Li Yu MBA, CIM, CFP
Associate Portfolio Manager
Tel: 289.288.2416
LinkedIn

Li Yu’s expertise lies in wealth leadership. As an Investment Advisor, every client relationship starts with listening and turning those insights into a financial road map. It’s something Li sees as his life’s purpose, the ability to translate a client's priorities and values into his working Financial Road Map process.

Li has spent the past 8 years at BMO Private Wealth building a client base of high net worth professionals and business-owning families. Enticed by the entrepreneurial nature of Richardson Wealth, Li brought his practice to the firm in 2021.

Li found his calling as a co-op student at a wealth advisory firm but his interest in managing finances stems from his experience as the vice president of a cash-strapped student union during undergrad. That set him on a path towards offering wealth leadership. Originally from Ningbo, China, Li Yu completed his MBA in Finance at Brock University in St. Catharines, becoming a member of Beta Gamma Sigma for his high scholastic achievement.

In addition to an MBA, Li has his Master of Theological Studies from Tyndale University in Toronto. He volunteers locally and is an active member of his church. Li also served as President of the Chinese Cultural Association of Niagara from 2016 to 2018.

Li and his wife Elodia lives in Niagara. When Li isn’t working with clients, he enjoys fishing, backcountry camping and traveling with his family.

Jessica Banka
Associate
Tel: 289.288.2417

As the key point of contact for clients, Jessica has the unique ability to connect with clients on an emotional level, while helping them navigate the administrative elements of wealth management.

Jessica got her start in financial services as a bank teller, seeing first-hand the day-to-day experiences of clients’ relationships with their money. That led her to the realization that she wanted to play a bigger role in helping clients – particularly families – manage their money and make big life decisions surrounding wealth and investing. In 2013, she started working alongside Li Yu, moving with him to Richardson Wealth in 2021. She continues to deliver an unrivaled approach to service excellence.

Jessica has a degree in Biology from Brock University and is licensed as an Investment Representative. She lives in Welland with her partner, Ryan, their 2 children and their dog. They make time to get out on the water boating and enjoy getaways up north.

Lauren Hesp
Assistant
Tel: 289.288.2422

Lauren joined our team in 2022 as an assistant to help with our administrative operations. She brings with her plenty of experience in customer service and enjoys working with others in a collaborative environment. She is pleased to be part of a team who puts exceptional service at the forefront of their operations.

Lauren graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2021. Inspired by her late father’s successful career in wealth management, and his encouragement that she would find enjoyment and impact in this career, she decided to follow in his footsteps. She enjoys the opportunity to get to know our clients on a personal level, while also providing them with superior service at every opportunity.

Lauren lives in St. Catharines with her husband and their beloved golden retriever. They enjoy spending plenty of time together, whether it's hiking, backcountry camping, or enjoying quality time with their families in both St. Catharines and Owen Sound. Lauren is actively working towards becoming a licensed investment representative.