What has inspired you to stay at Bernstein for as long as you have?
The same thing that drew me to the firm is what keeps me here: Bernstein’s “you hire a firm” approach, which means any of our experts are available at any time, coupled with the immeasurable global resources we are able to leverage for our clients’ benefit. My clients have great comfort in knowing that every decision we make, whether it is a specific investment or financial planning, is backed by a fundamental, world-class research process. While we may not always be right, we are never on the wrong side of right.
Success, in my book, is when clients achieve what they have always envisioned. Our singular focus as a firm, and division of labor because of our unique structure, allows me to spend my time focused on what matters: understanding the needs of my clients at a deep and meaningful level. This buys me the time I need to better serve and drive their vision.
Tell me about the types of clients you work with.
Our clients are typically entrepreneurs, business owners or executives who are self-made or have built up their family businesses. Usually my clients and I are introduced or become involved at some inflection point in their career. This could be when they are in the early stages of a business cycle and in need of expanding their team of advisors, or when they are evaluating a sale and in need of guidance to navigate them through the sales process. Wherever we meet clients, the goal is to help them write their next chapter, or even book, if that's what is in the cards, in life. Our clients value and respect their time, as well as the time of others, and seek out sound advice. They understand that any resources or advice we offer them are meant to help them.
How have your values and personal background uniquely positioned you to work with your clients?
I believe my background and values allow me to provide a thoughtful, compassionate service to my clients. As someone who grew up in family businesses, I can understand the complexities that come along with the entrepreneurial mindset and lifestyle. This experience is something I call upon regularly to help my clients. I also understand and appreciate the work that it takes to become a highly successful business owner. For this reason, my clients can count on the fact that my efforts will always be on their behalf. Honesty, discipline, service, loyalty and compassion are values that I live by—rather than talk about—in all aspects of my life.