What inspired you to join Bernstein?
I’ve always believed that if you’re going to do something, do it exceptionally well. That’s what drew me to Bernstein.
Too many firms try to be too many things. Bernstein isn’t one of them. In a world full of “one-stop shops”—where investment advice is bundled with credit cards and mortgage loans—Bernstein stands apart. We’re not a bank. Here, we do one thing and strive to do it better than anyone else: We help successful individuals and families manage their wealth, through a comprehensive yet bespoke investment platform and complex financial planning.
Bernstein doesn’t spend surplus capital on advertising because the firm believes that those dollars are better spent on research and enhancing our offering for private clients. I was drawn to that clarity of purpose and to the idea that excellence comes from specialization. This way of thinking, and the trust Bernstein has earned by being a true fiduciary, heavily resonated with me.
Which book had the most profound impact on you and why?
The Go-Giver, by Bob Burg and John David Mann, fundamentally reshaped how I think about success, professionally and in my personal life.
For me, its core message is simple but powerful: Real success isn’t about what you get, but rather what you give. It communicates this through a series of “Laws,” but at the end of the day it’s not complicated stuff. Put others first where you can. Be generous with your time and effort. Show up with purpose. These are the standards I hold myself to every day with my clients, my community, my wife, my sons and my extended family and friends.
How have your values and personal background specifically positioned you to work with your clients?
I’ve lived a substantial portion of life between two worlds: one grounded in analysis and problem-solving, and the other rooted in service. My background in accounting gave me the technical discipline to break down complex problems and think critically about risk. That side of me is wired for precision, detail and accountability.
At the same time, I’ve also always been drawn to acts of service and roles that are deeply human. I’ve spent a lot of time mentoring and volunteering, and for a brief period I taught at a home for children in rural Honduras. Those experiences taught me how to meet people where they are, how to listen without rushing to solve, and how to build trust through presence and empathy, not just by providing “correct” answers.
I don’t believe there exists a more suitable role or professional environment than the Advisor position at Bernstein, where I can not only marry these two parts of me, but apply them to the fullest extent given the resources supporting me.