Investment management firm Leith Wheeler Investment Counsel Ltd. announced Wednesday that it is opening an office in Montreal. A pair of Jarislowsky, Fraser Limited veterans have joined the firm as part of the move — Eric Desbiens and Denis Durand.
“Quebec has a long history of supporting independent investment managers and we are committed to broadening our ability to service clients in this important market,” said Leith Wheeler CEO Jim Gilliland in a media release. “[O]ur first priority in expanding our presence was bringing on partners who understand the unique needs and preferences of Quebec-based clients, and have the knowledge and reputation for integrity that are central to our firm. Eric and Denis fit these requirements perfectly.”
Gilliland said that Leith Wheeler plans to expand its Quebec presence. “There is a deep pool of investment talent in the province, across both client-facing and research functions, and we look forward to growing our footprint.”
Desbiens will run the operation and Durand will serve as a senior advisor.
“I am thrilled to join Leith Wheeler,” Desbiens said. “The fact that the firm is 100% owned by its employees meant a lot to me when deciding to join. … I look forward to building the team in Montreal.”
Leith Wheeler manages more than $30 billion for retail and institutional clients. It also has offices in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto.