What inspired you to join Bernstein?
I care about our clients as people, and not just their “money.” Bernstein aligns financial planning with family goals and dreams. In short, through my research I realized that Bernstein’s values aligned with my own.
After a 20-year career spent in technology, I was fortunate to cross paths with AllianceBernstein in 1998. I learned through my due diligence that the firm was unique in how it approaches clients and professionals. It wasn’t just another money manager. What I had stumbled upon was gold: a firm that aligned with my own moral compass. As a firm, we focus on adding value to clients along the way and establishing long-term relationships with them. We also build a roadmap, with the help of our professional partners, for families to secure their financial future. Realizing that I could actually help people at, and because of, Bernstein made joining the firm an easy decision.
What passions do you pursue outside of work?
The first passion that I pursue is helping the less fortunate, which drives all that I do. The second is having fun and enjoying my life alongside family and friends, which can come in many different forms.
I’ve been blessed in many ways—and believe it’s a duty to help those who are less fortunate and suffering. This mentality applies to my fellow human beings, especially children, as well as animals. (Dogs have a soft spot in my heart.) All living creatures should be cared for and treated with love and respect.
Where I can assist, I will.
When it comes to having fun, I am all about quality time with my family and friends. This could be enjoyed over a nice meal, glass of wine and conversation or walking a golf course while enjoying nature and fellowship with others. Whatever the activity is, it’s always driven by one mentality: We are on this planet for a short time, so let’s make it count!
Who has been the most influential person in your life?
This question is an easy one: my dad. As the son of Spanish immigrants, Dad was raised in a poor, Spanish-speaking household. Yet, in spite of his circumstances, he built a middle-class life for our family. He did this through hard work and by treating others with the utmost respect. While holding down a full-time job, Dad attended night school for seven years to earn his degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He commuted well over an hour each way because this achievement was important to him. After graduation, and throughout the duration of his career, Dad remained a kind and generous person. He also gave much of his time and wealth to causes that he really cared about such as education, faith, his community and his own children, for whom he provided a solid life foundation. He provided us with the things he didn’t have.
While it almost goes without saying, Dad is an outstanding role model. I try to emulate him the best I can.