'It's the people who make the difference'

He visited several banks in Montreal, but decided he wanted something more mid-sized with better service. A friend suggested Richardson’s, so he visited Toronto and liked the people and transitioned. “After six months, I can say that ‘yes, it’s a great place to work’,” said the Montreal-based St- Laurent. “The people are great.”

There were other benefits. Clients felt confident with Richardson’s 90-year history. He could sell any client products, so wasn’t restricted in his choices. It all added up to feeling that he could provide a more personalized independent service. He also liked the fact that Richardson treats its advisors like clients, which he feels helps him best serve his own clients. 

“It’s flexible. They say, ‘do what works for you’,” said St-Laurent. “You have the leeway to do what you think is best for your clients. They’re there for you.”

While Richardson Wealth is also improving its technology, St-Laurent said his clients can’t really see that, so “it’s more the people that makes a difference”. Richardson Wealth is also focusing on how it can improve the financial world for women, which appealed to him since he has a female assistant and two daughters.

“The percentage of women who are advisors is still low, and Richardson has a focus to grow that. That rang a bell for me, too,” said St-Laurent, noting that 95% of his clients are doctors and half of the new ones now are women. “So, it’s great to have a focus on that.”