BMO Harris Private Banking today announced the appointment of Marvi Ricker as managing director of philanthropic advisory and management services, effective March 1, 2002. Ms. Ricker’s mandate is to help broaden private banking services offered to high net worth individuals who require guidance with the establishment and administration of their private foundations, as well as the creation of innovative grant-making programs.

“Marvi Ricker has the ideal background and understanding to complement our philosophy by providing our clients with a unique, comprehensive philanthropic consulting service,” said Graham Parsons, executive managing director of private banking.

Prior to this appointment, Ms Ricker spent 12 years as executive director of The Richard Ivey Foundation, one of Canada’s largest and most progressive foundations and was previously director of public and community relations at the University of Toronto.

“As one of a select few philanthropy specialists in Canada, she is also able to bring a particular depth of knowledge to her role,” added Mr. Parsons.

“In the past few years, private giving has become more targeted and today foundations are giving fewer and larger grants in support of programs and the people who deliver them, rather than to capital needs,” said Ms. Ricker. “My objective as a member of BMO Harris Private Banking is to help individuals and foundations share their wealth effectively and in ways that are also personally meaningful and fulfilling.

“Many financially successful people who have been busy running a business have limited direct contact with the world of charitable organizations and may not know what issues they want to support with their philanthropic dollars, nor how to do so most effectively ” she explained. “My role will be to provide professional expertise in helping these clients articulate their values, explore options and establish granting goals.”