS
- Life & Health Insurance
CONTINUING EDUCATION
- Continuing Education, Life & Health Insurance

As our Business Operations Manager, Deborah Kiefner plays a crucial role in streamlining client services and managing health insurance applications. She is responsible for overseeing all financial transactions and facilitating the seamless opening of new accounts, ensuring that our clients’ needs are met with precision and care.
Deborah’s meticulous attention to detail in gathering critical data and documentation helps create a smooth and efficient process for both clients and the team. She also collaborates closely with Carmela and Ingrid on staff management and operational efficiency, contributing to the overall success of the business.
With a wealth of experience in the medical field, Deborah brings expertise in staff management, compliance, accounts receivable, and insurance billing. Since joining our team in 2017, her vast knowledge and commitment have been instrumental in driving our growth and enhancing the client experience.
Outside of the office, Deborah enjoys traveling, dancing, and cherishing time spent with family and friends.
LICENSES & CREDENTIALS
- Life & Health Insurance
CONTINUING EDUCATION
- Continuing Education, Life & Health Insurance

Shyvonne Sedlacek serves as our Manager of Office Operations and Marketing, playing a key role in supporting both our internal team and our valued clients. As the first friendly face many encounter, Shyvonne creates a welcoming environment from the moment clients walk through the door. She ensures seamless day-to-day operations by managing phone communications, scheduling appointments, and maintaining office efficiency.
In addition to her operational responsibilities, Shyvonne leads the coordination of client and business contact marketing events, strengthening relationships and enhancing our brand presence. Her background in customer service, spanning retail and the food industry—has instilled in her a strong commitment to excellence in every interaction.
Since joining us in 2018, Shyvonne has brought a combination of professionalism, energy, and warmth to the team. Originally from San Diego, she moved to Albuquerque in 2014. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking for her husband and friends, and spending time outdoors through travel and camping adventures.
We’re proud to have Shyvonne as a vital part of our team!