Az Big Media will be profiling one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2026 each day leading up to the celebratory dinner on August 20, 2025. Today, meet Christy Ray, director at BMO Wealth Management.
From a field of more than 2,200 women under consideration, the Most Influential Women in Arizona were selected by the editorial board of Az Business magazine and a panel of 12 former Most Influential Women. The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2026 will be honored at a celebratory dinner on Aug. 20, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. The Spotlight Award Sponsor for the Most Influential Women of 2026 is CORE Construction, the Special Gift Sponsor is Tarbell’s, the VIP Sponsor is GCON, the VIP Reception Sponsor is Cullum Homes, the Cover Photo Shoot Sponsor is Greenberg Traurig, the Beverage Sponsor is Arizona Escrow & Financial, the Valet Sponsor in Stevens-Leinweber, the Floral Sponsor is PCL Construction, the Dessert Sponsor is SottoPelle and Tutera Medical, the 360 Photo Booth Sponsor is Clayco, the Step-and -Repeat Sponsor is Morris Hall, the Digital Sponsor is Desert Diamond Casinos, the Floral Provider is PJs Flowers and the Production Sponsor is Merestone.
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Christy Ray, director, BMO Wealth Management
Background: Ray is a director and private wealth advisor at BMO Wealth Management in Scottsdale, where she advises high-net-worth individuals, families and closely held businesses across Arizona. She specializes in sophisticated wealth, estate and multigenerational planning, helping clients preserve legacies, prepare future stewards and structure philanthropy. With a legal background and advanced degrees, Ray is known for translating complex strategies into clear, actionable guidance. She is active in the community through board service and supports healthcare and cancer-related organizations.
Advice to younger self: “My biggest piece of advice is to have the confidence to speak up and trust your perspective. Too often, women hesitate to share their ideas, even when they’ve done the work and are well prepared. If you take the time to be informed and thoughtful, stand firm in your convictions while remaining respectful of others. Confidence, paired with preparation, opens doors and accelerates long-term leadership growth over your career.”
Surprising fact: “I serve as an Honorary Commander of the 944th Fighter Wing at Luke Air Force Base. This role gives me the opportunity to engage closely with service members and their families and gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and a greater appreciation for the sacrifices they make to keep us safe. It’s been incredibly meaningful to build relationships within the military community.”
