Principal

Ian Zinn

Advisor Headshot

The Burden of Complexity

I advise families with the benefit of significant wealth and the burden of complexity. By leveraging my global experience, vast external network, and the unique infrastructure of the firm, I solve problems for the world's wealthiest families and bring meaning to their money across generations.

Tell me about the types of clients you work with.

I work with multi-generational business owners, force of nature entrepreneurs and executives, non-US and global families, and the most significant global single-family offices. I pride myself on being a true champion for clients and strive to add value in myriad ways. I founded and continue to host a curated, invite only, discreet Roundtable for a group of SFO principals and executives, multiple times a year in global locations - including Dubai, London, Grand Cayman, Abu Dhabi, Costa Rica, New York City, and Palm Beach.  The common thread in my practice is the significant levels of wealth and complexity—which is compounded by multi-faceted business assets, cross-border nuances, and global single family office infrastructure. Of course every family, family office, and business is unique. Having the necessary experience, expertise, global network, and firm infrastructure is paramount to creating superior client outcomes. I assemble and lead teams to holistically advise my clients to maximize success.

What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?

Working with extremely talented, successful individuals and families is truly inspirational, and being their personal trusted advisor, confidant, and investment fiduciary is tremendously gratifying.  

What passions do you pursue outside of work?

I have a passion for travel, meeting new people, and continuing to learn about all that the world offers. Some of the most rewarding experiences in my life involved living and studying abroad in Spain, Mexico, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. One of my most vivid memories is living with the Tzotzil Indians in the hills of Chamula in Chiapas, Mexico. Living with a family whose life experiences were so drastically different from my own provided a deep, transformative perspective about culture, tradition, community, humanity, money, and resources. All of this I bring to my client practice today. I am humbled and privileged to have traveled extensively throughout Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and the Middle East.  My global network has provided me with important insights about people and business, which helps me provide the best advice to clients.