Rick Wong

Director & Assistant Market Leader

A dedicated professional who has thrived at BMO Nesbitt burns for over 27 years, currently serving as Director & Assistant Market Leader. Rick’s deep knowledge of the financial industry and analytical abilities enable him to provide strategic guidance. Rick is not only an experienced professional but a true people person. His innate ability to connect with others has allowed him to foster strong connections with clients and colleagues alike. Rick is known for going above and beyond, always willing to help his colleagues grow and achieve their personal best, creating a collaborative and supportive work environment. Recognized for his leadership qualities, he finds joy in running, traveling and spending quality time with his wife and two kids.

Clare Aker

Director & Assistant Market Leader

Clare is an award-winning Director for industry leading BMO Private Wealth. She is a Sales Leader with a track record focused on results not only in business growth, but client experience and team engagement. She drives growth across Private Banking, Investment Management and Estate and Trust businesses by engaging a team of highly accredited and talented professionals creating business alliances. She is a proud co-chair of the BMO Private Wealth Diversity Equity & Inclusion Committee and a DEI mentor. She has driven transformational change in the areas of practice management, strategy and operations. Her work has been featured by Corporate Executive Board. Clare has spent 16 years working across Canada in the wealth space.

Prior to joining BMO Financial Group, Clare worked as a strategy consultant helping a financial co-operative enter new markets. She was also an elected Councillor in one of Canada’s fastest growing communities leading a workforce of 4000 employees, working to deliver the community’s newest university - UOIT and earning an award for outstanding community support by BMO FG.

Clare holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western University, an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business and has completed the Canadian Securities Course.
Clare is an Executive in Residence at the Ivey Business School and enjoys skiing (on both water and snow) with her family.  She has served on several boards of local charitable organizations.

Vibhas Parekh

Branch Operations Manager

Vibhas is an accomplished Wealth Management Professional with several years of industry experience. Since joining BMO Financial Group in 2003, he has been associated in several areas of the organization including Wealth Management, Direct Investing, Wealth Compliance and AML. Vibhas has an extensive knowledge of the securities industry with a focus on brokerage services and procedures. He is a strong Customer service and Operations leader with the experience, expertise, and capability of leading a large team of individuals. He is known for his sound analytical and problem-solving skills.

 

Outside of work, Vibhas loves traveling and spending time with his family. He also loves sports and enjoys watching hockey and soccer with his son.