Ron A. McQuarrie
Senior Wealth Advisor
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 30 years in the business.
His Approach
Ron is known for having a disciplined conservative approach towards building a portfolio with equities paying dividends, as well as a growth component that fits you, the client. Ron will not chase the latest fad. He believes in carefully choosing companies that have good core fundamentals. Ron's trustworthy advice and his continual involvement has proven to be a successful recipe for longevity. Many of his clients have been with him for over 25 years!
Who are the clients?
Whether you are a retired person, a younger professional, or a young 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 the open communication is key to you being happy.
Networking
Aside from the investment world, Ron's interest is lacrosse. He continues to be fairly involved with lacrosse as Canadian Lacrosse Association Box Lacrosse Chair. He was previously a member of the BC board of directors and as Vice President-Performance Programs. He successfully coached the Shamrocks Victoria Intermediate "A" for 4 years and Junior "A" Shamrocks for 2 years. He proudly brought them to championship in 2010.
Those two worlds have brought Ron a great deal of discipline.
Ron A. McQuarrie
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 30 years in the business.
His Approach
Ron is known for having a disciplined conservative approach towards building a portfolio with equities paying dividends, as well as a growth component that fits you, the client. Ron will not chase the latest fad. He believes in carefully choosing companies that have good core fundamentals. Ron's trustworthy advice and his continual involvement has proven to be a successful recipe for longevity. Many of his clients have been with him for over 25 years!
Who are the clients?
Whether you are a retired person, a younger professional, or a young 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 the open communication is key to you being happy.
Networking
Aside from the investment world, Ron's interest is lacrosse. He continues to be fairly involved with lacrosse as Canadian Lacrosse Association Box Lacrosse Chair. He was previously a member of the BC board of directors and as Vice President-Performance Programs. He successfully coached the Shamrocks Victoria Intermediate "A" for 4 years and Junior "A" Shamrocks for 2 years. He proudly brought them to championship in 2010.
Those two worlds have brought Ron a great deal of discipline.
Valerie Charron, FMA
Valerie has over 20 years of experience in the investment industry. She is fully licensed and has the Financial Management Advisor (FMA) designation. Fluent in both Canada's official languages, Valerie is able to use those attributes with both the clients and her work environment. A bonus for those of you who speak French - you have the option to "parlez en francais".
A little history
Valerie's career in this industry began in 1999, where she was an Investment Representative with a competitive firm. She has been at CIBC Wood Gundy since 2009. Valerie's other professional experience involved a background in tourism, marketing and wireless telecommunications. Over the years, Valerie has continued her education and acquired the FMA designation. Was a member of the Advocates Toastmasters which enabled her to improve on the art of speaking in public and be an avid listener.
Valerie's Approach
Valerie's true passion is client service. You can be assured to find a smiling, warm and caring person at the end of the telephone when you call. She will be happy to assist you with any of your administrative queries. Because Valerie is Ron's right hand, she is fully aware of the clients' situation and is able to better assist you. Valerie's years of experience allows her to quickly ensure that your questions have been answered.
Personal interests
Valerie keeps active and fit by climbing, running, swimming as well as practicing Yoga. She is also very involved within her community by volunteering her time through different non-profit organizations.
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 to 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 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.