Richard Wilson has been appointed CEO and CIO of BMO Global Asset Management with immediate effect. The 28-year investment management veteran replaces Rajiv Silgardo who is retiring from the company.

Mr Wilson was previously CEO of BMO Global Asset Management (EMEA) and was appointed as CEO of F&C in January 2013 prior to its acquisition by BMO Financial Group.

Before becoming CEO, he held senior positions at F&C, including head of equities and head of investment & institutional. He began his asset management career in 1988 as a UK equity manager with HSBC Asset Management (formerly Midland Montagu).

In 1993 he moved to Deutsche Asset Management (formerly Morgan Grenfell) where he was latterly managing director, global equities. From Deutsche, he joined Gartmore Investment Management in 2003 as head of international equity investments, prior to joining the group in 2004.

BMO Global Asset Management operates in 16 countries and AUM of more than £160 billion as of March.

Gilles Ouellette, group head - wealth management, BMO Financial Group, said: “We’re pleased to appoint Richard Wilson as CEO & CIO of BMO Global Asset Management. His 30 years of experience in asset management and track record of developing innovative products, building high performance teams and delivering outstanding client service has been a tremendous asset for BMO.

“BMO Global Asset Management continues to be a critical part of our overall wealth management business and by leveraging our strong investment capabilities and broad distribution network, we’re confident in our growth strategy.”
Richard Wilson, CEO & CIO, BMO Global Asset Management, said: “I am very pleased to be taking over the helm at BMO Global Asset Management, which is well positioned for growth. I am confident we will deliver strong results, outstanding client solutions and market leading performance.”