BMO boasts 3 finalists for the Women in Finance Awards

Regional Queensland based accounting and business advisory firm, BMO Business Centre has been honored with three of its female team members being named finalists for this year’s national Women in Finance Awards. BMO Partner Michelle McVeigh is one of ten finalists in the Accountant of the Year category, while Associate Helen Ruddy is in the running for Regional Professional of the Year. While Operations and Marketing Manager Chelsea Wyatt is the only Queensland finalist up for the Office Administrator of the Year.

The national awards program, run with the support of principal partner Mortgage Choice, is designed to recognise and acknowledge the leading women influencing the Australian finance industry. 

Helen Ruddy, Associate at BMO Business Centre, said that she was humbled and surprised to be recognised and proud to be named as a finalist in the Women in Finance Awards 2024.

“BMO’s recognition for our excellent contribution to the finance industry reinforces the strength of our service and dedication to connecting with the community and engaging with clients,” she said.

Year after year, the Women in Finance Awards recognises the outstanding contributions made by women in financial services and companies furthering diversity and inclusion in the industry across a wide range of sectors.

With only a fifth of the financial planning industry and around a quarter of mortgage brokers being women, the awards amplify the exceptional work being done by this minority. 

BMO, which has offices in Dalby, Roma and Charleville is defying this minority with 70% of their team of 50 professionals being female.

The finalist list, which was announced on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, features over 258 high-achieving professionals and businesses across 29 submission-based categories. 

Finalists of the Women in Finance Awards are widely recognised as having unwavering determination and commitment to furthering the work of the industry and for playing a pivotal role in propelling the industry forward.

Winners of the Women in Finance Awards 2024, will be announced at a black-tie gala at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney, on Friday, 15 November 2024.

Annie Kane, managing editor of The Adviser, extended her congratulations to all finalists, stating: “Momentum Media, in partnership with Mortgage Choice, is thrilled to announce the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024.

“With cost-of-living pressures impacting the back pocket and home loan rates having hit a 12-year high recently, the support and advice of those in the finance sector is making a critical difference to the financial health of Australians across the nation.

“We’re proud to highlight the exceptional women and companies across the finance sector who are making significant contributions to the financial well-being of Australians amid a difficult economic landscape.

“By celebrating these remarkable achievements, we aim to inspire future generations of women to explore careers in financial services.”

“Congratulations to all the finalists of the Women in Finance Awards 2024. We look forward to celebrating the winners at the awards ceremony in Sydney!”