What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?
When you first enter the business, it’s hard to know what qualities you want in a firm. However, after 12-plus years of advising experience prior to joining Bernstein, I was clear in terms of my environmental requirements. The three distinct characteristics that attracted me to Bernstein were its strong reputation for integrity, unparalleled expertise and tenure within the marketplace. Plus, the culture fully aligned with my beliefs and goals. Our business model enables me to sit on the same side of the table as my clients, and our tools are extraordinarily impactful. Still, the ultimate inspiration to join Bernstein was its unique understanding of and ability to address the needs of professional athletes. My athlete clients and I share a mutual desire to serve and give back to the community. Working with former athletes and entertainers, who spearhead Bernstein’s efforts in this niche market, enables me to impact the lives of others. They know it best.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being an advisor to your clients?
I treasure the level of impact I have on the people and causes that matter most to my clients. Many clients see their wealth as a means to an end. That end could be educational opportunities for their children, growth opportunities for their employees or charitable giving to causes that are dear to their heart. In developing and implementing key wealth planning strategies, my impact is directly correlated to the goals my clients aspire to. That impact becomes even clearer when I’m invited to experience it firsthand, such as when I visit a client’s newly built community recreation center or volunteer alongside them at an annual basketball camp. When my input becomes an intricate part of their decision-making process, some of which has nothing to do with investments, I know our relationship has reached a high-water mark. At that point, I am considered a blend of a professional resource and trusted friend. To be given that title is the most fulfilling aspect of being an advisor.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
Three things that I’m passionate about: my overall health, spending time with my family and being of service to others (especially impoverished communities). My appetite for a regimented physical fitness routine leads me to work out 4-6 times during the week. In addition, I follow a healthy diet and have recently alternated between being a vegan and vegetarian. As crazy as it sounds, taking the best possible care of my health is a means to an end (similar to money). Being healthy provides me with the energy I need to engage with my family and community. I am always rewarded—traveling with my family to sporting events has elicited some of the greatest memories of my life. I live for the long hours in the car, driving from tournament to tournament on the weekends. Beyond my family, I love to be of service to those in need of shelter, food and especially compassion. Volunteering in the food kitchens and homeless shelters of DC is my way of helping to make the world a better place.