Ron A. McQuarrie
Senior Wealth Advisor
Ron & CIBC Wood Gundy
You can count on trusted experience!
Ron began his career in the financial industry in 1985 when he joined Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. This background and training has certainly proven most valuable. Merrill Lynch eventually pulled out of the retail investment business in Canada, selling this subsidiary to Wood Gundy. In 1993, Ron made the decision to move to Midland Walwyn Capital Inc., Canada's largest independent investment firm. In 1998, Merrill Lynch re-emerged on the Canadian investment scene with its purchase of Midland Walwyn. In December 2001, we had a déjà vu when Merrill Lynch sold Midland Walwyn to CIBC Wood Gundy where he continues as an Investment Advisor with over 40 years in the business.
Approach
Ron is recognized for his disciplined and conservative approach towards building a portfolio with equities paying dividends, as well as a growth component tailored to each client. He will not chase the latest market fads, instead, he carefully selects companies with strong core fundamentals. Ron's trustworthy advice and his continual involvement in the industry, have contributed to his clients’ long-term success, with many remaining with him for over 30 years!
Who are the clients?
Whether you are a retired person, a young professional, or a couple starting a family, we sit together and customize an investment mandate that feels right for you. Your needs are unique and the investment approach is customized for you. The focus is listening and understanding your situation which enables us to tailor your investments profile to you. Nothing is set in stone, and open communication is key to making sure you feel comfortable and confident with your investment decisions.
Community and Networking
Beyond the investment world, Ron is passionate about lacrosse. He remains actively involved as Executive Director of the Western Lacrosse Association and has previously served as a member of the BC Board of Directors as Vice President, Performance Programs. Ron is also a past Chair of Box Lacrosse with the Canadian Lacrosse Association. He successfully coached the Shamrocks Victoria Intermediate "A" team for four years and the Junior "A" Shamrocks for two years, proudly leading them to a championship in 2010. His community involvement has been recognized with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award and the Spirit in the Community Award.
Ron’s dedication both professionally and personally reflects his commitment to building strong and long-lasting relationships, while contributing meaningfully to those around him.
Ron A. McQuarrie
Ron & CIBC Wood Gundy
You can count on trusted experience!
Ron began his career in the financial industry in 1985 when he joined Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. This background and training has certainly proven most valuable. Merrill Lynch eventually pulled out of the retail investment business in Canada, selling this subsidiary to Wood Gundy. In 1993, Ron made the decision to move to Midland Walwyn Capital Inc., Canada's largest independent investment firm. In 1998, Merrill Lynch re-emerged on the Canadian investment scene with its purchase of Midland Walwyn. In December 2001, we had a déjà vu when Merrill Lynch sold Midland Walwyn to CIBC Wood Gundy where he continues as an Investment Advisor with over 40 years in the business.
Approach
Ron is recognized for his disciplined and conservative approach towards building a portfolio with equities paying dividends, as well as a growth component tailored to each client. He will not chase the latest market fads, instead, he carefully selects companies with strong core fundamentals. Ron's trustworthy advice and his continual involvement in the industry, have contributed to his clients’ long-term success, with many remaining with him for over 30 years!
Who are the clients?
Whether you are a retired person, a young professional, or a couple starting a family, we sit together and customize an investment mandate that feels right for you. Your needs are unique and the investment approach is customized for you. The focus is listening and understanding your situation which enables us to tailor your investments profile to you. Nothing is set in stone, and open communication is key to making sure you feel comfortable and confident with your investment decisions.
Community and Networking
Beyond the investment world, Ron is passionate about lacrosse. He remains actively involved as Executive Director of the Western Lacrosse Association and has previously served as a member of the BC Board of Directors as Vice President, Performance Programs. Ron is also a past Chair of Box Lacrosse with the Canadian Lacrosse Association. He successfully coached the Shamrocks Victoria Intermediate "A" team for four years and the Junior "A" Shamrocks for two years, proudly leading them to a championship in 2010. His community involvement has been recognized with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award and the Spirit in the Community Award.
Ron’s dedication both professionally and personally reflects his commitment to building strong and long-lasting relationships, while contributing meaningfully to those around him.
Valerie Charron, FMA
Valerie & the Financial Industry
With over 25 years of experience in the Investment industry, Valerie is a fully licensed professional and holds the Financial Management Advisor (FMA) designation. Fluent in both of Canada’s official languages, she communicates comfortably with clients in English and French, a bonus for those who speak the language, you have the option to ‘parlez en français’.
Professional Background
Valerie began her career in 1999 with a competitive firm and has been a valued member of CIBC Wood Gundy since 2009. Her career is further distinguished by diverse experience in tourism, marketing, and wireless telecommunications. Valerie is committed to ongoing professional development and is a former member of Advocates Toastmasters, which enabled her to improve on the art of public speaking and be an avid listener.
Approach
Valerie’s true passion is to find the right solution for clients and their goals, through coaching and continued care. As Ron’s right hand and Associate to the team, she is deeply familiar with each clients unique situation. She is always ready to assist with any investment related queries. She also prepares clients financial plans, ensuring personalized and comprehensive support. Valerie’s wealth of experience ensures that clients receive prompt, knowledgeable, and caring expertise.
Community Involvement & Interests
Valerie is actively engaged in her local community, frequently attending events, organizing fundraisers, and volunteering her time with organizations dedicated to making a positive impact that are dear to her heart. She is guided by values of friendship, compassion, and integrity in all her community and professional work.
Valerie enjoys traveling and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, always eager to learn new perspectives. At the office, she is known for her willingness to support colleagues and help other excel in their roles. She maintains an active lifestyle, particularly enjoying spinning, golfing, and indoor rock climbing.
Zoe Pritchard Garcia
A Journey of Growth
As a recent graduate from the University of Victoria’s Bachelor of Commerce program, Zoe is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth. Her journey began in Grade 11, when she moved to a new country and embraced the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture. This experience taught her resilience and adaptability, qualities she brings every day of her professional and personal life.
During her time at UVIC, Zoe completed three co-op work terms, where she gained hands-on experience in providing meaningful customer service and building professional relationships with empathy and composure. As a finalist in a Business Case competition, she further strengthened her problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Promoting Financial Literacy
Zoe participated in the launch of a Financial Club at the university, where she worked to promote financial literacy among young adults. She joined this club as she believes is essential to learn about the financial industry early in life.
Commitment to Client Service
Zoe is excited to continue her career at CIBC Wood Gundy, and contribute to our clients’ financial well-being. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she enjoys connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.
Life on the Island
Outside of work, you’ll often find Zoe volunteering in the community, organizing fundraisers, or exploring Vancouver Island’s beautiful landscapes with her dog, Chestnut. Zoe is always eager to learn from those around her and strongly believes that curiosity and collaboration are key to personal and professional growth.
Our partners
We partner with CIBC experts to help address all of your wealth needs.
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.
Aaron McEwen
Estate Planning Specialist
Aaron’s passion and belief in holistic financial planning drives his purpose to build deep client relationships. Utilizing a team that’s entirely focused on family planning, helps guide him to finding the right solutions. Aaron believes in a client-first approach and loves solving complex personal and corporate estate planning issues. He gives his time generously to family planning, focusing on what matters most.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys golfing with his wife Chelsey, and riding his motorcycle throughout British Columbia.
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.
Aaron McEwen
Aaron’s passion and belief in holistic financial planning drives his purpose to build deep client relationships. Utilizing a team that’s entirely focused on family planning, helps guide him to finding the right solutions. Aaron believes in a client-first approach and loves solving complex personal and corporate estate planning issues. He gives his time generously to family planning, focusing on what matters most.
Outside of work, Aaron enjoys golfing with his wife Chelsey, and riding his motorcycle throughout British Columbia.
