What inspired you to join Bernstein?
I was struck by the firm’s differentiated and integrated model, which by design allows us to continue to evolve and innovate while maintaining a singular focus on our clients and their complex needs. Additionally, our best-in-class team collaborates with ease, bringing national resources and expertise to bear for all of our clients and their families, and not just a select few. This contrasts with my prior observations and experiences in the industry where I noticed that most firms, regardless of size, resemble each other with their lack of transparency, accountability, and ability to truly deliver on value.
How have your values and personal background uniquely positioned you to work with your clients?
Family is central to many of our clients, but even the closest and most loving families experience unforeseen challenges and complexities. I know firsthand that for almost a decade, my wife and I served as caregivers for a beloved family member who was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. In the absence of a proper financial plan and documentation for this family member, we had to make difficult decisions by trying to ascertain their wishes while balancing their best interests. As a family, we experienced how the lack of proper planning can create complex issues for finances, healthcare, and family cohesion. It’s this experience and others that motivate me today to apply a deep, holistic approach in my work with clients and their families to make sure no stone is left unturned in protecting their futures and legacies.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
As a fifth-generation Floridian, I am passionate about our community and state. In particular, my family focuses on helping those who have difficulty advocating for themselves, whether that be our native wildlife or those experiencing homelessness. Today, the world is full of inequality in terms of resources and opportunities, and I believe we have a duty to help fill those voids as much as possible. My family also values the natural resources our great state has to offer. Most weekends you can find me fishing in Tampa Bay or enjoying nearby hiking trails in our beautiful state parks.