How I made a career of supporting bold dreams
(The Short Story of Why I’m an Investment Advisor)

My resume reads like four right turns that come full circle—from BMO to the entrepreneurial world to BMO Private Wealth. What’s often missed among the job titles is the path that connects them.

They’ve all been opportunities to support those striving boldly towards a goal.

From start-ups to scale-ups, from passion-driven family businesses to exit-focused tech innovators, from sales to operations to financing—I've worked with all kinds of builders and problem-solvers in a variety of roles. I’d sum it all up as accelerating potential. My secret to success, every time: step-by-step strategy.

As an Investment Advisor, I’m back to helping clients one-on-one, bringing together my proven approach with over 20 years of knowledge and networks. If you want all the details of the journey, you’ll find many in my bio below—but it’s a much better story in person.

Shaemas Lal

Investment Advisor

As a purpose-minded investment advisor, Shaemas is committed to making it simpler for his clients to achieve their bold and fulfilling vision. Whether acting as an uplifting supporter or an astute sounding-board, his guidance is always tailored — but every relationship benefits from his signature strategic approach and his unique blend of entrepreneurial experience, business financing expertise, and wealth management knowledge.

Originally joining BMO in 2003, Shaemas gained experience in personal financial services before being tapped as a Commercial Account Manager. After nearly 4 years helping small businesses with banking and financing — and earning national recognition for top-tier customer satisfaction — he joined Silver Chef Financial Canada, a B2B start-up offering alternative financing for restaurant owners. He helped the company scale from zero to a $25 million valuation in five years.

Shaemas went on to be responsible for exponential growth at two other organizations— Blonyx Biosciences and Apollo Insurance — taking on leadership roles in sales and operations. Ready to return to the one-on-one client relationships that enable him to directly help those striving towards a dream, he joined BMO Private Wealth as an Investment Advisor in 2021.

He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Royal Roads University.  Raised on the values of giving back, he sits on the Make-A-Wish Chapter Advisory Board for BC and Yukon, with a strong history of community involvement.  Shaemas was previously Royal Roads MBA Mentor, helping the future generation of business leaders hone their skills.

At home, Shaemas and his wife enjoy a classic west coast lifestyle. They’re always looking for opportunities to get their young daughter active in nature, and they love spending time outdoors, primarily mountain biking, cycling and snowboarding.

Your bold dream deserves a strategy

 

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