Michael Martella, CIM®
Tel:
(514) 847-6318Email:
michael.martella@cibc.comWith over 20 years of experience, Michael Martella has dedicated his career to helping affluent individuals and families build, protect, and grow their wealth. As a Senior Investment Advisor, Michael is known for delivering tailored advice, thoughtful recommendations, and customized investment strategies designed to help clients achieve both their immediate and long-term financial goals—no matter how complex their financial picture may be.
Outside of his professional life, Michael finds his greatest inspiration in his two teenagers, Bianca and Ben. He describes them as kind, intelligent, and independent thinkers who inspire him daily with their courage and curiosity. Watching them grow into remarkable young adults is one of his greatest joys and sources of pride.
Michael is committed to maintaining balance in his life by consistently challenging himself both physically and mentally. He engages in rigorous daily strength and conditioning training, which fuels his drive and resilience. A passionate food enthusiast, Michael delights in exploring local markets, cooking at home, and discovering new restaurants—cherishing the experiences, connections, and memories that good food brings.
Music, film, long walks, and moments spent under the night sky are among the simple pleasures he enjoys, offering him time for reflection and wonder.
Michael’s greatest hero and motivator was his late sister, Melissa. Her wisdom, passion, and encouragement continue to guide him, and her legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.
Thoughtful about those he welcomes into his circle, Michael treats both personal and professional relationships with the utmost care. When you become part of the Martella Group, you become part of a family.
Cassandra Velardo
Tel:
(514) 847-6628Email:
cassandra.velardo@cibc.comCassie has been a valued member of the CIBC Wood Gundy team since 2016. She is committed to supporting both clients and colleagues as they navigate the dynamic world of wealth management.
Cassie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University and is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth, while staying up to date with industry trends and best practices. Throughout her tenure at CIBC Wood Gundy, she has demonstrated reliability, attention to detail, and a commitment to building lasting relationships.
Cassie values curiosity and lifelong learning in all aspects of her life. Outside of work, she enjoys playing tennis, cycling, and traveling to new destinations, finding inspiration in the discovery of different cultures and experiences—enriching both her personal and professional life. As a passionate reader, Cassie immerses herself in a wide range of genres, from contemporary fiction to personal development.
Mohamad Omar Ballouz
Tel:
(514) 282-7017Omar joined CIBC three years ago, following studies in economics and computer science at the University of Montreal. He began his career with CIBC in retail banking, where he excelled as Head Teller for two years and was recognized for delivering exceptional client service and fostering a collaborative team environment.
Currently at CIBC Wood Gundy, Omar is an integral member of the team, providing dedicated support to both clients and colleagues. He is actively furthering his investment knowledge by taking courses offered by the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI), demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and excellence in client service.
Outside of work, Omar is passionate about gaming and is an avid follower of UFC, appreciating the strategy and excitement both activities offer.
Michael Martella, CIM®
Senior Investment Advisor
Opens in your telephone provided application. Opens in your email provided application. Opens in a new tab.With over 20 years of experience, Michael Martella has dedicated his career to helping affluent individuals and families build, protect, and grow their wealth. As a Senior Investment Advisor, Michael is known for delivering tailored advice, thoughtful recommendations, and customized investment strategies designed to help clients achieve both their immediate and long-term financial goals—no matter how complex their financial picture may be.
Outside of his professional life, Michael finds his greatest inspiration in his two teenagers, Bianca and Ben. He describes them as kind, intelligent, and independent thinkers who inspire him daily with their courage and curiosity. Watching them grow into remarkable young adults is one of his greatest joys and sources of pride.
Michael is committed to maintaining balance in his life by consistently challenging himself both physically and mentally. He engages in rigorous daily strength and conditioning training, which fuels his drive and resilience. A passionate food enthusiast, Michael delights in exploring local markets, cooking at home, and discovering new restaurants—cherishing the experiences, connections, and memories that good food brings.
Music, film, long walks, and moments spent under the night sky are among the simple pleasures he enjoys, offering him time for reflection and wonder.
Michael’s greatest hero and motivator was his late sister, Melissa. Her wisdom, passion, and encouragement continue to guide him, and her legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.
Thoughtful about those he welcomes into his circle, Michael treats both personal and professional relationships with the utmost care. When you become part of the Martella Group, you become part of a family.
Cassandra Velardo
Administrative Assistant
Opens in your telephone provided application. Opens in your email provided application. Opens in a new tab.Cassie has been a valued member of the CIBC Wood Gundy team since 2016. She is committed to supporting both clients and colleagues as they navigate the dynamic world of wealth management.
Cassie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University and is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth, while staying up to date with industry trends and best practices. Throughout her tenure at CIBC Wood Gundy, she has demonstrated reliability, attention to detail, and a commitment to building lasting relationships.
Cassie values curiosity and lifelong learning in all aspects of her life. Outside of work, she enjoys playing tennis, cycling, and traveling to new destinations, finding inspiration in the discovery of different cultures and experiences—enriching both her personal and professional life. As a passionate reader, Cassie immerses herself in a wide range of genres, from contemporary fiction to personal development.
Mohamad Omar Ballouz
Administrative Assistant
Opens in your telephone provided application. Opens in your email provided application. Opens in a new tab.Omar joined CIBC three years ago, following studies in economics and computer science at the University of Montreal. He began his career with CIBC in retail banking, where he excelled as Head Teller for two years and was recognized for delivering exceptional client service and fostering a collaborative team environment.
Currently at CIBC Wood Gundy, Omar is an integral member of the team, providing dedicated support to both clients and colleagues. He is actively furthering his investment knowledge by taking courses offered by the Canadian Securities Institute (CSI), demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and excellence in client service.
Outside of work, Omar is passionate about gaming and is an avid follower of UFC, appreciating the strategy and excitement both activities offer.
Our partners
We partner with CIBC experts to help address all of your wealth needs.
Jamie Golombek, CPA, CA, CFP®, CLU, TEP, FCPA
As CIBC’s tax expert, Jamie supports CIBC Wood Gundy investment advisors in delivering integrated financial planning and advisory solutions to our high-net-worth clients. Jamie is quoted frequently in the national media and writes a weekly National Post column called Tax Expert.
Rania Maalouf
Rania joined the financial services industry in 2011 and has gained a unique understanding of high-net worth clients’ needs through roles in investments, insurance, and financial planning. She uses her knowledge and experience to
help Canadian families achieve their financial goals and enjoy peace of mind.
Rania has a Bachelor of Arts from University of Tunis-Carthage, a Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management from McGill University, has completed the Canadian Securities and the Code and Practice Handbook courses with the Canadian Securities Institute. She also earned a specialization in insurance of persons with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (Quebec). In addition to that, she has earned the Financial Planner designation granted by the Order of Financial Planners in Quebec (IQPF). Rania is currently studying for her master’s in taxation with University of Sherbrooke.
Martin Goulet, CPA
Martin Goulet is part of the CIBC Private Wealth team. He is an experienced estate planning specialist with a strong expertise in life and health insurance. Martin’s training as a Chartered Professional Accountant and as a Financial Planner allows him to analyze the complex aspects of our clients' financial situation.
Martin started his professional career in a large global accounting firm where he served as an auditor and then as a tax advisor in the firm’s Quebec City and Toronto offices. He has been working as a financial security advisor since 2000.
During his career, Martin delivered several conferences and training sessions on the subject of personal finances, most notably in conjunction with activities organized through the Ordre des CPA du Québec, the Association de planification fiscale et financière and the Centre québécois de formation en fiscalité. Over the past few years, he also gave many training sessions for employees or clients of accounting firms.
Marco Leccese, CIM, F.Pl.
In his role as Wealth Strategist, Marco will work closely with you and your trusted advisors to create a financial plan that reflects your priorities and focuses on helping you achieve the goals you have set for yourself, your family and your future.
Marco joined the financial services industry in 1992 and has held various positions in financial planning, private investment counsel and investment administration. Marco holds his financial planning designation issued by the IQPF, is a Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) and has a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University.
Jamie Golombek, CPA, CA, CFP®, CLU, TEP, FCPA
Managing Director Tax and Estate Planning
As CIBC’s tax expert, Jamie supports CIBC Wood Gundy investment advisors in delivering integrated financial planning and advisory solutions to our high-net-worth clients. Jamie is quoted frequently in the national media and writes a weekly National Post column called Tax Expert.
Rania Maalouf
Financial Planning Specialist
Rania joined the financial services industry in 2011 and has gained a unique understanding of high-net worth clients’ needs through roles in investments, insurance, and financial planning. She uses her knowledge and experience to
help Canadian families achieve their financial goals and enjoy peace of mind.
Rania has a Bachelor of Arts from University of Tunis-Carthage, a Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management from McGill University, has completed the Canadian Securities and the Code and Practice Handbook courses with the Canadian Securities Institute. She also earned a specialization in insurance of persons with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (Quebec). In addition to that, she has earned the Financial Planner designation granted by the Order of Financial Planners in Quebec (IQPF). Rania is currently studying for her master’s in taxation with University of Sherbrooke.
Martin Goulet, CPA
Senior Estate Planning Specialist
Martin Goulet is part of the CIBC Private Wealth team. He is an experienced estate planning specialist with a strong expertise in life and health insurance. Martin’s training as a Chartered Professional Accountant and as a Financial Planner allows him to analyze the complex aspects of our clients' financial situation.
Martin started his professional career in a large global accounting firm where he served as an auditor and then as a tax advisor in the firm’s Quebec City and Toronto offices. He has been working as a financial security advisor since 2000.
During his career, Martin delivered several conferences and training sessions on the subject of personal finances, most notably in conjunction with activities organized through the Ordre des CPA du Québec, the Association de planification fiscale et financière and the Centre québécois de formation en fiscalité. Over the past few years, he also gave many training sessions for employees or clients of accounting firms.
Marco Leccese, CIM, F.Pl.
Wealth Strategist
In his role as Wealth Strategist, Marco will work closely with you and your trusted advisors to create a financial plan that reflects your priorities and focuses on helping you achieve the goals you have set for yourself, your family and your future.
Marco joined the financial services industry in 1992 and has held various positions in financial planning, private investment counsel and investment administration. Marco holds his financial planning designation issued by the IQPF, is a Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) and has a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University.